Upstairs at the White House: My Life with the First Ladies

J. B. West served as chief usher of the White House for twenty-eight years, first as assistant and then in the top role. In this capacity, he directed the operations and maintenance of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and coordinated its daily life at the request of the president and his family. He oversaw state functions, planned parties, weddings, funerals, gardens, playgrounds, and extensive renovations, and supervised all activities in the presidential home with a large staff. Over nearly three decades, West witnessed national crises and triumphs while interacting daily with six consecutive presidents and first ladies, as well as their families, houseguests, and visiting heads of state. Jackie Kennedy described him as "one of the most extraordinary men I have ever met." This account offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on life among America's first families, featuring anecdotes from his time with Eleanor Roosevelt, Jackie Kennedy, Pat Nixon, and others. The book provides a view of White House history that typically remains private.