Volume 41, Issue 3 July - Sept 2015

Celebrate the 4th of July in All-American style at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. In honor of the 40th anniversary of this event, we’re throwing our doors open and making it free to the public.

Bring your family, friends and neighbors—this is a great place to meet up and enjoy the “spirit of 1776.” Activities include:

• Vintage games

• Free first floor tours of the Harrison mansion

• Special patriotic crafts, performers, face painting, activities and more!

Admission and all activities are free and open to the public thanks to generous support in cooperation with Indiana Humanities, the National Endowment for the Arts, and REI Real Estate Services.

We hope to see you and your family at this celebration of America’s Hoosier President and our country’s Independence Day!

Ice cream will be available for purchase. All proceeds help benefit the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site educational programming and civic engagement initiatives.

Celebrate the Fourth!40th Annual Independence Day Social

July 4 • 1-4pm • FREE admission

The Benjamin Harrison

Presidential Site

1230 N. Delaware St.Indianapolis, IN

46202317.631.1888

Our mission is to increase public

understanding of, appreciation for, and participation in the American system of self-

government through the life stories, arts and culture of an

American President.

Charles A. Hyde, President & CEO

Charles A. HydePresident & CEO

Presidential Site Team

Margaret SalleeDirector of Operations

Jennifer CappsVP of Curatorship

& Exhibition

Ashleigh Graves-RoeslerVP of Development

Roger HardigVP of Education

David PleissDirector of Learning

Resources

Stacy ClarkEvents Specialist

Julio ZepedaFacilities Manager

Gary LarreateguiWeekend Supervisor

Ann A. HomrighousVolunteer Manager

PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org

Volume 41, Issue 3 2

On May 5, the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site was honored to serve as a new polling location--for the first time ever in our history.

This is a small but important step forward.

Civic engagement is central to the Presidential Site’s mission to, “increase public understanding of, appreciation for, and participation in the American system of self-government through the life stories, arts, and culture of an American President.” As a privately funded non-profit that receives no direct federal funding, it is a very public, non-partisan way for us to demonstrate our commitment to supporting our neighborhood and our community.

And Primary Day truly was a community affair. The overwhelmingly positive response from our neighborhood included many people walking and biking to the Presidential Site to vote. A number of voters expressed how personally meaningful they found it to fulfill their civic duty in a place of national significance.

This was a resounding “vote of confidence” from our community, and numerous media outlets shared these stories (see page 3 for more details). After all, where better to vote than at the home of America’s Hoosier president, who was a strong advocate for African-American voting rights, who opened Ellis Island, commissioned the Pledge of Allegiance, and first called for the flying of the American

flag at schools and public buildings?

In the larger scheme of things this is but one small example of how the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site is

determined to become the most innovative, impactful and civically-engaged presidential site in the United States.

Much as Benjamin Harrison’s words and deeds inspired a nation to action more than a century ago, we hope that our own example inspires other presidential sites and organizations to do the same by proudly opening their doors to foster and encourage civic engagement.

I hope that you’ll plan to join us in the coming months as we continue to demonstrate our commitment. See 100 new citizens take the pledge at the Naturalization Ceremony on July 2nd, enjoy a full “scoop” of 4th of July favorites at the Independence Day Social, and make your reservations for the 10th annual Mary Tucker Jasper Speaker series this September, carrying on its long tradition of sharing the voices of our country’s most influential citizens.

We appreciate your continued support—and vote of confidence!

From the President

A vote of

confidence

Mary Tucker Jasper Speaker Series

2015 is the landmark 10th Anniversary of the Mary Tucker Jasper Speaker Series. This signature Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site event features a nationally-recognized speaker and recognizes the winner of the Advancing American

Democracy Award. We hope that you will join us on September 17 for a very special evening celebrating

civic engagement and exceptional public leadership.

