5682. My Thirty Years Backstairs at the White House, by Lillian Rogers Parks (read 20 Mar 2020) This 1961 book Tells of seamstresses (mother and daughter) who worked at the White House. The mother worked at the White House when Teddy Roosevelt was there, Parks herself worked 30 years, retiring in 1854. The book is full of cliches and non-profound comments but has a certain charm. She obviously strives to say nice things about the people she worked for though she liked the Democrats better. ( )

In either four or eight year cycles the tenants of 'America's house' move in and out in a temporary permanent cycle decided on by the nation's voters. This book is a record set down by the real gatekeepers and custodians of the home that keeps them safe and bears witness to the identifying moments that fingerprint their different and separate personalities.

This true life memoir is an intimate look at the inner workings of the White House, covering administrations from Taft to Eisenhower, by a mother and daughter who were employed there between 1909 and 1960. There are many tomes documenting the accomplishments of America's presidents and their administrations, however, this book is unique because it reveals the personalities and proclivities of the families that lived inside the private residence in a way that has not been done before.

The book reveals both the commitment these butlers, maids, cooks, ushers and housekeepers devoted to maintaining the residence and the degree of service and private confidences the insulated first family members shared with them. We also learn a great deal about the struggles of an african american family endeavoring to survive economically in Washington, DC in the early years of the 20th century. During her employment, residents of the District did not have the right to vote, yet Lillian did not hesitate to vocalize her opinion on each administration, and upon her retirement, recorded it for posterity.

Maggie Rogers, the author's mother, was the first african american maid employed in the White House's private residences. Her outspoken daughter's book is the reason there are confidentiality clauses in the White House's current employment agreements, precluding future tell-all books like this. Her observations are unique, and are an interesting view from a perspective that will engage and enlighten your understanding of our country's public image. ( )

Another wonderful "behind-the-scenes" look at life among the rich and famous. Lillian Parks was a maid in the White House as was her mother. Her memories go back to the Tafts. ( )