The White House, located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington, D.C., is the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. Designed by Irish-born architect James Hoban, the construction of the White House began on October 13, 1792, and it was completed in 1800.
The building has 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, and 6 levels. It includes 412 doors, 147 windows, 28 fireplaces, 8 staircases, and 3 elevators. The White House is built in the neoclassical architectural style, characterized by its symmetrical shape, columns, and the use of white-painted Aquia Creek sandstone.
The White House has undergone several renovations and expansions since its completion. In 1814, during the War of 1812, British troops set fire to the building, causing significant damage. The restoration was overseen again by James Hoban, and the White House was reoccupied in 1817.
One of the most significant renovations occurred during the administration of Harry S. Truman. From 1948 to 1952, the interior of the White House was completely gutted and rebuilt with a new steel frame, as the original timber frame had become structurally unsound. During this period, the Truman family lived across the street in Blair House.
The Oval Office, located in the West Wing, is the President’s formal workspace. The West Wing also houses the Cabinet Room, the Situation Room, and the Roosevelt Room. The East Wing contains the offices of the First Lady and her staff, as well as the White House Social Office.
The White House is not only a residence and office but also a museum of American history. It features a collection of fine and decorative arts, including pieces by artists such as Gilbert Stuart and George Healy. The White House also hosts numerous events, such as state dinners, ceremonies, and public tours.
One lesser-known fact is the presence of a secret underground bunker known as the Presidential Emergency Operations Center (PEOC), designed to protect the President in case of an emergency. Additionally, there are rumors of ghost sightings, including that of Abraham Lincoln, whose spirit is said to roam the halls.
Another interesting detail is the White House’s extensive gardens, including the Rose Garden and the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden. These gardens are used for various outdoor ceremonies and events.
The White House has its own ZIP code, 20500, and a dedicated post office located within the complex. It also has a private movie theater, a bowling alley, and a tennis court.
Overall, the White House stands as a symbol of the U.S. presidency and American history, with a rich array of historical and architectural trivia that continues to fascinate visitors and scholars alike.