MEMBER EVENT: Alligators in the White House and Other White House Tales

Alligators in the East Room and Other White House Tales
presented by Tom Borcher

This is a two-part presentation (comprised of equal parts fact and humor) on the history of the White House and what life has been like for the temporary residents in this most famous of homes. George Washington thought the President’s home should resemble the grand palaces of Europe. The British almost burned it down. The U.S. Army wanted to paint it black. Harry Truman had the interior completely gutted and replaced.

Session 1: History of the design, construction, and renovation of the White House – from the first concepts to the present day.

Session 2: Little known facts about life in the White House. Tom will share anecdotes about the first families’ lives and some humorous stories arising out of the peculiar needs and attitudes of those who have called 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue home.