The White House Historical Association has been manufacturing an annual ornament with Beacon Design, since 1981. Each year, a new design is created honoring the next President in succession. The 2010 White House Ornament highlights William McKinley Jr. (1897-1901) and celebrates the role of music in the traditions of the White House. The front of the ornament depicts members of the United States Marine Band performing on the snow covered North Drive and the reverse side shows the band playing for President and Mrs. McKinley in the patriotic splendor of the East Room. It was in the East Room, that the McKinley’s began the era of “musicales” (receptions with music as the leading feature) at the White House, a tradition that continues to this day. Each piece is made in the USA from solid brass, finished in 24 karat gold, screen printed with exquisite color and is packaged in a gift box with a romance card detailing the ornament and it’s historical significance. *White House ornaments are NOT eligible for Oval Namedrop.
