Truman Library - Public Programs

Truman Birthday Celebration

City of Independence Award for Public Service
Friday, May 5, 2006, 7:00 p.m.
Truman Presidential Museum, Portico
Admission is free
Each year the City of Independence honors Harry S. Truman by presenting the Harry S. Truman Public Service Award to an individual who best typifies and possesses the qualities of dedication, industry, ability, honesty and integrity that distinguished Harry S. Truman. This year the award will be given to Rep. Ike Skelton (D-MO). A public reception follows the event. For information call the City of Independence: 325-7022.

"Buck Stops Here" Admission for $1.00
Saturday, May 6, 2006
The buck stops at the Truman Museum on May 6 with admission reduced to $1.00 all day as part of the City of Independence's Truman Birthday celebration. Other Independence tourism attractions also offer reduced rates.

Truman Birthday Celebration Film Series
May 6 - May 13, 2006, 2:00 p.m.
Truman Museum Auditorium
Free with museum admission
Daily showings of rarely seen motion pictures from the Truman Library's audiovisual archives.

May 6: Edward R. Murrow, subject of the Academy Award winning "Good Night and Good Luck," interviews former President Truman. From the CBS production "See It Now" (1958).
May 7: Two films from the early years of the Truman Library. "Man from Independence" (1955) was produced to raise funds for the building of the Truman Library. In the CBS production "Let's Take a Trip" (1957), President Truman escorts two children through the new Harry S. Truman Library.
May 8: Fun films for President Truman's birthday. Segments from daughter Margaret Truman's 1951 appearance on the Jimmy Durante Show and a 1959 broadcast of the Jack Benny Show filmed at the Truman Library and featuring a guest appearance by the former President.
May 9: Three newsreels are highlighted: "Truman Faces New Job with Confidence" (Universal, 1945), "Trip to Berlin" (Paramount, 1945) and "The Friendship Train" (Warner Brothers, 1947).
May 10: Excerpts of the coverage following President Truman's death in 1972, featuring the CBS retrospective, "The Friends of Harry S. Truman," and NBC footage of the funeral.
May 11: Historical roots of current events in Iran are covered in "The Smallest Nation" (1964), which looks at tensions between the Soviet Union and the United States in Iran in 1946. This film is one of 26 episodes from the syndicated television series "Decision: The Conflicts of Harry S. Truman."
May 12: Local footage from KCMO of post-Presidential activities including a 1960 news conference with John F. Kennedy and segments from 1965-1972, which include some of Mr. Truman's last public appearances.
May 13: A David Susskind interview with President Truman, "Open End," covering such topics as retirement, young people, American morality, John F. Kennedy, Nikita Khushchev and the United Nations (1960).

President Truman's 122nd Birthday
Monday, May 8, 2006, the Museum opens at 8:30 a.m.
Free with museum admission
Highlights of President Truman's Birthday include a wreath laying, special film showing and free birthday cake.

At 9:30 a.m., representatives of over fifty American Legion posts will observe Harry S. Truman's 122nd Birthday by laying wreaths at his gravesite. The ceremonies will include a color guard procession and a memorial address. Museum visitors may observe from the Courtyard or the Legacy Gallery.

At 11:00 a.m. there will be special showing of the film "Truman Diamond Jubilee-Happy Birthday Mr. Truman." Created by CBS on the occasion of Harry S. Truman's 75th birthday, the events of his life and presidency are recognized by individuals such as Melvin Douglas (master of ceremonies), Mary Jane Truman, Dean Acheson, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jack Benny, Jimmy Durante, and Lyndon Johnson.

Free Birthday Cake will be served to patrons by museum volunteers beginning at 1:30 p.m

Civil War Diaries
Tuesday, December 27, Noon
Free with museum admission
Lee Ward will sign copies of the just-published book he edited, "'...But God Has So Ordered It': The Five-Volume Diaries of Harrison Whittemore". The Civil War diaries of Sgt. Whittemore were presented to Harry S. Truman at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York on May 8, 1959, during a closed-circuit television broadcast in celebration of Truman's 75th birthday. The diaries, now part of the Truman Library archival collection, were a gift from the New York City committee in charge of the celebration and were presented to Truman by Speaker Sam Rayburn. Rayburn told Truman that "few people have studied American history as you have."

The Legacy of Nuremberg
Sunday, July 10, 2005 7:00 pm,
Jewish Community Campus, 5802 W. 115th Street, Overland Park, Kansas
Admission is free
Dr. Michael Berenbaum, director of the Sigi Ziering Institute at the University of Judaism, discusses the continuing impact of the trials of Nazi war criminals. Dr. Berenbaum was former project director of the creation of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and director of its Research Institute and former president and CEO of the Survivors of the Shoah Visual History Foundation. Presented in partnership with the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education. For reservations, contact the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

The Law of War
Tuesday, July 12, 2005, 7:00 p.m.
Liberty Memorial, 100 W. 26th Street, Kansas City, Missouri
Admission is free
Moderated by Fred K. Green, former counsel to General Colin Powell during the first Gulf War, an expert panel discuss issues of law and the waging of war beginning with the Geneva Convention and the Nuremberg War Crimes trials and extending to current issues in the Middle East and elsewhere. Panelists Jonathan Bush, William Eckhardt, Gregory Gordon and Harry Reicher have held such positions as lead prosecutor for My Lai cases in the Vietnam War and prosecutor in the "media case" under the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. Presented in partnership with the University of Missouri-Kansas City Law School, Midwest Center for Holocaust Education and the Liberty Memorial. For CLE credit, contact the UMKC School of Law: 816-235-1648. For reservations, contact the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Robert H. Jackson and Telford Taylor: Nuremberg Prosecutors
Thursday, July 14, 2005, 7:00 p.m.
Admission is free
Experts John Q. Barrett and Jonathan Bush discuss the lead American prosecutors of the post-World War II International Military Tribunal for Nazi war crimes. A former Iran-Contra prosecutor, John Barrett is a Professor of Law at St. John's University and is writing a biography of Supreme Court Justice Robert Jackson, who acted as Chief Prosecutor at Nuremberg. Jonathan Bush is the biographer of Telford Taylor (Jackson's successor at Nuremberg) and is a lecturer in the law of war. This public program is presented in conjunction with the teacher workshop War Crimes & International Law: The Legacy of Nuremberg, co-presented with the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education. For reservations, contact the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222

Sunday, May 8, 2005, 9:30 am
American Legion Pilgrimage Wreath Laying
Mothers receive free admission all day
Representatives of over fifty American Legion posts will observe Harry S. Truman's 121st Birthday by laying wreaths at his gravesite. The ceremonies will include a color guard procession and a memorial address. Museum visitors may observe from the Courtyard or the Legacy Gallery. The Museum will open at 8:30 a.m.

