Picture an Iowan who quietly orchestrated life at the heart of American power—meet J.B. West! As Chief Usher of the White House from 1957 to 1969, West was the discreet mastermind behind the scenes, serving six presidencies with unmatched grace. His bestselling memoir, Upstairs at the White House: My Life with the First Ladies, offers a charming, insider’s peek into the lives of America’s First Families, blending wit and warmth to humanize the presidency.
From Eleanor Roosevelt’s whirlwind energy to Jackie Kennedy’s poised elegance, West’s stories capture the quirks and triumphs of White House life. His knack for storytelling turned a seemingly mundane role into a window on history, making his memoir a must-read for anyone curious about the human side of power.
The Making of J.B. West
Born on July 27, 1912, in Afton, Iowa, James Bernard West grew up far from the grandeur of Washington, D.C. After graduating from Creston High School in 1930, he moved to the capital in 1939, working at the Veterans Administration. In 1941, fate led him to the White House as assistant to Chief Usher Howell G. Crim. West’s sharp organizational skills and quiet efficiency quickly made him indispensable, setting the stage for his rise to Chief Usher in 1957.
West’s early career was shaped by his Navy service as a high-level civilian officer, honing his ability to manage complex operations with tact. His small-town roots and disciplined background gave him a unique perspective, allowing him to navigate the White House’s high-stakes world with humility and humor.
J.B. West’s Unforgettable Stories
West’s crowning achievement is Upstairs at the White House, published in 1973 with co-author Mary Lynn Kotz. This New York Times bestseller, which sold over two million copies, chronicles his 28 years serving First Ladies from Eleanor Roosevelt to Pat Nixon. The memoir’s light, anecdotal style brings history to life—think Bess Truman introducing staff to kings or Lyndon B. Johnson obsessing over showerheads. West’s loyalty to the presidency, not politics, shines through, offering a neutral yet intimate portrait of power.
His writing is gossipy yet respectful, never veering into scandal. Readers adore his vivid sketches of First Ladies’ personalities: Mamie Eisenhower’s military precision, Jackie Kennedy’s private grief, or Lady Bird Johnson’s quiet resilience. The book’s charm lies in its focus on daily life—parties, renovations, weddings—making the White House feel like a home, not just a symbol.
While Upstairs at the White House is West’s only major work, its enduring popularity, with editions in seven languages, speaks to his storytelling prowess. His ability to weave humor, history, and humanity into a single narrative has made the memoir a cornerstone of White House literature.
Why J.B. West Matters
J.B. West’s legacy transcends his role as Chief Usher. His memoir offers a rare, nonpartisan glimpse into the presidency, showing how First Families navigated crises like FDR’s death or JFK’s assassination. Praised by Jackie Kennedy as “one of the most extraordinary men” and by critics as a top White House memoir, West’s work humanizes history, reminding us that even the powerful are, at heart, human.
His influence endures in how we view the White House—not just as a political hub but as a living, breathing home. By sharing stories of grace under pressure, West inspired readers to appreciate the unsung heroes behind the scenes, making his memoir a timeless treasure.
- Born: July 27, 1912, Afton, Iowa
- Key Work: Upstairs at the White House (1973)
- White House Tenure: 1941–1969
- Died: July 18, 1983
Snag Upstairs at the White House and dive into J.B. West’s delightful blend of history and heart!