Old Hickory

“I shall anticipate with pleasure the place to be assigned me in the history of my country, and die contented with the belief that I have contributed in some small degree to increase the value and prolong the duration of American liberty” – Andrew Jackson (287-288).

The Book

American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House by Jon Meacham tackles the story of a complicated, and sometimes contradictory, figure who looms large over US history. Jackson the youth was scrappy, defensive, and an orphan. Jackson the man was proud, brave, passionate, stubborn, a family man, and a leader who inspired loyalty. Throughout the book, Meacham supports his argument that Jackson viewed the country as his family and he would defend it from anything, just as he would his personal family.

Jackson’s early years were far from stable: born after his father died, he was a servant in the home of wealthier relatives, lost both brothers to the Revolutionary War, and his mother died soon after. Despite this, and limited formal schooling, Jackson was well-read and earned his law license. After marrying, Jackson served in a variety of government roles in Tennessee and Congress. His success at the 1815 Battle of New Orleans propelled him to national and international fame. This almost led to the White House in 1824, but Jackson lost to John Quincy Adams in a very close election. In 1828, he defeated Adams and ushered in a reckoning for the political establishment.

A popular president, Jackson met opposition with a strengthened resolve. The eight years he spent in the White House were marked by several major issues: a state’s ability to nullify federal law, removal of Native Americans from their land, the role of the president and federal government, the National Bank, and a cabinet crisis. Throughout each issue, Jackson maintained that he knew best for the country and expanded the powers of the presidency. A sampling of facts reveals the type of president Jackson was: he survived two assassination attempts, chased one assailant with his walking stick, was formally censured by the Senate for his fight with the National Bank, and was the only president to pay off the national debt.

Meacham’s thesis that Jackson was the family man to the US allows for a different kind of biography. An emphasis is placed on Jackson’s personal side, which is important to truly understand an individual. Character sketches of Jackson draw the reader in, to help them understand, sympathize, and be frustrated with him. Letter excerpts from Jackson, his rivals, friends, and adversaries provide context into the people, relationships, and times. Two robust sections of black and white images are included. There is a lot of information, mainly focused on the years in the White House (1828-1836). For the most part it is easy to follow and engrossing, except when the narrative jumps ahead. The chapters are shorter in parts two and three, mimicking the quickening of the narrative. Some of the shorter chapters feel like you are missing something, particularly those on the 1824 and 1828 elections.

The Place

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage provides visitors with the ability to fully immerse themselves in the adult life of the seventh president. Our visit began in the small museum, which walks visitors through the life of Jackson and displays artifacts from his early life, military career, and presidency. After the that began on the front porch. A costumed tour guide told of the people, architecture, and experiences that make up the building’s history. A highlight was seeing Jackson’s slippers (size 7!). From there we walked through the slave quarters and passed a cotton field. What I found particularly unique about this presidential home is that it is still a fully functional farm. There are over 1,000 acres of land; in fact, we saw turkeys and deer as we drove through.

The Hermitage is open daily, from 9am to 6pm. Visitors have the option to purchase a Grounds pass or a Mansion Tour pass (which includes access to the grounds and the museum). If you are going to visit, it makes the most sense to do the Mansion Tour for the full experience. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site. Photos are permitted in the museum and outside, but not in the mansion. There is quite a bit of walking on the grounds (the walkways are paved), with the buildings spread out. You could easily spend a whole day here, and there are plenty of places for a picnic lunch or there is a restaurant in the visitor center.

Lions, Tigers, and Bears!

“I always saw potential for humor in animals. I loved them, and I was always telling stories about them…” (4).

The Book

For many, the name Jack Hanna is synonymous with the Columbus Zoo and the world of animals. Hanna’s autobiography, Jungle Jack: Into the Wild, presents a humble man who loved his family and animals.

Hanna’s family moved to a farm outside Knoxville, TN when he was five years old. This cemented his early love for animals and led to a summer job with a local veterinarian at the age of 11. Hanna was able to ride along with the vet when he cared for the animals at the Knoxville Zoo, planting seeds for the future. Despite struggling in school, Hanna did enjoy his college speech class and graduated, planning to be a zookeeper.

During the 1970s, Hanna and his wife Suzi, bounced around the south working at zoos or as exotic animal caretakers. They had three daughters, who became just as enthralled with animals as their parents. In 1978, 31-year-old Hanna was hired as the director of the Columbus Zoo, despite the board’s concern with his youth and inexperience. Hanna dived into the opportunity, focusing on energizing the employees and improving the zoo through natural habitats for the animals and creating a relationship with the community. As director, Hanna served as an ambassador, appearing on Good Morning America and the David Letterman Show. Later, he had his own TV shows – Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures and Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild – these often included his family.

Jungle Jack: Into the Wild is a lot of fun to read, especially if you love animals. It feels like you are sitting in Hanna’s living room, listening to him reflect on his life. The animal stories made me laugh out loud, cringe, or warmed my heart. There are two sections of color photos and black and white photos sprinkled throughout; they highlight the Hanna family and numerous animal experiences. Hanna is quick to give credit to those who provided him support and encouragement and emphasizes the need to treat wild animals with respect. Hanna also editorializes, explaining how practices have changed over time. He clearly states why he feels zoos are important: they aid in conservation efforts and the animals act as ambassadors for those in the wild.

The Place

It’s hard to be bored at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, with numerous animals to see in action, exhibits to explore, and amusement rides. As you plan your trip, make sure to check out the special animal encounters or events that are happening.

