March 9, 2017 (Thursday)
The White House resumed public tours March 7, after more than seven weeks of shuttering the building to tourists, the first lady’s office announced Tuesday. Traditionally, tours are suspended during transition periods between presidents. The president made a personal appearance, giving greetings to a tour group.
“I am excited to reopen the White House to the hundreds of thousands of visitors who come each year,” first lady Melania Trump said in a statement. “The White House is a remarkable and historic site and we are excited to share its beauty and history.”
The only president never to live in the White House was George Washington. He was, however, intimately involved in its planning and design. John Adams was the first resident. Arriving early and awaiting the coming of his wife, Abigail, He wrote to her from the new residence: “I pray Heaven to bestow the best of Blessings on this House and all that shall hereafter inhabit it. May none but honest and wise Men ever rule under this roof.” Franklin Roosevelt had those words carved into the mantel of the State Dining Room.
The building has been rebuilt twice–once in 1814 when it was burned to the ground during the War of 1812. President James Monroe was the first to occupy it after its being reconstructed, in 1817. During 1949-1952, it was completely rebuilt inside, leaving only the outside shell, and rebuilt with steel during the administration of Harry Truman. At that time a third floor was added as a residence for the “First Family.”
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, so named because of its contrasting color near the red brick buildings of the area.
If you have never visited the White House, I hope you have that opportunity at some point during your lifetime. I’ve never been there, but, who knows? I may go there one of these days.
President John Adams’ Prayer Inscribed on State Dining Room Mantel