Women in the Military Rag Dolls (MO 1945.47.13-16) Millions of young Americans served in America’s military during World War II. With FDR’s support their ranks included 350,000 women, who served as nurses and in special service branches established throughout the military. In May 1941, Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers of Massachusetts proposed a bill to … Continue reading From the Museum
The Washington Star published this political cartoon by Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Clifford Berryman on October 31, 1934. The parade of jack-o-lanterns asking, “FDR, how long will the cash hold out?” refers to expenditures by President Roosevelt’s New Deal “alphabet agencies.” These agencies, often referred to by their acronyms, were created to reform the nation's financial … Continue reading From the Museum
FDR Quarterback Postcard (MO 1976.47) Like other presidents, FDR sometimes used sports analogies to help explain his political and economic agenda. During a press conference on April 19, 1933—just six weeks after he entered office— FDR likened himself to a football quarterback when he responded to a question about his administration’s evolving policy on … Continue reading From the Museum
FDR’s World Map Globe (MO 1944.121.5) For Christmas in 1942, President Roosevelt received a rather large gift—a 50-inch diameter, 500 pound globe from the U.S. Army. The giant globe—which was believed to be the largest and most accurate printed globe of its time—was commissioned by Army Chief of Staff General George C. Marshall. It … Continue reading From the Museum
Elephant Table (MO 1971.46) This wooden table with base consisting of a carved figure of an elephant (with ivory eyes) was used by Eleanor Roosevelt in her East 74th Street apartment in New York City (see photo below). The table was presented to the First Lady at the "Festival of Dance and Music" for … Continue reading From the Museum
Tarpon caught by FDR (L 2007.779) President Roosevelt was an avid, lifelong fisherman. After his mobility became limited when he contracted polio in 1921, FDR spent a great deal of his leisure time either sailing or fishing. Dr. Ross McIntire, Roosevelt's personal physician when he was President, advised Roosevelt to go on as many vacations … Continue reading From the Museum
FDR's Secretary Desk (MO 2011.11a,b) When President Roosevelt created his Library in 1941, he made sure that it included a Study where he could relax and spend time with his papers and books. After FDR’s death in April 1945, his Study was left largely as it was the last day he visited Hyde Park— with … Continue reading From the Museum
Sara Delano Roosevelt's Pendant Watch (MO 2008.30) This late nineteenth century Cartier pendant watch was a gift from James Roosevelt to his wife, Sara, to mark the conception of their son and future president, Franklin. The watch was later passed down to Laura Delano Eastman, the daughter of FDR’s cousin and a close friend of … Continue reading From the Museum
Button Vest (MO 1973.44) This unique vest is among the many unusual gifts admirers sent to President Roosevelt. Lined with brown silk faille, it is completely covered with buttons of all sizes, shapes, and colors. On the back, “FDR 1944” is formed in white buttons. The donor of this singular piece, Luella Smith of … Continue reading From the Museum
Figurine of Huckleberry Finn (MO 1971.49.11) Outdoor picnics were one of Eleanor Roosevelt’s favorite activities. In 1933, a large stone picnic fireplace was constructed at Val-Kill, her retreat in Hyde Park. The outdoor grill was used to cook hot dogs, hamburgers, and other foods for family, friends, and famous visitors, including Shirley Temple and … Continue reading From the Museum
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