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James Hoban: Architect of the White House
James Hoban's life is a memorable Irish-American success story. In his boyhood he learned the craft of carpenter and wheelwright, and became an architect by profession and a builder by trade. Hoban came to America with high ambitions, and designed and erected many buildings; but what keeps his name alive today arises from one special commission - he was the
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Civic Contributions and Family
In 1802, Congress granted the citizenry of the District of Columbia limited local government and James Hoban served on the twelve-member city council for the next two decades, except for the years during which he was rebuilding the White House.Founder of Grand Lodge Number One of the Masonic Order, captain of a local militia company, a city councilman, and successful
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Hoban's Designs for the Church
James Hoban became a pillar of the Catholic community in Washington, D.C. Hoban's public involvement included the founding of St. Patrick's Church and convincing Father Anthony Caffrey to come to America from Ireland to lead it. Largely patronized by Irish-born artisans and laborers, the congregation housed in the simple frame church prospered. By 1809, the parish had moved into a
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Life & Work in Charleston, S.C.
When James Hoban set sail for America, and where he landed, are not certain. By 1785, Hoban was advertising his services in a Philadelphia newspaper: "Any gentleman who wishes to build in an elegant style, may hear of a person properly calculated for that purpose who can execute the Joining and Carpenter's business in the modern taste. James Hoban." Two years
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Public Architect and Developer
After 1802, James Hoban concentrated on his successful business partnership with Pierce Purcell in Washington, distancing himself from the politics and the lower pay of public improvement projects. Except for the White House, few of Hoban's buildings still stand. He also superintended the Capitol, completing the North Wing by 1800, when the seat of government moved to Washington.Hoban became the superintendent
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Board of Directors
The White House Historical Association, chartered in 1961, is a nonprofit historical and educational organization that plays a vital role in preserving the White House and recording its unique history. To enhance the understanding and appreciation of the President's home, the White House Historical Association has published and distributed more than eight million books, as well as videos and other educational
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National Student Art Competition 2021
For press inquiries relating to the art competition, please contact press@whha.org and copy artcomp@whha.org.The White House is an enduring symbol of the United States. More than just a home for the president, this celebrated building has been shaped by countless people including first families, enslaved workers, innovative staff, and the American public. When First Lady
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Conservation of the White House Collection
Care of any museum collection includes the conservation of objects to correct or stabilize deterioration from age or exhibition. Although the White House is an accredited historic house museum, it does not provide the traditional exhibition setting of objects under glass or behind ropes at all times. As the official residence of the president of the United States, objects from
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Current Fellows and Interns at the Rubenstein Center
The David M. Rubenstein National Center for White House History partners with a host of institutions to offer fellowships in White House history. Learn more about our current fellows below.
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iCivics Games
In partnership with iCivics, the White House Historical Association has co-created a new interactive game that allows players to explore American history and the presidency by serving as a presidential advisor during critical moments in history. With a focus on listening and contextualizing, Brief the Chief introduces students to the variety of voices that influence the president. Throughout the game,
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The Second Floor
When John Adams first occupied the President's House in 1800, the Second Floor was generally reserved for private and family use. President Adams kept a small office adjacent to his bedroom on the southwest corner of the house, but other early presidents chose to work in rooms on the State Floor. Around 1825, the two rooms that we now call the Lincoln