Upstairs at the White House: My Life with the First Ladies

Chief usher was the role that West occupied starting in 1957, having risen from the rank of usher. The title is a “holdover from early times, when the principal duty was ‘ushering’ expected visitors in to see the President and First Lady” (4). In time, the position has come to be so much more than that and includes managing the White House, preparing its budget, supervising a large staff, and accommodating the needs and wishes of the first family and their guests. In describing his duties, West provides a testimony to The Important Role of Behind-the-Scenes Workers at the White House.

Ileitis is an inflammation of the small intestine. In June 1956, President Eisenhower suffered an attack of ileitis and required surgery and a long hospital stay. He was whisked away out of view of the press. Upon his return, he reiterated his intention to seek re-election and easily won the Republican nomination for president.

When West began working at the White House in 1941, the position of social secretary to the first lady was a part-time job and primarily entailed sending invitations to receptions. Over time, the role became more comprehensive, culminating in the Johnson administration.