Exhibit
George H.W. Bush Center 
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George H.W. Bush Center
Along with a bust of George Bush, here you'll find a long list of titles George Herbert Walker Bush had over the course of his life.
Here you can see a portrait of George Bush, painted by Ron Sherr; a large crystal Presidential Seal; and a portrait of Barbara Bush, painted by Chas Fagan.
A detailed look at the Presidential Seal. The modern Presidential Seal was authorized by President Harry S. Truman on October 25, 1945, and revised by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1960 after the additions of states Alaska and Hawaii. On the seal, the eagle holds an olive branch with 13 olives and 13 leaves to represent peace, and 13 arrows to represent war. The ribbon in the eagle’s mouth bears the motto of the U.S., “E Pluribus Unum,” which means, “out of many, one.” The circle of 50 stars celebrates each of the 50 states, while the repeated use of the quantity of 13 pays homage to the original colonies.
Much about the Presidential Limo is classified, but we do know that the bullet proof windows are several inches thick, the tires contain wheel inserts that will keep the car moving even if there’s a flat, the remote starter has a bomb-detector, the fuel tank is self-healing, and there are layers of Kevlar under the car’s sheet metal from top to bottom. “The Beast,” as it is known, also has supplemental oxygen. All work on the car is supervised by the United States Secret Service and all ground services are coordinated by the U.S. Army.
As you enter the main gallery space, this wall contains a full-color version of the Presidential Seal and President Bush's signature.
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There are many icons synonymous with the President of the United States. Here you will get the chance to have a detailed look at a presidential limousine, a three-foot crystal Presidential Seal and other symbols of the presidency.
Vice President Bush plays with his grandchildren, Walker's Point, Kennebunkport, ME. 06 Aug 88
Campaign Photograph (Doro, Marvin, Neil and Jeb), Fall 1963
The Bush family attends church in Houston, TX (l-r Barbara, George, Jeb (hidden), Doro, Neil, Marvin, George W.) 1964
George W., George, Neil, Marvin being held by Barbara, and Jeb, Midland, TX, circa 1957
The Family Traditions exhibit provides a deep look into the life of young George Bush, tying his rich family values into future generations of the Bush family.
George Bush’s parents had an extraordinary impact on his personality, his core values, and the way he raised his own children.
Sports were a part of George Bush's life from a very early age, and this competitive spirit became the stuff of Bush family legend. Also included here is a bust of George Bush's father, Prescott Bush, which was created in 1958 by sculptor Jimilu Mason.
"My father was a remarkable man who not only believed in public service, but embodied the spirit of it." - George Bush
A picture of the extended Bush family. George Bush stands (2nd from right) next to his father. Barbara Bush is seated in front of him, holding a young George W. Bush.
One of the features of this exhibit is a bookcase full of framed family portraits. In the museum, you can take these off the shelf and read the captions on the back of each photo.
This exhibit tells more about the formative years of George Bush. In the bottom of this picture, you can see various interactive exhibits where you can learn about family pets, traditions and future generations of the Bush family - George and Barbara's children and grandchildren.
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Wander through the Bush Family scrapbook, viewing the family through pictures, videos, and more. This exhibit tells the story of George Bush's childhood, his strong ties to family, and how he has passed this bond onto his children and grandchildren. You can also explore Walker's Point, the home in Kennebunkport that has been in the Bush family for generations.
Pauline Robinson Pierce with her four children: James, Scott, Barbara and Martha, 1936
Pauline Robinson Pierce (mother of Barbara Pierce Bush) unknown date
Marvin Pierce (father of Barbara Pierce Bush) unknown date
Pauline Robinson Pierce (mother of Barbara Pierce Bush), age 2 years & 3 months Sep 1895
In this exhibit, you can learn about Barbara Pierce, her family, and her childhood.
"My mother was a striking beauty who left the world a more beautiful place than she found it." -- Barbara Bush
Learn about Barbara as she grew up and met the young man who would instantly become the love of her life, George "Poppy" Bush.
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Take a glimpse at the childhood and family history of the woman who would one day be the mother of a President and the First Lady of the United States of America, Barbara Pierce Bush.
A look at the TBM Avenger, a plane just like the one Ensign JG George Bush flew in WWII.
A collection of items that would have been used by a fighter pilot in WWII.
