The Vance family is preparing to settle into a uniquely historic home that comes with a pool that holds fond memories for many past residents, including President Joe Biden.
The Vance family will soon live in the official vice-presidential residence, known for its seclusion and rich anecdotes, such as Joe Biden's fondness for skinny dipping in its pool during his time there, as the Daily Mail reports.
Sen. J.D. Vance, his wife Usha Vance, and their three children are set to relocate to the residence at the United States Naval Observatory. The historic home, spanning 9,000 square feet and situated on 80 acres, has served as a sanctuary for vice-presidential families since the 1970s. The property is renowned for both privacy and the rare privilege of expansive outdoor living just miles from the White House.
One of the home's most notable features is its swimming pool, which has historical significance. It was particularly cherished by Joe Biden, who lived there as vice president from 2009 to 2017. Biden is known to have appreciated the pool for its privacy, a sentiment echoed in anecdotes shared by Secret Service agents.
The pool inspired personal reflections from Biden while he was president, contrasting its serene seclusion with the more public nature of life at the White House. He also shared his admiration for the pool with former Vice President Mike Pence and his family, who made it a regular part of their routine.
In an interesting tidbit, Biden humorously noted Dan Quayle as his favorite vice president, crediting him for the pool's installation. Such remarks underscore the lasting affection past occupants have for this unique amenity of the residence.
The residence is not just a home; it is a piece of American history. Established in 1893, the Queen Anne-style house features 33 rooms, 7 wood-burning fireplaces, and a library, providing unmatched privacy for its occupants. It became the official residence in the 1970s and sits on the grounds of the Naval Observatory, known for its research in astronomy and navigation.
Former residents have left personal marks on the property. Joe Biden, for example, added a tree swing, inviting the playful spirit into the expansive grounds, while Karen Pence introduced a beehive, adding a small ecological touch to the property. Such enhancements contribute to the story of the residence, making it more than just a house but a home.
As Jan. 20, 2025, approaches, the Vance family looks forward to becoming the next in a line of distinguished inhabitants. The residence offers not only a short commute to the nation’s seat of power but a retreat with a storied legacy.
As J.D. Vance steps into his role, following the example of past vice presidents, he will take with him a sense of the history and camaraderie that comes with living in such a storied household. Each family that resides there becomes part of its ongoing legacy, contributing to its unique narrative.
While the location offers practical benefits like proximity to the White House, it also provides an extraordinary opportunity for the family to create their own memories in a setting that has witnessed the personal and political lives of many. Inhabitants can partake in its history, spacious grounds, and amenities that include the beloved swimming pool.
The Vance family inherits not only a residence but also a tradition of privacy and community among Washington's top leaders. As they prepare to move in, they will continue the line of vice-presidential families who have called this distinguished location home.
In their new abode, the Vance family will join the ranks of those who have lived amid a backdrop of history, personal tales, and a city view that few others experience in the same way. The official vice-presidential residence stands as a testament to both the country's rich past and its living present.
