What is the Truman Balcony traditionally used for?

By moving the presidential offices outside the main building it allowed the second floor of the White House to become the private residence of the President and his family during their term in office.

What did Truman do to the White House?

Truman, the White House underwent a renovation and expansion so extensive, it changed the Executive Mansion more than the fire of 1814. The White House we know today is largely due to the renovation led by Truman. The construction took place between 1948 and 1952 and was a remarkable feat of engineering.

What did the White House look like before the Truman Balcony?

Before the Truman Balcony was constructed on the White House South Portico in 1948, presidents, their families, and guests turned to seven canvas awnings for relief from the sun. By 1900, the White House had about 100 awnings installed over its windows in the pre-air conditioning era to ward off the heat.

When was the North portico added to the White House?

around 1830
Added around 1830, the North Portico was added to the White House, in keeping with the Federal Style and the original designs for the building.

Why is it called Truman Balcony?

The Truman Balcony is the second-floor balcony of the Executive Residence of the White House, which overlooks the South Lawn. It was completed in March 1948, during the presidency of Harry S. Truman.

Does the White House have a sunroom?

More than eighty years after the Coolidges added their “Sky Parlor,” the Solarium remains unique among White House rooms. Part hideaway, part public space, it changes function to suit the family living there. it is the only room in the White House that first families can always call their own.

Was the White House gutted?

For over three years, the White House was gutted, expanded, and rebuilt. Although the scope, costs, and historical authenticity of the work were criticized by some at the time, the reconstructed mansion has proved a safe, stable, well-functioning residence for First Families ever since.

What fell through the floor of the White House?

Margaret Truman, daughter of Harry and Bess Truman. When the Trumans moved to the White House, they brought Margaret’s piano with them. In the summer of 1948, a leg of the piano fell through the floor of her room. The incident further proved that the White House needed major structural repairs.

Why is it called the Truman Balcony?

Is there a vault under the White House?

The Presidential Emergency Operations Center (PEOC, PEE-ock) is a bunker-like structure underneath the East Wing of the White House. It serves as a secure shelter and communications center for the president of the United States and others in case of an emergency.

What is the North Portico?

Constructed in 1829-30, the portico provides covered access to the Entrance Hall. Once the principal entrance to the White House for both the family and the public, the north doorway is now where the President and First Lady greet guests of state before gala dinners.