George Herbert Walker Bush, US Navy, August 1942 - September 1945
Lt(j.g.) George Bush, Naval Aviator, with Admiral James L. Kauffman, Commander of Destroyers and Cruisers Pacific Fleet. circa 1944
X-2 flight crew: (L to R) radioman Joe Reichert, Lt (j.g.) George Bush, and turret gunner Leo W. Nadeau. 02 Nov 1944
U.S. Navy Pilot George Bush in the cockpit of an Avenger (1942-1945)
George Bush as a young pilot
Climb these stairs to learn more about Ensign George Bush's service in WWII. This platform provides a close up view of the TBM Avenger.
This bench describes the TBM Avenger plane hanging from the ceiling.
As a pilot, George Bush flew his TBM Avenger off the deck of the USS San Jacinto. There's also a video of George Bush talking about his military service. In it, you can see footage of him being rescued by the USS Finback after he was shot down during a bombing run over the island of Chichi Jima.
Here you can find out more about George Bush's experiences as a pilot.
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This area of the museum is dedicated to the history of World War II and the impact the attack on Pearl Harbor had on a young George Bush. A highlight of this area is the restored 1944 TBM Avenger, just like the aircraft Bush flew as a Navy pilot. A model of an aircraft carrier and many of George Bush's personal mementos complete this portion of the museum.
The Prescott Bush family at the wedding of George and Barbara Bush. (l-r) Jonathan, Nancy, George, Barbara, Prescott Bush Sr., Dorothy Walker Bush, Prescott Bush Jr. with his wife Beth, and William Henry Trotter Bush (Bucky), Rye, NY. 06 Jan 45
Barbara Bush dances with her father at her wedding in Rye, NY. 06 Jan 45
George and Barbara Bush cut their wedding cake, Rye, New York.
Bridal Portrait of Barbara Pierce Bush. 06 Jan 45
They weren't sure when George Bush would be coming home from war, so the date was handwritten on each of the printed invitations. At the time of her death in 2018, Barbara and George Bush had been married for 73 years.
A replica of Barbara Bush's wedding dress, and the broach she wore at her wedding.
George Bush (left of clock) with the Skull and Bones group at Yale University, New Haven, CT. (Seated, L to R) David Charles Grimes, George Harold, Jr. (Standing, L to R) Lucius Horatis Biglow, Jr., William Donnelly, Jr. (?), Richard Gluock (?), William Judkins Clark, George Cook, George Bush, Thomas Wilder Moseley, Richard E. Jenkins, Unknown, Unknown, John E. Caulkins, Unknown, Thomas William Ludlow Ashley. Circa 1947
George Bush standing in front of a "Yale Fence" in his baseball uniform, Yale University
Bush’s time at Yale included him playing collegiate baseball, where he led the team as captain and left-handed first baseman to the first two College World Series tournaments, all while starting a family.
George Bush not only played baseball at Yale but was the president of Delta Kappa Epsilon, a member of the Skull and Bones Society, and graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a BA in Economics and a minor in sociology.
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Steal a look into the newly married life of George and Barbara in this lovely exhibit that features a stunning replica of Barbara's wedding gown. Their young life at Yale and their growing family are documented with original photographs and letters.
In 1948 the Bush family made their way to West Texas in a 1947 Studebaker, identical to the replica shown here.
George Bush holds his daughter, Pauline Robinson "Robin," 1953. Named after Barbara's mother, Robin was born not long after the Bushes moved to Texas. Tragically, Robin died of leukemia just before her 4th birthday.
After graduating Yale in two and a half years via an accelerated program, the Bush family moved to West Texas where Bush would build his business career and his family.
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A restored 1947 Studebaker (identical to the one Bush drove to Texas in 1948) welcomes you into the life of the family as they began a new journey in West Texas. It is here that George W. was joined by siblings Pauline Robinson (Robin), John (Jeb), Neil, Marvin, and Dorothy (Doro) Bush. Included in this area is the tragic story of Robin's fatal battle with Leukemia.
View from the water of a Zapata oil drilling platform.