Saturday, May 7, 2005
Reduced admission and "The Unscripted Harry Truman"
Admission is $1.00 all day
The buck stops at the Truman Museum on May 7 with admission reduced to $1.00 all day as part of the City of Independence's Truman Birthday celebration. Other Independence tourism attractions also offer reduced rates. Throughout the day a special film presentation of rare and newly relased footage of President Truman and others filmed during the making of his award-winning television series "Decision: The Conflicts of Harry S. Truman" will play in the auditorium. At 2:00 Deputy Director Scott Roley and Brian Burnes, Kansas City Star reporter and author of "Harry Truman: His Life and Times," will offer a special commentary on the films. A book signing will follow.

Friday May 6, 2005, 7:00 pm
City of Independence Community Service Award
Truman Museum Auditorium
The city of Independence presents its Community Service Award to long-time Kansas City journalist Walt Bodine. With more than 50 years in the media, Bodine is affectionately known as Kansas City's dean of broadcasting. Bodine has received numerous awards including the Kansas City Spirit Award in 1987, recognizing him as the "voice of the people" and "our community conscience." More recently Bodine was the recipient of the Bishop John J. Sullivan Award for Communications. A reception follows.

April 29, 2005 10 a.m. -1 p.m.
The Magic of Storytelling
Francis Family Theater
Presented by Maple Woods Community College

In partnership with Blue River Community College, Deb Swanegan weaves the threads of history, fantasy, work songs, chants, myths, and legends into her magical repertoire of traditional and nontraditional oral folklore. She combines her African-American, Cherokee, Jewish, and Scots-Irish cultural heritage with her natural abilities to bring life to her stories.

Gamelan Genta Kasturi (Ensemble of the Blossoming Sound)
Sunday, April 24, 2005, 2 p.m. Truman Museum grounds
The Gamelan Genta Kasturi ensemble--consisting of community members--has performed gamelan music throughout the Kansas City area since its formation. Committed to educating western society about Balinese culture, each concert offers the opportunity for audience members to play and examine the instruments up close. "Kembang Anyar," the ensemble's premiere CD, was released in the spring of 2004. Presented in co-operation with the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music.

Telford Taylor Papers Conference
Friday, April 8, 2005
Columbia University Law School, New York
The Columbia University Law School, Arthur W. Diamond Law Library, celebrates the official opening of the papers of Nuremberg prosecutor Telford Taylor with a conference reviewing his career. Presented in partnerhsip with The Jacob Rader Marcus Center of the American Jewish Archives and the Truman Library. Conference information.

Tuesday April 12, 2005, 2:00 pm
"It is Wonderful to Feel Free"--Eleanor Roosevelt after April 12
Free with Museum admission
Following the death of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and the ascension of Harry S. Truman to the nation's highest office, former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt entered a new phase in her life, assuming the role, as Truman termed it, of "First Lady of the World." In a program marking the 60th anniversary of that fateful change, Robert Clark of the FDR Library discusses Mrs. Roosevelt's career following her husband's death with special emphasis on the partnership and friendship that developed between her and President Truman.

Thursday, March 24, 2005, 2:00 p.m.
Reporting From Washington
Free with Museum admission
Donald A. Ritchie, Associate Historian of the United States Senate, discusses his new book, "Reporting From Washington: The History of the Washington Press Corps," which highlights the dramatic changes in journalism that have occurred beginning with 1932 and taking us through the last seven decades. He chronicles news coverage in our nation's capital from the early days of radio and the heyday of the wire services to the brave new world of the Internet. Ritchie, past president of the Oral History Association, is the author of "Doing Oral History," "American Journalists: Getting the Story," and "Press Gallery: Congress and the Washington Correspondents." He is a frequent commentator on C-SPAN. A book signing will follow the program.

Tuesday March 1, 2005, 2:00 pm
Susan B. Anthony
Free with Museum admission
The Truman Library kicks off of Women's History Month with a public program by Nancy Shader of the National Archives New England Region on the arrest in 1872 and subsequent conviction of suffragist Susan B. Anthony for the Federal crime of attempting to vote while a female. The talk accompanies the display through March 30 of documents from the Anthony case.

Sunday, February 13, 2005, 2:00 p.m.
"The Love Story of Harry and Bess Truman"
Free with museum admission
A performance of "The Love Story of Harry and Bess" by the Truman Players. The story of the long courtship and remarkable 53-year old romance of Harry and Bess Truman are told through their letters and other personal writings. Followed by a special presentation by singers from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music.

Friday, February 11, 2005, 2:00 pm
Bess Truman Birthday
Free with museum admission
The Library celebrates the 120th anniversary of the birth of Elizabeth (Bess) Wallace Truman with a talk on growing up in a political family by newly-elected Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan. The talk is followed by a tea hosted by the Independence Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. For reservations, contact the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Thursday, July 22, 7 p.m.
Roger Wilkins
Celebrating the Desegregation of the Armed Services
Gem Theater
Contact the Gem Box Office for tickets, 816-474-6262

Roger Wilkins is currently the publisher of Crisis, the NAACP's journal, and is a professor of History and American Culture at George Mason University, in Washington DC. He has received a Pulitzer Prize while with the Washington Post while covering Watergate, and served as Assistant Attorney General during the Johnson administration. Among his books are Jefferson's Pillow: The Founding Fathers and the Dilemma of Black Patriotism and A Man's Life: An Autobiography. Roger Wilkins is a native of Kansas City, he attended Attucks school in the 18th & Vine district while his father, Earl, was a business manager for the Kansas City Call. His uncle, Roy Wilkins, served as Executive Director of the NAACP. Roger Wilkins will speak on Harry Truman and the civil rights movement. Presented in partnership with the American Jazz Museum.

Thursday, July 15, 1:30 p.m.
Carol Briley Martin
"President Truman and the Struggle for Civil Rights"
Free with museum admission

Archivist Carol Briley Martin tells the story of how a man of more or less southern heritage, whose grandparents on both sides owned slaves, became the first President since the Reconstruction era to fight for civil rights for African-Americans.

Tuesday, July 13, 2004, 2:00 p.m.
Jean Carnahan
Free with museum admission

Former U.S. Senator and First Lady of Missouri Jean Carnahan talks about her new book, Don't Let the Fire Go Out!, and how she survived the loss of her husband, son, and longtime friend in a plane crash on October 16, 2002. A question and answer session and a booksigning follow the talk.

Sunday, May 16, 2:00 p.m.
"Music for a Lifetime"
Free with museum admission

This favorite among the Truman Museum's spring programs features performances by young musicians who performed with distinction during the Kansas City Music Teachers' Associations Spring Achievement Auditions. Co-sponsored with the University of Missouri - Kansas City Conservatory of Music.

May 14-15, 2004
Harry S. Truman and Civil Rights
Key West, Florida
Harry S Truman Little White House and Florida Keys Community College

The civil rights legacy of Harry Truman is examined in the second annual Truman Legacy Symposium. Speakers include former Presidential candidate Michael Dukakis, Rep. John Lewis (D-GA), Carrie Meek, Robert Ferrell, Ken Hechler Rex Scouten, Michael Gardner and Clifton Truman Daniel. Conference information for Harry S. Truman and Civil Rights.

