White House will make history as first African-American first family in White House . Slaves often worked Capitol a week to build Obamas , U.S. Capitol . According to records kept by the White House Historical Association , slaves often worked seven days a week -- even in the hot and humid Washington summers . eight presidents owned slaves ; eight owned slaves while in office . Historian : Obamas moving into White House `` a very great and hopeful sign ''
White House will make history as first African-American first family in White House . Slaves often worked Capitol a week to build Obamas , U.S. Capitol . eight presidents owned slaves ; eight owned slaves while in office . Historian : Obamas moving into White House `` a very great and hopeful sign ''