NPS
Robert E. Lee oversaw the decoration of the White Parlor and the room strongly reflects his personal tastes. It was used as a store room for almost 40 years: housing old furniture while serving as a painting studio and later on as a playroom for the Lee children. In 1855, the Lees redesigned the room, turning it into a formal parlor where they entertained guests, read, and played music. Lee was away for much of the work, but was instrumental to the parlor's completion, as he designed and ordered the two marble mantles, selected the furniture, and chose the white color.