George H.W. Bush with Hugh Liedtke in the Zapata Oil Company Office, Midland, TX, circa mid-1950s
Zapata off-shore drilling rig
George Bush boards an oil rig. (date unknown)
Vinegarroon mobile drilling platform, Zapata Offshore Company of Houston, TX. (Date unknown)
A look at the Taking Risks Exhibit
In 1951, Bush stopped selling oilfield supplies and with a friend formed an oil business, which started him on a path to great success. Eventually he moved the Bush family to Houston to try his hand at offshore oil drilling as the president of Zapata Offshore.
Zapata Offshore oil drilling platform plaque
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George's success in the oil business and the creation of the Zapata Offshore Company, which ushered in a new era in the oil drilling industry, is detailed here. Vintage video included in this area shows the launching of revolutionary new drilling technology used by Zapata.
Congressman Bush interviews children using a tape recorder during his visit to Vietnam. 26 Dec 67 through 11 Jan 68
Victory Night, Congressional Race 1966
George Bush, US Representative, Texas 7th District 1966-1970
Congressman George Bush entertains four youngsters who will attend his Christmas party for children whose fathers and/or brothers were serving in Vietnam. 23 Dec 67
Texas Congressman George Bush with California Governor Ronald Reagan, March 1967
Congressman George Bush visits with soldiers from the U.S. Army First Cavalry Division during his trip to Southeast Asia. 26 Dec 67 through 11 Jan 68
The young Bush family pictured in front of the Capitol Building, Washington, D.C. (Children, L to R: John Ellis "Jeb", Marvin, Dorothy "Doro", Neil, George W.)
This exhibit explores the early years of Bush’s political journey as a Congressman from Texas.
An inside look at the exhibit exploring the history of Bush’s beginnings in US politics.
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Beneath the towering presence of this 30-foot tall replica of our nation's Capitol dome, follow in George's footsteps as he begins his new career as a United States Congressman. There are also many pictures, articles and political advertisements from George's first successful campaign.
George Bush, US Ambassador to the United Nations, meets with President Nixon in the Oval Office. (Date unknown)
George Bush attends a meeting as the US Ambassador to the UN 1971-1973
Prescott and George Bush stand in front of the United States Mission to the United Nations building. (Date unknown)
George Bush is appointed US Ambassador to the United Nations by President Richard Nixon. 12 Jan 70
Ambassador to the United Nations George Bush and wife Barbara
George Bush in front of the United Nations Building
President Nixon meets with George Bush, US Ambassador to the United Nations; John Connally, Secretary of the Treasury; and others aboard Air Force One
A chronological depiction of Bush’s time in the UN.
The United Nations exhibit, featuring a statue of George Bush.
Another look at the events that occurred while George Bush served as the US Ambassador to the United Nations. The touch screen in the middle delves deeper into these topics.
Statue of George H.W. Bush in front of the U.N. Assembly Headquarters in New York City. A fun photo op!
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After serving as a Congressman, President Nixon selected George Bush to be the Ambassador to the United Nations. The amazing murals and recreation of a portion of the U.N. create the feeling that you are at U.N. Headquarters during the turbulent years of the early 1970s.
Chairman of the Republican National Committee, George Bush, in a meeting with President Nixon and others in the Oval Office. 22 May 73
Chairman of the Republican National Committee, George Bush joins President Nixon in a meeting in the Oval Office. 30 May 73
George Herbert Walker Bush, Republican National Committee Chairman. Jan 1973 - Sep 1974
George Bush, Chairman of the RNC, speaks on NBC's MEET THE PRESS news program. 10 Jun 73.
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In late 1972, Ambassador Bush assumed the role of Chairman of the Republican National Committee. Throughout 1973, Bush worked hard to keep the stain of Watergate from tainting the Republican Party. On exhibit here is a whimsical and elegant display of elephants, the well-known symbol of the Republican Party, from the museum's collection of over twelve hundred.
US Liaison to China, George Bush, speaks with Yu Zhan, Vice-Minister of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Wang Yeqiu, Director of the Bureau of Historical Relic Administration. In the background is their translator, Tang Wensheng, 1975.
George and Barbara Bush in China when he was Chief of the US Liaison Office. Circa 1974
While Chief of the US Liaison Office - China, George Bush and wife, Barbara, visit the Great Wall. 1975
George and Barbara Bush pose in front of an imperial garden lion statue in China.
George and Barbara Bush inspect fish for sale at a local market while in China as the US Liaison.
