Welcome to the White House

The East Wing was built in 1902 and since that time has been the entrance to the White House for visitors and guests. The building was enlarged in 1942 to its current size to provide office space.

This space was created in 1902 when the East Wing was added to the White House. Originally used as a cloakroom, it was converted into a movie theater in July 1942. The current décor, dating from 2004-2005, was inspired by theater interiors of the early 20th century.

Once a billiard room, this room now displays selections from a collection of European and American gilded silver (called vermeil in French) received by the White House in 1958.

The Library now holds over 2,700 books on American history, culture, politics and philosophy. Originally a laundry room, in 1902, it was transformed into a gentleman's waiting room. Later, in 1935, it became a library and remains a frequent location for media tapings today.

The China Room has been an exhibition space for tableware since 1916. Not every president has ordered state china, so both official and some family services are exhibited. The 1918 Woodrow Wilson state service was the first White House service made in the United States.

This portrait of George Washington, painted by Gilbert Stuart in 1797, was installed in the White House in 1800. It is the only object in the collection to remain at the House since it was first occupied.

The largest room in the White House, the East Room has been the scene of state dinners, receptions, concerts, weddings, and press conferences. Here the bodies of Presidents Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy have lain in state after their assassinations.

From 1801-1809, Thomas Jefferson used this room as a dining room. It became a formal parlor during James Madison’s presidency. By 1825 under John Quincy Adams, this room was known as the “Green Drawing Room,” named for the color of the fabrics.

This elegant oval room has long been a reception room. President James Monroe furnished this room in the French style in 1817, and purchased most of the gilded chairs, the sofa, and the clock on the mantel.

The Red Room, a parlor since the early 19th century, is often used by first ladies to receive guests. Here, President Rutherford Hayes took the oath of office in 1877.

The existing architecture and eagle pier tables date from the sweeping renovations made to the White House during the administration of President Theodore Roosevelt in 1902. As many as 140 people can be seated at dinners and luncheons by using round tables.

Thomas Jefferson used part of this room as his office where he and his secretary, Meriwether Lewis, planned the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1802. Since 1809, it has served as the State Dining Room.