May 1, 5, 6, and 7, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and May 8, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Niel Johnson as Harry S. Truman
Free with museum admission

Niel Johnson as Harry S. Truman: Historian and former Truman Library archivist Niel Johnson has gained deserved repute as an impersonator who takes one as close to the living Harry Truman as can be done. Dressed in hat and double-breasted suit and carrying Truman's trademark cane, Niel's Harry Truman will greet visitors and tell Truman stories, pose for photographs with the famous "Dewey Defeats Truman" newspaper, and give press conferences.

Saturday, May 8, 9 a.m.
Ft. Leavenworth Honor Guard
Wreath Laying Ceremony

A color guard from Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas and representatives of President Truman's family and of the Truman Library Institute Honorary Fellows will commemorate his 120th birthday by laying a wreath on his gravesite. This ceremony is President George W. Bush's official recognition of President Truman's birthday. Museum visitors may observe from the Courtyard or the Legacy Gallery.

Saturday, May 8, 9:30 a.m.
American Legion Pilgrimage
Wreath Laying Ceremony

Representatives of over fifty American Legion posts will observe President Truman's birthday by laying wreaths at his gravesite. The ceremonies will include a color guard procession and a memorial address. Museum visitors may observe from the Courtyard or the Legacy Gallery.

Saturday, May 8, 10:30 a.m.
Brian Burnes
"Harry S. Truman: His Life and Times"
Kansas City Star reporter Brian Burnes will discuss his new book, "Harry S. Truman: His Life and Times," the companion volume to the new exhibition of the same name. Brian will be available to sign books both before and after the talk.

Friday, May 7, 1:30 p.m.
Tom Heuertz
"Harry S. Truman, Man of Character"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: Truman Museum associate education coordinator Tom Heuertz explores the character traits that made Truman the kind of president he was, and that cause some people to say such things as "Lincoln at his best was Trumanesque."

Friday, May 7, 2004, 12:00 noon
Harry S. Truman Good Neighbor Award
Muehlebach Hotel
Kansas City, Missouri

This year's Good Neighbor Award will be presented to Walter Cronkite, news correspondent and journalist. For information, contact the Harry S. Truman Good Neighbor Award Foundation: (913) 722-1211 or pfarrell@trumanaward.org.

Friday, May 7, 2004, 7:00 p.m.
City of Independence Award for Public Service
Truman Presidential Museum & Library, Portico

Each year the City of Independence honors Harry S. Truman by presenting the Harry S. Truman Public Service Award to an individual who best typifies and possesses the qualities of dedication, industry, ability, honesty and integrity that distinguished Harry S. Truman. This year the award will be given to Michael Beschloss, Presidential historian and author. A public reception follows the event. For information call the City of Independence: 325-7027.

Thursday, May 6, 1:30 p.m.
David Clark
"The Planes, Trains, and Automobiles of Harry S. Truman"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: Truman Library archivist David Clark draws on the Library's audiovisual holdings to show President Truman on the Augusta, the Williamsburg, the Sacred Cow, the Independence, and the Ferdinand Magellan, as well as in an assortment of cars, in a gondola, on horseback, and walking.

Wednesday, May 5, 1:30 p.m.
Pat Dorsey and Ray Geselbracht
"Bess in Hats"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: Truman Museum exhibits specialist Pat Dorsey and special assistant to the director Ray Geselbracht tell the story of the stylish young Bess Wallace's love of hats and posing for photographs, and of the First Lady's somewhat different attitude about photographs, if not hats. Several of the hats that Bess Wallace Truman wore will be shown.

Tuesday, May 4, 1:30 p.m.
Tom Heuertz
"Truman and Pendergast"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: Truman Museum associate education coordinator Tom Heuertz explains how Truman began his political career under the patronage of Mike Pendergast, and then rose to United States Senator with the help of boss Tom Pendergast.

Monday, May 3, 1:30 p.m.
Ray Geselbracht
"Thomas Hart Benton, Harry Truman, and the Making of Independence and the
Opening of the West"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: Special assistant to the director Ray Geselbracht tells the story of a friendship and the creation of the mural painting that fills the Truman Museum's Main Lobby with color and movement. Includes many illustrations of items from the Truman Museum's collection of Benton's cartoons and drawings.

Free Concert: Dana Cooper
On May 2 at 2 pm, singer-songwriter Dana Cooper, an Independence native, performs songs from his recent CD, "Harry Truman Built a Road," as well as other songs he has written. One music critic has called him "the best singer/songwriter to emerge from Nashville in over a decade…. His sense of melody is unique and he has a voice that could melt icecaps." Call 816-268-8200 for reservations. Learn more about Dana Cooper.

Thursday, April 29, 1:30 p.m.
Ray Geselbracht
"Truman Places in Independence"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: Special assistant to the director Ray Geselbracht presents a photographic tour of places that were especially important to Harry Truman, including homes he lived in, schools he went to, and places where he met and married Bess Wallace.

Friday, April 23, 1:30 p.m.
Milton Kayle
"Memoirs of a Special Assistant to President Truman"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: A former member of President Truman's White House Staff shares memories of his meetings with President Truman and of working with the staff of the Counsel to the President.

Thursday, April 22, 1:30 p.m.
Clifton Truman Daniel
"An Interesting Life in Reflected Light"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: President Truman's grandson shares his memories of his grandfather, partly through his reflections on family photographs that show the two of them.

Tuesday, April 20, 1:30 p.m.
Clay Bauske
"The Making of an Exhibition: Harry S. Truman: His Life and Times"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: Truman Museum curator Clay Bauske describes the creative process behind the museum's new $2 million exhibition about the career, character and personal life of Harry S. Truman.

Thursday, April 15, 1:30 p.m.
Don Turrentine
"Harry S. Truman: From the Farm to the Presidency,"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: Truman Museum volunteer and outreach ambassador Don Turrentine presents a richly illustrated account of Truman's remarkable rise from dirt farmer to President of the United States.

Thursday, April 1, 1:30 p.m.
Tom Heuertz
"Truman Places in Kansas City and Grandview"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: A photographic tour of places that were especially important to Harry Truman, including the farm, the haberdashery, the court house, and places where he played poker.

Thursday, April 8, 1:30 p.m.
Don Turrentine
"The Miracle of '48"
Free with museum admission

The Truman Library Presents: Truman Museum volunteer and outreach ambassador Don Turrentine tells the ever startling story of how a sure loser never lost heart, worked hard, and won the most remarkable victory in the history of American presidential campaigns.

Tuesday, January 27, 11 a.m.
Clay Bauske
"The Making of an Exhibition: Harry S. Truman: His Life and Times"
Free with museum admission

Truman's Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
January 22, at 2 and 7 p.m.

Archivist David Clark will give a presentation in the museum about the many modes of transportation Harry Truman used during his life. Truman both had to travel a great deal and loved doing it. When he was young, he relied on the train, trolley, and horse cart to get where he wanted to go. Then he got a car, the first of many, and he drove to court Bess, to forward his political career in Missouri, to conduct his U. S. Senate business, and sometimes just to take a trip. Some of his vehicles-the Ferdinand Magellan campaign train, the airplane Independence, the yacht Williamsburg-became famous symbols of his presidency. David Clark will draw from the Truman Library's extensive audiovisual archives to tell this fascinating story.

