Backstairs at the White House (DVD, 2005, 4-Disc Set)

My recent purchase of the Backstairs at the White House DVD set is my second set of this miniseries. I watched the original TV showing in the late 1970s. This is a well made miniseries with a lot of well known character actors from that time. I would recommend this DVD set to anyone who is interested in history, particularly surrounding the White House. The characters in this mini series are based on real people who lived and worked in the White House.

This mini series is a historical reflection of the life of the people who worked behind the scenes to give care, comfort and dignity to those presidents from the Taft Administration to the end of the Eisenhower Administration through the eyes of Lillian Rodgers Parks, a woman who worked at the White House during the time. Lillian's mother worked there while she was growing up. Times being hard, when her mother was able to influence the head house keeper to hire Lillian, she became a part of the rich history of the time as an observer of the many untold dramas surrounding the intimate lives of the presidents and their families. Lillian's story clearly outlines how intertwined the lives of those who work "Backstairs" become with those they serve during the stressful yet rewarding years the presidents serve the people. Sometimes humorous, sometimes deeply touching, it is a most comprehensive telling of her life and her career, as well of the details of those administrations and the major events that occurred during them.

Absolutely enjoyable series. Olivia Cole & Leslie Uggams give very credible performances.

A history of our past presidents & their relationship with the hired help that keep the Whitehouse functioning.

Olivia Cole, my neighbor in Mexico, told me that this series is one that she is most proud of.

I remember watching this mini-series on TV years ago. The view of the presidency of the US through the eyes of the housekeeping staff at the White House from 1909 to 1961. Many of the events mentioned I do not clearly recall from history classes in school. This show makes you want to know more. I have since watching the show searched out those answers.
Wonderful show for the whole family.

I purchased this as a gift for my mother, whom remembered this miniseries back in the 70s. She found it historically accurate and very engaging. I recommend this DVD to anyone interested in presidential history. It's the story of a woman and her daughter who both work as servants in the White House over a span of many years. It is based on a true story. They just don't make miniseries the way they used to!