Eisenhower Tree

Eisenhower Tree

by Lisa Eastman

Image by Lisa Eastman

Click Here To See The Unveiling Vudeo 

On Wednesday April 22nd, The Eisenhower Presidential Library unveiled a new display. The display is a cross-section of the tree mounted under glass in a beautiful wooden case. It is located in the lobby of the library.

The tree is an unusual addition to a presidential library collection but there is an interesting story behind it. Ike was an avid golfer and a member of the Augusta National Golf Club. The pine tree was an obstacle for Ike at the 17th hole. He repeatedly hit the tree and eventually petitioned the club to have the pine cut down. Ike was unsuccessful in his efforts and the tree continued standing until an ice storm downed the tree in 2014.

Image by Lisa Eastman

Curator of the Eisenhower Library and Presidential Museum, William Snyder commented, “In February of 2014, an ice storm did what a president couldn’t do and brought down the tree. We received hundreds of letters, phone calls and emails from people letting us know that the tree was down and wanting us to get a piece of it. We were fortunate enough to work with Augusta and get a piece. We are responding to what people want and that’s a good thing. But we’re also preserving a piece of Ike’s history. I think he’s probably enjoying a good laugh about now.”

Keep up-to-date with everything in the Abilene Kansas Community!!

GET The Free Mobile App HERE.