Barbara Bush with Alix Devoie at the Forbidden City in China. Circa 1975
The Challenge of the Unknown Exhibit, featuring replicas of a red and turquoise pagoda and two Terracotta Warriors.
A closer look at the Challenge of the Unknown exhibit, featuring a picture of George and Barbara Bush and various artifacts from their exploration of China.
Here are the replicas of the terracotta soldiers. The screen in the background shows a slideshow of pictures taken by Barbara Bush during her exploration of China.
A closer look at pictures illustrating George Bush’s time in China as the US Liaison, in the Challenge of the Unknown Exhibit.
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Experience China through the camera lens of Barbara Bush. A large mural of a picture she took while George was serving as Chief of the U.S. Liaison Office spans the wall, while the large red and turquoise pagoda offers a glimpse of life in Peking (now known as Beijing) for George and Barbara Bush. There before the United States had established normal diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China, the Bushes jumped right in as George essentially served as the chief American diplomat in Peking. The video slideshow comes from Barbara Bush's personal collection.
George Bush is sworn in as Director of the CIA by Justice Potter Stewart as President Ford looks on. 10 Jan 76
George Bush with President Gerald Ford
CIA Director George Bush, sitting at his desk. Circa 1976-1977
CIA Director George Bush, standing at a podium. Circa 1976-1977
George Bush takes the Oath of Office as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency from Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart as his wife, Barbara, holds the Bible and President Gerald Ford witnesses the ceremony at Langley, VA. January 1976.
A Firm Yes (CIA) Exhibit
Read more about George Bush's service as the CIA Director in the A Firm Yes exhibit. Try out the interactive hand scanner and open the drawers to explore spy equipment and other CIA artifacts.
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In 1976, during the Ford Administration, George Bush became the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Bush took on the tremendous task of improving the image of the Agency and curbing Agency excesses, while still being able to provide the President's office with essential intelligence data. The decisions he made during this time helped restore the image of the CIA and maintain the essential balance of power during the Cold War. Open the drawers to see spy equipment used by agents during this time.
In this exhibit, you can read about George H.W. Bush's campaign for president, his acceptance of the bid as vice president and his campaign with Ronald Reagan.
An overview of George Bush's service as vice president
A closer look at the Journey to the Presidency exhibit, including a video about the shooting of President Reagan and a map portraying Vice President Bush's vast world travels.
This portion of the exhibit depicts the end of George Bush’s tenure as vice president, along with his presidential campaign of 1988.
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As Vice President, George Bush traveled an estimated 1.3 million miles, a distance equal to about fifty-four trips around the world! An interactive map details this impressive amount of travel, and interactive programs allow you the opportunity to view hundreds of documents from the Library's Archives regarding some of these important trips. Also included are many articles and pictures which record this important stepping stone for the soon-to-be President.
President and Mrs. Bush attend an Inaugural Ball at the DC Armory. 20 Jan 89
George Herbert Walker Bush takes the oath of office as the 41st President of the United States administered by Supreme Court Chief Justice Rehnquist at the US Capital, Washington, DC. 20 Jan 89
President Bush shakes hands with Former President Ronald Reagan on the steps of the Capitol Building. 20 Jan 89
President Bush, Mrs. Bush, and Millie leave Marine One. 12 Mar 89
President Bush signs Executive Order Ethics Package as C. Boyden Gray, Counsel to the President, looks on in the Oval Office of the White House. 12 Apr 89
Memorabilia in the Mr. President exhibit from the 1989 Inaugural Ball. On display is First Lady Barbara Bush's evening gown.
George and Barbara Bush during the Inaugural Parade. 20 Jan 89
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George Bush was elected the 41st President of the United States on Nov. 8, 1988. Bush won 53.1% of the popular vote and 426 electoral votes. Read a copy of the Houston Chronicle from the day after the election, and see photos of President Bush’s inauguration Jan. 20, 1989.
President Ronald Reagan and Vice President George Bush, accompanied by wives Nancy and Barbara, join hands after the President endorses Bush's run for the Presidency during the President's dinner, Washington, DC. 11 May 88
President and Mrs. Bush on their way to attend an Inaugural Ball at the DC Armory. 20 Jan 89
On display in the President and Mrs. Bush Request exhibit is one of Mrs. Bush's elegant ball gowns and one of President Bush's tuxedos.
