From the first Christmas tree displayed at the White House in 1889 to the tradition of elaborate gingerbread sculptures, the holiday season has long held a special place in White House history. For more than four decades, the annual White House Historical Association’s ornament has grown into a beloved holiday tradition celebrated across the country.
In a recent episode of the White House 1600 Sessions podcast, Stewart McLaurin, President of the White House Historical Association, joined Hamilton Davison, CEO of ChemArt, and David Marquis, former President of ChemArt, to discuss how this cherished program began and why it continues to resonate with collectors today. Recorded at Beacon Design’s manufacturing facility in Lincoln, Rhode Island, the conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and enduring partnership between the White House Historical Association and Beacon Design, a division of ChemArt. Since 1981, the two organizations have worked together to produce the Official White House Christmas ornament, with each piece designed, assembled, and finished in the United States.
This year’s ornament holds special significance as it is the Official Commemorative Ornament for the America250 celebration. Featuring the Declaration of Independence, the design honors the foundational document that gave birth to the nation. To watch the podcast episode, play the video below.
Key Takeaways
- A Partnership Rooted in History
The annual White House Christmas Ornament program began during the Reagan administration, supported by First Lady Nancy Reagan. A new design is released each year with each ornament honoring a president’s time in the White House, an anniversary, or historical event.
- Partnership and Craftsmanship
The White House Historical Association partners with us to design and hand-assemble the official ornaments annually. The process blends historical symbolism with detailed artistry.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tour
In the episode, host Stewart McLaurin (President of the White House Historical Association) tours our facility with Hamilton Davison (CEO) and Dave Marquis (former President) and offers viewers insight into how each ornament is produced.
- A Milestone for 2026
The 2026 ornament commemorates America’s 250th anniversary with a depiction of the Declaration of Independence, reflecting on the document’s enduring national and global significance a quarter of a millennium after its adoption.
- Educational and Mission Support
The White House Historical Association’s Annual Ornament helps to support the nonprofit mission of the organization, which funds programs and resources that broaden public access to White House history.
