While the White House is often thought of as a place of celebration, there have also been somber occasions. Presidents, first ladies, and even presidential children had their funeral services in the East Room, the largest room in the White House. 1/8

This history reminds us that first families — like any family — can also experience life's joys and sorrows during their time at the White House. 2/8

This engraving of President Abraham Lincoln's funeral in the East Room was published in Harper's Weekly on May 6, 1868. First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln was added to the scene by the artist, but in reality, she did not attend the funeral. 3/8

Image: Harper's Weekly

President William McKinley lies in state in the East Room in September 1901 in this stereograph. McKinley was assassinated while attending the Buffalo Pan-American Exhibition and died on September 14th. 4/8

Image: White House Collection

This stereograph by Keystone View Company shows President Warren G. Harding's casket leaving the White House on August 8, 1923. 5/8

Image: White House Historical Association

The Marine guard at the funeral of Calvin Coolidge Jr., in 1924 at the White House. 6/8

Image: Library of Congress

This photograph shows President Franklin D. Roosevelt's casket arriving at the White House on April 14, 1945. 7/8

Image: NARA

This photograph shows the remains of President John F. Kennedy lying in state in the East Room of the White House following his assassination in 1963. The casket is surrounded by an honor guard and two priests. 8/8

Image: John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum / NARA

For more information on death and the White House listen to an episode of the 1600 Sessions podcast on the subject: https://www.whitehousehistory.org/1600-sessions/death-in-the-white-house