I have visited twice, both in the winter. First, a friend and I visited on a chilly December day. We spent the day in the Zoo, wandering through well marked areas that grouped animals by their native lands. The Zoo has done a fantastic job mimicking the natural habitats of animals, allowing visitors to see them “in the wild”. Some of my favorites included the baby elephant, penguins, and polar bears. The manatee exhibit is unique because the goal is to rehabilitate and send the manatees back to Florida. In the evening, we had fun at Wildlights, the holiday light show. The Zoo is decked out in Christmas lights, some animals remain active, and there are musical light shows. The second time I visited, it was just in the evening, for the Wildlights. My friend and I were there on a Friday night, which is typically busy. However, the below freezing temperature kept the crowds away.

The Zoo is open every day, except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, from 9am to 5pm. Hours do vary in the winter months and on weekends. Day passes must be purchased, or you can buy a membership. There is a large parking lot, with a fee per car. The Zoo can be crowded during special events or nice weather. If you don’t mind the rain or cold, it might be a good idea to go when you can avoid crowds.

A Buckeye in the White House

“I never saw anything finer than old Spiegel is now in her fall dress and colors […]. The dark red or maroon of the great white oaks, in contrast with the lighter colors of maples and hickories, make a picture of wonderful beauty” (Rutherford B. Hayes, 511).

The Book

Author Ari Hoogenboom bookends his biography of Rutherford B. Hayes with a call to place him in the proper perspective and to avoid divorcing his presidency from the context of the time. These editorials notes are what make reading Rutherford B. Hayes: Warrior & President an interesting and educational experience.

Rutherford Birchard Hayes was born in 1822, two and a half months after his father died, in Delaware, OH. His early life was marked by health difficulties and a close relationship with his mother, older sister, and mother’s brother (Uncle Sardis). The influence of these three molded him into a public leader who was confident, virtuous, patriotic, and ambitious. Hayes’s education included a local school, two prep schools, Kenyon College, and Harvard Law School. Upon graduation, he moved to Cincinnati where he was a criminal defense lawyer. After several years as a traveling bachelor, Hayes married Lucy Webb in 1852. Their marriage was strong and loving, despite years of separation during the Civil War and the deaths of several young children.

Hayes was an early volunteer, enlisting in June 1861 as an officer in the 23rd regiment of Ohio Volunteers, to join the fight against slavery. During his four years, Hayes was wounded five times and had four horses shot out from under him. At the close of the Civil War, his focus shifted to politics. After a brief stint as a congressman, Hayes was elected to three terms as Ohio governor. As governor, he championed suffrage, civil service reform, prison reform, and desegregation. In 1876, Hayes was nominated as the compromise presidential candidate for the Republican party.

The Hayes presidency focused on the same initiatives the Hayes governorship did. For the protection of the rights of blacks in the south and civil service reform, Hayes was often at odds with both sides of the political aisle and could be naïve in his belief that people would always be fair and just. Pledging to only serve one term, he navigated opposition, worked to unify the Republican party, and strategically used the veto, helping to reestablish presidential power. Post-presidency, Hayes didn’t give up on his causes: universal education, civil service reform, and prison reform. When he wasn’t traveling for them, he was enjoying life at Spiegel Grove, where he loved the double veranda and entertaining family and friends. He passed away in 1893, four years after Lucy.

Rutherford B. Hayes: Warrior & President is a formidable book to read (over 500 pages!). The amount of detail can be a bit overwhelming at times, but if a reader makes it to the end, they have a clearer sense of who Hayes was. Some readers may want to pick and choose chapters, depending on what interests them the most. The details do frequently contain fun anecdotes that bring the people to life. Hoogenboom liberally quotes letters to and from Hayes that add different insights and voices to the narrative. This allows the reader to observe Hayes’s political beliefs develop over time, from his own writings and thinking and the influence of family and friends. One of the most interesting sections, to me, was Hayes’s life after the presidency. Here, I did appreciate the detail as I learned about his active civic engagement at the local, state, and national levels.

The Place

The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums at Spiegel Grove is home to the first presidential library open to the public. It stands as a testament to Hayes’s commitment to civil and community service.

Out of all the presidential libraries and museums I have visited, this was one of my favorites. The wooded grounds are just big enough to transport visitors back in time, imagining what it was like when the Hayes family lived at Spiegel Grove. The museum begins with a detailed narrative and interesting artifacts from the political life of Hayes, helping the visitor understand the context of his decisions. Working backwards, the museum highlights important parts from Hayes’s early life and his service during the Civil War. The original museum building serves as a monument to Hayes and his collection of president signatures, a practice continued by the museum staff today. The home tour allows visitors to step into the personal life of Hayes, learning how important family was despite frequent separations. The whole family hardly ever lived at Spiegel Grove together, but their imprints are there.

The museum and library are open April to December, with limited hours in the winter months. Tours are required for the Hayes home, while the museum is self-guided. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum. I would recommend planning for several hours, depending on interest, in order to see everything: the museum, home, graveyard, and the grove.

Colorado Castle

“Palmer’s new estate was difficult for eastern and midwestern folk to comprehend in one or two visits: a stately, fashionable Camelot amid the crags of the Rockies” (141).

The Book

A Kingdom of Their Own: The Story of the Palmers of Glen Eyrie by Stephen J. May introduces readers to the founder of Colorado Springs, Colorado, a man marked by his experiences and love for the outdoors. Not to be overlooked, the book also highlights his family and the home they built in the midst of the Rockies. 

Two experiences were particularly impactful for William Palmer: his service fighting for the Union in the Civil War and his career in the railroad industry. As a member of the abolitionist movement, Palmer was quick to organize a calvary troop. His skills were recognized by leadership who promoted him to brevet brigadier general at 28. For the rest of his life, he was known as General Palmer. In 1867, Palmer was hired by the Kansas Pacific Railroad to survey the best route from Kansas to the Pacific. While in Colorado, Palmer became enchanted with the land at the base of Pikes Peak and dreamed of building a town and home there. After buying the land, he created his own railroad (from Denver to Pueblo) and the town of Colorado Springs began to grow. 

