Have you ever seen the news coverage of state dinners held in the State Dining Room, the grand dining hall with seating for 140 people in the White House? There, above the fireplace, you will find words engraved, spoken by the 2nd President of the United States, John Adams: “I pray Heaven to bestow the best of blessings on this house and all that shall hereafter inhabit it. May none but wise and honest men ever rule under this roof.”
The White House is one of the most famous buildings in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. However,...
Where is it located? The State Dining Room
First, let’s talk about the location of the State Dining Room. The White House comprises three buildings, and it is situated in the central residence, which is equivalent to the second floor in Japan. From the Entrance Hall, if you cross the Green Room, Blue Room, and Red Room, you will head west and find yourself in the State Dining Room. Official state dinners for foreign dignitaries are held here.
On the north side of this room is the Family Dining Room, located just beyond the right-hand door as you enter. From here, you can peek into the State Dining Room. Despite its name, the Family Dining Room is used for small-scale official and unofficial dinners, and it is not where the President’s family dines daily.
The Word beneath the portrait of the 16th President, Abraham Lincoln…
Beneath the portrait of the 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, you will find something worth seeing—the fireplace. Inscribed in this corner are the words: “I pray Heaven to bestow the best of blessings on this House and all that shall hereafter inhabit it.”
This quote comes from a letter written by the 2nd President, John Adams, to his wife, Abigail, when they moved into the White House, which was externally completed but undergoing interior construction at the time. The inscription was added during the restoration of the mantelpiece under the direction of the 32nd President, Franklin D. Roosevelt.
This wish for all those who reside as the masters of the White House to be wise and honest is a sentiment that still resonates today. It is a phrase that those in power cannot help but contemplate. Even if future renovations take place, I hope these words will remain here forever.
“I pray Heaven to bestow the best of blessings on this House and all that shall hereafter inhabit it.”
The State Dining Room is full of captivating features, from the chandeliers, carpets, and curtains to the overall interior design. But I highly recommend you do not miss the fireplace, which carries the timeless words of remarkable Presidents that touch the heart across generations.
When you visit the White House, make sure to include this spot as one of your must-see destinations.
