Harry S. Truman Little White House

In the heart of Old Town, Key West, Florida, nestled within the charming Truman Annex neighborhood, lies a historical gem that once served as the winter White House for President Harry S. Truman. The Harry S. Truman Little White House stands as a testament to American history, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of one of the nation’s most prominent leaders.

The History of the Little White House

Constructed in 1890, the house was originally designed as the first officer's quarters on the U.S. naval station. The local architectural firm Scott, McDermott & Higgs crafted a wooden duplex that housed Quarters A for the base commandant and Quarters B for the paymaster. By 1911, the building was converted into a single-family dwelling to accommodate the base commandant, and additional land was filled in front of the house, although the waterfront view was later obstructed by new naval constructions.

The house has hosted a variety of notable figures throughout its history. President William Howard Taft was the first to visit in December 1912, arriving via Flagler's Overseas Railroad before sailing to Panama. During World War I, the renowned inventor Thomas Edison resided here, dedicating his time to perfecting underwater weapons.

Truman’s Time at the Little White House

In November 1946, President Harry S. Truman, physically exhausted from 19 months in office, was advised by his doctor to take a warm vacation. Truman arrived in Key West and found solace in the tranquil environment of the Little White House. This initial visit marked the beginning of a tradition, with Truman returning for vacations every November-December and February-March, totaling 175 days of his presidency spent at this retreat.

Truman's visits were not just for relaxation; they were also a time for significant political and military discussions. In 1948, the Key West Agreement, which laid the groundwork for the creation of the Department of Defense, was formulated here. The house became a hub for Cabinet members, foreign officials, and political leaders who visited for both work and leisure, with fishing trips and poker games being common pastimes.

Post-Truman Government Use

After Truman, the Little White House continued to serve as a retreat for other presidents and notable figures. General Dwight D. Eisenhower held meetings here in 1948-1949 that contributed to the establishment of the Department of Defense. As president, Eisenhower returned in 1955-1956 to recuperate from a heart attack. President John F. Kennedy and British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan held a summit here in 1961, and Kennedy made another visit following the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962.

The house remained the commanding officer’s quarters until the submarine base closed in 1974. That same year, it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, preserving its legacy for future generations.

Conversion into a Museum

In 1987, the house was deeded to the State of Florida and transformed into a public museum. A significant restoration project in 1990 brought the house back to its 1949 appearance, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the environment as it was during Truman’s presidency. The museum opened in 1991, offering regular guided tours that lead visitors through the rooms where Truman lived, worked, and relaxed.

Notable artifacts, such as Truman's briefcase, books, telephone, and the famous The Buck Stops Here sign (with I'm From Missouri on the reverse), are displayed, providing an intimate look into his personal and professional life.

Modern-Day Relevance

The Little White House continues to be a site of historical and political significance. In 1996, former President Jimmy Carter and his family held a reunion here. In 2001, Secretary of State Colin Powell opened a week of OSCE peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan. In 2005, former President Bill Clinton and then-Senator Hillary Clinton spent a weekend at the house, reflecting its ongoing relevance as a place of relaxation and diplomacy.

Visiting the Harry S. Truman Little White House offers a unique opportunity to explore a pivotal piece of American history. As you wander through the historic rooms and lush gardens, you can almost hear the echoes of past conversations and feel the weight of the decisions made within its walls. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a fascinating destination in Key West, the Little White House is a must-see landmark that promises to enrich your understanding of America's storied past.