Palmer had to work hard to convince his new wife, Queen, of the benefits of living in Colorado Springs. She was from New York City, well-educated, and enjoyed the benefits of living close to society and cultural affairs. Part of the convincing involved the promise of a stately home, fit for an English lord. She lived in a modest home, built in 1872, but didn’t live to see the completed Glen Eyrie Castle. In 1903, the home was enlarged to 65 rooms and included all the modern conveniences. The grounds were left as natural as possible, with numerous riding and hiking trails through the mountains. It was on one of those trails that a horse threw Palmer in 1906. Until his death three years later, Palmer was paralyzed from the waist down, limiting his ability to enjoy the outdoors. 

Glen Eyrie, a somewhat silent character in the book, passed between a few owners who used it sporadically. The Navigators, a Christian ministry, purchased the grounds and buildings in 1953. Today, the organization uses it has its headquarters and for training, a conference center, the community, and conservation. 

One of the aspects of this book that I really appreciated was the descriptions of frontier life, for a newly founded town, and the railroad survey work. May doesn’t go into extreme detail, but it is enough to draw the reader in (especially one who may not be as familiar with these topics). The narrative is supplemented by excerpts from letters by Palmer, Queen, and their oldest daughter, as well as contemporaries and family members. You get a sense of how much Palmer loved Colorado Springs and how torn Queen was with their separation. It would have been nice to include more about Glen Eyrie itself. For such an imposing building, it feels like too minor of a character in the narrative.

The Place

Over a hundred years after the Palmer family finished Glen Eyrie, visitors are still treated to tours of the estate and grounds. On the tour, you will learn about the Palmer family, the founding of Colorado Springs, and the ministry of the Navigators. We visited during the week in March, when it wasn’t too crowded. 

Tours are offered twice a day and are $12 per person. Most of the tour takes place indoors, but true to Palmer’s love for the outdoors, the tour does include some of the grounds. A separate geological walking tour is also available, but only during the summer months. Unlike many other historic homes, Glen Eyrie provides the opportunity to spend the night. Most rooms come with breathtaking views of the rock formations on the grounds.

President and Chief Justice

“William Howard Taft, the only president who went on to serve as chief justice of the United States, devoted his leadership of the executive and judicial branches to defending the U.S. Constitution above all” (2).

The Book

William Howard Taft by Jeffrey Rosen is a part of The American Presidents series. The aim of this series is to provide a compact and authoritative biography that explores the character and career of each president. Rosen does this by writing a biography that looks at Taft’s presidency and judgeship together. William Howard Taft views its subject from a constitutional perspective, not a political perspective, which is how Taft would have viewed himself. 

Rosen spends the first two chapters laying the foundation for Taft’s presidency (chapters 3-5) and judgeship (chapter 6). As a young boy and man, Taft found it hard to meet the high expectations of his father, a member of the Ohio Superior Court who prioritized the law over politics. This is a bit surprising to the reader, when you consider Taft’s accomplishments: graduated second in his class at Yale and considered the best debater of his class, youngest tax collector in the US at 24, appointed to the Ohio Superior Court at 30. And he was only getting started: next came Solicitor General of the US, US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, and dean and professor of Cincinnati Law School. Yet, Taft often felt insecure and his anxiety manifested in overeating.  

Taft’s mid-career was marked by positions that put service to his country or appeasing his family ahead of his own career desires. He spent three years as Civil Governor of the Philippines, which provided the opportunity to shape the country’s Constitution and future. Twice, he declined appointments to the Supreme Court – his dream – because he felt his work wasn’t finished in the Philippines. However, he did leave in 1903 to serve as Secretary of War in President Theodore Roosevelt’s cabinet. In 1908, the Republican party nominated him as a middle of the road candidate, between conservatism and radicalism. 

As president, Taft planned to continue Roosevelt’s policies by making them adhere to the Constitution. He operated like a judge in all his work. This included how he interacted with Congress, refusing to interfere or influence because he saw it as unconstitutional. Rosen covers four major issues of the Taft presidency: tariffs and tax reform, the environment, monopolies, and foreign affairs. In each issue, Taft’s commitment to honesty, party loyalty, and the Constitution often placed him at odds with others. This laid the foundation for a four-way 1912 election: Taft, Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, and Eugene Debs. Taft’s defense of the Constitution was lost amidst the excitement of Roosevelt’s New Nationalism and Wilson’s New Freedom. Despite his struggles as president and loss in 1912, Taft still managed to leave a significant legacy creating 10 national parks and emphasizing trade relations over military force in diplomacy. 

Finally, in 1921, Taft achieved his dream job: Chief Justice of the United States. He threw himself into judicial reform, creating “the modern federal judiciary as a separate and cohesive branch of government” (113). Congress approved his three goals: a judicial conference of federal appellate judges led by the chief justice, the Judiciary Act of 1925, and a building just for the Supreme Court. In his nine-year tenure, he was a nationalist, strict Constitutionalist, and viewed the Supreme Court as the last line of defense.

I was excited to read William Howard Taft because the Introduction reminded me of the appreciation I had for Taft after visiting his home in Cincinnati. Rosen writes in a compelling way that is able to draw the reader in. The first two chapters move quickly through Taft’s early life, while the flow slows in chapters 3-6 to dive deeper into the presidency and judgeship. In these chapters, the reader learns more about the contrasting political platforms for the 1908 and 1912 elections, background on the four major issues of the Taft presidency, and his legal opinions from the Supreme Court. The only downside is the minimal attention paid to Taft’s family. The reader learns a bit about the influence Taft’s father and wife had, and his children are mentioned in passing.

