Lesson Plan: Bess Truman and the Preservation of the White House
Grades 7-12
By the late 1940s, the White House was declared structurally unsafe. Congress weighed the cost and historical value of restoration against cheaper alternatives like demolition. First Lady Bess Truman used her political influence to advocate for preserving the historic exterior, helping secure funding for a complete interior reconstruction. In this lesson, students examine how leaders balance cost, safety and history when managing public property and learn how different branches of government are involved in these decisions.
Sign up to instantly access
free resources for teachers
With 300+ short-form documentaries and dozens of educator-approved lesson plans, Retro Report brings history to life in your classroom.
Register for free to access classroom materials and student activities.
Already have an account? Sign In.
Thank you for registering!
