The White House at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, was originally constructed 1792-1800, the work of James Hoban. It was reconstructed in 1815 after being burned by British soldiers during the War of 1812. It has been the home of every president of the United States since John Adams. The exterior of the main structure, despite some additions and minor changes, remains much as it was in 1800. The interior has been completely renovated using the historic floor plan. It is significant for its Federal architecture, as a symbol of the presidency, and for the important decisions made within its walls over the years.

Presently, the White House Tours are suspended to the general public due to the Septemeber 11th attacks:

Tours of the White House have been extended to school-aged youth groups and organized veterans groups in addition to school groups. School groups are defined as students in grades 4 through 12 and who are enrolled in the same school or school district. Group requests may be submitted through one's Member of Congress. These self-guided group tours will be scheduled from 7:45 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Contact your Representative or Senator(s) for more information. Their local phone number can be found in the Blue pages of your phone book or call the U.S. Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121.

Personal Reflections:

I was truely supprised how big the White House grounds were; they seemed to have gone on for miles. My family and I walked from the corner of the southwest side of the grounds to the northern side. We took a few pictures from La Fayette Park and went on our way to the National History Museum. I was a bit disappointed, truthfully....I thought it was more than what it appeared to be. You can come up to the fence and snap as many pictures as you can, a word of wisdom though..... watch out for the demonstrators, they tend to suck you into their programs. Also, when the tours begin again, make sure you get there EARLY or you will not get tickets for the tour.........