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President and Mrs. Bush hosted many important events while they were at the White House, and some of the most sophisticated were State Dinners. A bigger than life mural makes you feel as if you are standing in the dining room with the guests. One of Mrs. Bush's elegant gowns and one of President Bush's distinguished tuxedos are on display.
The Press Room Theater exhibit features a video of President Bush's Inaugural Address.
Press Room Theater Exhibit
Another look at the Press Room Theater exhibit
Press Room Theater Exhibit featuring presidential podium, educational video, and additional information about President Bush’s vice president Danforth Quayle.
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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to give a press conference at the White House? Step up to the podium! Also, watch a video of President Bush's inauguration, and learn about Vice President Quayle's contributions to the Administration.
Mrs. Bush examines family photographs and Millie paces the floor as President Bush works at his desk in the Oval Office. 27 Jan 89
Oval Office during the Bush Administration
Oval Office Exhibit
Another view of the Oval Office in the Seat of Power exhibit.
Have your photo taken at “The Seat of Power” exhibit in the Oval Office replica.
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For the first time ever at a Presidential Library, you can sit behind the most powerful desk in the world. The Oval Office exhibit features a replica of the President's desk, decorated just as President Bush had it while he was in office. Don't forget to have the docent take your photo as you sit in the seat of power.
President Bush signs the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Ambassador Derek H. Burney of Canada, US Trade Representative Carla A. Hills, and Ambassador Gustavo Petricioli of Mexico witness the event, Washington, DC. 17 Dec 1992
President Bush signs the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday Proclamation (original Bill marking this holiday was signed into law by President Reagan on 02 Nov 83), Freedom Hall Auditorium, Atlanta, GA. 17 Jan 92
President Bush signs the Civil Rights Commission Reauthorization Act in the Rose Garden of the White House. 21 Nov 91
This image shows the Domestic Leadership exhibit on the right, the First Lady exhibit on the left and the Gifts of State exhibit in the background.
Interactive kiosks provide an opportunity to learn about the Bush Administration's domestic policy in the Domestic Leadership exhibit.
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The perfect backdrop for this section on President Bush's domestic policy is the large scale mural that features photos from various programs and initiatives. Sit at an interactive kiosk and learn about the Bush Administration's domestic policy, which included the Americans with Disabilities and Clear Air Acts.
Sculpture, Procession of tribesmen carrying their King Artist: Unknown Medium: Brass, wood, and leather Date: Unknown Gift of His Excellency Nicephore Soglo, President of the Republic of Benin. November 5, 1991
Sculpture, "Dancing Bear" Artist: Pauta Saila Medium: Bronze Date: July 17, 1990 Gift of the Right Honorable and Mrs. Brian Mulroney, Prime Minister of Canada.
Sculpture of rider on camel Artist: Asprey Medium: Sterling silver, gold, and marble Gift of His Majesty Hussein I, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. 20 Apr 89
Painting, "Managua, Nicaragua 1991" Artist: J. Cardenas Medium: Oil on rock Date: 1991 Gift of Her Excellency Violetta Barrios de Chamorro, President of the Republic of Nicaragua. 17 Apr 91
Tooled leather saddle embellished with silver repousse horn and cantle Maker: Unknown Gift of His Excellency Carlos Salinas de Gortari, President of the United Mexican States. 26 Nov 90
The entrance to the Gifts of State exhibit.
This case portrays examples of gifts given by President and Mrs. Bush to leaders of foreign powers.
A closer look at the Gifts of State exhibit. Read about the origin of the numerous gifts presented during the Bush administration.
A closer look at the Gifts of State exhibit. Read about the origin of the numerous gifts presented during the Bush administration.
A closer look at the Gifts of State exhibit. Read about the origin of the numerous gifts presented during the Bush administration.
A closer look at the Gifts of State exhibit. Read about the origin of the numerous gifts presented during the Bush administration.
A closer look at the Gifts of State exhibit. Read about the origin of the numerous gifts presented during the Bush administration.
A closer look at the Gifts of State exhibit. Read about the origin of the numerous gifts presented during the Bush administration.
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Foreign Heads of State often give exquisite works of art and craftsmanship that reflect their nation's artistry, geography, industry, technology, religion, and history. On display is just a sample of the countless gifts received by President Bush while in Office. You can also explore more gifts, and the countries from which they were given, at the interactive kiosk.
