Volume 41, Issue 4
Oct - Dec 2015
SENATOR DAN COATS Powerful Insights from an American Ambassador, Senator & Statesman Sen. Daniel Coats was the keynote speaker for the 10th Annual Mary Tucker Jasper Speaker Series on Friday, Oct. 2. Sen. Coats shared powerful insights, stories and reflections about his decades of eminent service to our country and community as an American ambassador, senator and statesman. This was the landmark 10th anniversary of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site’s signature event recognizing outstanding civic engagement and exceptional public leadership. Over the past decade we have featured a wide array of nationally recognized speakers, including Brian Lamb, Michael Beschloss, and Richard Norton Smith. The Series was born out of a restricted fund established by the Mary Tucker Jasper family in 2005 to honor Mrs. Jasper by sponsoring a noteworthy speaker each year. This event serves as a significant fundraiser for the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site’s educational programming, impacting more than 13,000 students each year.
Special Thanks to our Event Sponsor
Special Thanks to our Supporting Sponsors
Marsha Coats and Senator Dan Coats were joint recipients for the 2015 Advancing American Democracy Award.
Announcing the 2015 Advancing American Democracy Award The evening culminated by celebrating the 2015 Advancing American Democracy Award, which was bestowed upon Senator Dan Coats and Marsha Coats for their lifelong commitment to Indiana and their significant legacy of civic service to our country. This was the first time it was awarded jointly. The Advancing American Democracy Award recognizes exemplary individuals who actively advance the values of American Democracy by encouraging and enabling ethical citizen participation in government. This mirrors the mission of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. The medal itself is reproduced from an original Harrison commemorative medal. Past recipients have included Senator Richard Lugar, Representative Lee Hamilton, Judge Sarah Evans Barker, Donald “Danny” Danielson and Chief Justice Randall T. Shepard.
From the President Benjamin Harrison once said, “An American citizen could not be a good citizen who did not have a hope in his heart.”
• Collection: The Presidential Site itself is an exquisitely restored national historic landmark situated within easy walking distance of downtown Indianapolis and the bustling 16th Street This sentiment informs much of the work we do here corridor. But if the 1875 Italianate mansion is a jewel box, The Benjamin at the Presidential Site, from our education then the gem is its exceptional collection of more Harrison tours and programs serving over 13,000 than 10,000 original artifacts. A current tour only Presidential school children each year to hosting the Innovative incorporates a fraction of this total—but we have Site Naturalization Ceremony to our newest a plan to open the collection in its entirety to our & impactful city program, Future Presidents of America and the world. More to come! 1230 N. Delaware St. youth leadership camp. Indianapolis, IN • Strategic Plan: We are in the midst of developing a 5 year The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site is alive with energy, strategic plan for the Presidential Site for 2016-2020. This 46202 activity and enthusiasm. As an organization we have effort has been important in helping us focus and fine tune 317.631.1888 challenged ourselves to become recognized as the most our mission, impact and larger strategic direction. There will innovative, impactful and civically engaged presidential site be an opportunity for you this fall to share your own thoughts in the United States within the next 5 years. Already 2015 and input. has been a big year for us, and prospects for 2016 are even brighter: • Bicentennial: Celebrations around the 200th anniversary of our state commence next year, generating renewed interest • Voting: We received local and national attention this spring and excitement around the legacy of America’s Hoosier when we opened our doors as a polling site. We’ll reprise this President. Watch our website and Facebook page for exciting important civic-engagement role in November for the general announcements about the special programs we’ll be offering election, and in 2016 for the presidential elections. at the Presidential Site. • Education: Due to a generous grant from the Kiwanis Foundation, we’re piloting a new school program, Future Presidents of America School, with IPS this 2015/16 school year. It will bring one of the premiere bicentennial experiences in the State of Indiana into the hallowed halls, homes and hearts of Indianapolis’ school children.
Thank you for your partnership in making this important work possible. Your support helps give us “hope in our hearts” and the determination to succeed! Very sincerely yours, Charles A. Hyde, President & CEO
Presidential Site Team
Our mission is to increase public understanding of, appreciation for, and participation in the American system of selfgovernment through the life stories, arts and culture of an American President.
