When Was the Movie Theater Added to the White House?

Movie Theater|Theater

The movie theater at the White House was not always there. It was added in 1942 and has been used ever since as a place to relax and watch movies.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt requested the addition of the theater shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. At the time, he wanted a place to relax and unwind with his family, away from public attention, and a movie theater seemed like the perfect solution.

The movie theater was built in the East Wing of the White House and was completed by April 1942. It was installed with luxury seating and state-of-the-art projection equipment—the same type used in commercial theaters at the time.

The theater also featured a concession stand, which served popcorn and candy to guests during screenings.

During Roosevelt’s presidency, he often hosted weekly movie screenings for his family, friends, and other dignitaries. After he passed away in 1945, President Truman continued this tradition by hosting regular Saturday night screenings for members of Congress and their families.

Since then, every president has used the White House movie theater for private screenings or to host special events. Over the years, it has become an important part of presidential life—a symbol of relaxation and escape from the daily grind of politics.

Conclusion:
The movie theater at White House was added in 1942 upon president Franklin D Roosevelt’s request for a place to relax with his family away from public attention. Since then it has been an important part of presidential life – a symbol of relaxation and escape from daily politics – hosting private screenings or special events for members of congress and their families over the years.