1

New Year Reception (John and Abigail Adams)

John Adams was the first U.S. president to live in the White House—then referred to as the President’s Palace or the Presidential Mansion—alongside his wife, Abigail, who played a significant role in furnishing the newly built residence.

On New Year’s Day in 1801, the Adamses held a public reception for anyone who wanted to shake hands with the president and his wife. This tradition continued (with some interruptions) until 1932, when it was ended by Franklin D. Roosevelt, who allegedly wanted to avoid being seen using a wheelchair.

2

Indoor Toilets (Thomas Jefferson)

When Thomas Jefferson assumed the presidency, he discovered that the White House lacked indoor plumbing, toilets, and had only an outdoor wooden privy. He ordered the construction of two "water closets," one on each side of the residence.

During Jefferson’s tenure, the White House underwent several modernizations, including improvements to the lighting system, the kitchen, and exterior features such as gutters. He also had an outdoor wine cellar built to store his extensive collection.

3

White House China (James Monroe)

Did you know the White House has a special room dedicated to displaying the porcelain sets designed for each administration? The tradition of commissioning presidential china designs started in 1817, with President James Monroe.

Monroe’s china was designed and crafted in Paris, featuring an eagle carrying a red, white, and blue banner inscribed with "E Pluribus Unum." Following criticism over the presidential mansion’s purchase of foreign-made goods, Congress decided that future presidential china should be manufactured in the United States, though some presidential couples still chose to commission French china.

4

The Library (Abigail Fillmore)

When Millard and Abigail Fillmore moved into the White House, their approach to decoration and improvement differed from that of previous First Families. None of them came from a wealthy background, so they prioritized expanding the heating system and modernizing the kitchen.

More interested in intellectual pursuits than in socializing, Abigail noticed that the Presidential Mansion lacked a library and set out to create one. She personally organized the room, selected the books, and arranged them to her liking. The library became her main parlor, where she received literary figures of the time and listened to music.

5

Floral Arrangements (Lucy Webb Hayes)

A passionate abolitionist and the first First Lady to earn a college degree, Lucy Webb Hayes moved into the White House at the end of the Reconstruction era, and after a highly controversial election. With limited funds to renovate the presidential mansion, Mrs. Hayes found ingenious ways to conceal holes in the carpets and worn-down furniture.

Lucy Hayes was the first president’s wife to be referred to as "First Lady." She made several improvements to the White House, but she is most remembered for turning the billiard room into a greenhouse filled with flowers, which she then used for floral arrangements for the residence.

6

The West Wing (Theodore Roosevelt)

We all know that the West Wing is where the presidential office is located, but not everyone knows that it was not part of the original design of the White House. Before 1902, the president’s offices were located on the second floor.

When Theodore Roosevelt moved into the White House, he discovered there wasn’t enough space for his six children and the growing staff. His wife, Edith, suggested that the second floor be converted entirely into family living quarters and that the offices be moved elsewhere. The West Wing was then built as a temporary structure on the site of the old stables, but in the end, it became a permanent fixture of the residence.

7

The Oval Office (William Taft)

This office is known as the place where major decisions are made, but it wasn’t part of the White House’s original design. When President William Taft decided to make the temporary West Wing permanent, he also doubled its size and created the first Oval Office.

Its distinctive shape was inspired by the semicircular Blue Room in the main residence, where presidents traditionally received guests. That design, in turn, paid homage to the bow windows from which George Washington once greeted visitors at his presidential homes in New York and Philadelphia.

8

Interior Reconstruction (Harry S. Truman)

By 1949, the White House had endured a century and a half of wars, fires, political scandals, and modernization. With few renovations made during the Great Depression and World War II, President Truman and his family moved into a mansion that was literally falling apart—it was declared unsafe after a piano leg crashed through the floor of the family quarters.

The Trumans moved across the street during the three years the reconstruction took place. Due to the need for extensive renovations, a total demolition of the building was considered but not enacted. In the end, the decision was to preserve the exterior walls and completely rebuild and expand the interior.

9

Themed Christmases (Jackie Kennedy)

The White House’s themed Christmas celebrations are now a beloved tradition, complete with a spectacular tree and elaborate decorations. This lovely tradition was started in 1961 by Jackie Kennedy, who then chose The Nutcracker as a theme, and featured decorations crafted by disabled and elderly citizens.

Since then, First Families have carried on the themed Christmas tradition, honoring topics and interests relevant to the nation and highlighting causes dear to the presidential family.

10

Office of the First Lady (Rosalynn Carter)

First Ladies have always played an important role in supporting the president, managing the Presidential Mansion, and championing various causes. However, this role wasn’t always officially recognized or included in the White House budget.

Although some First Ladies before her had hired official staff, Rosalynn Carter was the first to organize hers into a formal Office of the First Lady , complete with departments dedicated to press, social causes, campaigns, and community outreach.

1

Massachusetts - Apple pie with a twist

Image: Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦

Apple pie is the nation’s pie—it’s the classic dessert served on the 4th of July, so it doesn’t belong to any particular state. However, Massachusetts thought the classic recipe could do with a twist and they went all the way: Apple pie with a cheddar crust .

