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
“Declaration of Independence" Crocheted Wall Hanging (MO 2005.298) As the Fourth of July approaches, we celebrate Independence Day with a gift sent to President Roosevelt by a patriotic admirer. This handmade crocheted wall hanging was made by Nellie L. Plummer, a widow from Defiance, Pennsylvania, and sent to FDR in June 1943, just a few … Continue reading From the Museum
Silver Cocktail Set (MO 1972.14a-g) and Pernod Absinthe Bottle (MO 1976.331) FDR had a long-standing practice of hosting a pre-dinner cocktail hour in the White House residence during his presidency. It was a time when he could cast aside the burdens of office at the end of the day and relax with close … Continue reading From the Museum
Crocheted American Flag (MO 1942.200.14) June 14 is Flag Day. On this date in 1777, the “Stars and Stripes” was adopted as the national flag of the United States. Handmade American flags are among the thousands of gifts FDR received from admirers during his presidency. The Museum has sixty-five of these crocheted, knitted, or hand-sewn … Continue reading From the Museum
Oil painting "View from Command Post in Normandy" (MO 1945.83.1) On June 6, 1944, the United States and its allies launched the greatest amphibious invasion in history on the shores of France. Over 150,000 soldiers, sailors, and airmen stormed the beaches of Normandy beginning a campaign that would end with the unconditional surrender of Germany … Continue reading From the Museum
FDR Sphinx Sculpture (MO 1941.12.40) This 8-foot-tall papier-mâché sculpture of President Roosevelt as the Egyptian Sphinx was made as a witty commentary on FDR's prolonged refusal to say whether or not he would run for an unprecedented third term in 1940. The sculpture was the centerpiece for a satiric review at the annual winter … Continue reading From the Museum
"The Five Sullivan Brothers" Poster (MO 2005.13.40.52.1) On November 13, 1942, the USS Juneau, a light cruiser, was attacked and sunk during the battle for control of the island of Guadalcanal. On board the vessel were the five Sullivan brothers of Waterloo, Iowa: George Thomas - 27, Gunner's Mate Second Class Francis "Frank" Henry … Continue reading From the Museum
Elliott Roosevelt's Army Air Force Service Dress Uniform (MO 2005.16.1-2) All four of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s sons served in America’s armed forces during World War II. Elliott was an Army Air Corps reconnaissance pilot in the North Atlantic and Europe. He eventually achieved the rank of brigadier general. Franklin Jr. and John both … Continue reading From the Museum
Fala's Sailor's Cap (MO 2006.359) FDR had a lifelong affection for pets. His best-known was Fala, a Scottish terrier given to him by his cousin, Daisy Suckley, in 1940. Fala became Roosevelt's constant companion and the most famous dog in America. He appeared in newspapers, cartoons, books, and films. Fala often accompanied FDR on trips. … Continue reading From the Museum
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