Charles A. Hyde President & CEO
Margaret Sallee Director of Operations
Jennifer Capps VP of Curatorship & Exhibition
Ashleigh Graves-Roesler VP of Development
Roger Hardig VP of Education
David Pleiss Director of Learning Resources
Stacy Clark Events Specialist
Julio Zepeda Facilities Manager
Gary Larreategui Weekend Supervisor
Lukas Ramey Volunteer Experience Manager
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Holidays at the Presidential Site Did you know the Harrison family was the first to have a Christmas tree in the the White house? Join us during this most festive of seasons as we transform the home by hanging the holly and decking the halls! Enjoy the simple yet stately decorations of a bygone era as holiday magic transforms the rooms of the Harrison’s stately home. The Site will be decorated for Christmas beginning November 21 through December 30.
During the holidays, be sure to look for mistletoe when touring the house and take your very own mistletoe selfie! Share your image with us at harrison@bhpsite.org and we’ll include our favorites in the eNews.
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas December 5 • 8:30am -5pm (reservations required) Are visions of sugar plums dancing in your head? Kick off your season of celebration and bring the kids or grandkids for a tasty continental breakfast, create a special ornament to keep, hear a very special hearthside reading of the most famous Santa Claus story…and, yes—try a sugar plum! Reservations open on October 16—just call 317.631.1888 or go to PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org.
LIVE: Family Christmas
December 5 • 10am to 3:30pm On the same day, we invite you home for the holidays for a unique seasonal tour for LIVE: Family Christmas. The year is 1888. President Harrison, some of the family from Ohio, and the household staff will be here sharing the excitement of Christmas Day and chatting about the upcoming move to Washington and whether or not there will be a Christmas tree in the White House.
A Candlelight Evening on Delaware Street
December 16 • 6 to 9pm (reservations required) There’s no place like homes for the holidays. Join us for A Candlelight Evening on Delaware Street and see some of the finest nearby residences from the inside out. Enjoy an excellent supper and a blazing fire at the University Club as you visit several prestigious addresses. This historic house walking tour is a lovely way to celebrate the season with family or friends. Make your reservation or purchase a gift certificate at 317.631.1888 or PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org.
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Benjamin & Caroline Harrison:
A Partnership of Giving
Benjamin and Caroline Harrison were philanthropic and generous throughout their lives. Their belief in supporting their fellow citizens was instilled in them at a young age as an example set forth by their parents. In our collection we have copies of cancelled checks dating from the 1870s to the early 1900s. Reviewing these gives us an insight into their life of charity.
Caroline was acutely aware that women had made as much of a contribution to American history as men. Her work with DAR and John Hopkins Medical School helped open new opportunities to women in business and civic life. She promoted the role of women outside the home and was very active in various Indianapolis social organizations. She worked for the welfare of all people and the support of local orphanages. She was active with the Medical Fund for Johns Hopkins Medical School, served as the chairman of the Washington Committee of the Women’s Fund for the school, and attended two receptions in November 1890 in Baltimore to aid in the effort. She used her personal influence to ensure female students were admitted into its halls of learning. She served on the Board of Managers of the Indianapolis Orphans Asylum (today known as the Children’s Bureau) for thirty years and was active with the Indianapolis First Presbyterian Church. She was a leader in the Ladies Sanitary Committee in Indianapolis during the Civil War. As First Lady, she was active in local and national charities, such as the Aid Society of Garfield Hospital and the Washington City Orphan Asylum.
These records show the variety of organizations that they supported. Benjamin Harrison was a generous member of numerous philanthropic, professional, and social organizations including the Young Men’s Republican Club, Virginia Historical Society, Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, Society of the Army of the Cumberland, Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), University Club, Indianapolis Literary Club, Contemporary Club of Indianapolis, The Columbia Club, and the Indiana Bar Association. Benjamin Harrison contributed to the YMCA as early as 1877 and his continued support over the years may explain why he is the only president with a YMCA named after him. But he was not alone in his altruistic efforts. He and Caroline regularly contributed to the Benevolent Society of Indianapolis (today known as Families First) and the Presbyterian Church.