This may sound unusual, but it’s actually quite a popular recipe in the Bay State. Some choose to fill the pie with the cheese, while others prefer to lay some slices on top and bake it until a crust forms. In any case, this one is only for those who keep their minds and palates open to new experiences. Are you one of them?

2

Kentucky - Bourbon Chocolate Pecan pie

Image: nikohoshi

In Kentucky, bourbon flows as freely as hospitality, and it’s no surprise that the state’s beloved Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie is a crowd favorite—especially on Derby Day. This dessert combines crunchy pecans, smooth chocolate, and a splash of Kentucky bourbon for a sweet, boozy finish.

Now, here’s the thing with this one: You can’t call it a Derby Pie unless you are Kern’s Kitchen. Why not? Because they own the trademark. But that didn’t stop the locals—they came up with creative alternatives like "Not Derby Pie" or "Derby Dessert."

To make it yourself, try mixing a bit of melted butter with your chocolate for an extra velvety texture. Just don’t forget to sip a little bourbon on the side while you’re baking—it’s only fitting!

3

New Jersey - Green tomato pie

Image: Sophie Dale

New Jersey’s Green Tomato Pie might sound odd to some, but locals know it’s a delicious treat . Made from either ripe green tomatoes (which often have lovely stripes) or unripe red ones, this pie has a flavor that is surprisingly similar to apples. The tomatoes soften as they cook, and they blend beautifully with the cinnamon and the sugar. The result? A refreshing, unique filling.

If you’re giving it a go at home, make sure to use the ripest green tomatoes you can find—they add a more vibrant flavor to each bite.

4

Pennsylvania - Shoofly pie

Image: Kenneth Schipper

Pennsylvania’s Shoofly Pie is one of those old-time desserts that never goes out of style. Based on molasses, the pie comes in two styles: a dry-bottom version that’s more like a cake, or a wet-bottom version with a gooey custard layer.

But what about the name? Traditionally, it’s believed that the name came from the flies that bakers had to "shoo" away while the pie cooled. However, some say it's named after Shoofly the Boxing Mule, a celebrity from the 19th century.

Either way, this pie is a taste of Pennsylvania's Dutch heritage. If you’re up for a baking challenge, aim for the wet-bottom style—its sticky, rich filling is worth the extra effort. Just be ready to shoo some flies away!

5

Georgia - Peanut pie

Image: Isaac Quesada

Were you expecting to see a peach-based pie in this section? Not today, sir! Though Georgia is often called the Peach State, its real star crop is peanuts. Thousands of peanut farmers call Georgia home, including one very famous name. Do you know it? Jimmy Carter, the peanut-farming president!

Peanut Pie might not be as well-known as peanut butter, but it’s just as flavorful and rich. This Southern staple blends sweet, salty, and nutty goodness in every bite. Serve it with whipped cream, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy.

Now, in case you were wondering, Carter wasn’t the only one: Thomas Jefferson was also a fan of peanuts! With a history like that, you know this pie is something worth trying.

6

Vermont - Maple pie

Image: Mary West

This one lives up to our expectations: Vermont’s connection with maple syrup is legendary, and Maple Pie is the sweet—and logical—result. As the nation’s leader in maple syrup production, Vermont has turned this delicious treat into a delicious pie.

In the 1860s, maple sugar was cheaper than cane sugar , making it the go-to sweetener, and today, it still holds that place of honor. Maple Pie is rich, buttery, and perfectly sweet… So, Vermont in a nutshell.

Are you giving this pie a go? Use a deep-flavored maple for an intense result!

7

Alaska - Blueberry Rhubarb pie

Image: Erol Ahmed

We may all know Alaska for its rugged wilderness, but it’s also home to some fantastic pie ingredients, like blueberries and rhubarb. These two grow in abundance, especially thanks to Alaska’s long summer days. And did you know? Back in the early 1900s, Henry Clark, who was nicknamed "The Rhubarb King," helped feed Gold Rush workers with fresh rhubarb.

You can use any kind of berry in this pie, but wild Alaskan blueberries are especially tasty! Add a dollop of vanilla ice cream on top, and you’ve got a true Alaskan treat. It’s tart, sweet, and perfect for any adventure. Just be sure to gather your berries before the bears do!

8

Colorado - Rocky road pie

Image: Dagmara Dombrovska

When you think of Colorado, the mighty Rocky Mountains are the first thing to come to mind, right? What better way to honor them than with a Rocky Road Pie? Done and done, thanks to the locals.

This pie brings together chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, just like the famous ice cream flavor. Now, here is a fun fact: legend says the original Rocky Road ice cream was made by cutting marshmallows with sewing scissors!

We can’t really confirm whether that’s true or not, but you can’t deny the charm of the story. The pie version is just as rich and satisfying, with layers of melted chocolate and fluffy marshmallows. If you’re a fan of sweet and crunchy, this one’s for you.

9

Maryland - White potato pie

Image: Josephine Amalie Paysen

Most people think of sweet potatoes when they hear "potato pie," and that makes sense, but in Maryland, it’s all about the white potato .

