"During all my years of managing the White House . . . my loyalty was not to any one President but rather to the Presidency and to the institution that is the White House" J. B. West, White House Chief Usher, 1957-1969 This gallery depicts a small selection of images of White House workers who behind the scenes have represented their country to other heads of state, leaders, and visitors. They served the White House and the presidency, and though they may have done so by driving a carriage, carrying a tray, opening a door, or sweeping the floor, they worked with dignity, wisdom and dedication. Workers at the White House must adapt to the transition of successive first families, be loyal and discrete, and be willing to perform multiple duties. Adaptability to the challenge of an ever-changing workplace was and is an essential job skill at the White House. While first families are only temporary residents at the White House, the household staff are permanent employees. Many stay on the staff for more than 30 years. For these workers the change from one administration to the next is difficult. On Inauguration Day workers must say farewell to the family they have served for years and adjust to new ways of doing and acting, new likes and dislikes, and new routines of work. Hundreds of workers since 1800 have prepared family meals, served state dinners, cleaned rooms, polished floors, and maintained the house and its grounds, their dedication and skill has made a lasting mark on the White House.