—Unique Access And Stunning Footage Open The Doors Of America’S Most Famous Residence—
Gain a unique look into America’s most famous residence when PBS airs "The White House: Inside Story,” a two-hour documentary about the rich history of the White House.
White House History
"Although he would never have the chance to live there
Come along on an intimate, behind-the-scenes historical tour told through the first-person stories of First Family members, former employees, historians, members of the press and a rare informal interview with President Obama inside the Oval Office.
The Oval Office
"The President's iconic office is the Oval Office. It is here that historic decisions are made
“’The White House: Inside Story’ offers viewers a unique look at the history of the nation’s executive mansion, known as the ‘People’s House,’ and includes details on the personal touches each first family has contributed,” said Bill Gardner, PBS Vice President of Programming and Development.
“The White House is a home, an office, a command center and a national symbol, and with this beautifully crafted film, PBS viewers will gain a new perspective on this iconic American building.”
The People's House
"It’s America’s most iconic residence: symbol of national history and icon of democracy. From the Oval Office to the family dining room
Through current-day filming combined with stock footage and still photos of past presidents, their families and staff, viewers will experience the precision with which the Executive Mansion operates — as a private home and a workplace where military and economic decisions shape and affect history.
In addition to President Obama and former President Jimmy Carter, the program features new interviews with First Ladies Michelle Obama, Laura Bush, Barbara Bush and Rosalynn Carter reminiscing about their families’ place in the 200-year history of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
These personal stories are interwoven with historical facts about the “house that George Washington built.”
The Residence Staff
"When First Families are asked what they will miss most about leaving The White House
First Lady Michelle Obama, for example, reveals that “the White House is a fabulously magical place to live, that’s not difficult to make a home.”
Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter admits that thinking about the history of the White House “gives [her] chills.”
And former First Lady Barbara Bush recalls, “You can feel history, and hope you can live up to it.”
The Residence
"The President of the United States may have one of the most challenging jobs in the world but he has one of the best commutes. Away from the hustle and bustle of the West Wing and the Main Floor
Perhaps most revealing is a story told by former Chief Usher Gary Walters, who was preparing a luncheon for the entire Congress and their families on the White House lawn the morning of September 11, 2001, when news of the terrorist attacks reached Washington.
Despite Secret Service orders to evacuate the White House, Walters recalls how he quickly assessed the severity of the situation and made the decision to remain behind and dismantle the outdoor luncheon space, thus freeing up the lawn to allow the president’s helicopter to land.
He then went on to prepare the Oval Office for President Bush to address the nation later that day.
“One of the things that I turned to in my own mind on 9/11 was the role that the White House plays in disasters and wars,” said Walters. “People have a tendency to turn to the White House as a symbol of our American Heritage.”
“In times of crisis, war and tough economic eras, the White House is a stalwart symbol that has stood strong since it was first commissioned by President George Washington in 1792,” said film producer Peter Schnall, who gained special access to personnel and insider information.
“Being able to sit with President Obama in the historic Oval Office talking about his personal experiences raising a family in the White House was a rare and special experience that lends uniqueness to this film.”
WATCH ON YOUR SCHEDULE:
The full episode is available for online viewing with KPBS Passport, video streaming for members ($60 yearly) using your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, AppleTV, Amazon Fire or Chromecast. Learn how to activate your benefit now.
CREDITS:
Produced and directed by Peter Schnall of Partisan Pictures. It was co-produced by Margaret McEvoy, with Whitney Johnson serving as coordinating producer.