Thursday, November 6, at 7 p.m.
Feature Film - Pork Chop Hill (1959)
Truman Library Auditorium
Event is free (film only), with doors opening at 6:45 p.m.
(Come early and see the museum exhibits, including the exhibition Conflict and Consequence: The Korean War and Its Unsettled Legacy. Admission $7 for adults.)

The second film of the Korean War in Film series. Gregory Peck leads the American attack on Pork Chop Hill. The unit finally takes its objective, but at the cost of almost all its men. A highly realistic and believable movie, based on actual events. Introduction and commentary by Paul Edwards, director of the Center for the Study of the Korean War.

Friday, November 7, at 7 p.m.
Carol Anderson
"The Creation of a Kansas City Statesman: Roy Wilkins and the Struggle for Human Rights"
Truman Museum Auditorium
Event is free with museum admission. For reservations, call Central Ticket Office,
816-235-6222.

The third presentation in the Truman Library/UMKC Truman's Internationalist Legacy series. Dr. Carol Anderson is Associate Professor of History at the University of Missouri - Columbia. She is author of Eyes Off the Prize: The United Nations and the African American Struggle for Human Rights, 1944-1955. Her talk will focus on the role that Kansas City's Roy Wilkins took in the fight to realize the NAACP's ambitious human rights goals in the hopeful period following World War II.

Thursday, November 13, at 7 p.m.
Feature Film - The Manchurian Candidate (1962)
Truman Museum Auditorium
Event is free (film only), with doors opening at 6:45 p.m.
(Come early and see the museum exhibits, including the exhibition Conflict and Consequence: The Korean War and Its Unsettled Legacy. Admission $7 for adults.)

The third film of The Korean War in Film series. Frank Sinatra leads an all-star cast in this controversial film about brainwashing and assassination. One of the best known films about the Korean War era. Introduction and commentary by psychologist Jeanne M. Earnest.

The Global Economy and American Foreign Policy

New York Times foreign affairs columnist Thomas Friedman will present the 2003 Arthur Gilbert Lecture on September 16 at 7 p.m. at Unity Temple on the Plaza. Mr. Friedman has served as New York Times bureau chief in Beirut and Jerusalem, and as chief diplomatic correspondent and chief White House correspondent in Washington. His current assignment is as international economic correspondent. He has published several important books, including Longitudes and Attitudes: Exploring the World After September 11. He has won three Pulitzer Prizes, two for international reporting and one for commentary.

Mr. Friedman's lecture is jointly sponsored by the Truman Presidential Museum & Library, the UMKC Carolyn Benton Cockefair Chair for Continuing Education, and the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City. The event is sold out.

Saturday, September 6, 2003, 10:00 a.m.
Harry S. Truman Appreciation Society Ceremony
Truman Presidential Museum steps

Each year the veterans in the Greater Kansas City area come together in a ceremony recognizing President Truman for the steps he took to end World War II. This year’s ceremony will be presented by the Harry S. Truman Appreciation Society in cooperation with Truman High School. Highlighting the ceremony will be a special award presented to the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. The program will include a pre-ceremony concert, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the main entrance to the Library's museum.

This outdoor ceremony is free to the public. For further information, call George Curtis, Program Chairman, at 816-229-4799.

August 30. 10:30 a.m.
Ray Geselbracht
Thomas Hart Benton, Harry Truman, and the Making of "Independence and the Opening of the West"

Using documents and photos from the Library's collection, along with Thomas Hart Benton's own working drawings, archivist Ray Geselbracht describes the creation of the Truman Presidential Museum's famous Benton mural, "Independence and the Opening of the West." Dr. Geselbracht also casts light on the special relationship between the painter and President Truman. Free with museum admission.

Saturday, August 16, 2003 at 10:00 a.m.
Roger H. C. Donlon
Family, Faith, and Freedom
Truman Presidential Museum & Library

The Truman Museum continues its Patriots of War Program with, Retired Colonel Roger H. C. Donlon, the first recipient of the Medal of Honor for Valor for Vietnam, and a current member of the National Council of the Vietnam Project. He is the author of the book, "Beyond Nam Dong." Donlon will speak on "Family, Faith, and Freedom" in the museum's Whistlestop Room. A reception for the participants and audience follows. The program is free with museum admission. For reservations call Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Thursday, July 24, 2003
Celebrating The Desegregation of the Armed Services
Gem Theater, Cultural Performing Arts Center. 1601 E. 18th St., Kansas City.
Tony Brown of "Tony Brown's Journal," the longest running show on PBS, will moderate a panel of local residents describing from their points of view the affect of Truman's initial steps in committing the Federal government to support of basic civil rights. The panelists are jazz musician Ahmad Alaadeen, former Tuskegee airman and NAACP official Herman Johnson and Cheryl Brown Henderson, executive director of the Brown v. Board of Education Foundation. Presented in partnership with the American Jazz Museum. The Truman Museum annually marks the issuance on July 26, 1950, of Executive Orders 9980 and 9981 which respectively ordered an end to segregation in the military and to discriminatory employment practices in the Federal government. Presented in partnership with the American Jazz Museum. For reservations call the Gem Box Office at 816-474-6262.

Saturday, July 19, 2003 at 10:00 a.m.
Paul A. Wolfgeher & Vern Scott
Air Force Intelligence and Psychological Warfare in Korea
Truman Presidential Museum & Library

Both Wolfgeher and Scott served in Korea from the fall of 1952 until February 1954. Wolfgeher was a Sergeant in the 1st Loudspeaker and Leaflet Company and will share part of his large collection of propaganda leaflets. Scott attained the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-5) and received training as a radio traffic analyst and a crypto analyst. He will discuss flyovers, reconnaissance, couriers, and other Air Force intelligence missions. The program is free with museum admission. For reservations call Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Thursday July 17, 2003. 7:00 p.m.
The Biographers Define Truman's Significance
Truman Presidential Museum & Library

Robert H. Ferrell and Alonzo L Hamby have been for many years among the most prominent scholars in the world writing about the life and presidency of Harry S. Truman. Both men have written highly regarded biographies-"Harry S. Truman: A Life" (1994), and "Man of the People" (1995) respectively. They will discuss the significance of Truman's presidency. Presented in conjunction with the teacher training workshop "Harry's Farewell: A Conference on the Historical Significance of the Truman Presidency." The program is free with museum admission. For reservations call Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Tuesday, June 17, 2003, 7:00 p.m.
Robert Dallek
An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy 1917-1963
Unity Temple on the Plaza

Robert Dallek, one of the most highly regarded historians in America, will discuss, answer audience questions, and autograph his new book "An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy 1917-1963". The study is the first major, single-volume life of John F. Kennedy to be written by a historian in nearly four decades. Dallek is the author of six books, including the acclaimed two-volume of biography Lyndon Johnson, "Lone Star Rising" and "Flawed Giant". His "Franklin D. Roosevelt and American Foreign Policy" won the 1980 Bancroft Prize and was nominated for an American Book Award, and "The American Style of Foreign Policy" was a 1983 New York Times Notable Book of the Year. Presented in cooperation with Rainy Day Books. For tickets contact Rainy Day Books at 913-384-3126.

