Title: Oil Portrait of Harry S. Truman

Description: President Truman presided over the first major reconstruction of the White House since 1817, when it was rebuilt after the British set it on fire. The foundation and infrastructure of the house had deteriorated, floors were caving in, and cracks ran up the walls. At times the whole house would shake. The Trumans lived in Blair House from 1949-1952 while the 5.5 million dollar renovation was completed.

Date: 1947

Creator: Martha G. Kempton

Credit: White House Historical Association (White House Collection)