Trimming the Tree in American Legends

Decking the tree with history is a handsome way to have a White House Christmas without having to be elected or invited.

The White House Historical Assn. captures presidential history through its series of 3-inch square ornaments, traditionally hung on the Blue Room tree. Based on research by White House curator Betty Monkman and historian William Seale, the collectibles number 18. Presidential families give them as presents, and collectors snap up each year’s new trimming at $11 and $14. (Proceeds go to acquire historic furnishings and art for the White House permanent collection and to preserve its public rooms.)

The ornaments honoring the presidents are mostly chronological, interspersed by historic events. Fifteen commemorate specific presidents. This year, a white bisque American eagle flies over a Union shield insignia from crystal dinnerware bought by President Andrew Jackson. The 24-karat gold-finished wreath blooms with white magnolias and pink camellias, a design suggested by Harriet Lane, Jackson’s niece and hostess. She was fond of turning the White House into an indoor garden with camellias embellishing magnolia blossoms from a tree planted by Jackson still flourishing in the White House garden.

This is the second design related to Jackson. The 1988 decoration was inspired by an invitation from about 150 years ago: “The children of President Jackson’s Family request you to join them on Christmas Day at 4 p.m. in a frolic in the East Room.”

The nonprofit historical association produced its first decoration in 1981, a Christmas angel in flight honoring George Washington. The 1983 ornament shows the White House’s north facade, without wings, as John and Abigail Adams, its first occupants, saw it when they rode into Washington on Nov. 1, 1800. Their son, John Quincy Adams, is recalled on the 1987 design taken from the sandstone portal and double mahogany White House doors, adorned with evergreen wreaths and red poinsettias.

William Henry Harrison, in full military regalia topped with a plumed headpiece, rides across the 1991 ornament. Millard Fillmore designed the 31-star seal superimposed over the north portico on the 1996 ornament.

Thomas Jefferson in 1803, Seale says, was the first to celebrate Christmas in the house. The 1984 ornament’s Peace symbols--crossed peace pipes and handshakes--is based on Jefferson’s peace medal, minted in 1801 to be presented to American Indian dignitaries.

The 1992 edition marks the bicentennial of the White House cornerstone-laying; the 1989 one marks the bicentennial of the office of the president.

Call (800) 555-2451 to order.