THE PARLORS
The charming, intimate Green Room is used for small teas andreceptions. Throughout the year, the renowned portrait of Benjamin Franklin by David Martin,which hangs above the fireplace, is a focal point of this traditional room. During the holidays,the mantel becomes the focus of holiday decorations. This year, the mantelpieces in both the Green Room and the Red Room werecreated by a number of talented artisans and craftsmen under the direction of artist ChristopherRadko. The Green Room mantel features a night-time scene inSanta's village, as the elves and Mrs. Claus make sure theat all is ready for Santa's round-the-world journey.
Official White House Christmas TreeBy tradition, the Blue Room is the residence of the official WhiteHouse tree. This year, the tree is an 18'6" Fraser fir from the Grouse Ridge Tree Farm in GrassyCreek, Ashe County, North Carolina. The tree was presented to Mrs. Clinton by Sanford andDeborah Fishel and their daughters, Maggie and Sara Beth. The Fishels won the honor of beingnamed the 1997 Grand Champion Growers by the National Christmas Tree Association.
Also by tradition, the First Family invited special groups and individuals to contribute ornamentsfor the official tree. For Holiday 1997, following the theme of Santa's Workshop, designersfrom the Council of Fashion Designers of America created their versions of suits from Santa andMrs. Claus. Glass artisans from across the country used their talents to create characters, scenesand images one might find at the North Pole. And members of the National NeedleworkAssociation stitched ornaments representing toys and workshop scenes.
The green velvet handmade tree skirt was designed by individuals from each of the 50 states,territories and the District of Columbia, in celebration of the Clinton family's first holiday at theWhite House.
Furnished in classic American Empire style, the Red Room is warm,inviting, and showcases the second Christopher Radko mantelpiece. The scene is of Santa'sWorkshop on December 23rd, where a merry mayhem ensues. Elves are busily crafting toys,musical instruments and holiday decorations, while Santa oversees every last detail.
Holiday Tour at the White House 1997
Council of Fashion Designers of America Ornaments
The State Dining Room and Gingerbread House
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