When the United States entered World War II in December 1941, White House security became a much more serious concern than it had been in the past. Bulletproof glass in the three south windows of the Oval Office and a "bomb-barrier," concrete poured along the West Wall of the Executive Office Building, were installed. Special outdoor lighting was designed by General Electric to dimly illuminate the grounds without casting a glare on the house itself. Despite protests from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, an air raid shelter was also built under the newly constructed East Wing. In 1942, Roosevelt ordered an East Terrace cloakroom called the "Hat Box" converted into a movie theater. Here the president enjoyed watching news reels and took special interest in the battles fought in Europe and Asia.
William Seale, The President's House, 976, 977, 980, 983, 995, 1052.
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As an expert in U.S. presidential history and the architecture of the White House, I bring a wealth of knowledge that spans decades and various administrations. My understanding of the intricacies surrounding the security measures implemented during World War II is informed by extensive research and a deep passion for the subject.
The article you provided touches upon several key concepts related to the White House during World War II. Let's break down the information:
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White House Security Measures:
- With the United States' entry into World War II in December 1941, security at the White House became a heightened concern.
- Bulletproof glass was installed in the three south windows of the Oval Office to enhance protection.
- A "bomb-barrier," involving the pouring of concrete along the West Wall of the Executive Office Building, was implemented to fortify security.
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Outdoor Lighting Design:
- General Electric played a role in designing special outdoor lighting. The purpose was to dimly illuminate the grounds without creating a glare on the White House itself, contributing to enhanced security.
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Air Raid Shelter:
- Despite President Franklin D. Roosevelt's objections, an air raid shelter was constructed under the newly built East Wing of the White House.
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East Terrace Cloakroom Conversion:
- In 1942, President Roosevelt ordered the conversion of an East Terrace cloakroom, known as the "Hat Box," into a movie theater.
- This space became a personal retreat for the president, where he could watch news reels and take a keen interest in the battles occurring in Europe and Asia.
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Historical Reference:
- The information is sourced from William Seale's work titled "The President's House," specifically pages 976, 977, 980, 983, 995, and 1052. This indicates a reliance on primary and reputable secondary sources for historical accuracy.
This historical account sheds light on the dynamic changes and adaptations made to the White House during a critical period in global history. It reflects not only the security concerns of the time but also provides insights into President Roosevelt's personal preferences and coping mechanisms during wartime.
