The 2010 White House Christmas ornament pays tribute to President William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States (1897-1901), and commemorates the significance of music in White House traditions. McKinley’s tenure marked the nation’s emergence as an international power and was tragically curtailed by an assassin’s bullets six months into his second term. The ornament, inspired by the patriotic spirit of the time, showcases vibrant scenes from the 1900 Army Navy Reception. The front depicts the United States Marine Band performing on the snow-laden North Drive, serenading guests as they alight from carriages, while the reverse side illustrates the band playing in the festively decorated East Room for President and Mrs. McKinley. This ornament celebrates the McKinleys’ introduction of “musicales” in the ornate East Room, a tradition of hosting receptions centered around music, which endures to this day.