November 1, 1800 — John Adams becomes the first president in the White House
President John Adams moved into the still-unfinished White House, the first president to live there. He wrote a blessing that night — "may none but honest and wise men ever rule under this roof" — words later carved into the State Dining Room mantel. The house has held every president since.
Common Questions
What happened on November 1 in American history?
In 1800: John Adams becomes the first president in the White House. President John Adams moved into the still-unfinished White House, the first president to live there.
Why is November 1 significant?
President John Adams moved into the still-unfinished White House, the first president to live there. He wrote a blessing that night — "may none but honest and wise men ever rule under this roof" — words later carved into the State Dining Room mantel. The house has held every president since.
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