Key Facts and Features

• Construction and Design:
  The White House was designed by James Hoban, an Irish-born architect, and its construction began in 1792 and was completed in 1800. The neoclassical design reflects the influence of ancient Greek and Roman architecture, with elements that symbolize the democratic ideals of the new nation.

• Architecture:
  The White House is primarily made of white-painted Aquia Creek sandstone and is a neoclassical mansion. The residence consists of the Executive Residence, the West Wing, the East Wing, and the White House Grounds. The mansion includes 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, and 6 levels, making it a large and complex structure. It also features iconic elements such as the North Portico and South Portico with large columns.

• The West Wing:
  This section houses the Oval Office, where the president works, along with the Situation Room, the Cabinet Room, and the president's private office. It also includes the Press Briefing Room, where the White House Press Secretary holds daily briefings.

• The East Wing:
  The East Wing houses the offices of the First Lady and her staff, as well as the White House Social Office. It also includes visitor facilities and serves as the entrance for many White House tours.

• The Grounds:
  The White House is set on 18 acres of land and includes meticulously maintained gardens and lawns. The South Lawn is where major events and ceremonies, such as state arrivals and Easter Egg Rolls, are held. The Rose Garden is used for official functions, speeches, and press events.

Historical Significance

• Early History and Construction:
  The White House was first inhabited by President John Adams in 1800. It was burned down by British forces during the War of 1812 but was rebuilt in the years following the war. It has served as the residence for every U.S. president since Thomas Jefferson.

• Symbol of U.S. Power:
  As the seat of the U.S. presidency, the White House represents the executive power of the federal government. It is a symbol of the strength and endurance of U.S. democracy. Throughout history, the White House has been the site of key decisions, meetings, and historic moments, from wartime strategies to peace negotiations.

• Renovations and Updates:
  The White House has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the years, including the addition of the West Wing (1902), the Executive Office Building (also known as the Old Executive Office Building, 1871), and the Truman Balcony (1948).

Functions of the White House

1. Presidential Residence:
   The White House serves as the primary home for the president and their family. The living quarters are on the second and third floors of the building, while the first floor houses many of the state rooms.

2. Executive Office:
   As the workplace of the U.S. president, the White House is where the president conducts official business. The Oval Office is where the president holds meetings, signs bills, and delivers speeches.

3. Ceremonial Venue:
   The White House is a major site for state visits, ceremonial events, and formal receptions, such as State Dinners hosted by the president. It is also used for significant national holidays, including the annual Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn.

4. Symbol of U.S. Government:
   The White House stands as a globally recognized symbol of the U.S. government. It is often associated with American leadership, democracy, and history.

Public Access and Tours

• White House Tours:
  While the White House is a private residence, it is possible for U.S. citizens to visit it through a public tour. These tours are free, but they require advance reservations, typically made through a member of Congress. International visitors can tour the White House through their country's embassy.

  The tour takes visitors through several rooms in the East Wing, including the East Room, Green Room, Blue Room, and Red Room, where guests can view artifacts, historical paintings, and rooms used for important functions.

• Security and Safety:
  Due to its status and importance, the White House is heavily protected by the Secret Service, who provide round-the-clock security. Visitors to the White House are required to go through multiple layers of security checks.

Famous Moments and Events at the White House

• Presidential Inaugurations:
  The White House is a central part of the presidential inauguration process. After the inauguration ceremony on the National Mall, the president and their family often return to the White House for the inaugural parade and a series of celebratory events.

• State Visits and Diplomatic Meetings:
  The White House hosts heads of state and foreign dignitaries for state visits. These visits typically include formal dinners, speeches, and joint press conferences.

• Major Presidential Decisions:
  Throughout U.S. history, critical decisions have been made within the White House. These include wartime decisions (such as during the Civil War, World War I, and World War II), landmark civil rights decisions (such as President Lyndon B. Johnson’s signing of the Civil Rights Act), and moments of tragedy (such as when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated).

Interesting Facts About the White House

• Number of Rooms: The White House has 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, and 6 levels. It includes a swimming pool, a movie theater, a bowling alley, and a tennis court.

• Secret Tunnel: There are rumors of a secret underground tunnel that connects the White House to nearby government buildings, though its existence has never been confirmed.

• Family Pets: Many U.S. presidents have had pets while living in the White House. Famous pets include President John F. Kennedy’s dog, Pushinka, and Barack Obama’s dogs, Bo and Sunny.

• Sustainability Efforts: In recent years, there have been efforts to make the White House more environmentally friendly. This includes the use of energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, and a vegetable garden planted by Michelle Obama in 2009.

  
  

Phone Number:
081 416 1458

Address : Tambon Nok Muang, Mueang Surin District, Surin Province 32000, Thailand

Operating Hours:

• Everyday : 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Conclusion

The White House is not only a presidential residence but also a global symbol of U.S. governance, history, and influence. With its iconic neoclassical design, rich history, and role in shaping national and international events, the White House remains one of the most important and visited buildings in the world. Whether for public tours or behind-the-scenes presidential decision-making, the White House continues to serve as the heart of the U.S. government and the American political system.