Description
The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States, recognized worldwide as a symbol of the prestige of the presidency. Build between 1792 and 1800, the sprawling 132-room mansion has been used as a home by every President since John Adams.
The East Wing of the White House principally serves as offices for the First Lady and her staff. The First family's quarters, located on the second and third floor for the historic White House, provide them with privacy and comfort away from the public spotlight. The West Wing is home to the President's office and those of his top staff.
On the pages that follow, you can learn more about the President's office, the many state rooms, and the grounds and history of America's most famous home.
For more than 200 years, the White House has been more than just the home of the Presidents and their families. Throughout the world, it is recognized as the symbol of the President, of the President's administration, and that of the United States.
There are 132 rooms. 35 bathrooms, and 6 levels in the Residence. There are also 412 doors, 147 windows, 28 fireplaces, 8 staircases, and 3 elevators.
At various times in history, the White House has been known as the "President's Palace," the "President's House," and the "Executive Mansion." President Theodore Roosevelt officially gave the White House its current name in 1901.
Presidential Firsts while in office… President James Polk (1845-49) was the first President to have his photograph taken…President Theodore Roosevelt (1901-09) was not only the first President to ride in an automobile, but also the first President to travel outside the country when he visited Panama…President Franklin Roosevelt (1933-45) was the first President to ride in an airplane.
With five full-time chefs, the White House kitchen is able to serve dinner to as many as 140 guests and hors d'oeuvres to more than 1,000
For recreation, the White House has a variety of facilities available to its residents, including a tennis court, jogging track, swimming pool, movie theater, and bowling lane.