Each year the City of Independence honors Harry S. Truman by presenting the Harry S. Truman Public Service Award to an individual who best typifies and possesses the qualities of dedication, industry, ability, honesty and integrity that distinguished Harry S. Truman. This year the award will be given to Paul Simon, former Senator from the state of Illinois. A public reception follows the event. For information call the City of Independence: 325-7022

Sunday April 6, 2003, 2:00 p.m.
Truman Music Series
The UMKC Chamber Singers present
A Salute to America
Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium

The fourth annual Truman Music Series continues with a concert dedicated to our service men and women at home and abroad. "A Salute to America" presents the UMKC Chamber Singers, Dr. Dee Romines-conductor, singing a full program of hymns and patriotic music. Dr. Romines is currently visiting assistant professor in choral music education at the UMKC Conservatory of Music. The program is presented in partnership with the Conservatory.

The program is free with museum admission. For reservations call the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Sunday March 23, 2003, 2:00 p.m.
Truman Music Series
The UMKC Conservatory of Music presents
Traditional Favorites for Two Pianos
Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium

The annual "Truman Music Series" presented in partnership with the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Conservatory of Music commences with top Conservatory pianists, Janet Fetterman and Nathan Smith. They will provide a rare duo performance featuring two pieces that were close to President Truman's heart: Mozart's "Sonata in D K.448" and Chopin's "Rondo Op. 73." The program also includes "Homage to Coswell, Cage, Crumb and Czerny" by Emma Lou Diemer and "The Bat: A Fantasy on Themes from Johann Strauss' Die Fledermaus" by Pierre Luboshutz.

Janet Fetterman and Nathan Smith, as a duo team, have recently reached the quarterfinals of the National Federation of Piano Clubs, Ellis Duo Piano Competition and were the winners of the 2003 Concerto/Aria Competition, Keyboard Division, at the UMKC Conservatory of Music. Both are currently pursuing doctoral studies at the UMKC Conservatory.

The program is free with museum admission. For reservations call the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

On Thursday, February 27 at 7:00 PM, Dr. Kathryn Weathersby, a fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Scholarship and past fellow of the Norwegian Nobel Institute, will speak on "Cold War Secrets."

Dr. Weathersby's speech provides the keynote for a conference on "War and Media" organized by the Center for Study of the Korean War. Dr. Weathersby is an expert on the translation and analysis of Russian documents concerning the Cold War and her speech will consider some of the most recent information emerging from the these documents, especially as it relates to the Korean War.

Dr, Weathersby's speech is co-sponsored by the Truman Presidential Museum & Library and the Center for the Study of the Korean War at Graceland University. For information on the "War and Media" conference, contact Dr. Paul Edwards at 816-833-0524.

Dr. Weathersby's speech is open to the public with paid museum admission. For reservations call Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Discover one of the great love stories in American history through dramatic readings from the personal writings of Harry and Bess Truman, and through photographs from their childhood to old age. No reservations necessary.
This program is free with museum admission. No reservations necessary.

Thursday, January 16, 2003
Dr. Richard S. Kirkendall speaks on "Harry's Farewell"
7:00 p.m.
Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium

Dr. Richard S. Kirkendall, editor of "The Truman Encyclopedia" and board member of the Truman Library Institute, will speak on the "Farewell Address" President Harry S. Truman delivered on January 15, 1953. Kirkendall's talk is the keynote address for the year-long series of events commemorating the 50th anniversary of Truman's leaving office. A highlight will be the summer conference for high school teachers and scholars, "Harry's Farewell: A Colloquium on the Historical Significance of the Truman Presidency," including a special public program featuring Truman biographers Alonzo Hamby and Robert Ferrell.
This program is free with museum admission. Call Central Ticket office for reservations-816-235-6222.

President Truman's Farewell Address to the American People. January 15, 1953. Part 1; Part 2
(25 minutes) Link to text transcript

Friday, November 22, 2002
3:00 PM
President Truman and the Steel Seizure Case: A 50 Year Retrospective
Duquesne University, PNC Recital Hall
Pittsburgh, PA

Participants and experts discuss the landmark 1952 Supreme Court ruling that President Harry S. Truman had exceeded his authority by seizing the nation's steel mills. The President feared that threatened strikes would cripple production of weapons and endanger American troops in Korea. Conference participants will include Truman advisors Milton Kayle and Ken Hechler; Judge Abner Mikva; Supreme Court historian Maeva Marcus; and, and appearing via video, Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist, who clerked for Justice Robert Jackson at the time of the ruling. Presented in cooperation with the Duquesne School of Law. Complimentary tickets can be obtained by calling the Law School Events hotline at 412-396-1043, or by e-mail at gilfoyle@duq.edu.

Friday, November 15, 2002
Veterans Oral History Workshop
2:00 PM
Truman Presidential Museum & Library
East Entrance

Greater Kansas City kick off for the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. This workshop on collecting oral histories is co-sponsored by the museum, Congresswoman Karen McCarthy and the Library of Congress. The Veterans History Project hopes to retrieve the stories of many of the 19,000,000 veterans in our midst. The project covers veterans from World War I, World War II, and the Korean, Vietnam, and Persian Gulf wars. It includes all participants in those wars--men and women, civilian and military. It documents the contributions of civilian volunteers, support staff, and war industry workers as well as the experiences of military personnel from all ranks and all branches of service--the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy, as well as the U.S. Coast Guard and Merchant Marine. For reservations call Congresswoman McCarthy's office at 816-833-4545.

Wednesday, November 13, 2002
7:30 PM
Michael Beschloss
Unity Temple on the Plaza
707 W. 47th Street
Kansas City, MO 64112

Michael Beschloss, award-winning writer and frequent television commentator on the American Presidency, will discuss his latest book, "The Conquerors: Roosevelt, Truman and the Destruction of Hitler's Germany", as part of the Rainy Day Books series at Unity Temple on the Plaza at 7:30 PM on Wednesday, November 13, 2002. Beschloss will read from his book and answer questions at this event. For more information and reservations contact Rainy Day Books at 913-384-3126.

