On Oct. 13, 1792, builders laid the cornerstone of the White House in Washington, D.C., marking the start of America’s most famous address.
Designed by Irish-born architect James Hoban, the grand mansion was chosen by George Washington, though he never lived there. Construction took eight years, with enslaved laborers and European craftsmen carving its neoclassical design from sandstone. John Adams became the first President to move in, in 1800. The first cornerstone ceremony was steeped in mystery – no one knows exactly where it was placed.
The building survived fires in 1814 and 1929, expansions and renovations, yet it still stands.
– Staff report with AI assist*, The Today 100
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