Construction of the White House Ballroom: Frequently Asked Questions
When was the White House built?
President George Washington selected the site for the White House in 1791. The cornerstone was laid in 1792 and a competition design submitted by Irish-born architect James Hoban was chosen. After eight years of construction, President John Adams and his wife, Abigail, moved into the unfinished house in 1800.
When was the East Wing built?
The East Wing of the White House complex was built in 1902 during President Theodore Roosevelt’s Administration. In 1942, President Franklin Roosevelt oversaw an expansion and remodel of the East Wing.
Who owns the White House?
The White House is owned by the federal government and is frequently said to be owned by the American people, as indicated on the National Park Service website.
Who is responsible for the care and maintenance of the White House?
The White House is stewarded by the National Park Service; other federal agencies also have a role in preserving the White House.
What significant changes have been made to the White House over time?
The White House Historical Association has an article on its website documenting many of the changes to the White House over its long history, including the addition of the Truman balcony (1948), the construction of the East Wing (1942), and the substantial rebuilding of the White House interior during the Truman Presidency (1948-1952), among other changes.
Is the White House protected from demolition?
No, the White House is not protected from demolition.
The White House is expressly exempt from the National Historic Preservation Act, and Section 106 of the NHPA does not apply. (54 U.S.C. § 307104).
The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), which has review authority over new construction at the White House, does not have review authority over demolition.
What processes must be followed before new construction takes place at the White House?
The government would be required to comply with the following processes before new construction at the White House:
- The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) has review authority over new construction on federal properties in the capital region, including the White House, and NCPC has exercised that authority in recent years with the approval of a new security fence and a tennis pavilion at the White House.
- The Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) would have an advisory review before new construction takes place at the White House.
These review processes also include the opportunity for the American public to comment on the project.
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