Office of the Secretary of War, 1932. It is typically victorian in style, with a marquetry floor, heavy wall coverings, and an intricate ceiling mural. (Library of Congress)
The building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1969. In 1972, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the District of Columbia Inventory of Historic Sites.
Since 1981, the Office of Administration of the Executive Office of the President has actively pursued a rigorous program of rehabilitation of the OEOB to put an end to the deterioration that over the years has taken place throughout this historic building. The entire structure has benefited from an upgraded maintenance program that has also included restoration of some of the OEOB's most spectacular historic interiors. In 1983, the Office of Administration Preservation Office was institued to oversee this effort and to develop a comprehensive preservation program, which includes restoration, research, educational programs, public tour program, and the formulation of a master plan for the building's continued adaptive use.
In 1988, Congress enacted legislation to allow the Office of Administration to accept gifts and loans from the public on behalf of the OEOB to be used for preservation and restoration purposes. Persons interested in finding out more about the preservation program or in making a contribution should contact the Preservation Office.
Public tours are available on Saturday mornings from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon by advance reservation only. To make a reservation, please call the Preservation Office between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon, Tuesday through Friday on (202) 395-5895, and have available correct name and date of birth for each visitor.