The Place

The William Howard Taft National Historic Site is nestled in a Cincinnati neighborhood. Much has changed since President Taft was born there, especially the hospital directly across the street, but the atmosphere of the park helps transport visitors back to the 1860s and 1870s. As you walk through the front door, you are following in the footsteps of young Will Taft. Each room contains furniture and artifacts that he and his family used, including the law books in the library read by both Taft and his father. The rooms on the second floor are laid out as a chronological museum, highlighting artifacts and events from Taft’s professional career and personal life. Visitors can see his cabinet chair (Secretary of 
War) and the Bible he used to take the presidential oath and chief justice oath.  

This park includes the home where President Taft was born and grew up, the Taft Education Center, a small grassy area, and a parking lot. Visitors should head to the Taft Education Center first, where they can view the park film, explore special exhibits, and depart for a tour of the Taft Home. Admission is free. Guided tours are available every thirty minutes and cover the first floor of the house. Visitors take a self-guided tour of the second floor. The park is open daily, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. 

We visited during the week, in the summer, and were part of a small tour. While a small park, this one does a great job on educating visitors about Taft. Often overlooked, his unwavering commitment to the Constitution and decades of service to America are reason enough to make a stop here. I walked away with a newfound appreciation for him and a desire to know more.

From Poverty to the Presidency

“Throughout the nation and the world, [Garfield’s] extraordinary rise from fatherlessness and abject poverty would make him the embodiment of the American dream” (22).

The Book

Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine, and the Murder of a President by Candice Millard layers the biography of President James A. Garfield with the political spoils system, the sad tale of Charles Guiteau, the inventive mind of Alexander Graham Bell, and the American medical system. It is a lot to cover in one book, but the reader soon discovers how each of these is intrinsically intertwined. 

Two years after Garfield was born, in a one-room log cabin, his father died. His mother and three older siblings sacrificed so that Garfield could have a good education. His education led to the presidency of the Western Reserve Eclectic Institute and then a career in politics. When the Civil War began, Garfield’s strong abolitionist views propelled him to form his own regiment to fight for the Union. He preferred to stay in the Army but was elected to the US House of Representatives in 1862. Despite Garfield’s success, at heart he was a family man who enjoyed spending time with his children. He was big-hearted, cheerful, and had an infectious laugh. 

Garfield’s nomination for the presidency could be considered a fluke. His speech to nominate John Sherman ended with his own nomination, a tenuous compromise in the midst of the political spoils system. Hundreds traveled to his Lawnfield home to hear speeches delivered from his front porch. After winning the presidential election in 1880, Garfield felt a sense of loss for how his life would change. From March 1880-July 1880, he struggled to anchor his presidency amid political pressure and family illness. Just when it seemed like he could govern, he was shot by Charles Guiteau. Guiteau, like many others, felt that he was owed a job in government. This delusion only exacerbated his insanity and led to a belief that God wanted Garfield dead. 

The bullet wounds themselves were not fatal. Unfortunately, the constant probing of the wound by unsanitary instruments and fingers introduced infection into Garfield’s bloodstream. At one point, Alexander Graham Bell attempted to locate the bullet with an early version of the X-ray machine; he only failed because the head doctor limited where Bell could look. Over the course of three months, Garfield’s robust health deteriorated; yet, “even as he lay dying, Garfield was kind, patient, cheerful, and deeply grateful” (263). On September 19, Garfield died. 

Throughout Destiny of the Republic, Millard visually describes locales, conjuring up sights, sounds, and smells for her readers. She places Garfield, his family, friends, and contemporaries within the scenes and incorporates news reports. The visual descriptions are supplemented by Garfield’s own writings (which are forefront), as well as reflections from his family and contemporaries. The largest segment of the book focuses on the shooting of Garfield and the aftermath. The timeline slows, but the pace of the narrative quickens to a play by play. Some of the medical details may be a bit uncomfortable for some readers; I squirmed a bit while reading them. Readers will most likely walk away from this book with two reflections: America lost out on seeing what Garfield could do as president and Garfield would have survived if it weren’t for the obstinance of his doctors. Millard proposes that Garfield’s lasting legacy was the unification of Americans in grief, 2o years after the Civil War, and civil service reform.

The Place

Visitors to the Cleveland area can embark on the President Garfield cradle to grave tour. In one day, you can span the lifetime of our twentieth president and learn about the events that shaped his life and character.

First, is a replica of Garfield’s birthplace in Moreland Hills. The interior is open by appointment only and admission is free. The visit won’t last more than a half hour. Inside, visitors will find one room that reflects the poor nature of Garfield’s upbringing. A short walk through the woods leads to a clearing where the original log cabin stood. 

Second, is the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, or Lawnfield, in Mentor. This is the farm James and Lucretia Garfield purchased in 1876 for their family. Here visitors can tour the home, carefully preserved as it looked when the Garfield family lived there, see the memorial Lucretia built for James (including the first presidential library), and learn more at the museum. The site is open daily May through October and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday November through April. Admission is free, but visitors are encouraged to register for house tours in advance.

 
Last, is Lake View Cemetery, in Cleveland. The James A. Garfield Memorial dominates the cemetery, as testimony to the high regard the people of Cleveland had for Garfield. The interior is open Wednesday through Sunday from May to October, 10am-4pm, and admission is free. It is worth it to take time walking around the main floor, the second floor, and the crypt.

