Christmas Party for Children of Diplomats, 1969
This photograph was taken by National Geographic photographer Joseph J. Scherschel on December 23, 1969, during a Christmas party hosted by First Lady Pat Nixon for children of the Diplomatic Corps. The party was coordinated by THIS (The Hospitality and Information Service) for Diplomats, a volunteer organization established in 1961 to support newly appointed diplomats and their families transition to life in Washington, D.C. Approximately 400 children between the ages of four and eleven attended the party. Here, members of the White House residence staff including Eugene C. Allen (right, second row) serve children punch and cookies in the State Dining Room.