TABLE SPONSOR PLUS $1,600 • Hospitality: VIP Reception for 8; Dinner Seating for 8 • Event Benefits: Recognition on event program and event table signage • Supporter Benefits: Recognition in Annual Report

TABLE SPONSOR $1,400 • Hospitality: Dinner Seating for 8 • Event Benefits: Sponsor recognition on event program and event table signage • Supporter Benefits: Sponsor recognition in Annual Report

INDIVIDUAL TICKET PRICESVIP Patrons: • $180 VIP Reception, Dinner & Program (Presidential Site Member Rate) • $200 VIP Reception, Dinner & Program (non-member)

Dinner Patrons: • $155 Dinner & Program (Presidential Site Member Rate) • $175 Dinner & Program (non-member)

July 2Naturalization Ceremony

July 4Independence Day Social

August 20Civil War Dinner

Volume 41, Issue 3 3

Plan Your VisitSeptember 17Mary Tucker Jasper Speaker Series

October 9-10 and 16-18Hoosier Hauntspresented by Candlelight Theatre

November 3Election Day

December 5‘Twas the Night Before Christmas and LIVE: Family ChristmasDecember 16A Candlelight Evening on Delaware Street

Volunteer OpportunitiesWant to help INSPIRE? Volunteer opportunities abound at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, where you can be immersed in a Gilded Age mansion and guide the experience of visitors from around the world. Share a passion for history, arts and culture at Indiana’s only Presidential Home as a tour docent, welcome center ambassador, signature event volunteer, or behind the scenes support volunteer. Join our volunteer team by contacting Ann Homrighous, volunteer manager, at ahomrighous@bhpsite.org or 317.631.1888.

In the NewsThis spring, the Presidential Site received recognition for its unique and innovative programming. Here’s a small sampling of some of the top stories and coverage:

• “Votes cast at Benjamin Harrison house for first time” (Indianapolis Star, May 5)

• “Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site Certified as Voting Site” (Washington Times, May 5)

• “Discoveries: The Best of the Midwest” (Midwest Living, May/ June 2015)

• “Wicket World of Croquet” (IndyStyle/WISH-TV, May 27) • “Presidential site makes debut as Indy polling place” (Electionline Weekly, May 28)

Look for more this summer with the Naturalization Ceremony on July 2 and Independence Day Social on July 4, and this fall when we host Election Day on November 5.

Plus, stay up-to-date on all the latest presidential site news at PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org, on our Facebook page, or follow us on Twitter.

Volume 41, Issue 3 4

Special Exhibit

Death in the White House: A Nation MournsApril 3 - December 31, 2015

This special exhibit reflects on the final moments of our greatest public servants through news media, unique memorabilia and personal letters in our special exhibit. Eight presidents and three first ladies have passed in the White House, causing us to also share in their grief.The content spans two centuries of the lives--and deaths--of some of the country’s most beloved, controversial and, ultimately, mourned individuals. Remember these great men and women of the White House and discover the ways in which our citizenry has expressed our sense of loss throughout the history of the presidency. Find out more at PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org.

Words to Live By? The American people have always shown a keen interest in the last words of our fallen heroes, especially our presidents. Some of these final thoughts have echoed through history while others were fleeting sentiments.

William Henry Harrison’s last words are confirmed in a letter to his son John Scott Harrison from Mr. Graham in Washington, DC, dated 1am on April 4,1841: “The painful task of announcing your father’s decease devolves on me. He died at ½ past 12 oclock this morning, without a struggle. His last words were spoken 20 minutes before 9 oclock last evening. He raised himself in his bed & addressed himself to Dr. Worthington, one of the attending physicians, & said- ‘I wish you to understand the true principles of the government, I wish them carried out-I ask nothing more.’ We all at least, have the satisfaction of knowing… never since the death of Washington, has there been one called hence whose loss was more regretted than your father’s will be when the distressing fact is known to the people.”

This letter along with several other memorial artifacts is on display in the Death in the White House exhibit, where visitors can explore other “famous last words.” William Henry Harrison was a true public servant, thinking of the government in his last moments. Since he was the first president to die in office, his passing and Vice President Tyler’s quick swearing-in would set the stage on how to smoothly transition leadership.