Friday, November 8, 2002
7:00 PM
Eugene P. Trani speaks on "The First Cold War"
Truman Presidential Museum & Library
Auditorium
Eugene Trani, president of Virginia Commonwealth University and noted American historian will share his views on the real roots of the Cold War which he attributes to the legacy of Woodrow Wilson and the forces at play after World War I. This event will take place in the Truman Presidential Museum auditorium and is being co-sponsored by the University of Missouri-Kansas City where Trani taught from 1980 through 1986. This program is free with Museum admission. Reservations required. Please call Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Thursday, October 31, 2002
8:30 AM
Breakfast with Kati Marton
Truman Presidential Museum & Library
East Entrance

Share an intimate breakfast with journalist and author Kati Marton and her husband, Richard Holbrooke. Ms. Marton will speak on the concepts presented in her book, "Hidden Power: Presidential Marriages that Shaped our History" at a continental breakfast at the Truman Presidential Museum. Both Ms. Marton and Ambassador Holbrooke will be available to sign copies of their books. The event is free with museum admission but seating is limited. For reservations call Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Wednesday, October 30, 2002
7:00 PM
Ambassador Richard Holbrooke
Auditorium, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
East Entrance
4525 Oak Street
Kansas City, MO 64112

Former Ambassador to the United Nations Richard Holbrooke will speak on "Tolerance and Diplomacy at the Negotiation Table." As Assistant Secretary of State for Europe, Holbrooke was chief architect of the 1995 Dayton Peace Agreement that ended the war in Bosnia. He later served as President Clinton's Special Envoy to Bosnia and Kosovo. Following his talk, Holbrooke will sign copies of his recent book, "To End A War." This event is presented in cooperation with the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City as part of the Gilbert Lecture Series. The event is free, but seating is limited. For reservations call Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Saturday, September 7
10 a.m.
Harry S. Truman Appreciation Society Ceremony
Museum steps

Each year the veterans in the Greater Kansas City area come together in a ceremony recognizing President Truman for the steps he took to end World War II. This year’s ceremony will be presented by the Harry S. Truman Appreciation Society in cooperation with the Truman High School. Highlighting the ceremony will be a talk by Truman historian and teacher at the Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth, Dr. Larry Yates.

Thursday, July 25, 2002. 7:30 p.m.
Celebrating The Desegregation of the Armed Services
Gail Buckley Traces the History of Blacks in the U. S. Military
Gem Theater, Cultural Performing Arts Center. 1601 E. 18th St., Kansas City.

Gail Buckley, historian and daughter of the famous singer and troop entertainer Lena Horne, shares stories from her book, "American Patriots: The Story of Blacks in the Military from the Revolution to Desert Storm." Presented in partnership with the American Jazz Museum.

Thursday July 11, 2002. 7:00 p.m.
"Picturing Terrorism"
AP photographer Suzanne Plunkett shares her work on 9/11 and the Afghan War
Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium

Suzanne Plunkett, a staff photographer for the Associated Press based in New York City, was one of the first photo journalists to arrive on the scene of the World Trade Center when the twin towers were attacked on September 11. She will show her photos and offer an added perspective to the whole story of world terrorism as she recently returned from assignment in Afghanistan where she covered the strife of Afghans and the efforts by the U.S. military.

Program is free with Museum Admission. Reservations through Central Ticket Office, 816-235-6222.

Thursday, June 27, 2002. 7:00 p.m.
"The Girl I Love is on a Magazine Cover: How Tin Pan Alley Turned News into Songs"
An evening of song and narration by Michael Lasser
Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium

In conjunction with the exhibit "FLASH", Michael Lasser, lecturer, and host for more than 20 years of the nationally-syndicated public radio program "Fascinatin' Rhythm", shares his insights in a program of period music, recordings and lively narrative that illustrates how news-worthy political, economic and military issues have established a place in popular culture through song.

Program is free with Museum Admission. Reservations through Central Ticket Office, 816-235-6222.

Harry S. Truman Public Service Award
Friday, May 10, 2002, 7:00 p.m.

Each year the City of Independence honors Harry S. Truman by presenting the Harry S. Truman Public Service Award to an individual who best typifies and possesses the qualities of dedication, industry, ability, honesty and integrity that distinguished Harry S. Truman. Former Congressman Ken Hechler, a onetime special assistant to President Truman, will be awarded the 2002 Harry S. Truman Public Service Award.

Admission: The ceremony and museum admission after the ceremony are free.
Sponsor: City of Independence, Missouri
The Mayor's Office
City of Independence
(816) 325-7020

Truman Week Events
Presidential Wreath Laying Ceremony
Wednesday, May 8, 2002, 9:00 a.m.
The Truman Presidential Museum & Library will host two wreath-laying ceremonies beginning at 9:00 a.m. The traditional Presidential wreath ceremony, with an honor guard from Ft. Leavenworth, for members of the Truman family and honorary fellows at the gravesite will be followed by a second wreath laying ceremony by the American Legion posts from the Midwest. Museum Admission is free until 11:00 a.m.

Sunday May 5, 2002. 2:00 p.m.
Truman Music Series
Music for a Lifetime
Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium
Celebrate Truman's Lifelong love of music with a program of exceptional pianists. This program features the stellar performances of youth from the Kansas City Music Teachers' Association's Spring Achievement Auditions. The culminating performance will be by the UMKC Conservatory of Music's concerto competition winner for piano. Free with museum admission. For reservations call the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-2700.

May 2, 2002. 7:00 p.m.
Truman Presidential Museum
Professor Roger Daniels
Japanese Americans, 1942: Imaginary Enemies Within

As the Charles Phelps Taft Professor of History at the University of Cincinnati, Roger Daniels teaches courses on the Gilded Age, the Progressive Era and modern America.

He served as consultant to the Presidential Commission on the Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians. He was a member of the committee that helped plan the immigration museum on Ellis Island. One of the foremost authorities on Asian immigration to America, Daniels has authored numerous books on the subject.

Following the presentation, he will sign copies of his books, Prisoners Without Trial: Japanese Americans in World War II and Japanese Americans From Relocation to Redress.

May 1, 2002
6:15 - 9:30 p.m.
The Muehlebach Hotel (1213 Wyandotte, Kansas City, Missouri)
Wild About Harry Event
The nationally acclaimed Capitol Steps appear with James Whitmore.

April 27, 2002. 10:00 a.m.
Truman Presidential Museum & Library, Whistlestop Room
"Patriots of War" Series
James P. Meigs & Albert Curley
Troopers Meigs and Curley served as infantrymen in the 9th Cavalry — also known as the “Buffalo Soldiers.” Today they are residents of Junction City, Kansas, and have been instrumental in preserving the “Buffalo Soldier” story. More on Patriots of War

April 25, 2002. 7:00 p.m.
Truman Presidential Museum
Dr. Douglas Menarchik
Terrorism as War of the 21st Century

As the Director of the George Bush Presidential Library & Museum, Douglas Menarchik has an impressive resume of military, leadership and teaching experience.

His career highlights include Director of the National Defense University's Center for Defense Leadership and Management, Assistant for Terrorism Policy at the Pentagon and Military Advisor to the Vice President of the United States. His White House responsibilities included terrorism and low intensity conflict, Middle East and African Affairs and Department of Defense issues. He also served on the Air Staff at the Pentagon in the Middle East/African Policy Division.

April 18, 2002. 7:00 p.m.
Truman Presidential Museum
Missouri Conference on History
Richard Norton Smith
The Challenge of History

Richard Norton Smith, noted Presidential historian and newly appointed executive director of the Robert J. Dole Center for Politics, delivers the conference keynote address. The address is free with museum admission.

If you have questions about the conference contact Mark Corriston at 816-823-5023.

