President Harry S. Truman's remarks upon receiving the key to the newly-renovated White House, North Portico. A gold key was presented by Jess Larson, Director of the General Services Administration. President Truman and First Lady Bess Truman moved back into the White House after several years of living at Blair House.
President Harry S. Truman (center) holding up a gold key to the newly renovated White House, reopened to the First Family after three years of repair work. In the background, from left to right are: Howell G. Crim, Chief Usher; First Lady Bess Wallace Truman; J. B. West, Assistant to the Chief Usher; Wilson Searles, Usher; William Kelley, Project Manager, Public Buildings; and Jess Larson, General Services Administration.
Photo of Jess Larson, head of the General Services Administration, appearing before the Senate Five Per Center Investigating Committee. He warned them not to create any more red tape in their effort to stamp out the "five per center," because it would make it difficult for the legitimate, honest and well-meaning businessman to deal with the government. From: Beth Gore.
President and Mrs. Truman being photographed in front of the main entrance before reoccupying the reconstructed White House. Left to Right: Charles K. Claunch, Usher; President Harry S. Truman; Howell G. Crim, Chief Usher; First Lady Bess Truman; Alonzo Fields, Maitre de Hotel; J.B. West, Usher; William Kelly, Project Manager, Public Buildings; and Jess Larson, General Services Administration.