Simi Valley, California Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum

 Simi Valley, California    Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum

Larry and I have really enjoy visiting the Presidential Libraries.  We got hooked when we happened up on Dwight D. Eisenhower's Library in Abilene, Kansas. Needing a break from driving, we stopped there. It was a great adventure for my history buff man.

These libraries are not libraries in the usual sense. They are archives and museums; they preserve the documents and artifacts of our presidents and provide insight into the times in which these presidents lived and served our nation. It is a great way to go back in time to revisit our nation's history.

We have enjoyed Nixon's  Library in Yorba Linda, CA

Kennedy's Library in Boston, MA 

Roosevelt's Library in Hyde Park, NY

Truman's Library in Independence, MO 

Wilson's  Home  in Staunton, VA 

Johnson's Library in Austin, TX

And now we are adding Ronald Reagan's Library in Simi Valley, CA.

Ronald Reagan said, The presidential libraries  are "classrooms of Democracy"

Ronald Reagan's Library open in 1991. The 100 acre site is perched on a mountaintop with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valley.  It is the final resting place of our nation's 40 president and his wife, Nancy.

Driving up the mountain was spectacular. Each light post had a flag with a picture  of all the US presidents. What a patriotic gesture!

There was a full-sized replica of the Oval Office. It displayed western earthy tones and even a jar of jelly beans...definitely Ronald Reagan influences.

Twenty-four rooms were stocked with historical artifacts in chronological order telling about Ron and Nancy's life. Reagan kept a daily diary during his eight years of presidency that gave us a clear insight into the history of his years in office. From Nancy's evening gowns to Ronald's cowboy boots, you can find a lot of artifacts and interesting stories about  their lives. We spent about four hours of pure historical enjoyment wondering through the exhibits.

We were thrilled to go on board the actual Air Force One aircraft that served six other presidents. 

Marine One

The presidential motorcade

We also enjoyed going through a display that told the history of the US Secret Service. 

Larry and I were impressed with all the countries that Reagan visited....26 countries and 46 states. He was a hands on, face to face communicator.  

I personally love his positive words....

"America's best days are yet to come.

 Our proudest moments are yet to be.

 Our most glorious achievements are just ahead."

                                                                                 Ronald Reagan

His famous words from his presidential farewell address....

"Once you begin a great movement, there's no telling where it will end.

We meant to change a nation, and instead we changed the world."

                                                                                Ronald Reagan