Saturday, April 13, 2002. 10:00 a.m.
Truman Presidential Museum & Library, Whistlestop Room
"Patriots of War" Series
Jack Woodson
1st Lieutenant, 17th Ordnance Company (Armored), Woodson arrived in the Philippines in 1941. Three months later, war erupted. His company surrendered to the Japanese in April 1942. During the 31/2 year period as a prisoner of war, he was forced to endure the famous “Death March” and internment at camps in the Philippines and Japan.

Wednesday April 10, 2002. 7:30 p.m.
University of Missouri-Kansas City, Pierson Auditorium
Dr. Edy Kaufman
WWW - What Went Wrong in the Peace Process

Dr. Kaufman is executive director and senior researcher of the Harry S. Truman Research Institute for the Advancement of Peace. Kaufman will give a public lecture,"WWW - What Went Wrong in the Peace Process," Kaufman will also discuss the relevance of democracy for Middle East Peace.

There is no charge to attend Kaufman's presentation. Kaufman's appearance is jointly sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, the Jewish Community Relations Bureau/American Jewish Committee, the Truman Presidential Museum & Library and the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

For more information about Kaufman's visit and his lecture, contact Ruth Baum Bigus, Federation Communications Director (913-327-8109) or Marvin Szneler, JCRB/AJC Executive Director (913-327-8126).

Sunday April 7, 2002. 2:00 p.m.
Truman Music Series
Hymns and Patriotic Music
Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium
Featuring the UMKC Chamber singers, Dr. Dee Romines, conductor, with a guest appearance by Jazz Connection.

Dee Romines holds a bachelor of science degree in instrumental music education from the University of Tennessee, a masters of music in choral conducting from the Eastman School of Music and a doctorate of musical arts in choral conducting from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. From 1987-1998 he was Academy Choral Director at Punahou School in Honolulu, Hawaii. Additional experience includes teaching instrumental music in Kentucky, Georgia, Tennessee, and Missouri, as well as directing church and community choirs. He has sung with symphony choruses in Knoxville, Rochester, Honolulu, and Atlanta. He is currently visiting assistant professor in choral music education at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Saturday, March 30, 2002. 10:00 a.m.
Herman A. Johnson
A former USAF Major with the Tuskegee Airmen, Johnson is a recognized civic leader on both the local and national levels. His present affiliations include: National NAACP Legal Defense Fund, UMKC Trustees and Jackson County Land Trust. He served two terms in the Missouri House of Representatives and was appointed by the Governor to several state commissions.

Saturday, March 16, 2002.
10:00 a.m.
Ed Matheny
Stationed in Tokyo Bay during the occupation of Japan, Matheny served as a Lieutenant on the USS New Jersey. A retired partner of Blackwell Sanders Pepper Martin, his new book, The Pursuit of the Ruptured Duck: When Kansas Citians Went to War, details wartime experiences of many familiar Kansas City residents.

Sunday March 3 & Monday March 4, 2002
Madam President: A Forum on the Prospects for the First Woman President
UMKC, Pierson Auditorium
Keynote speakers include: Patricia Schroeder, Eleanor Clift, and Marie Wilson.
Admission on Sunday is free. Cost for the forum on Monday is $25. A special admission price of $5 is available for students. Fee includes breakfast and lunch.
For reservations call the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-2700.

Sunday March 3, 2002. 2:00 p.m.
Truman Music Series
Margaret Truman's Music
Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium
Featuring pieces of operettas sung by the studio of Dr. Rebecca Sherburn with commentary by Dr. William Everett

Rebecca Sherburn was engaged by the Zurich opera as an apprentice, by the State Theater in Osnabreuck, Germany as a leading soloist, and at the Neue Flora Theater in Hamburg where she sang Carlotta Giudicelli, the coloratura soprano role in Andrew Lloyd-Webber's Phantom of the Opera.

Dr. Everett holds degrees from Texas Tech University, Southern Methodist University, and the University of Kansas. His areas of musicological research include American operetta, Sigmund Romberg, and music of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, particularly in Croatia, Great Britain, and Finland. His monograph British Piano Trios, Quartets, and Quintets, 1850-1950: A Checklist is forthcoming from Harmonie Park Press.

Free with museum admission. For reservations call the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-2700.

Thursday, February 28, 2002. 7:00 p.m.
Authors Series Presents
"Harry Truman and Civil Rights: Moral Courage and Political Risk."
by Michael Gardner
Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium

Michael Gardner's newly-published book, "Harry Truman and Civil Rights: Moral Courage and Political Risk." details the remarkable, yet largely under-appreciated role President Truman played in launching the federal civil rights movement which continues to unfold in America today. Mr. Gardner will sign copies of his new book following the ceremony. Admission to the talk is free with museum admission. Call Central Ticket Office 816-235-2700 for reservations after February 22, 2002.

Gardner, a communications policy attorney in Washington, D.C., also serves as the pro bono Chairman of the Board of the U.S. Telecommunications Training Institute. In addition to these positions, for the past ten years, he has been an adjunct professor at Georgetown University.

Glenn Kappelman
Saturday, February 23, 2002. 10:00 a.m.
As a gunner with the 106th Armored Cavalry Group, Kappelmann took more than 400 photographs throughout France, Germany and Austria. A documentary based on his photos — Through My Sights: A Gunner’s View of WWII — will be shown during his presentation and offered for sale in the museum store.

Patriots of War is a new Saturday morning speakers series featuring World War II veterans sharing their unique stories. All presentations will be held in the Truman Presidential Museum & Library’s Whistle Stop Room. Refreshments will be served.
The programs are free with museum admission, but seating is limited. For reservations, call the museum special events office at 816-833-1400, ext. 254.

"Bess Truman” by Claudette Walker
Sat., Feb. 16 at 10:30 a.m. • Truman Museum Auditorium
Claudette Walker has captivated audiences for more than 30 years. Her unique performance as Bess Truman offers a humorous peek into presidential history with a sense of fun.
No reservations necessary.

“Love Story of Harry and Bess Truman” by the Truman Players
Fri., Feb. 15 at 1:00 p.m. • Truman Museum Auditorium
Discover one of the great love stories in American history through dramatic readings from the personal writings of Harry and Bess Truman, and through photographs from their childhood to old age.
No reservations necessary.

“Music of True Love” by the Lincolnland Brass and the Clarinet Quartet of the United States Air Force Band of Mid-America
Thurs., Feb. 14 at 7:00 p.m. • Truman Museum Auditorium
For this special Valentine’s Day celebration, the USAF Band of Mid-America will be joined by a narrator in a performance that weaves together the personal musical tastes of President and Mrs. Truman.
For reservations call the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

“Bess Truman’s America” by Dr. Raymond Frey
Wed., Feb. 13 at 2:00 p.m. • Truman Museum Auditorium
Dr. Raymond Frey is an Associate Professor of American History at Centenary College. His writings on Bess Truman were included in the Report to the First Lady, a briefing document prepared for First Lady Laura Bush. His forthcoming book is titled Bess Truman: The Reluctant First Lady.
The presentation will be followed by a special reception presented by the Independence Pioneers Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. For reservations call the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Ghosts of the White House
December 8, 2001 at 10 a.m.
Cheryl Harness
As a part of the "Children's Book Author Series," Truman Presidential Museum & Library features Cheryl Harness author of "Ghosts of the White House. The presentation is free with museum admission.
For seat reservations call: Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Ornament Decorating Workshop
Saturday Dec 1, 2001 from 1:00 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Workshop is free.
Ornament decorating workshop for children ages 5-12 presented by Hallmark's Kaleidoscope.

