The First White House of the Confederacy, located in Montgomery, Alabama, has a rich and significant history. Built in 1835, the house exemplifies the Italianate architectural style and was originally a private residence near downtown Montgomery. Its prominent location made it a fitting choice for the executive residence of the Confederacy's leadership.
In February 1861, delegates from seceding Southern states gathered in Montgomery to form the Confederate States of America, and the city was chosen as the first capital of the Confederacy. On February 18, 1861, Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as the President of the Confederate States of America on the steps of the Alabama State Capitol. Shortly after his inauguration, Davis moved into the house with his wife, Varina, and their children. The house was leased to the Confederacy by its owner, Colonel Edmund Harrison, and served as the executive residence from February to May 1861.
During this period, the house was the center of Confederate government activities, where Davis and his administration made critical decisions regarding the organization and strategy of the Confederate war effort. In May 1861, the Confederate capital was relocated to Richmond, Virginia, to be closer to the primary theaters of war and to benefit from Virginia's resources and strategic position. The Davis family moved to Richmond, and the house in Montgomery ceased to function as the Confederate White House.
After the Civil War, the house returned to private ownership and underwent various modifications and uses over the years. By the early 20th century, there was a growing interest in preserving sites associated with the Confederacy, and efforts were made to restore the house to its historical appearance during the Davis family's occupancy. In 1921, the White House Association of Alabama acquired the property and began restoration efforts. The house was restored to its 1861 appearance and furnished with period pieces and artifacts related to the Confederate period and the Davis family.