Unveiling the Official President Bush Portrait

The Obama White House14 minutes read

The White House Historical Association plays a significant role in preserving White House history and educating the public through initiatives like portrait unveilings and the establishment of the David Rubenstein National Center. Past presidents, first ladies, and other speakers express gratitude for the Association's contributions and highlight the importance of unity and patriotism in their speeches.

Insights

  • The White House Historical Association, led by Chairman Fred Ryan, plays a crucial role in preserving White House history, supporting its education, and contributing significantly to the acquisition and refurbishment of art for the White House.
  • The unveiling of portraits at the historic ceremony, including those of President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush, symbolizes not only a tribute to past leaders but also underscores the importance of unity, patriotism, and gratitude for the privilege of residing in the White House, as expressed by various speakers at the event.

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Recent questions

  • What is the White House Historical Association?

    A nonprofit educating about White House history and preservation.

  • What is the significance of President George Washington's portrait?

    The first acquired by the United States government.

  • Who unveiled President George W. Bush's portrait?

    President George W. Bush himself unveiled his portrait.

  • What message did President Obama convey?

    Emphasized unity and patriotism in his speech.

  • How did Mrs. Bush react to seeing her portrait?

    Humorously reflected and expressed gratitude.

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Summary

00:00

"White House Historical Association: Preserving History"

  • Fred Ryan, Chairman of the Board of the White House Historical Association, introduces the Association's role in arranging the unveiling of portraits at a historic ceremony.
  • The White House Historical Association, founded by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy 50 years ago, aims to educate the public about White House history and support its preservation.
  • The Association recently launched the David Rubenstein National Center for White House History and plans to open a redesigned White House visitors center.
  • Over the years, the Association has provided nearly $40 million for refurbishing and acquiring art for the White House.
  • The Association has commissioned official portraits of every president and first lady in the last 50 years, contributing to the White House collection.
  • President George Washington's portrait was the first acquired by the United States government and was a concern during the British burning of the White House in 1814.
  • President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush's portraits are added to the White House collection, joining those of past presidents and first ladies.
  • President Obama acknowledges the challenges and responsibilities of the presidency, highlighting the importance of unity and patriotism.
  • President Bush expresses gratitude for the hospitality and unveils his portrait, emphasizing the significance of the White House and its history.
  • Mrs. Bush humorously reflects on the experience of seeing her portrait and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to hang family pictures at the White House.

17:40

Gratitude for Portraits at White House

  • The speaker expresses gratitude for the portraits being displayed at the White House, highlighting the personal significance of the location due to their family's past residence there.
  • Acknowledgment is given to the people who supported them during challenging times, particularly after September 11th, emphasizing the importance of their service to the country.
  • The First Lady thanks the former President and Mrs. Bush for their warmth and graciousness, commending Laura Bush as a role model for strength and grace, and expressing appreciation for the privilege of residing in the White House.
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