Eisenhower Gettysburg Home Part 2

July 3, 2023 143 Comments

3 Jul

“We women have to have a voice in things.”

Mamie Eisenhower

https://www.eisenhowerlibrary.gov/press-releases/evenings-ease-mamies-world

Though they purchased this home and property in 1949, Ike and Mamie did not actually move in until 1955. It was the first home they own!

Seal of the President on bell in the back yard — Seal of the President

During the presidental years, they took weekends here or at Camp David. As I looked at Mamie’s time as Ike’s wife, I knew this quote and knew it was true. She was the typical Army spouse. She kept the finances, packed the house and unpacked and set up another home in another place criscrossing the country and overseas with their child, John in tow. The responsiblities increased as rank and positions came over the years.

The family moved almost 37 times into about 27 quarters or rental places. From my own experience I can say this is no small feat. At some point I kind of lost count at move 26.

Mamie was a popular First Lady. She and Ike smiled alot She was outgoing and she was relatable. Her clothes were feminine and easily copied. And she unabashedly loved PINK!

Entertaining and homemaking were skills honed over the years. Her qoute says women have influence. You don’t have to be head of an organization or elected to office to have a voice. Mamie was outgoing which was a benefit as Ike moved up through the ranks and held key positions as a high ranking officer to include commander of NATO. Like many women during the war years, she took care of John, their son often without Ike.

Being an influence in your circle and circumstances happens for any of us. Hopefully it is positive in some way. big or small.

Part of Silver Pieces for Entertaining — Part of Silver Sets for Entertaining

These experiences served her and Ike well particularly during the post war years and as the First Lady.

His duties as commander of North Atlantic Treaty Organization forces and hers as his hostess at a chateau near Paris included entertaining officals and their wives and even families maybe even Easter egg hunts like we went to in our Hong Kong years at the US Consular’s home of the Peak.

Ike’s Room

Ike also recovered from heart attacks here during the presidency. He had a small bedroom set aside for his place to rest and nap as he recovered and during the retirement years. It is small and simple.

The President is always the president no matter where he is. Since Ike and Mamie spent a lot of time in their Gettysburg home, a presidential office was established. He did work here particularly during his recovery times after his heart attacks. Like many other rooms, there are bookshelves full of Ike’s large collection.

the sunroom

Sunroom's Pure White Brilliance — Sunroom’s Creamy White Brilliance

Off of the main rooms is the sunroom with the expansive windows overlooking the beautiful scenery of Gettysburg. It has been said Ike often sat quietly just looking. He also set up his easel for painting, a hobby he took up after retiring at the suggestion of a friend.

They took most of their meals in this space It is just off the normal sized kitchen. Both enjoyed watchiing TV here too. It looks like any of us could live here. In fact, many of us have homes that are similar.

Lunch at Historical Tavern

Dobbin House Tavern...Springhouse Tavern Menu — Dobbin House Tavern…Springhouse Tavern Menu

On a day trip, our hope is to find charming spot. If the weather is fine, eating outside in the patio area is a winner. We arrived a bit before the lunch hour. We still had a short wait. Large parties of graduates with family and friends were also arriving!

Crab is a regional favorite. Though we are not on the coast, we are close and Maryland is very close. The crab sandwich was delicious, the iced tea was fresh brewed.

Here it is, right on the road to the Main Street. Many historical buildings that have many years and owners and purposes. This history is in the menu or on the website.

The lobby is reflective of its history.

Lobby with Original Fireplace — Lobby with Original Renovated Fireplace

don’t forget to get a photo

Jim and Linda on the Green with Ike's 5 Star Flag — Jim and Linda on the Green

Thank goodness for selfies otherwise I am not sure I would have photos of me! Meg once fussed at me while taking photos of me. It made me realize before anyone mentioned it on FB, take a photo of myself!

Jim and I are on Ike’s putting green. He did love playing golf. There is a putter and ball available to take your shot! A fun part of the program the Park Rangers have. There are also activities for the kids too by the barn which is now a garage for the presidental vehicles.

Hope you are encouraged to come visit or to look for great spots near your home for a day trip!

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