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The White House in 1846, Photographed by John Plumbe, Jr.

John Plumbe, Jr. photographed the White House in 1846 during the administration of President James K. Polk, making this one of the earliest known photographs of the building. The image was taken in winter.

Posted 1 min read

This is an amazing old photograph of the White House taken by John Plumbe, Jr. in 1846. The 11th President of the United States , James K. Polk, was the building’s occupant, having succeeded President John Tyler just the year prior. It’s a great one to stare at and study.

It appears to be taken some time during the winter, as all the leaves are off the trees. You will also notice that the current top floor of the White House and the Truman Balcony are not there.

White House daguerreotype by John Plumbe, Jr. in 1846 (Library of Congress)
White House daguerreotype by John Plumbe, Jr. in 1846 (Library of Congress)
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