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Most people connect President Dwight D Eisenhower with the state of Kansas where he was born, but the farm he bought in Gettysburg, PA in 1950 (when was a General), was the only property he ever owned.
The Gettysburg farm served as a weekend retreat after Eisenhower became President, and is where he hosted world leaders.
The property became the beloved home of Ike and Mamie after he left the White House in 1961.
With its putting green, skeet range, and view of South Mountain and the Gettysburg Battlefield, the farm offered President Eisenhower a retreat from the pressures of Washington.
It was also a successful cattle operation, with a show herd of black Angus cattle.
Inside the House
But I bet you want to see the inside of the house, which was decorated by Mamie.
The house was in a state of disrepair when it was purchased. Ike reportedly told the contractors, "Whatever she wants, just send me the bill."
Ike’s Favorite Room
The Eisenhowers are said to have spent most of their time in the glass-covered porch overlooking Seminary Ridge.
They read and played cards, and it is where President Eisenhower painted. You can see the easel in the back of the room.
The curtains are drawn to preserve the vibrant colors of the rugs, upholstery and paintings.
It really is amazing that all of the rugs, curtains, furniture and decorations are exactly as they were when the Eisenhowers lived there.
When you think about the foreign dignitaries, kings and diplomats that were in the house, it’s truly an amazing experience.
I loved the wallpaper in the stairway that features the seals of every state (except Hawaii, which wasn’t yet a state). It was chosen by Mamie and ordered out of a catalog.
The house was added to the National Registry of Historical Places in November of 1967.
I hope you enjoyed this short tour of the Eisenhower house.
Don’t miss next week’s post on Remembrance Day in Gettysburg! And come visit me on Past Lane Travel or my author website Jessica James Books.