General Sam Houston walked these grounds, weighted with concerns for Texas. President Benjamin Harrison spoke from the balcony before lunching with his wife. President Taft addressed “ten acres of people” from that same balcony. President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his wife thought the dining room was the most beautiful place to eat in Houston. When in town, the couple frequently enjoyed The Rice. President Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower slept here. President John F. Kennedy and Jackie made a historic visit here. As First Lady, Jackie Kennedy made her one and only political speech in the Crystal Ballroom to Texas representatives of LULAC. Other notable “stars” to grace the Crystal Ballroom include Clark Gable, Will Rogers, Perry Como, Shirley Temple and Mick Jagger.The Crystal Ballroom is a 1913 historic ballroom located in the heart of downtown Houston’s Rice Hotel. Originally the capitol of the Republic of Texas, this is one of Houston's most unique and historic landmarks. The ballroom’s unique space can accommodate large gatherings in the main ballroom or host an intimate event in one of the adjoining private rooms.