The White House Conference Center — Local services in Washington

Construction Construction of the White House began with the laying of the cornerstone on October 13, 1792, although there was no formal ceremony.15] The main residence, as well as foundations of the house, were built largely by enslaved and free African-American laborers, as well as employed Europeans.[16] Much of the other work on the house was performed by immigrants, many not yet with citizenship. The sandstone walls were erected by Scottish immigrants, employed by Hoban,[17] as were the high-relief rose and garland decorations above the north entrance and the "fish scale" pattern beneath the pediments of the window hoods. There are conflicting claims as to where the sandstone used in the construction of the White House originated. Some reports suggest sandstone from the Croatian island of Brač (specifically the Pučišća querry whose stone was used to build the ancient Roman palace of Emperor Diocletian) was used in the original construction of the building, contrarily researchers believe limestone from the island was used in the 1902 renovations and not the original construction. Others suggest the original sandstone simply came from Aquia Creek in Stafford County, Virginia, as importing the stone would be too costly.[18[20] The initial construction took place over a period of eight years, at a reported cost of $232,371.83 (equal to $3,430,446 today). Although not yet completed, the White House was ready for occupancy circa November 1, 1800.[21]

Shortages, including material and labor, forced alterations to the earlier plan developed by French engineer Pierre Charles L'Enfant for a "palace" that was five times larger than the house that was eventually built.[17] The finished structure contained only two main floors instead of the planned three, and a less costly brick served as a lining for the stone façades. When construction was finished, the porous sandstone walls were whitewashed with a mixture of lime, rice glue, casein, and lead, giving the house its familiar color...

Seeing the White House—a symbol of power and history—from the outside is a powerful experience. The iconic neoclassical architecture, with its grand columns and pristine white façade, instantly evokes its significance in American history. Even without stepping inside, just standing before this historic building, surrounded by the nation’s landmarks, provides a deep connection to the heart of U.S. government and the legacy it represents. It's a must-see when in...

It’s a big old building with antique items inside from our past Americans. It’s like a museum with heighten security. The atmosphere is very thick and heavy. An extremely toxic feeling passes through and linger around you. This is freedom of speech and I’m sure my reviews will get removed because it speaks the truth of what “they” don’t want...