“A Place Where Things Were Happening”

“[Dayton] began as a place where things were traded. It grew to be a place where things were made. From that, it became a place where things were invented. In this, it was the most Midwestern of places” (18).

The Book

Grand Eccentrics: Turning the Century: Dayton and the Inventing of America does something few books attempt; it is a group biography of five men who had an outsized influence on the lives of all who came after them. While they each impacted one area (or more) of daily life and had different personalities, there were common threads to their stories: residency in Dayton, OH and an inquisitive mind. 

John H. Patterson purchased majority control of the National Manufacturing Company in 1884, which included the rights to the cash register (invented by another Daytonian), and renamed it National Cash Register (NCR). Always seeking to one-up the competition, Patterson created the sales convention, sales pitch, sales training, and direct mail advertising. He provided educational opportunities for his employees and believed that better worker conditions would equal better productivity. He was also demanding, frequently fired employees, and operated with a chip on his shoulder. 

The Wright Brothers (Wilbur and Orville) spent fifty-five months, working part-time, to solve the question of flight. They systematically and meticulously tackled the problem and recognized that flight was just as much about pilot control as getting the plane in the air. Their flights at Huffman Prairie, outside of Dayton, drew hundreds of spectators, but they disliked the publicity. 

James Cox purchased Dayton’s The Daily News in 1898, starting him on a path to a media empire that eventually included other papers, radio and TV stations in Ohio and beyond (Cox Enterprises). He served as Dayton’s congressional representative and then three terms as Ohio’s governor. As governor he restricted child labor, created no fault worker’s compensation, and helped unify the state’s highway system. In 1920, he was the Democratic nominee for president, with Franklin D. Roosevelt as his running mate. However, his decision to make entry to the League of Nations his main issue hurt his chances. 

Charles Kettering began working for NCR’s Inventions department in 1904 and soon invented the electric cash register. He would go on to invent the automobile self-starter and quick drying paint. For 27 years, he was the manager of GM’s Research Corporation, where he developed leaded gasoline, diesel train engines, and Freon. Kettering’s mind was always thinking of the next problem to solve. The wealth he earned from his inventions provided the opportunity to found organizations focused on those problems, like Memorial-Sloan Kettering Hospital and the Kettering Foundation (where the author of this blog is an employee). 

In late March 1913, the Dayton region was the victim of a catastrophic flood. “Fifteen square miles of Dayton lay under six to eighteen feet of water” (144) as a result of heavy rain, already moist ground, and levee failures. Dayton’s leadership hired Arthur Morgan to create long-term and conclusive flood prevention. He created the first regional flood control system in the US and invented the hydraulic jump to support the dry dams. The flood control system is still in place today, protecting downtown Dayton and the surrounding areas. 

Grand Eccentrics was truly a joy to read. Bernstein writes in a way that propels the overall narrative forward, while focusing on the five men and their accomplishments (even the chapter titles are clever). Anecdotal stories are woven throughout, for both context and insight, and are supplemented by quotes from the “grand eccentrics”, their contemporaries, and newspapers. The earlier chapters are focused on one man at a time, exploring their ideas and work. The later chapters focus on moments that impacted all of the men and how they were involved (like the Dayton Flood or World War I). Readers of all types will find this group biography interesting and the narrative easy to follow.

The Place

The shadows of the “grand eccentrics” are long throughout the Dayton area. Several places are already featured in this blog* and two more are highlighted in this post. 

First, is the Dayton Inventors River Walk. Located downtown Dayton (northeast corner of Main St. and Monument Ave.) and along the Great Miami River, visitors walk amongst life-sized versions of the inventions detailed in Grand Eccentrics: Kettering’s automobile self-starter, Morgan’s hydraulic jump, the Wright flyer, and Patterson’s cash register. There are additional inventions, from after the time of the “grand eccentrics”: the search engine, pop-top can, and ice cube tray. We visited during Thanksgiving weekend, when the River Walk wasn’t crowded, but the fountains were not turned on. 

Second, is the Woodland Cemetery & Arboretum, where four of the five “grand eccentrics” are buried: James Cox, Charles Kettering, John Patterson, and the Wright brothers. Other notable Daytonians are also buried at Woodland. My family visited after we walked the Dayton Inventors River Walk. Visitors are permitted to drive through the cemetery on their own or can sign-up for a variety of tours (both broad and specific). There is also a lookout section that provides a great view of downtown Dayton. 

*For additional locations see these blog posts:

Dayton Aviators (Jan. 8, 2019)
Lighter than Air (Jan. 7, 2014)

Father of the United States Air Force

“In Mitchell’s view, room had to be made for aeronautics as an equal partner of the Army and Navy, if the United States were to protect its interests in a world that was rapidly shrinking with every technical advance” (40).

The Book

Brigadier General William “Billy” Mitchell is one of those interesting characters in United States history. His aeronautical ideas were ahead of their time; the urgent and controversial way he chose to publicize them resulted in his court-martial from the United States Army. In Billy Mitchell: Crusader for Air Power, author Alfred F. Hurley presents a biography that focuses on Mitchell’s ideas and how they interacted with the contemporary dominant individuals and viewpoints. 

Billy Mitchell enlisted in the United States Army in 1898, at the start of the Spanish-American War. His early military career led him to Cuba and the Philippines and in 1901 he officially joined the Signal Corp of the regular Army. In this capacity, Mitchell surveyed the communications work in Alaska and participated in the experimental research at Fort Leavenworth. As early as 1906, he recognized the military potential of lighter-than-air craft, which set his military career on a new trajectory. 

