New book explores one family’s years of White House service

WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, a new book offers a rare look at the people who supported American presidents from behind the scenes.

In ‘An Unusual Path: Three Generations From Slavery to the White House,’ author John Wrory Ficklin tells the story of his family’s connection to the presidency - a legacy shaped by public service across multiple generations.

The story begins with Ficklin’s grandfather, John Strother Ficklin, who was born enslaved in the mid-1800s and later gained his freedom. His descendants would go on to build careers connected to America’s most famous residence.

“My family’s story is history, it’s African American history, it’s American history,” Ficklin said. “It’s 170 years of the 250 years of the country.”

Ficklin’s ties to the White House began with his father, John Woodson Ficklin, who joined the residence staff after being recruited by his brother. He started as a butler and ultimately rose to the chief residence staff role of White House maître d’ hotel, overseeing state dinners and official events.

In a career spanning more than four decades, Ficklin Sr. served nine U.S. presidents. Upon his retirement during the Reagan administration, he made history as first member of the residential staff invited as a guest to a state dinner.

“I didn’t realize the prominence of my dad until I turned on the television during President Kennedy’s funeral,” Ficklin recalled. “Here’s my dad ushering people during the funeral.”

Growing up, Ficklin said he experienced the White House firsthand, working part-time at holiday parties and other official events alongside his father. After graduating from college, he returned to Washington and entered government service.

He later joined the National Security Council, where he spent roughly 40 years maintaining critical records. Ficklin retired in 2015 under President Barack Obama as the longest-serving member of the National Security staff.

“It’s about service to the president, service to the country,” he said. “There’s nothing like the White House. It’s unique. It’s a very special place.”

Featuring previously unpublished photographs taken inside the White House, An Unusual Path documents generations of public service carried out steps away from some of the most consequential decisions in American history.