Episode 32 - The Roosevelt White House Restoration of 1902
In this episode of the 'Talk About Teddy' podcast, hosts Kurt Skinner & Larry Marple are joined by Edith Roosevelt historian, Julia Marple, to discuss the 1902 restoration of the White House overseen by Theodore Roosevelt and his wife, Edith Roosevelt. The conversation highlights the historical significance of the restoration, the challenges faced, and the roles played by TR and especially Edith. The episode includes discussion of the architects involved, the financial aspects, the public's reaction, and the specific architectural changes made during the restoration, emphasizing the Roosevelts' dedication to preserving the historical integrity of the White House.
Bibliography and sources used:
“Inside the White House,” Noel Grove, William Bushong, Joel Treese, National Geographic, 2013
“Edith Kermit Roosevelt: Portrait of a First Lady,” Sylvia Jukes Morris.
“White House History: The Roosevelt Restoration of 1902,” White House Historical Association website
“Restoration of the White House: Message of the President of the U.S. Transmitting the Report of the Architects,” 1903. Digitized at the theodorerooseveltcenter.org (Restoration of the White House - Message of the President of the United States Transmitting the Report of the Architects - Theodore Roosevelt Center)
“The President’s House, Volume II,” William Seale, 1986, White House Historical Society
Newspaper archives at newspapers.com
“My Brother, Theodore Roosevelt,” Corinne Roosevelt Robinson, 1921
“Edith Kermit Roosevelt: Creating the Modern First Lady,” Lewis L. Gould
Original blueprints sold at auction:
https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5014317
Views of the White House from the Library of Congress:
Search Results: "LOT 3239" - Prints & Photographs Online Catalog (Library of Congress)
Theodore Roosevelt in his office during his Presidency.
The Roosevelt family autographs: https://oregondigital.org/concern/images/df712355q
