The White House: An Historic Guide Value Guide

This 1962 guidebook represents a landmark initiative by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy to transform the Executive Mansion into a living museum. As the first publication by the White House Historical Association, it served as both an educational tool and a primary funding source for the restoration of historical artifacts.

What affects the value of The White House: An Historic Guide?

• Condition of the spine and paper, as these softcover guides are prone to creasing and yellowing.
• Presence of original inserts or related ephemera from the 1960s White House tours.
• The specific printing number, with true first printings commanding the highest end of the $10-$20 range.
• Overall preservation of the vibrant interior ink and photographic clarity.

How to Identify The White House: An Historic Guide?

• Verify the 1962 copyright date on the title page to confirm it is the inaugural edition.
• Check for the White House Historical Association credits, as this was their debut publication.
• Look for high-quality color photography of the interiors as they appeared during the Kennedy administration restoration.
• Ensure the cover features the classic architectural rendering of the White House north portico.

History of The White House: An Historic Guide

Published by the White House Historical Association, this guide was a key initiative of First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy to preserve and educate the public about the White House. The first edition was released in 1962, becoming an instant success and helping to fund the restoration and acquisition of historical artifacts for the Executive Mansion. It remains a definitive resource for understanding the rich heritage of the White House.