The History of Fires at the White House: How Many Times Has It Been Set On Fire?

While many people wonder how many times the White House has been set on fire, the answer is not as straightforward as one might think. This article delves into the history, key incidents, and the truth behind these fires.

Key Dates and Incidents

No one actually knows the exact number of times the White House has been set on fire. The truth is that no one ever counted the number of times fires were ever started in old time fireplaces and wood fire stoves. However, there are notable historical events that provide insight into the events that have truly set it on fire.

The War of 1812: The Brits Had Their Turn

The most notorious incident occurred during the War of 1812. The British enjoyed burning the White House, and they were not alone. They hadn’t gotten over losing the 1776 war against the Americans. The Battle of Washington occurred on August 24, 1814, and in retaliation for the Burning of York (present-day Toronto, Canada), British troops descended on Washington D.C. They burned only public buildings, including the White House, the Capitol Building, the Treasury Building, and the Navy Yard, but they left private residences alone. The fire caused extensive damage, weakening the support structures. Most of the White House, except for the external stone walls, had to be torn down and rebuilt, a process that took two years. This event marks the first time the White House sustained significant damage and was set on fire.

The West Wing Fire of 1929: A Closer Call

A second notable fire occurred in 1929. Unlike the 1814 incident, this fire was not caused by an act of hostility but by an electrical problem. It happened on Christmas Eve, just one week after the stock market crash. The fire was located in the West Wing of the White House, which at the time served as a support facility for the main building. The damage was minimal, and the issue was resolved through renovation rather than significant structural changes. This event is significant not only for the fire itself but also for the historic timing and location within the building.

Obama's Friends Smoking: A Myth Unraveled

Another often-told story is about Obama's friends smoking marijuana at the White House. The idea that a few sparks here and there could have led to the entire building going up in smoke is an urban legend. While it’s true that any fire could be hazardous, the White House has numerous safety protocols in place to mitigate such risks. Additionally, President Obama and the White House staff would be keenly aware of such a risk and take necessary precautions.

Technically, Multiple Incidents: The Fires Explained

Technically, the White House has been burned down twice based on historical records. The first fire, caused by the British invasion of Washington D.C., occurred during the War of 1812, and the second fire happened in 1929 due to an electrical issue. Both fires were significant in their own ways, but they do not match the grandeur and historical significance of the 1814 incident.

Presidents and Their Involvement

Understanding the presidents in office during these times provides a clearer picture of the impact of these fires. James Madison was the president during the first fire, which occurred in 1814. Madison served as president from 1809 to 1817 and was a key figure in the founding of the United States. He was one of the authors of the Federalist Papers and contributed significantly to the formation of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Herbert Hoover was in office during the 1929 fire. Hoover served from 1929 to 1933, and his presidency began just a week before the stock market crash. The 1929 fire, while significant, did not affect the overall presidency in the same way the 1814 fire did for James Madison. Hoover’s second fire occurred in the West Wing, which was used for services, meaning the impact was more contained and restored through renovations rather than structural changes.

Historical Context and Impact

The fires at the White House during the War of 1812 and the 1929 incident have left lasting impacts on American history. The 1814 fire marked the first time the White House sustained significant damage, leading to massive rebuilding efforts that took two years. During this time, James Monroe took office. The 1929 fire, while causing minimal damage, occurred on Christmas Eve just a week after the stock market crash, making it a significant event both historically and financially.

These fires highlight the resilience of the White House and the commitment to preserving this symbol of American democracy. While one might wonder about the exact number of times it has been set on fire, the truth is more nuanced and reflective of the complex history and architecture of the building.