The White House at Work

Since President John Adams and First Lady Abigail Adams first moved into the White House in 1800, hundreds of individuals have worked behind the scenes to help the White House fulfill its roles as a home, office, museum, and stage. Witnesses to history, White House workers are a close-knit community and serve the needs of the first family in various capacities. They prepare family meals, serve elaborate State Dinners, maintain the grounds, and much more—there is no such thing as a “typical” day in the White House. Explore the stories, traditions, memories, and skills of the dedicated people who have operated, maintained, and helped preserve this iconic American building.