| Existing comment:
The Old Executive Office Building was built over 17 years, beginning in 1871. When constructed, it was derided as being "The ugliest building in America." The building housed the Departments of State, War, and Navy. In 1943, the Army, Navy, and Air Force combined and were moved to the new Pentagon building. In 1947, the State Department moved out to its own building. Now the staffs of the President and Vice President man the offices here. |