This pie has been a local favorite for over 150 years, and early recipes date back to nothing less than the 1850s! Baked in a buttery crust, this pie is sweet and custard-like, with just a hint of cinnamon. It’s a bit like pumpkin pie’s lighter cousin.

Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new holiday go-to! Marylanders have been enjoying it for generations, and it’s easy to see why. Serve warm or cold—it’s the perfect ending to any meal.

10

Ohio - Buckeye pie

Image: Tanya Semenchuk

And we come to the end with Ohio’s signature pie: Buckeye pie take center stage , please! This delicious pie, along with its name, is inspired by the famous buckeye candy that mimics the state tree’s nut.

Though the real buckeye nut is toxic, you can eat this version without any worries. The pie is pure indulgence, layered with chocolate and peanut butter. The combination of creamy peanut butter filling and rich chocolate is hard to resist, and it looks just as good as it tastes. Simply mouthwatering!

1

Keep Austin weird (Austin, Texas)

Image: MJ Tangonan

We’ll begin with one of the most distinctive unofficial mottos out there. In the year 2000, an Austin resident named Red Wassenich called a radio show and made a pledge encouraging fellow citizens to " Keep Austin Weird ." The phrase resonated with him, and he soon began printing bumper stickers and shirts. It was quickly embraced by other Austinites, eventually evolving into the unofficial motto still seen all over the Texas capital.

2

Al-Ki (Washington)

Image: Toan Chu

The only American state that has a fully unofficial state motto. " Al-Ki " (also written as "Alki") is a word from Chinook Jargon that translates to "by and by," though it’s sometimes interpreted as " hope for the future ." Whichever translation you prefer, both express a beautiful sentiment—one that reflects not only the optimism of early 19th-century settlers but also the warm, forward-looking spirit of the people of Washington State.

3

Land of Lincoln (Illinois)

Image: Joel Mott

Illinois takes great pride in being the home state of our 16th president—and with good reason. Who wouldn’t be proud of " The Great Emancipator "? Interestingly, Lincoln wasn’t born in Illinois; he was born in a log cabin in Kentucky and spent much of his childhood in Indiana. However, Illinois was definitely Lincoln’s home : it was in the "Prairie State" that he made a name for himself as a lawyer and met his future wife.

4

Sportsman’s Paradise (Louisiana)

Image: Fitsum Admasu

If you’ve ever visited the great state of Louisiana, you’ve probably noticed the many outdoor opportunities it offers, including abundant hunting, fishing, and trapping spots. While Louisiana’s official motto is "Union, Justice, and Confidence," many know the Pelican State by another moniker: "Sportsman’s Paradise."

5

Smiling faces, beautiful places (South Carolina)

Image: Jacqueline Munguía

One of the most memorable aspects of visiting the American South is experiencing its famous " Southern hospitality ." People from the South take pride in their warmth, kindness, and the instinctive way they welcome visitors. In that spirit, South Carolina’s unofficial motto perfectly reflects these values . After all, if you ever visit this great state, be prepared to be greeted by the two things it’s best known for: "Smiling Faces, Beautiful Places."

6

Taxation without representation (Washington, D.C.)

Image: Louis Velazquez

Most license plate mottos praise the state or city they represent. However, since 2000, Washington, D.C. has famously used a slogan that protests its unique political situation. For over 20 years, D.C. license plates have featured a variation of the phrase "Taxation Without Representation"—a quote that highlights the fact that D.C. residents must pay federal taxes without having voting representation in Congress.

7

Wild, wonderful (West Virginia)

Image: Sharosh Rajasekher

There’s nothing like a good alliteration to lift your spirits. West Virginia is known worldwide for its beauty—a living reminder that good things come in small packages . What the state lacks in size, it makes up for with its stunning scenery. In that spirit, we’d like to celebrate whoever coined West Virginia’s most famous unofficial motto: "Wild, Wonderful." It’s short, simple, and perfectly captures the essence of this remarkable state.

8

America’s Dairyland (Wisconsin)

Image: Brian Suman

Wisconsin is known around the world for the exceptional quality of its dairy products, and Wisconsinites take great pride in that fact. Don’t believe it? Just look at the fans of the Green Bay Packers, who often wear iconic "cheesehead" hats shaped like wedges of cheese, proudly celebrating their state’s most famous export. While the official state motto is the single word "Forward," many prefer Wisconsin’s unofficial title: "America’s Dairyland," a nickname that appears frequently across the state.

9

Life Elevated (Utah)

Image: Taylor Brandon

In 2006, Utah’s Department of Tourism introduced a new slogan to promote tourism and inspire residents to take pride in their beautiful state. The slogan, "Life Elevated," was featured on tourism signs and license plates throughout "The Beehive State." When you think about it, the slogan is quite clever, especially considering it indirectly references one of Utah’s most beloved natural wonders: Arches National Park.

10

Old Dominion (Virginia)

Image: STEPHEN POORE

From "the Mother of Presidents" to "the Mother of States," Virginia boasts a collection of iconic nicknames . While "Old Dominion" may not be as self-explanatory as some other monikers, it’s no less impressive. The name originates from Virginia being the first overseas dominion of the English kings and queens .