The nation’s first presidential library was developed with Franklin D. Roosevelt deeply involved in every facet of its creation. He envisioned it as a place where the public could examine the evidence of his presidency and draw their own conclusions about his legacy. He chose a Dutch Colonial style of architecture for the building to represent a sense of endurance. The library opened on June 30, 1941. It houses important documents including the rough draft of the “Day of Infamy” speech, which Roosevelt wrote on December 7, 1941, shortly after the bombing of Pearl Habor.

Photo: Michael Herrick

Photo: Michael Herrick

Photo: Michael Herrick