When Mitchell was sent to Europe as an aeronautical observer in April 1917, he was introduced to the theory of aerial warfare. It was clear to him that the United States lacked the equipment, support, and training for the new role aviation was set to play. After World War I, Mitchell set out to champion a separate branch for an air force and the significance of military aviation. Frustrated when his ideas fell on deaf ears, Mitchell often turned to the press to directly appeal to the public. This frustration came to a head when the Navy once again stood in the way of funding for a separate air branch of the military. In 1925, Mitchell was found guilty on disciplinary charges and court-martialed. While Mitchell’s military career was at an end, the Administration began to take military aviation more seriously. In the Epilogue, Hurley vindicates Mitchell’s theories and ideas, despite the way he handled himself, by considering aviation’s role in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. 

This was a unique biography because there is little time spent on Mitchell’s personal life, other than his family background and early years. Minimal context is provided to ground the narrative and the focus is squarely on the military. Despite that, the book is still easy to read and would be interesting to both the average reader and the avid military buff. Each chapter begins with a brief introduction and ends with a summary and a foreshadow of the next chapter. There are two sections of black and white candid and staged photos. For those who might wish to visualize the story, a film was made in 1955: The Court Martial of Billy Mitchell.

The Place

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is a museum unlike many others. According to the website, it is “the world’s largest military aviation museum”, and it definitely feels like it when you walk in the doors. There are four large hangers that display thousands of aircraft (from the early years of the 20^th century to space missions) and plenty of descriptions for those that want to learn more in-depth. Aircraft hang from the ceiling and are displayed at eye level, some with additional artifacts and mannequins to set the scene. There are several planes that visitors can walk through. Some of my favorite exhibits include the Doolittle Raid and Memphis Belle (WWII gallery), the Missile gallery, and Air Force One (Presidential gallery). 

Both admission and parking are free and the museum is open seven days a week, from 9am to 5pm. It can easily become overwhelming to a first-time visitor and it is impossible to do everything in one day. Free tours are available, if visitors would like to do more than observe the aircraft and read signs. The tours are divided up by hanger and start at the respective information desks. When I was a kid, my family would often go more than once a year. The sheer size allowed for the kids to work off their energy, especially on rainy or cold days. If you only have one day to visit, my recommendation would be to plan based on your interests or to focus on one hanger.

Innovative Military Strategist or Villain?

“[Sherman] was a military man with a military mind, and this would become increasingly obvious as he struggled to find himself” (55).

The Book

Sherman. This one name could be one of the most divisive ones in American history. For some, he was an innovative military strategist who helped win the Civil War. For others, he was a villain who laid waste to train tracks and state capitals. In Fierce Patriot: The Tangled Lives of William Tecumseh Sherman, author Robert L. O’Connell aims to focus on Sherman’s actions and how they defined the man.

Fierce Patriot begins with Sherman’s arrival at the United States Military Academy at West Point, tracing his growth as a professional soldier and military strategist through the Second Seminole War and Mexican War to the Civil War. He briefly left the army, trying his hand in the private sector. However, Sherman took the South’s secession personally – as a strong nationalist – and rejoined the army. By 1862, Sherman was a field commander directly under General Grant. The descriptions of major battles include not only Sherman’s words and actions, but also the recollections of the soldiers under his command. He developed a unique relationship with the soldiers he referred to as “his boys”; many of them fighting together for the entire Civil War.

The final section of the book focuses on Sherman’s personal life. At the age of nine, his father dies, and Sherman is taken in by the socially (and soon to be politically) prominent family of Thomas Ewing. Sherman benefited greatly from the education and support of the Ewing name, but was also often at odds with Thomas Ewing. When Sherman married his foster sister Ellen, he had to compete with the long shadow of his father-in-law. The only thing Sherman ever wanted to be was a professional soldier; sometimes his family, events, or he himself got in the way. He retired as general of the United States Army in 1883 and attended as many army reunions as he could.

O’Connell organizes the book in a unique way. There are three separate sections that deal with aspects of Sherman’s character: the military strategist, the general, and the man. There is some overlap and the organization takes time to adjust to, but overall, it is nice to read a biography that isn’t completely chronological. The author does include several analogies comparing the people he writes about to real or fictional people. This doesn’t seem to add much to the narrative, instead distracting the reader. Both Sherman’s words and the observations of others are included; particularly interesting are the interactions Sherman had with Lincoln. Because the book focuses on Sherman, it provides another way to approach the Civil War; even the most read Civil War buff will be drawn in.

The Place

The Sherman House Museum preserves the birthplace of William T. Sherman. Most of the house was restored to appear as it did when the Sherman family lived there. On the tour, visitors will learn about Sherman’s family history and see artifacts from his childhood. A tour guide takes you through the rooms, sharing stories about various pieces (including Sherman’s baby cradle). Half of the second story is devoted to Sherman’s military career. Here, visitors will see artifacts from his time at West Point, a recreation of his Civil War battlefield tent, and items he used during the Civil War. The final upstairs room includes a variety of weapons and military items used during the Civil War, as well as Grand Army of the Republic reunion souvenirs.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday with tours beginning on the hour from 12pm to 3pm. Tickets can be purchased online or by phone and masks are required in the museum. The section devoted to Sherman’s military career is self-guided and includes a lot of reading. The Sherman House Museum can easily be toured in a couple of hours, leaving time to explore the rest of Lancaster, Ohio. Downtown Lancaster has many quaint shops and cafés. A short drive from downtown is Rising Park, which gives spectacular views of Lancaster and the surrounding area.

The Mystery of McKinley

“[McKinley] had learned through a lifetime of politics that his quiet ways somehow translated into a commanding presence; his was a heavy quiet that could be exploited stealthily” (4).

