Friday, August 15, 2008

White House Christmas ornament unveiled!

The 2008 White House Christmas ornament honors the administration of President Benjamin Harrison (1833-1901), the twenty-third president of the United States.

Serving one term from 1889 to 1893, Harrison was a centennial president inaugurated 100 years after George Washington.

Inspired by the Harrison family's Victorian Christmas tree, this 24 karat gold finished ornament interprets the first recorded tree to decorate the White House.

The tree, laden with baubles and garland, is a canvas for all sorts of treats and toys.
Beneath the tree are the presents the Harrison grandchildren received: a toy train and a wooden sled await Benjamin, Mary's rosy-cheeked doll sits on a tricycle, and nearby is Marthena's much wished for dollhouse.

A three-foot-high Santa Claus completes the season's spectacle.