Zachary Taylor fell ill on July 4, 1850, after participating in ceremonies at the Washington Monument. After returning to the White House he ate a large quantity of iced milk and cherries, one of which may have been contaminated. He died five days later on July 9, 1850. His last words were: “I am about to die. I expect the summons very soon. I have tried to discharge all my duties faithfully. I regret nothing, but I am sorry that I am about to leave my friends.”

Not all of the Presidents have such poignant last thoughts. Warren G. Harding died while on a political cross county train trip. When his train reached San Francisco at the end of July, he had contracted pneumonia. On the night of August 1st, Mrs. Harding read to him to help lift his spirits. She read a flattering review of his presidency by Samuel Blythe of the Saturday Evening Post. Harding’s last words were “That’s good. Go on; read some more.”

Franklin Delano Roosevelt arrived in Warm Springs at the “Little White House” on March 30, 1945. On the afternoon of April 12th he was reviewing official papers. He was afflicted suddenly with pain and pressed his hand to his temple saying: “I have a terrific headache.” He then slumped over into unconsciousness. At 3:35 p.m. on April 12, 1945, President Roosevelt died in his small bedroom in his beloved cottage at Warm Springs. Their circumstances influenced their parting words, but as Benjamin Harrison said on the anniversary of President Grant’s death, “Great lives never go out, they go on.” ---Jennifer Capps

“I wish you to understand the true principles of the Government, I wish them carried out. I ask nothing more.” -- Final words of President William Henry Harrison

Volume 41, Issue 3 5

Vacationing with the Harrisonsin the Adirondacks at Berkeley Lodge (1898-1900)

Caring for the CollectionChairs Re-upholstered with Historic Pattern

Two original Harrison chairs in the back parlor have received reupholstering thanks to the generosity of the Lockerbie Questers. An 1888 newspaper article describes some of the rooms: the back parlor was “comfortably furnished with a square grand piano and easy chairs.”

Through the years, the Lockerbie Questers grants have helped to maintain and enhance the care of our Harrison Collection. In 2010, historically correct lace curtains and hardware for the three rooms were purchased. In 2012, fireplace tiles were replaced with more authentic colors and pattern in the library. Going back even earlier, the original Harrison front parlor set was re-upholstered to match the 1888 description.

The two back parlor chairs in the current project show up in various photographs through the years. In 1888 and again in 1902, the chair with side spindles is clearly visible with another chair in the back parlor. For this project, we asked for funds to return the chairs to a fabric similar to that in the 1888 photo. Steve Burroughs of Burroughs Upholstery and Antiques, Inc. did the work and they turned-out wonderfully! This again has helped to complete the picture in making the three rooms as authentic as possible. Thank you, Lockerbie Questers! ---Jennifer Capps

Find more historic Harrison Family photos at PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org

Volume 41, Issue 3 6

Volunteer AwardsThe Volunteer Association of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site will hold its annual meeting on July 10 to elect officers, conduct business and recognize volunteers’ service. Upon satisfactory completion of 200 hours, a pin is awarded. Gems are added to the pin when 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 hours are completed. A special award is given for 2500 hours.

Six volunteers will be awarded for achieving milestones in hours served: • Phyllis Ackerman Pin • Robin Bankhead 3rd Gem • Oren Cooley Special Award • Michelle Denney 1st Gem • Rosalie Fletcher Pin and 1st Gem • Debbie Proctor 1st Gem

The awards for Apple of the Eye, White Glove, and Volunteer of the Year will be announced after the annual meeting. Interested in joining this dynamic group? Call 317.631.1888 or email to discover more! ---Ann Homrighous

Candlelight Theatre presents

“Hoosier Haunts”October 9-10 and 16-18 Candlelight Theatre at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site offers two theatre programs each year. This spring, creative director Donna Wing and her troupe of talented actors created one of the most successful collections of one-act plays in the history of theatre at the Presidential Site, Good Night Caroline. We hope you were one of the 400 guests lucky enough to get a seat to the sold-out performances.

