Events, Programs, and Exhibits for April 2017
All events are free with Museum admission, unless otherwise noted.
The Hidden White House
Robert Klara
Harry S. Truman Library and Museum
In 1948, President Harry Truman, enjoying a bath on the White House's second floor, almost plunged through the ceiling of the Blue Room into a tea party for the Daughters of the American Revolution. A handpicked team of the country's top architects conducted a secret inspection of the troubled mansion and, after discovering it was in imminent danger of collapse, insisted that the First Family be evicted immediately. What followed would be the most historically significant and politically complex home-improvement job in American history. While the Trumans camped across the street at Blair House, Congress debated whether to bulldoze the White House completely.
Indefatigable researcher Robert Klara reveals what has, until now, been little understood about this episode: America's most famous historic home was basically demolished, giving birth to today's White House. Leaving only the mansion's facade untouched, workmen gutted everything within, replacing it with a steel frame and a complex labyrinth deep below ground that soon came to include a top-secret nuclear fallout shelter.
The story of Truman's rebuilding of the White House is a snapshot of postwar America, undertaking a job that changed the centerpiece of the country's national heritage. The job was by no means perfect, but it was remarkable - and, until now, all but forgotten.
A book signing will follow the program. Books are available for purchase in the museum store. Admission is free; no reservations are necessary; seating is first come, first served; light reception at 6:00; program begins at 6:30.
Home School Day at the Truman Library and Museum
Home School students are invited to visit the Truman Library and Museum on April 14 for our first ever Home School Day!
A variety of activities for all ages are planned. Older students can experience the White House Decision Center, elementary age students will be guided through fun activities in our galleries. This will include a visit to Truman's Oval Office!
Younger students will go on a scavenger hunt through the museum with Mom and Dad looking for clues to solve!
Ongoing Programming:
Talkin’ Truman: Gain insight into the life & times of Harry Truman with Truman Library archivists and curators. Each program features documents, photographs, and artifacts from the museum's rich collections organized around specific themes or stories.
Talkin’ Truman programs are offered on the first Friday of the month, May through September, at 11 a.m. and are included in Museum admission.
White Glove Wednesdays: Learn about some of the rare artifacts housed at the presidential library, as well as how they came to be part of the Truman Library collection. White Glove Wednesdays are offered 11 - 11:30 a.m. every Wednesday, May through September.
Feature Film:
Harry S. Truman: 1884-1972 Narrated by David McCullough
Daily Show Times: Hourly from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
This 45-minute film by Academy Award winner Charles Guggenheim examines Truman's life, from his humble birth in Lamar, Missouri, to the courtship of his wife, Bess Wallace, his service in World War I, his entry into local politics under "Boss" Tom Pendergast, his election to the U.S. Senate, and his rise to the Presidency.