In this photograph, taken March 16, 1972, First Lady Pat Nixon celebrates her 60th birthday with her staff at a surprise party organized by the White House Curator's Office. The White House staff members wished her a “Happy 39th” in the spirit of comedian Jack Benny’s longstanding joke that he perpetually remained 39 years old.

This photograph is part of a collection belonging to former White House Executive Chef Henry Haller. Haller served as executive chef at the White House from 1966-1987. Haller stands behind Mrs. Nixon in the center of this photograph.