Children's Book Author Series
Pearl Harbor Child
October 20, 2001, at 10:00 a.m.
Dorinda Nicholson

Dorinda Nicholson gives a fascinating eye witness account of the terror that took place before and after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

"Pearl Harbor Child" has been described not only as a child's story, but also as a voice from WWII never heard before.
Programs are free with museum admission. For seat reservations call the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.

Creating US Energy Policy
October 11, 2001, 7:00 p.m.
A presentation by Jay E. Hakes

Currently serving as director of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum, Jay E. Hakes has built a distinguished resumé of public service. From 1993-2000, he served as Administrator of the Energy Information Administration for the Department of Energy. Presidentially appointed, he oversaw the collection and archiving of the nation's energy data. As a major spokesman on energy issues, he has frequently testified before congressional committees, been quoted by major news sources and provided briefings to the Secretary of Energy.

Fashion in the Colonial Period:
Mark Armato
September 1, 2 and 3. 1:00 p.m.
Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium.

Costumed historical presenter offers program on Colonial fashions. The presenter will explain the underlying values of the period regarding dress and how that affected the fashion that was worn. A theme throughout the program will be how fashion was strongly shaped by people's social class and how one could tell a person's station in life by the clothes they wore.

History of the White House - William Seale
Thursday, August 23, 7 p.m. Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium.
Presentations on the renovation of the White House during the Truman administration and on the history of the President's residence. Dr. Seale is a historian and architectural restorationist and the author of "The President's House" and "The White House: History of an Idea."
Free with museum admission. Truman Library Institute Honorary Fellows and members of the Buck Stops Here Society admitted at no charge.

"Downfall" - Richard B. Frank
Saturday August 4, Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium.
Truman Book Award winner will share thoughts he developed in his recent book on the last months of World War II and the Japanese surrender: "Downfall: The End of the Imperial Japanese Empire" (Random House: 1999). Free with museum admission.
Truman Library Institute Honorary Fellows and members of the Buck Stops Here Society admitted at no charge.

"Presidential Advisors" Truman Gibson & Steve Neal
Thursday, July 26, 7 p.m. Truman Presidential Museum Auditorium.

Gibson, an advisor to Truman and Roosevelt on African-American defense issues, and Neal, political editor for the Chicago Sun-Times, will discuss President Truman's order of July 26, 1948, desegregating the armed forces. Third in a series of talks by and about Presidential advisors and decision making. Free with museum admission.
Truman Library Institute Honorary Fellows and members of the Buck Stops Here Society admitted at no charge.
Seat reservations, which are limited, can be made by calling the Central Ticket office at 816-235-6222.

Presidential Advisors Lecture Series
June 14, 2001, 7:00 p.m.

Commentator, editor, teacher, public servant and advisor to Presidents -- for more than a quarter century, David Gergen has been an active participant in American national life. In the past he has served as an advisor to Presidents Nixon, Ford, Reagan and Clinton.

Returning to private life in 1995, he currently serves as editor-at-large at U.S. News&World Report and regularly appears on the PBS NewsHour with Jim Lehrer. He has also joined the faculty at Harvard University, where he is a professor of public service.

Gergen's presentation is the second of a series by and about Presidential Advisors that will take place in the museum on Thursday evenings throughout the summer.
Admission: Cost is $5 and includes admission to the museum.
Reservations: Call the Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222.
Truman Library Institute Honorary Fellows and members of the Buck Stops Here Society admitted at no charge.

Weekend Family Fun Celebration

Join us for a fun-filled weekend of special family entertainment. Take your picture on the back of the Whistlestop Train. See a stilt-walking Uncle Sam balloon artist, a living Statue of Liberty, a caricature artist and other family entertainment.
Sat. June 2, 11:00 - 3:00; Sun. June 3, 12:00 - 4:00; Sat. June 9, 11:00 - 3:00; and Sun. June 10, 12:00 - 4:00.
Free with museum admission.

Harry S. Truman Scholarship Awards Ceremony
Sunday, May 27, 2001
The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation, established by an Act of Congress in 1976, awards scholarships to college students who have outstanding leadership potential, plan to pursue careers in public service and wish to attend graduate school to prepare for their careers.
Admission: Ceremony is free. Scholars and their guests given seating preference.

"Transitions: Launching a Presidency"
Thursday, May 10, 7:00 p.m.
Featuring four national political analysts and moderated by The History Channel host and former national news anchor Roger Mudd. The symposium will examine the role of presidential advisors and the challenges of establishing a new administration. Panelists are Richard V. Allen, former National Security Advisor; John P. Burke, professor of political science; Haynes Johnson, author and journalist; and John Sununu, former White House Chief of Staff. First in a series on and by Presidential advisors. The symposium is co-sponsored by the Smithsonian Institution's National Portrait Gallery.
Admission is free. For reservations call Central Ticket Office: (816) 235-2700

Harry S. Truman Public Service Award
Friday, May 4, 2001, 7:00 p.m.
Each year the City of Independence honors Harry S. Truman by presenting the Harry S. Truman Public Service Award to an individual who best typifies and possesses the qualities of dedication, industry, ability, honesty and integrity that distinguished Harry S. Truman. The late Governor of Missouri, Mel Carnahan, will be awarded the 2001 Harry S. Truman Public Service Award. Senator Jean Carnahan will attend the ceremony to accept the award in honor of her husband.

Admission: The ceremony and museum admission after the ceremony are free.
Sponsor: City of Independence, Missouri
Contact person: Sheila Saxton
The Mayor's Office
City of Independence
(816) 325-7027

Presidential Wreath Laying Ceremony
Tuesday, May 8, 2001, 9:00 a.m.
The Truman Presidential Museum & Library will host two wreath-laying ceremonies beginning at 9:00 a.m. The traditional Presidential wreath ceremony, with an honor guard from Ft. Leavenworth, for members of the Truman family and honorary fellows at the gravesite will be followed by a second wreath laying ceremony by the American Legion posts from the Midwest. Both events are open to museum visitors in the Museum Auditorium.
Museum Admission is free until 11:00 a.m.

Recent Programs
This is a list of programs previously presented by the Truman Library

Presidential Advisors Lecture Series
June 14, 2001, 7:00 p.m.

Portraits of the Presidents and Mount Vernon in Miniature Events

Recent Programs This is a list of programs previously presented by the Truman Library

Presidential Advisors Lecture Series June 14, 2001, 7:00 p.m.

Portraits of the Presidents and Mount Vernon in Miniature Events

Recent Programs
This is a list of programs previously presented by the Truman Library

Presidential Advisors Lecture Series
June 14, 2001, 7:00 p.m.