THE CURSE OF LAFAYETTE SQUARE (Around the White House) (As filmed by Television New Zealand and Fox Morning News) $15 each. You must check schedule for dates of walk. Group or private tours any day, any time, by appointment. Flat fee of $300 whether 2 or maximum 35 people Starting Point: In front of Andrew Jackson equestrian statue, center of Lafayette Square, facing the north portico of the White House.

South view of the White House

    See the White House, home to every president since George Washington, and burned by British troops. Cross to Blair House, guest quarters for visiting royalty, presidents, and prime ministers, and where terrorists tried to gun down President Truman. Stroll around Lafayette Square, to the homes of the mad major who struggled with Lincoln's assassin, and the Congressman who raced across this square to shoot dead the son of Francis Scott Key.

    See the 1819 mansion, once home to naval hero Commodore Stephen Decatur, who died of wounds in a duel. Pass by St. John's "The Presidents" Church,  where every chief executive since James Madison has worshipped. Look at the handsome mansion built by a man who lost his fortune, and where the borders between the US and Canada were negotiated. Amble past the hallowed home where beloved Dolley Madison lived and died, while her scoundrel son squandered her money.

    View the presidential inaugural route along Pennsylvania Avenue and admire the south face of the White House. See the exquisite Octagon, where President Madison lived after the British burned the White House in 1814.