The White House (department store)

The White House was a once-prominent department store chain based in San Francisco, California. Founded in 1854 by Raphael Weill, a French immigrant, it quickly became known for its high-quality merchandise, elegant presentation, and personalized service. The store was initially located on Market Street and later moved to a grand building on Sutter Street, which became its iconic flagship location.

The White House catered to an affluent clientele, offering a wide range of goods, including clothing, accessories, home furnishings, and gifts. It was particularly renowned for its imported European fashions and luxury goods. The store also operated a popular tea room and other dining establishments.

For many years, The White House was a leading retailer in the San Francisco Bay Area. It expanded to multiple locations, including stores in Oakland and other nearby cities. However, like many traditional department stores, The White House faced increasing competition from discount retailers and changing consumer preferences in the latter half of the 20th century.

The store was acquired by Broadway-Hale Stores (later Carter Hawley Hale) in 1965. The White House name was eventually phased out, and its stores were rebranded under other department store names within the Carter Hawley Hale portfolio, primarily Emporium-Capwell. The flagship Sutter Street location was eventually sold and redeveloped. The name "The White House" is no longer associated with any operating department store.