As first lady, she brought public attention to the need to preserve the historic White House and its collections. Concerned with the dilapidated conditions at the White House, she took initiative to address the issue. She lobbied Congress to completely remodel and expand the White House—even holding a press briefing. The bill did not pass, but funds were appropriated to make much needed improvements. With a passion for history and preservation, she is recognized for establishing and organizing the White House china collection and designing the Harrison White House china. She is also credited for starting the annual tradition of decorating a Christmas tree at the White house.
Caroline Scott Harrison helped advance rights for women and was an important advocate for their higher education. She was a committed philanthropist and served her community both in Indianapolis and the nation’s capital. Serving as the first President General of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), she gave the first public address of any sitting first lady. As the group’s President General, she addressed their First Continental Congress, stating:
“Since this Society has been organized, and so much thought and reading directed to the early struggle of this country, it has been made plain that much of its success was due to the character of the women of that era. The unselfish part they acted constantly commends itself to our admiration and example. If there is no abatement in this element of success in our ranks I feel sure their daughters can perpetuate a society worthy the cause and worthy of themselves.”
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In 1891, May Wright Sewall was honored when the first lady appeared at the closing session of the National Council of Women's triennial meeting in Washington. Caroline sent a large basket of roses to Sewall in congratulations on her election as president of the council.
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The Harrisons also responded to national tragedies. In 1889, they wrote a check to the Johnstown Relief Fund. The catastrophic flood occured on May 31st. Over 2,000 people perished and four square miles of downtown Johnstown were completely destroyed. Survivors needed to be fed, clothed, housed, and cared-for. Harrison aided flood victims again with a donation to the Titusville Relief Fund after flooding struck the Allegheny River valley, causing gasoline storage tanks to float, leak, and explode on Sunday, June 5, 1892, killing 60.
New and Notable
Benjamin Harrison’s personal interests were demonstrated by donations to the Yellowstone Park Association in 1900. He visited Yellowstone in 1881, 1885 and 1900. Although there wasn’t a formal National Park system until 1916, Harrison got the process started with the Forest Reserve Act of 1891. This expanded the size of Yellowstone to 3400 square miles. His conservation legacy also included designating the 2nd, 3rd and 4th national parks.
. The Carriage House roof was repaired this summer. Missing cedar shingles were replaced, making the roof weather-safe for the winter weather ahead. . The first wave of new school year field trips began in early September! This school year we expect to welcome more than 13,000 students for hands-on educational programs and field trips through the Presidential Site. Many thanks to the funders of the In Pursuit of State Pride Bicentiannial Grant which enabled over 1500 students to experience the Presidential Site at no cost in 2014.
Still today, the Harrison family’s contributions reverberate in Indianapolis. Organizations like the University Club and the Columbia Club are vibrant participants in our community. Nationally, the DAR stands as an important contributor to historical preservation and geneological research. The integrity and perseverence of Benjamin and Caroline Harrison continue to shine in the work of our staff and volunteers as we move forward promoting participation in the American system of self-government, ethical citizenship and meaningful community engagement. --- Jennifer Capps, VP of Curatorship & Exhibition
. This year, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts from central Indiana have the opportunity to participate in educational programs at the Presidential Site, earning a special badge in American History! To bring your group, call the education department at 317.631.2717.
Did You Know?
A Legacy of Giving
Another passion Harrison shared with Caroline (and his second wife Mary) was the love of theater. In 1890, they contributed to the Actors’ Fund of America. The Actors’ Fund of America is a charitable organization that still exists today and supports performers and behind-the-scenes workers in performing arts and entertainment. As you attend Candlelight Theatre’s “Hoosier Haunts” this fall, remember that your support is part of greater legacy of education and giving for many generations to come!
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Your gifts have a tremendous impact! Support from our members and donors help us sustain the daily operation and preservation of the Presidential Site. Make a gift or renew your support today by going to PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org. How can you or your organization help? Contact VP of Development Ashleigh GravesRoesler for information at agraves@bhpsite.org.
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Educate & Engage!
