Springwood: FDR's Hyde Park Home
Dublin Core
Title
Springwood: FDR's Hyde Park Home
Description
Franklin Delano Roosevelt spent many of his formative years exploring Springwood, his Hyde Park, NY estate. Even after entering adulthood and assuming the Presidency, FDR refused to relinquish to let go of his beloved home. The photos in this collection depict his lifelong attachment with this place.
Rights
Photographs courtesy of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Library and Museum
Coverage
1882-1945
Collection Items
Teenage FDR with His Mother, Sara
A 16-year-old FDR sits on the porch of Springwood with his mother, Sara Delano Roosevelt.
FDR Campaigns for Vice-President
FDR campaigns in his hometown after he accepts the vice-presidential nomination, an election he will ultimately lose. Within a year, he will contract polio and lose all mobility in his legs.
FDR Speaks at Springwood
In 1931, FDR speaks in front of his Hyde Park Home. Depending on when in 1931 this photo was taken, he is either still campaigning for the presidency or has already won the position.
FDR Drives through the Woods of his Springwood Estate
Despite his paralysis from polio, FDR still found ways to enjoy himself. He had his car customized so that he could drive with his hands.
Franklin and Eleanor Converse on the Springwood Yard, Overlooking the Hudson River
Although their romantic relationship fizzled fairly quickly within their marriage, Franklin and Eleanor never divorced and remained friendly, political partners.
FDR and His Mother, Sara, Stand on the East Terrace of Springwood
Franklin and his mother shared a very close connection all their lives. The only child in their marriage, Sara and her husband, James, spoiled Franklin. His father died when he was 18, but FDR only outlived his mother by 4 years.
FDR Delivers a Christmas Address from the Presidential Library
After assuming the presidency, FDR continued to visit Springwood as often as he could. He used it as a more secluded extension of the White House and even gave a few fireside chats from there.
FDR Begins Construction on His Presidential Library
As a history major at Harvard, FDR understood the importance of preserving a historical record. In 1939, he started building the first presidential library, one of his own design. Finished in 1940, it was dedicated in 1941.
FDR and the King and Queen of England Visit the Local Church
King George, Queen Elizabeth, and the Roosevelts (Eleanor, Sara, and FDR) all visit the St. James Church, located across the street from Springwood. During the royal visit, the first time a sitting monarch came to the U.S., FDR showed them American…
FDR's Funeral at Hyde Park
Eleanor Roosevelt and other mourners stand in Springwood's Rose Garden for FDR's funeral.