The White House

This passage is about the design, creation, and modification of the White House.

Lexile Level: 1120L

Categories: History People & Places

The White House has long been the symbol of the American presidency. Located in Washington, D.C., the site for the building was chosen in 1790 by President George Washington and city planner Pierre L'Enfant. A competition was held to select the design, and the commission was awarded to the Irish-born architect James Hoban. Construction on the White House began in 1792, and the first president to take up residence there was John Adams in 1800. Over the years, the White House has undergone many renovations as each successive president has made changes to the building. In 1814, the White House survived a fire set by the British during the War of 1812. Known at various times as the "President's House" or the "Executive Mansion," President Theodore Roosevelt officially named it the "White House" in 1901. With 132 rooms on six levels, the White House was the largest house in the country until the Civil War.