It was a gift from the queen. | Library of Congress
It’s common tradition for U.S. presidents and their families to redecorate the White House on move-in day. Some embark on million-dollar renovations, while others only make a few minor changes. But regardless of individual presidential preferences, there’s one thing that never changes. The Resolute Desk is the desk the president uses, serving as an historical prop for official pictures, business and other pensive-looking gazes since 1880. The most famous workspace in America has a pretty interesting past.
From its humble origins on the rough seas to the Oval Office, the Resolute Desk has undoubtedly seen it all. Let’s look inside and discuss the secret history of this piece of presidential furniture, and also find out the 1 thing that President Trump did to change the desk.
The panels tell their own story. | Paul J. Richards/AFP/Getty Images