AMERICAN ARCHIVE
STORIES FROM THE WHITE HOUSE
America’s Pastime at the People’s House
President Coolidge signs a baseball for the Washington Senators during their visit to the White House, 1924.
Library of Congress
In 1924, the Washington Senators won the World Series for the first time. The capital went wild.
That season, the Senators won the American League Pennant, defeating the New York Yankees to advance to the World Series. President Calvin Coolidge heaped praise on the team. “By bringing the baseball pennant to Washington” he said at a ceremony, “you have made the National Capital more truly the center of our worthy and honorable national aspirations.”
The team faced the formidable New York Giants in the World Series. President Coolidge threw out the first pitch of Game 1 and attended Games 6 and 7. The final game of the series was a come-from-behind thriller that the Senators won by one run in the 12th inning.
The following year, the president invited the Washington Senators to the White House as the reigning champions—starting a tradition that continues to this day.
Washington Senators manager Stanley Harris presents President Coolidge with the baseball used to open the World Series, 1924.
Library of Congress
President Coolidge, center, with the Washington Senators and New York Giants before Game 7 of the World Series, 1924.
Library of Congress
President Coolidge throws out the first pitch at Game 1 of the World Series, 1924.
Library of Congress
President Coolidge with the Washington Senators at the White House, 1924.
Library of Congress
South view of the White House and part of the South Lawn, 2013.
Bruce White for the White House Historical Association
On the South Lawn
The South Lawn is used for state arrival ceremonies, the White House Easter Egg Roll, concerts, and other events. The South Lawn is part of the White House Grounds, which include several decorative and functional gardens, a tennis court, putting green, and swimming pool. Because the White House Grounds are a national park, the National Park Service oversees their care, maintenance, and improvement.
AMERICAN ARCHIVE
STORIES FROM THE WHITE HOUSE
