How well do you know the White House?
The White House is both a working office and a historic home. Six questions about the building and its traditions, from easy to hard, with explanations.
Did you know?
- It takes about 570 gallons of paint to cover the outside of the White House, according to the White House. Repainting is done carefully to protect the historic sandstone underneath.
- The White House kitchen can serve dinner to as many as 140 guests and hors d'oeuvres to more than 1,000 people at once, according to official figures. A small team of chefs prepares meals for daily life and major events.
- The White House has its own full-time staff of florists, carpenters, electricians and other specialists. Together they keep the historic building running while it continues to be used every day as a home and office.
A home, an office and a museum
The White House is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. Completed in 1800, it serves as the home and workplace of the US president, but it is also a museum of American history, art and design. Millions of people know its white columns and curved south portico from photographs, films and news reports.
A design competition
In 1792, a public competition was held to choose a design for the president's house. James Hoban's plan for a stately stone house won, and construction began that year. Stonemasons, carpenters and many other workers spent about eight years building it.
From Executive Mansion to White House
For about a century, the building was officially called the President's House or the Executive Mansion, although many people already called it the White House. The popular name became official in 1901 and appeared on stationery from then on.
Rooms of state
The main floor includes famous public rooms named after their colors, such as the Blue Room, the Red Room and the Green Room. The East Room, the largest room in the house, is used for receptions, concerts and ceremonies.
A living museum
The White House holds a large collection of historic furniture, paintings and objects. Curators care for the collection, and the White House Historical Association, founded in 1961, supports research and education about the building.
The grounds
The White House grounds cover about 18 acres, with lawns, gardens and trees, some of which have stood for well over a century. The grounds host events such as the Easter Egg Roll and receptions for visiting guests.
Visiting
Public tours of the White House are free but must be requested weeks in advance. Visitors can also learn about the building at the White House Visitor Center nearby, which displays historic objects and models.