When Was the East Wing of the White House Built? Full History and Key Facts Explained

The East Wing of the White House, one of the most recognizable parts of the presidential complex, was officially built in 1942 during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency. It was constructed as a two-story addition to provide space for the First Lady and her staff, serve as the main visitor entrance, and discreetly cover a new underground presidential bunker built during World War II.

This addition significantly changed how the White House functioned, combining ceremonial duties, administrative tasks, and security needs into one area. Today, the East Wing remains a vital part of the Executive Mansion, welcoming visitors, housing staff, and serving as a key piece of the White House’s evolving history.

The site of the new ballroom will be where the East Wing currently sits. McCrery Architects PLLC/The White House)

How and Why the East Wing Was Built in 1942

Although the main White House structure was completed in 1800, the East Wing as we know it today did not exist until the 20th century. A smaller entrance wing was added in 1902 under President Theodore Roosevelt, primarily serving as a cloakroom and guest reception area. But it was not until 1942, amid the global upheaval of World War II, that the modern East Wing was constructed.

Franklin D. Roosevelt oversaw the construction of the two-story East Wing to meet several new demands. It provided expanded office space for the First Lady and her staff, created a proper entrance for official guests and public tours, and, most critically, concealed the newly built Presidential Emergency Operations Center (PEOC), a secure underground bunker designed to protect the president during wartime threats.

Architecturally, the East Wing includes the East Colonnade, a corridor connecting the wing to the main Executive Residence, and the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, an elegant outdoor space named by First Lady Lady Bird Johnson in honor of her predecessor. Visitors entering the White House still pass through this wing, following the East Colonnade into the main residence to explore the Ground and State Floors.

Before the East Wing was built, a greenhouse occupied much of the east grounds. The transformation in 1942 marked a turning point for the White House, symbolizing how global events like World War II shaped not just policy but also the physical structure of the U.S. presidency’s home.

The Role and Significance of the East Wing Today

More than 80 years after its construction, the East Wing remains a vital part of White House operations. It continues to house the First Lady’s offices and staff, reflecting the evolving role of the First Lady in policy, social issues, and public outreach. The President’s private theater, where films and briefings are held, is also located within this wing.

For visitors, the East Wing is the gateway to the White House experience. All public tours begin at the east entrance, leading guests through the East Colonnade past the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden before they enter the historic main residence. This path connects the public directly with the living history of the presidency and the nation.

The 1942 construction date also underscores the White House’s adaptation to security challenges. Beneath the East Wing lies the PEOC, a highly secure facility that has been used during crises, including the September 11, 2001 attacks. The decision to conceal the bunker under the new wing highlights how architecture and national security intersect at the highest levels of government.

In short, the East Wing of the White House, built in 1942, is far more than an architectural extension. It represents a pivotal shift in how the White House functions—balancing public ceremony, private work, and national security in a single space that continues to serve the presidency to this day.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When was the East Wing of the White House built?

The East Wing was built in 1942 during President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s administration as a two-story addition to the Executive Residence.

Q2: Why was the East Wing built in 1942?

It was built to expand office space for the First Lady, improve visitor access, and conceal the new underground Presidential Emergency Operations Center during World War II.

Q3: What is located inside the East Wing?

The East Wing contains the First Lady’s offices, the President’s theater, the visitor entrance, and the East Colonnade connecting to the main residence.

Q4: How do visitors enter the White House today?

Visitors enter through the East Wing, walk along the East Colonnade past the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, and proceed into the Residence to tour the Ground and State Floors.

Q5: What existed on the East Wing site before 1942?

Before the East Wing was built, a greenhouse occupied the east grounds of the White House. Earlier, President Jefferson had added colonnaded terraces in the early 1800s.