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Founded in 1961 by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, the White House Historical Association is the nonprofit, nonpartisan organization entrusted with preserving and sharing the history of the White House.
Today, our mission of acquisition, preservation, research, and education of White House history continues through generous private donations and the sale of our books, products, and the Official White House Ornament.
Throughout each presidency, we work with the Offices of the First Lady and the White House Curator to acquire and preserve historic objects for the White House Fine and Decorative Arts Collection and since 1965, we have been proud to commission the official portraits of both the President and the First Lady.
"Early Bloomer [Anagram (a Pun)]" by Robert Rauschenberg.
White House Historical Association
During their residence in the Executive Mansion, First Lady Laura Bush oversaw a refurbishment of The Lincoln Sitting Room to enhance its historical accuracy, including adding 1860s period appropriate furniture, carpeting, wallpaper, and window hangings of yellow brocatelle, as well as the only marble mantel in the White House original to the era.
White House Historical Association
We have been operating The People’s House: A White House Experience since September 2024. Our free, immersive, educational museum in Washington, D.C. welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, making White House history more accessible to all.
Get an inside look at White House history through the immersive spaces and innovative technology at The People's House: A White House Experience.
White House Historical Association
This one-of-a-kind space offers a deeper connection to the legacy of the White House through cutting-edge technology, immersive exhibits, and hands-on displays.
We provide meaningful connection to the White House for millions of students, teachers, and lifelong learners through research and scholarship initiatives, public programming, and the authoritative titles published by our independent press.
Official White House China: From the 18th to the 21st Centuries
White House Historical Association
The White House History Teacher Institute gathers teachers from across the country to learn how to incorporate the history of the White House into their social studies, history, and government classes.
Thom Goertel for the White House Historical Association
The White House Historical Association Governing Board of Directors plays a vital role in furthering our mission to preserve the White House and record its unique history.
Stewart McLaurin serves as president of the White House Historical Association. The Association was founded in 1961 by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy to share and preserve the rich history of the White House. In his twelve years as president, Stewart has expanded the Association’s cultural and educational programming through award-winning books, popular video series, and virtual and in-person events to ensure White House history is preserved for future generations.
The White House Historical Association is committed to fostering historical understanding and appreciation of the Executive Mansion through conferences and symposia for like-minded institutions.