Monday, October 15, 2012

Harry S. Truman Library and Museum

The Harry S. Truman story is richly and uniquely American from humble beginnings in the small town of Independence, he rose to become the most powerful leader in the world.  Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president, for nearly eight years guided the U.S. and the world through perilous times: the ending of World War 2, including the dropping of the atomic bomb; the formation of The United Nations, NATO and the Marshall Plan; the successful operation of the Berlin Airlift; and the beginning of the Cold War.
 The film Harry S. Truman: 1884-1972 by Charles Guggenheim traces Harry Truman's life from boyhood through presidency.  It was excellent and set the stage for seeing the museum.  One area focused on family and his humble beginnings, his long love affair with his wife, Bess and the joy he experienced with his daughter, Margaret.  The many letters exchanged between Harry and Bess were featured. I think this was important to understanding his life.  Probably many people don't realize that he fought in the trenches, up front in World War 1 and was quickly recognized as a leader. The library has a large collection of correspondence of the war years.

The mural "Independence and opening of the West" dominates the museum lobby.  No photos allowed. I could take non-flash photos in some areas.
 The White House Gallery showed a typical day in the busy life of the president.  The original "Buck Stops Here" sign is the centerpiece.This exhibit explores the challenges that Truman faced.  It included his "Whistle Stop Tour" with audio excerpts of Truman's speeches from the multiple stops on the tour.  This was my favorite part of the museum.
 President Truman started his political career in 1922 as a county judge.  He describes his years in Washington as one of Missouri's senators as his "happiest ten years". He went from Senate to the White House and after only 82 days as Vice President became President of the United States.
Our timing didn't allow a tour of the Truman house but we enjoyed seeing it from the outside.

 Harry S. Truman is a remarkable story and this museum and library is important in knowing our history and government  This tranquil area in the courtyard features the grave sites of Harry and Bess Truman, along with their daughter Margaret and her husband Clifton Daniels.  It also features an American Legion Flame of Freedom, paths and benches.  
 I particularly enjoyed the memorabilia of the 1950's and the way they captured life in America 1952.




I was so glad that we took the time to stop here.  I learned so much and left with a deep respect for our 33rd president, Harry S. Truman.
In two days we have covered the life of  Eisenhower and Truman, known as 'Presidents of the Heartland'.

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