This Day in History (Nov 1, 2025) - The White House

1800: John Adams moved into the White House, officially opening the presidential residence. John Adams, the second president of the United States, became the first head of state to reside in the "Executive Residence" (later renamed the White House). 

At that time, the White House was not yet painted white, nor did it have the Oval Office; it was merely an unfinished building. In a letter, Adams wrote, "May future presidents reside here forever." This marked the relocation of the US federal government from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C., symbolizing the beginning of the new republic.

The White House was designed by Irish-born architect James Hoban, inspired by Leinster House in Dublin. It was built in the newly established capital city of Washington, D.C.

In November 1800, President John Adams became the first U.S. president to live in the White House, although it was still unfinished at the time. His wife, Abigail Adams, famously used the East Room to hang laundry.

Originally Called the “President’s House”: The building was not officially called the “White House” until 1901, when President Theodore Roosevelt adopted the name.

When Adams moved in, the house lacked many basic amenities. It was cold, damp, and sparsely furnished. The surrounding area was largely undeveloped, with muddy streets and few buildings.