Former Architect of the Capitol George White dies

A former longtime Architect of the Capitol, who spent nearly a quarter-century in the position, has died.

George White, who served in the role from 1971 to 1995, died June 17 at his home in Bethesda, Md., at the age of 90.

{mosads}“George White had a deep love and appreciation for the Capitol Building, and during his tenure as the ninth Architect of the Capitol, he worked tirelessly to preserve it and the history it contains,” wrote current AoC Stephen Ayers in an email to staff Friday.

White was responsible for drafting the first master plan for the future development of the Capitol campus, wrote Ayers. He also oversaw the restoration of many of the Capitol’s historic and decorative elements and spaces, including the Old Senate Chamber, the Old Supreme Court Chamber and the National Statuary Hall.

Appointed to the position in 1971 by then-President Nixon, White was the last person to be appointed without the advice and consent of the Senate to a term of unspecified duration.

At the time of his selection, he was a vice president of the American Institute of Architects. Born in Ohio in 1920 to an architect father, White went on to receive two engineering degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a business degree from Harvard and a law degree from Case Western Reserve University.

“His knowledge of the Capitol and the grounds was extensive, and he used his vast experience to ensure that the work completed during his tenure would enhance and preserve the Capitol campus for future generations,” wrote Ayers. “We continue to carry out his legacy today in the work we do, and in our efforts to preserve the national treasures entrusted to our care.”