The Book

President McKinley is often overshadowed by other presidents who had larger than life personalities or seemed to leave a bigger stamp on the country. However, in President McKinley: Architect of the American Century author Robert W. Merry argues that the 25^th president had more of an impact that we realize. Merry begins his biography by taking the reader to the end: the 1901 Pan-American Exposition where McKinley was assassinated. By beginning here, Merry is able to weave a brief character sketch with a hindsight view of McKinley.

The book then transitions to laying the foundations for McKinley’s life: development of Ohio, ancestors and family, strong faith, and the value of education. All of these had a role in who McKinley became, but so did his service in the army during the Civil War. During this time, he was recognized for managerial skills, earned many battlefield promotions, and developed a mentee relationship with future President Rutherford B. Hayes. After the Civil War, McKinley studied law and moved to Canton, OH to practice. It was here that he met Ida Saxton; their early marriage saw numerous tragedies, but they remained devoted to each other. McKinley was noted for how attentive he was to Ida, who suffered from numerous physical ailments. Despite her ailments, Ida supported her husband’s political ambitions, following him from Congress to Ohio’s governor to president.

There is so much to cover in McKinley’s four years in office (one full term and a partial second term): among the policy issues he inherited were the gold vs. silver standard, annexation of Hawaii, and Spain’s battle in Cuba. The struggle in Cuba led to the Spanish-American War. Merry argues that this war brought American onto the world stage like never before: territories were gained, older powers took notice, and a large standing army was established. In addition to the issues he inherited, McKinley also faced decisions on an isthmus canal, trade, monopolies and trusts, race, and American interests during the Boxer Rebellion in China. In the midst of all this, McKinley would prioritize Ida’s needs-endearing him to the country.

Merry packs a lot into a one volume biography. This is more than the biography of a president; it is an insightful look into a specific time and context. One aspect that I really enjoyed was all the background information that described Ohio (politics, demographics, and industry), the key players of the era, national politics, campaigns, and policies. This provided context for the era and McKinley’s words and decisions. President McKinley leaves the reader with the sense that McKinley deserves more than we give him credit. By relying on his own words and descriptions from family, friends, and other politicians, we uncover more about the man who had a significant impact on how America was viewed in the 20^th century.

The Place

The William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum welcomes visitors to explore the life of President McKinley, the history of Stark County, and science exhibits. Also, on the grounds is the McKinley Monument, the final resting place of President and Ida McKinley and their two daughters (who died as children). There is an admission fee for the museum and the memorial is only open April-November during museum hours.

The museum has a fascinating collection of artifacts pertaining to McKinley, including: his rocking chair (used during his front porch campaigning), his White House desk, and Ida’s piano. The McKinley Gallery is one large room in the museum and visitors will have time to explore the other areas as well. I would recommend that you spend time learning more about the McKinley Monument and don’t let the 108 steps deter you. The design and symbolism are impressive, but what is more impressive is the outpouring of support from Ohioans, local school children, and numerous states to build it. McKinley was clearly a beloved president.

Lincoln- Honest Abe and Father Abraham

“A. Lincoln continues to fascinate us because he eludes simple definitions and final judgments” (3).


The Book

Any author writing a new biography of Abraham Lincoln has an insurmountable task: a public who is already familiar with the life and times of the 16^th President. Ronald C. White, Jr. takes on the task aided by the Lincoln Legal Papers and hosts of new primary documents. A. Lincoln: A Biography is well worth the invested time (676 pages) and the narrative is easy to follow.

White opens each chapter with a quote from Lincoln and a brief passage that sets the stage for the chapter. This immediately places the reader in Lincoln’s shoes: picturing his environment, what he saw and did, interactions with other people, and the culture. Lincoln’s story begins with a brief introduction to his ancestors and parents, flows through his political and professional development, and ends by honing in on his presidency. Of course, the basic biographical information will be known to many readers. However, White writes in an engaging way and brings in quite a bit of information I did not know. He dives into Lincoln’s thought processes, showing how a man (without a formal education) was a dedicated researcher, careful thinker and planner, and investigator who weighed all sides of an issue. What was particularly fascinating for me was to follow White as he traced Lincoln’s thought processes and growth in beliefs as president. For example, Lincoln took his first public stand against slavery in 1837; yet, he knew that the timing had to be right to interject slavery into the rationale for the Civil War.

A. Lincoln also provides insight into how Lincoln prepared his speeches and an analysis of the speeches. Lincoln appreciated good oratory and was able to communicate well in a variety of ways, but was also nervous prior to delivering a speech. White argues that, “[Lincoln’s] most developed political weapon [was] public speaking” (299). Based on what I read, I would go one step further and say it was all communication. Lincoln could connect through a speech, personal conversation, private letter, or public letter.

The more I read A. Lincoln, the more I come to admire, respect, and like President Lincoln. He was a man committed to the principles of Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bible. The final chapter unpacks Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address in detail, showing a president who understand the consequences of the past four years and the role God plays in the lives of man.

The Place
If the regular readers haven’t already noticed, I read and write quite a bit about President Lincoln. In fact, I have been fascinated with him since I was four years old. What better way to culminate years of fascination than a visit to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum?

Visitors walk into a rotunda and are prompted to travel through two sections: Lincoln’s early life through the 1861 election and his presidency. Lifesize and realistic statutes bring the people and scenes to life, with artifacts, technology, and explanations interspersed. This Museum is engaging and well-thought out, helping visitors get to know Lincoln, appreciate why history is so vital, and walk away with a new appreciation for the 16^th President.

