Sons of the Commander in Chief: The Roosevelt Boys in World War II

By J. Tomney, FDR Presidential Library volunteer. The sons and daughters of thousands of American families heeded the call to serve their country during World War II. The four sons of America’s First Family were counted among those that served with distinction and honor for the duration of the war. The Roosevelt boys – Jimmy, … Continue reading Sons of the Commander in Chief: The Roosevelt Boys in World War II

A Veterans Day to Remember: 11/11/42

By Paul Sparrow, Director, FDR Library.   Every year on November 11th people all over the world honor and thank those who served their country. Today in the United States November 11th is known as Veterans Day, but until 1954 it was Armistice Day, honoring the millions who had served or been killed in World … Continue reading A Veterans Day to Remember: 11/11/42

The Adventures of Fala, First Dog: The Case of the Dog Who Didn’t Bark on the Boat

By Paul M. Sparrow, Director, FDR Library. Fala is without doubt the most endearing and adorable character in the drama that was the Roosevelt White House during World War Two. The little Scottish Terrier was given to President Roosevelt as an early Christmas gift by his cousin and “closest companion” Margaret ‘Daisy’ Suckley in November, … Continue reading The Adventures of Fala, First Dog: The Case of the Dog Who Didn’t Bark on the Boat

75th Anniversary of the Battle for Guadalcanal

By Paul Sparrow, Director, FDR Library. August 7th, 2017 marks the 75th anniversary of the Marine landing on Guadalcanal. It was the start of one of the most important campaigns in World War II. There were smashing victories and bitter losses, acts of incredible heroism and unspeakable carnage. And at a critical moment, President Roosevelt … Continue reading 75th Anniversary of the Battle for Guadalcanal

FDR’s Commitment to the Hudson Valley

by Paul M. Sparrow, Director, FDR Library. On July 1st, the Trustees of the FDR Library and Museum will present the first Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Hudson Valley Vision Award to Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro for his work championing the ThinkDIFFERENTLY Campaign. The award seeks to recognize those working to improve the future of … Continue reading FDR’s Commitment to the Hudson Valley

FDR’s Ship Models – Part 3: Other Interesting Models

By Paul M. Sparrow, Director, FDR Library. Many of the ships in FDR’s collection are historically significant vessels. Others fall more into the unique and unusual category. Originally a United States Coast Guard patrol boat, the USS Potomac served as the presidential yacht from 1936 until 1945. FDR spent many relaxing days aboard the ship … Continue reading FDR’s Ship Models – Part 3: Other Interesting Models

FDR’s Ship Models – Part Two : 20th Century Naval Ships

By Paul M. Sparrow, Director, FDR Library. Franklin Roosevelt’s ship model collection is truly remarkable for its size and for the variety of models. During the latter part of his presidency he received many models of war ships. Having served as Assistant Secretary of the Navy in WWI, President Roosevelt became the Commander in Chief … Continue reading FDR’s Ship Models – Part Two : 20th Century Naval Ships

FDR’s Ship Models Part One: Sailing Ships

By Paul M. Sparrow, Director, FDR Library. Franklin Delano Roosevelt was an avid collector – of objects, people and most importantly ideas. He was a connoisseur of naval art, stamps, rare first edition books and of course ship models. While he was well known for his stamp collecting, his first love was the sea. His … Continue reading FDR’s Ship Models Part One: Sailing Ships

FDR’s “The Federalist” – A closer look at a priceless book

By Paul M. Sparrow, Director, FDR Library. They don’t look very impressive, but they are two of the most remarkable books in Franklin Roosevelt’s personal library. This first edition, two volume set of The Federalist printed in 1788 by J. and A. M’Lean of New York, is historically significant, extremely rare, and has never been … Continue reading FDR’s “The Federalist” – A closer look at a priceless book

Images of Internment

By Paul M. Sparrow, Director, FDR Library. Throughout American history our presidents have struggled to find the right balance between the highest ideals of our founding charters and the cold realities of national security. This is especially true in times of war. President John Adams passed the Alien and Sedition Acts, Abraham Lincoln suspended the … Continue reading Images of Internment