The Cross Hall is a corridor on the first floor of the White House’s Residence, right after entering through the main front entrance. It measures approximately 18×80 feet (about 5.5×24.5 meters) in size.
Through the Cross Hall, visitors can access various rooms, including the East Room, Green Room, Blue Room, Red Room, and State Dining Room.
Let us introduce the grace and elegance of this remarkable Cross Hall.
The White House is one of the most famous buildings in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. However,...
Enchanted by the Elegance of the Cross Hall
With marble floors and walls, accented by gold, and a red carpet adorned with intricate designs, topped off with decorated plaster ceilings and cut-glass chandeliers, every aspect of the Cross Hall exudes refined beauty and harmony.
According to the bronze cornerstone, these renovations were carried out during the presidency of the 33rd President, Harry S. Truman, in 1952.
While the red carpet is rolled up beyond the East Room, there is still plenty to be captivated by in the graceful atmosphere of the Cross Hall.
At the eastern end of the Cross Hall, there is a grand staircase. Initially, after the White House’s reconstruction in 1817 following its destruction, there were two grand staircases, one on each end. However, due to the expansion of the State Dining Room in 1902, one of the staircases was removed, leaving the current single grand staircase.
Near the front entrance of the grand staircase stands a beautiful piano, renowned as a Steinway grand. Its gold decorations are eye-catching. The first piano of this kind was said to have been personally ordered and brought in by the 26th President, Theodore Roosevelt.
A Lineup of President’s Portraits
Since the time of the 18th President, Ulysses S. Grant, it has been a tradition to hang portraits of presidents along the walls of the Cross Hall.
Recently, the portraits of the presidents can be seen near the entrance, with the portrait of the 32nd President, Franklin D. Roosevelt, displayed at the western end.
Furthermore, in 1881, the 21st President, Chester A. Arthur, had a portrait of his deceased wife displayed two years before he took office, which sparked discussions about the identity of the woman depicted.
The Cross Hall: A Place that Ignites Imagination
Over hundreds of years, the White House has witnessed numerous historical moments and turning points.
Before making significant decisions or after experiencing momentous changes, how did the great figures of history walk through this Cross Hall, and what expressions did they wear?
The Cross Hall not only offers the enchantment of its beauty but also allows visitors to ponder the ambitions and aspirations of countless individuals across different eras, making it a fascinating place to stroll and enjoy.