Fortunately, we don’t have to wait until next April for another opportunity for this boutique theatre experience. Hoosier Haunts, by James Trofatter, premiers this October and will give patrons a fun and frightful look into Indiana’s storied past through tales told by our favorite and lesser known Hoosier ghosts. Be sure to make your reservation early for this spine-tingling performance this October…if you dare! Find out more at PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org

Candlelight Theatre at the Presidential Site is made possible through the generous support of these funders: Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation, Arts Council of Indianapolis, Christel DeHaan Family Foundation and the Wing Arts and Humanities Fund. We thank them for their continued investment in local Arts programming as well as the wholly unique playbills presented by Candlelight Theatre. ---Stacy Clark

Tree Dedication One of Indiana’s oldest garden clubs recently arranged for the planting and dedication of an American Elm tree at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. The Arbutus Garden Club dedicated the tree in honor of Helen Middleton Dickinson, a longtime Arbutus member and Presidential Site volunteer whose decades of advocacy and service helped to make the Presidential Site’s extensive, historically-minded gardens the community showpiece they are today.

The disease-resistant American Elm tree replaces a historic elm tree which graced the lawn in President Harrison’s time. Mrs. Dickinson was joined by members of the Arbutus Garden Club, the Indiana Garden Club, and the Presidential Site’s President & CEO, Charlie Hyde, at a reception and ceremony honoring Mrs. Dickinson’s leadership. The Arbutus Garden Club purchased the tree through a grant from The Indiana Garden Club, Inc. Since its founding in 1934, the Arbutus Garden Club has made our city more beautiful through charitable support and countless hours of volunteerism. The Presidential Site’s gardens are entirely maintained through the generosity of volunteers and contribute substantially to the beauty of the Old Northside neighborhood. ---Ashleigh Graves-Roesler

Volume 41, Issue 3 7

Croquet recap

Wicket Winners!The threat of rain did not stop the fun and frivolity at the 21st Annual Wicket World of Croquet® presented by the Lacy Foundation. This year’s event hosted 35 teams and numerous spectators on the picturesque south lawn for an afternoon of gracious living and spirited play. As the sun came out and the day heated up, so did the competition.

In the end, only two teams could emerge victorious. Congratulations go to the Indy Reads Books team of Travis DiNicola and Sally Zelonis, the 2015 Virginia Z. Willkie Champions Cup winners (photo). This duo also won the tournament in 2011.

And the Peine Engineering team of Wayne Fairburn and Victor DeTienne battled to emerge victorious as the 2015 Sun King Brewing Leisure Tournament Champions. ---Stacy Clark

Presenting Sponsor

Court Sponsors Leisure Tournament Sponsor

Team Sponsors

Event Partners

Silent Auction DonorsActive Indy ToursThe Alexander HotelCerulean RestaurantThe Children’s Museum of IndplsCircle City Rain BarrelThe Columbia Club

Conner Prairie Interactive History ParkCunningham Restaurant GroupRuss DilleyEiteljorg Museum of American IndiansGood Morning Mama’s CaféGreen Bean Delivery

Photo

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Special Thanks to our 2015 Wicket World of Croquet Sponsors

The Handle Bar IndyHeartland FilmHarry & Izzy’sHollyhock HillIndiana Historical SocietyIndiana Repertory Theatre

Indianapolis Art CenterIndianapolis City MarketIndianapolis ColtsIndianapolis IndiansIndianapolis Museum of ArtIndianapolisSymphony Orch

Indianapolis ZooIndy Reads BooksThe Jazz KitchenJockamo Upper Crust PizzaMass Ave ToysNew Day Craft

Paoli PeaksPhoenix Theatre Inc.Red’s Classic Barber Shop Co.Peggy SalleeDon SaxonShapiro’s Delicatessen

Sky ZoneSullivan’s Hardware and GardenSullivan’s SteakhouseSun King Brewing Co. LLCYogulatte

PRESIDENTIAL SITE HOURSOpen For Tours Monday-Saturday, 10am-3:30pm.

Offices Open Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm.

September 17, 2015 . 6-9 pmVIP Reception . 5-6pmColumbia Club

For more information or to reserveyour tickets, please visit PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org

TheMARY TUCKER JASPERSpeaker Series

SAVE THE DATE

An Initiative of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

Celebrating 10 years of the Mary Tucker Jasper Speaker Series