This article is one in a series of travelogues on presidential historical sites across America. Join us as we travel along the southern California presidential trail…
California And The Presidency
If you’ve ever followed a national political election, it is easy to understand the importance of California to the presidency. Certainly it’s not surprising social and civic leaders are developed here, often rising to political prominence in this populous and influential state.
Two of our presidents, Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan, called California home. Although Reagan was born in Illinois, he spent most of his adult life and career in California, ultimately becoming governor of the state. Nixon was born in Yorba Linda, a suburban Los Angeles community about 20 minutes east of Anaheim.
Both presidents have their official library and museums in the greater Los Angeles area. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is located in Simi Valley, northwest of the city, while the Nixon Library and Museum is in his birthplace of Yorba Linda.
Visitors can see both in one day, depending of course on traffic. It is about a one hour drive from one to the other, mainly traveling on Interstate 5. Let’s take a brief overview of each of these presidential historic sites…
Visiting The Reagan Presidential Museum
Dedicated in 1991, the Reagan museum profiles Mr. Reagan’s early life in Illinois all the way through his final years as a senior statesman. You’ll see personal items from his college career and radio broadcasting days, which ultimately landed Reagan a lucrative Hollywood acting career.
His entry into politics is chronicled, along with his enduring marriage to his wife Nancy. From a broader perspective, one of the most interesting permanent exhibits is the Gallery of Presidents, which spotlights all of America’s commanders in chief through works of art and multimedia. There is even a rare early 1800′s copy of the Declaration of Independence on display.
Be sure to spend time in the Presidential Gift Gallery, which displays some of the 100,000 plus gifts given to Mr. and Mrs. Reagan during his eight years in office. Because the gifts are accepted on behalf of the American people, they are government property and displayed on a rotating basis so they can be enjoyed by all.
The Richard Nixon Library And Birthplace
About an hour south is the Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace, dedicated to the 37th president. Dedicated in 1990, the complex not only encourages interest in Mr. Nixon, but American history in general.
It is the most visited presidential library and museum in the country.
Mr. Nixon’s actual birthplace is located here on the nine acre site. it is a small catalog kit home built in 1912, a year before his birth. The interior has been restored to that time period, and most of the furnishings are original.
Included in the permanent exhibits is a feature on the vice presidency, an office Nixon held for eight years. A replica of the White House Lincoln Room is on display, along with many of the gifts Nixon received while in office. There is a fascinating and compelling account of his trips to China, as well as the Watergate saga that ultimately led to his resignation.
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