After Andrew Jackson was elected as President of the United States in 1829, a reception was held at the White House.
Thousands of people crowded into the White House, (including many of Andrew Jackson's supporters who attended the reception wishing to meet the new president) drinking and dancing on furniture. Even standing on the President’s bed. The food and drinks were quickly consumed and the guests broke dishes and spilled food on the carpets.
Jackson tried to calm the situation by offering drinks on the lawn, but it only made things worse. Eventually, the president had to slip out a window to escape the chaos. The reception became known as the "open house" and was seen as a symbol of Jackson's popular appeal and his willingness to welcome ordinary citizens into the White House.