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National Council on White House History

History's Ambassadors

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Meet the members of The National Council on White House History

who we are

In early 1961, before major restoration of the White House began, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy asked a group of informed and connected individuals to join what would become her White House Fine Arts Committee. This committee was tasked with the acquisition of antique furniture for the restoration, and for drafting many of its controlling principles.

Mrs. Kennedy realized how important it was to assemble a team of leaders and advocates that could successfully champion White House preservation, and it is for that same reason we’ve established the National Council on White House History.

The Kennedys at The Blair House
Blair House: The President's Guest House, U.S. Department Of State

What we do

Through investments of their time, influence, and resources, individuals invited to join the National Council are committed to promoting and preserving the rich history of America’s Executive Mansion. Council members serve as ambassadors for the Association, raising our profile nationally and advocating for our efforts in the areas of protection, preservation, and public access. They also serve as incubators for new relationships with potential donors, and provide critical unrestricted financial support.

National Council members take part in a number of exclusive engagements and events which we’ve outlined in more detail in our ‘How You Can Help’ section.

White House Historical Association event honoring First Lady Michelle Obama, November 15, 2016
White House Historical Association

Council members serve as ambassadors for the Association, raising our profile nationally and advocating for our efforts in the areas of protection, preservation, and public access.

This photograph is of First Lady Barbara Bush and former first ladies at the dedication of the Reagan Presidential Library on November 4, 1991.
GEORGE BUSH PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM/NARA

National Council Members

how we do it

  • Protect

    We fund the acquisition and protection of historically significant artwork, furniture, china, and other household items for the White House’s permanent collection.

  • Preserve

    We assist in the preservation and periodic renovation of White House interiors, and commission the official portraits of both the President and the First Lady.

  • Provide

    We provide meaningful connection to the White House through our publications, educational programs, digital image library, exhibits, and the White House Visitors Center.

How You Can Help

As our thank-you, members of the National Council receive:

  • The National Council

    • Invitations to convene twice a year with senior leadership of the White House Historical Association
    • Briefings from Association leadership throughout the year
    • Invitations to exhibitions, symposia, lectures and book signings at the Association
    • Invitation to an annual presidential site trip (Presidential Libraries, Birthplaces, and Homes)
  • Members also receive exclusive “first look” updates on Association projects and initiatives, which include:
    • Participating in strategic discussions with Association leadership
    • Visibility as an important leader within the White House Historical Association
    • Engaging with content leaders, historians, authors, and peers in the social and business communities
    • Receiving early notice of news and updates about the Association
    • Receiving complimentary invitations to Association events

For more information about the National Council on White House History, please contact nationalcouncil@whha.org.