I read A. Lincoln after visiting the Museum, but still saw a strong connection between how both treated the saga of the Emancipation Proclamation. Author White shows the development of this document through other events, in order to show the reader the process and seriousness of the issue. The Museum captures Lincoln’s decision through dramatic images and technology. I will never forget seeing the climax of this part of the museum: there is a single hallway lined with pre-recorded actors passionately stating their views on the Emancipation Proclamation. The narrow hallway draws your attention to the lone figure of Lincoln, standing over his desk with the paper is his hand. Behind him, a screen airs silhouette images of slavery and the audio provide more views of the issue. This exhibit and White’s book help to truly capture the significance of Lincoln’s decision to free the slaves.

The Museum is located in downtown Springfield, IL. There is an admission cost and ample parking available on the street or in a public garage (both have a fee). Before you leave, make sure to talk a family photo with the Lincoln family in the rotunda and check out Union Station Park across the street, with several Lincoln statues. If you are in Springfield for more than a day, there are plenty of other Lincoln sites to explore (see previous blog posts for descriptions).

The Architect and the Chicago Skyscraper

“[The Rookery’s] dramatic interior is one of the best examples of [Burnham and Root] working together, each contributing to the architectural quality of the outcome” (34).

The Book

Daniel H. Burnham: Visionary Architect and Planner by Kristen Schaffer attempts to remedy the past treatment of Burnham by showing his influence in designing architecture, as well as managing an architecture firm. According to Schaffer, Burnham deserves more credit for his work in designing numerous significant buildings, as opposed to history focusing on his managerial skills.

There are five sections to the book: a brief introduction and historical treatment, Burnham’s work with his first architecture partner (John Root), the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and immediately following, the City Beautiful movement and later buildings, and historical treatment. These sections are more focused on Burnham’s professional work and an in-depth look at significant buildings. A reader learns of architectural detail in a way that is accessible and gains insight into the mind of Burnham. The main takeaway is that Burnham had a wide-ranging impact on architecture, the role and look of the office building, city planning, and firm management.

One of the best parts about this book are the numerous photographs showcasing the wide variety of buildings Burnham designed or collaborated on. Of course, Burnham is known for his work in Chicago (including The Rookery and Marshall Fields, now Macy’s), but he also designed significant buildings in Washington, DC (Union Station), New York City (Flatiron Building), Philadelphia (Wanamaker’s, now Macy’s), and London (Selfridge’s). The text frequently refers to the photographs to help the reader see the intricacies of the architecture and development in Burnham’s design.

The Place

The Rookery is one of those buildings that words have a difficult time describing. At the time it was built, it was the largest office building in Chicago (eleven stories) and the indoor light court leaves visitors with a sense of awe. We were downtown Chicago one day and decided to stop in The Rookery. It is located just down the block from the Chicago Board of Trade and while the eleven stories of the Rookery may appear dwarfed, it still holds its own and the interior is breathtaking. Because the building houses shops and eateries (as well as businesses) you are able to walk in off the street and explore the lobby. Visitors will find information about both the original construction and the renovation by Frank Lloyd Wright.

If you would like to explore The Rookery further, the Chicago Architecture Center offers several walking tours that include this historic skyscraper. While I haven’t been on one of these specific tours, I have been on another tour by the Center and it was informative and interesting.

Dayton Aviators

“With their homemade machine, Wilbur and Orville Wright had shown without a doubt that man could fly and if the world did not yet know it, they did” (107).

The Book

Much has been said and written about Wilbur and Orville Wright; the down-to-earth brothers who brought flight to the world. Yet, The Wright Brothers by David McCullough, still provides the reader with a fresh take on a well-loved story.

The first several pages serve as an orientation to the Wright Brothers as adults-a character sketch helping the reader understand who these two men were. The rest of the book helps the reader to see those character sketches in action, from early days through all the time spent tinkering and experimenting to recognition as the inventors of the airplane.  

McCullough provides a brief overview of the family history, the Wright Brothers as children, and their early jobs (printing and bicycle makers). After setting the stage with the first flights in Kitty Hawk (1900-1903), McCullough focuses the book on what happened next. The reader learns of the test flights at Huffman Prairie outside Dayton, OH, the early interest of both Britain and France (but not America) in the Wright Flyer, and the time spent, by both brothers, staging demonstrations in Europe and America. Throughout the book, it becomes clear that Wilbur and Orville were meticulous, protective, and committed to solving the centuries old question of flight.

The Wright Brothers is well-written and easy to read. McCullough introduces enough technical language to help the reader grasp the development of flight, but also provides explanations to help the reader understand. Family letters are used to help show what the various members of the Wright family were thinking or experiencing. This lends authenticity to the book. The reader walks away with a greater appreciation for the Wright Brothers and amazement at how quickly the airplane developed.

The Place

Dayton, OH provides numerous opportunities to explore the lives of two of her favorite sons. Two of these provide a look at the early chapters and the last chapters of the Wright Brothers lives.

First, is the Wright Cycle Complex. This complex includes the Wright’s fourth bicycle shop and a museum. Tours of the bicycle shop are provided for visitors. The museum encompasses several parts: the Wright Brothers, the history of innovation, Paul Laurence Dunbar (an African-American poet who was friends with the Orville Wright), the location of the Wright’s printing shop, and a parachute museum. Admission is free, but there are seasonal operating hours. Just blocks away, is the location of the original Wright Family home on Hawthorn Street.

Second, is Hawthorn Hill, the home completed in 1914 for the family to live in (Orville, sister Katherine, and father Bishop). Unfortunately, Wilbur died prior to its completion. Hawthorn Hill is a beautiful house that is currently being restored to the way it looked when the Wrights lived there. The restoration does not prevent tours, which are offered twice on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Pre-paid admission is required and visitors ride a bus to the home.