Cracking the Code: “The White House grounds have 18 of them”
This week’s crossword puzzle threw me for a loop. I’m a seasoned solver, but this clue had me scratching my head. “The White House grounds have 18 of them…” What on earth could it be?
At first glance, it seemed like a straightforward geography clue. Maybe it was a type of tree, or perhaps a specific type of flower. But the number “18” felt oddly specific. Was it some historical fact about the White House grounds?
I spent a good chunk of time scouring the internet, desperately searching for any reference to the White House and the number 18. I even considered the possibility of a hidden message within the clue itself. Maybe the answer was a word that could be spelled using the letters “white” and “house”?
Frustrated, I decided to take a step back and analyze the clue more closely. The phrasing “have 18 of them” hinted at something quantifiable, something that could be counted. It couldn’t be something abstract like “memories” or “secrets”.
With a renewed sense of purpose, I began listing possible categories that fit the clue’s structure:
Architectural Features:
Could there be 18 of a specific type of window, doorway, or pillar on the White House grounds?
Plant Life:
Perhaps 18 different species of trees or flowers are found in the gardens?
Historical Objects:
Maybe there are 18 statues, monuments, or fountains?
As I continued brainstorming, a glimmer of inspiration struck. It wasn’t about what
was
on the grounds, but what was
found
on the grounds. Could it be something…smaller? Something that might be overlooked?
The answer was surprisingly simple, but it took a shift in perspective to uncover it. I’m sure you’ll find it just as satisfying to decipher as I did. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
ACRES.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 22 Sep 24, Sunday