This photograph of the West Colonnade and the Rose Garden was taken by Martin Ratigan on July 1, 2021 during the Joseph R. Biden administration. The photograph, taken just outside the Oval Office, shows the beautiful grounds, and the ornate garden visible from the president's desk.

This photograph of the West Colonnade and the Rose Garden was taken by Martin Ratigan on July 1, 2021 during the Joseph R. Biden administration. The Rose Garden is made up of colorful annual perennials in addition to the roses it is named after. It is located on the west side of the South Grounds, just outside the Oval Office. It has gone through several incarnations: a vegetable garden in the first part of the 19th century, a “colonial” garden in 1902, and then replaced with a rose garden in 1913. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy wanted to expand the garden for official functions and events. His idea became the Rose Garden, designed by horticulturist, gardener, and close friend of the Kennedys, Rachel Lambert Mellon. The garden was installed the following year, becoming a green theater for official ceremonies and a special place for the first family’s private enjoyment.