A historic menorah created for the White House in 2022 has not been displayed on the State Floor this holiday season, raising questions among visitors and observers.
History of the Menorah
The menorah was unveiled in 2022 during former President Joe Biden’s administration, marking the first time a permanent menorah was added to the White House collection. It was crafted by the Executive Residence Carpentry Shop using historic wood that was removed from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue during a 1950 renovation under President Harry S. Truman. The sterling silver candle cups were inspired by tumblers ordered by President Thomas Jefferson for his Virginia home, Monticello, in 1810.
Construction Details
The candelabra was built from wood that has been part of the White House’s historic fabric for decades. The silver cups echo early 19th-century design, linking the piece to presidential heritage. The overall design blends traditional Jewish symbolism with the architectural language of the White House. The result is a unique artifact that carries both religious and historical significance.
Current Status
The menorah is not on the State Floor at present, according to a statement from the White House. It remains a part of the White House collection and is considered a permanent fixture of the White House archives. As such, future administrations cannot remove it. Its absence from the holiday display has not been explained directly.
White House Holiday Traditions
The White House is celebrating the eight-night Jewish holiday that began on Sunday with “multiple” receptions this week, according to communications director Nicholas Clemens. Clemens said the White House is also hosting other holiday events, including a National Menorah Lighting ceremony. The ceremony was attended by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who represented the administration.
Past Menorahs
Before the 2022 addition, the White House relied on loaned menorahs for Hanukkah displays. The 2022 menorah replaced these temporary pieces, becoming the first permanent menorah in the White House’s history. The decision to keep the menorah in the collection reflects its historical importance.
Permanent Collection Status
Because the menorah is part of the White House collection, it is protected as a permanent fixture. The White House cannot remove it, even if a new administration chooses not to display it. This status ensures that the menorah remains on the premises for future generations.
Trump Administration Actions
President Donald Trump has reversed several Biden-era legislative priorities. He has canceled clean energy projects funded under the previous administration, fired Biden appointees, and declared that executive orders and pardons signed by Biden using an autopen would be void. These actions reflect a broader trend of undoing Biden policies.
Presidential Walk of Fame
In September, the White House revealed a “Presidential Walk of Fame” featuring portraits of past commanders-in-chief. The Walk includes a framed photo of an autopen depicting President Biden. The display underscores the administration’s focus on presidential legacy and historical representation.
National Menorah Lighting
At the National Menorah Lighting ceremony, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick represented the administration. The ceremony highlighted the White House’s commitment to Jewish holiday observances. The menorah was present for the lighting, despite not being displayed on the State Floor.
Brett Samuels Contribution
Brett Samuels contributed to the reporting of the article, providing additional context and background information. His work helped clarify the historical significance of the menorah and its place within the White House collection.
White House Yuletide Decor
Earlier this month, the White House unveiled its annual Yuletide season decor with the theme “Home is Where the Heart is.” The decorations were described as a tribute to the enduring American spirit of generosity, patriotism, and gratitude. No mention of the menorah was made during the Yuletide unveiling.
Menorah’s Material Origins
The wood used for the menorah was originally part of the White House’s historic interior. It was removed during a renovation in 1950, which was overseen by President Truman. The wood’s preservation and reuse demonstrate a commitment to maintaining the building’s historical integrity.
Key Takeaways
- The 2022 menorah remains in the White House collection but is not displayed on the State Floor.
- Nicholas Clemens confirmed the menorah’s absence and highlighted upcoming Hanukkah receptions.
- The menorah’s permanent status protects it from removal by future administrations.
Closing
The White House’s decision to keep the 2022 menorah in the collection while omitting it from the holiday display reflects a balance between tradition and contemporary choices. Visitors and observers will continue to watch how the administration navigates the presentation of historic artifacts during the holiday season.
