The beautiful redecoration of Blair House occurred during the comprehensive 1982-88 renovation of the Blair House complex and was accomplished through private donations to the Blair House Restoration Fund from individuals, foundations and corporations across America. While Congressional appropriations provided for the bricks and mortar improvements to Blair House, no funding was allocated for the decoration or furnishings.
The Restoration Fund was founded to answer the urgent need for refurbished décor, and through the efforts of the Fund’s National Council, composed of prominent Americans throughout the country, it succeeded in raising more than $7 million in cash and in-kind donations to refurbish the house to its present décor.
Today, while Congressional funding provides only for the management and routine maintenance of Blair House, the Fund continues in its mission as a charitable, non-profit, non-partisan organization committed to preserving, and renewing when appropriate, the interior design of the house.
The Fund is governed by an 18-member board whose trustees play an invaluable role in preserving the décor and acquiring fine arts and furnishings to maintain the gracious charm and inviting hospitality of this historic residence. The Board recently established an endowment fund to ensure that Blair House will serve in perpetuity as the President’s Guest House.
Thanks to many generous public-spirited citizens, Blair House is a showcase of American hospitality, elegance and the best of American design and craftsmanship. If you wish to receive more information on making a tax-deductible gift to the Blair House Restoration Fund, please send an inquiry to the Fund at the following address: Post Office Box 27208, Washington, DC 20038.
