Collection The Decatur House Slave Quarters
In 1821-1822, Susan Decatur requested the construction of a service wing. The first floor featured a large kitchen, dining room,...
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When the United States entered World War II in December 1941, White House security became a much more serious concern than it had been in the past. Bulletproof glass in the three south windows of the Oval Office and a "bomb-barrier," concrete poured along the West Wall of the Executive Office Building, were installed. Special outdoor lighting was designed by General Electric to dimly illuminate the grounds without casting a glare on the house itself. Despite protests from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, an air raid shelter was also built under the newly constructed East Wing. In 1942, Roosevelt ordered an East Terrace cloakroom called the "Hat Box" converted into a movie theater. Here the president enjoyed watching news reels and took special interest in the battles fought in Europe and Asia.
The “Hat Box” as it appeared in 2008.
White House Historical AssociationIn 1821-1822, Susan Decatur requested the construction of a service wing. The first floor featured a large kitchen, dining room,...
Since the laying of the cornerstone in 1792, Freemasons have played an important role in the construction and the history of...
Native Americans hold a significant place in White House history. For thousands of years, Indigenous peoples, including the Nacotchtank and...
Every year since 1981, the White House Historical Association has had the privilege of designing the Official White House Christmas Ornament....
Thousands of people traverse historic Lafayette Park every day to get a glimpse of the White House. The park, right...
Since the James Madison presidency, St. John’s Church has been an important part of the life of Lafayette Square an...
Honoring some of the greatest moments in sports history has become a tradition at the White House. Presidents and their...
Every year since 1981, the White House Historical Association has had the privilege of designing the Official White House Christmas Ornament....
Many people approach the decor of their homes as a reflection of oneself. But what happens when a home's interior...
In this first episode of 2021, White House Historical Association President Stewart D. McLaurin introduces the Association’s popular virtual program Hi...
When you’re cooking for the president and first family, your meals and recipes become a part of history. In th...
Wine has a long and important history in the White House, playing a unique role in entertaining, public ceremonies, and...