“The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site and the programs that are offered to school age children are absolutely phenomenal!”
Attention parents and teachers! Want high quality, fun programming for your students that meets and exceeds state standards, and educates and engages their growing minds?
- Lynn Henry, Taylor Elementary (Kokomo)
“The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site is a marvelous go-to place for Indiana’s school children...the educational programs that are well-planned and well-executed by the home’s educational staff are engaging, age-appropriate, and fit Indiana’s school curriculum perfectly. In my 39 years of teaching, I can’t imagine not having shared this special place and all it has to offer with my third graders!”
The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site welcomes over 13,000 school children each year from across Indiana and beyond. Students experience culture, history and civics when they visit the National Landmark home of America’s Hoosier President. Plus, curriculum enriching special programs are available for all grades and include tours of the home, classes and visits to your school.
- Debbie Thie, Amy Beverland Elementary (Indianapolis)
Guided Tour
Make It Easy
Special Programs
Give your students the experience of being in the home of a U.S. President, surrounded by 80 percent original artifacts as you walk across the threshold into a place where history was made. Skilled guides bring your class into each room, immersing them in the past.
All of our programs are offered onsite, offsite and online!
Special programs at the Presidential Site are experiential based and tailored to enrich curriculum standards from kindergarten through fifth grade. Themes include the signing of the declaration, settlement of Indiana Territory, and more!
Bypass transportation issues or other concerns by bringing the program to your school as an in-class activity.
In Pursuit of State Pride Indiana Bicentennial Grant Does your school need assistance to take field trips? Special grants are available to public schools through December 2015 in Marion and Delaware County.
Interested in learning more or ready to register? Contact our Education team today at (317) 631-1888 or rhardig@bhpsite.org to find out more! Have middle school, or high school, or college students? Ask about one of our custom programs!
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Meet Lukas Ramey Welcome to our new Volunteer Experience Manager, Lukas Ramey. Lukas is a 2014 graduate of Ball State University, where he majored in Public History. He spent his four month internship at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, learning more about the staff, volunteers, and unique educational programming available here.
VIP Treatment
“I’m honored to join the Presidential Site during this exciting time,” Ramey said. “Our institutional goal to become the most innovative, impactful and civically engaged presidential site in the country will have a significant impact on energizing and attracting volunteers.”
Looking for the perfect venue for an upcoming wedding or special event? The Presidential Site is now taking rental reservations for 2016 & 2017. With beautiful lawns, manicured gardens and exceptional ambience in the heart of the Old Northside Neighborhood adjoining the bustling 16th street corridor, it’s the perfect spot to give your guests the VIP treatment! Find out more at PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org or email harrison@bhpsite.org.
Please come by and introduce yourself, or contact him at 317.631.1888 or lramey@bhpsite.org.
Hoosier Haunts presented by Candlelight Theatre October 9-10 and 16-18 Candlelight Theatre at the Presidential Site returns this fall with the premier of Hoosier Haunts by James Trofatter. This witty and historically inspired progressive theatre performance gives patrons a fun and frightful look into Indiana’s storied past through tales told by our favorite and lesser known Hoosier ghosts. Be sure to make your reservation early for this spine tingling performance ... if you dare. Performances are selling out! For more information or reservations call 317.631.1888 or purchase tickets at PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org. Special Thanks to our Event Partners:
Plan Your Visit October 2 Mary Tucker Jasper Speaker Series
November 3 LIVE: Election Day
October 9-10 and 16-18 Hoosier Haunts presented by Candlelight Theatre
December 5 ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas and LIVE: Family Christmas
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December 16 A Candlelight Evening on Delaware Street
Steve Campbell Dan Evans Thomas P. Ewbank George W. Geib Brian Hewitt Eric J. Holcomb James Kirsch Jason T. Konesco Howard J. Lacy IV
PRESIDENTIAL SITE HOURS Open For Tours Monday-Saturday, 10am-3:30pm. Offices Open Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm.
HOOSIER HAUNTS presented by Candlelight Theatre AT THE
bENJAMIN hARRISON pRESIDENTIAL sITE
October 9, 10, 16, 17, & 18