Mrs. Bush greets Armenian children at Andrews Air Force Base. 09 Feb 89
Barbara Bush and Millie visit residents of the Bethesda Retirement and Nursing Center, Chevy Chase, MD 27 Feb 90
Barbara Bush celebrates Christmas at Washington Children's Hospital, Washington, DC 06 Dec 90
Barbara and Laura Bush visit Bryan's House for Children with AIDS, Dallas, TX. 30 Oct 91
Exterior wall of the To Help Everyday exhibit, including a portrait of First Lady Barbara Pierce Bush.
A closer look at the To Help Everyday exhibit. When President Bush took office as President, Mrs. Bush told her staff that she wanted to do something each day that would help people.
In this exhibit are some of Mrs. Bush's favorite books. As First Lady, she championed literacy as a way to improve life's circumstances for all. She felt that the ability for all citizens to read and understand would solve a great many of the world's problems.
This exhibit also features a collection of Mrs. Bush's everyday dresses and suits.
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This special area of the museum is dedicated to the First Lady. You can take a look at Barbara Bush's busy schedule and watch a film on Mrs. Bush. The exhibit also contains many artifacts representing her exemplary service during her time as First Lady.
The Literacy Overlook Exhibit highlights several things about the Bush Family and their time at the White House: their strong sense of family, of literacy, of humanity, their love of laughter and time spent together.
A replica Air Force One soars above a replica White House. Inside the White House model, children can select one of three books that Mrs. Bush will read to them.
Another special feature of this exhibit is the bookshelves. As a tribute to Mrs. Bush and her love of literacy, children's books are available for a reading break halfway through the museum.
This seating area provides an opportunity for visitors to view the "Bushes Unplugged" video, which shows candid footage of George and Barbara, bloopers, and clips of comedy bits featuring Dana Carvey and David Letterman.
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The Overlook is the perfect place to settle into a comfortable chair or couch while you read one of the many books available to your kids or grandkids. The kids can crawl inside the White House model and hear Mrs. Bush read one of four different stories. Don't miss the opportunity to survey the grounds behind the Library, which includes a beautiful pond and the Barbara Bush Rose Garden, or watch the entertaining video we affectionately call "Bushes Unplugged."
President Bush meets with some of his senior staff at Camp David. 04 Aug 90
Camp David
The entrance to the Camp David exhibit.
Read more about how much Camp David meant to the Bush Family for holidays, leisure time together, diplomacy and even a wedding.
A replica of President Bush's office at Camp David. Hear his own words as he speaks about the artifacts in the exhibit.
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The Laurel Office at Camp David was the scene of many of President Bush's most important decisions. It was also home to many happy family memories, including Christmases and the marriage of his daughter, Doro. All of the artifacts in the Office come straight from Camp David.
A front view of a piece of the Berlin Wall gifted to President George Bush.
Another look at the Berlin Wall and the Age of Freedom Exhibit
The video next to the piece of the Berlin Wall tells the story of the wall, and more information can be found though the touchscreen and flip book that are underneath the screen.
Interactive kiosks within the Age of Freedom exhibit, detailing other important international events that occurred during the Bush administration.
This exhibit tells the story of Manuel Noriega and the crisis in Panama.
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Perhaps one of the most recognizable symbols of the Cold War is the Berlin Wall. In this exhibit, view a 12-foot tall section that once symbolized oppression, communism and division. Video highlights at the kiosks detail the other important international events faced by the Bush Administration.
Crisis Management Exhibit
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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to advise the President on important decisions? Here is your chance to experience the White House Situation Room, where the President is briefed by his advisors. In the Situation Room, you can learn about the events and decisions that led up to the Persian Gulf War.
Where Duty Required Us to Stand Exhibit
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From the Situation Room, emerge into the Gulf War exhibit. Interactive displays and fiber optic maps detail the events surrounding the battles in the Gulf. Learn how President Bush built a coalition of nations to turn back the aggression of Saddam Hussein and Iraq and to liberate Kuwait.
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This section of the museum details the ecological damage in Kuwait caused by the retreating Iraqi army. As the magnitude of the devastation was revealed, experts speculated it could take three years to get the fires under control. But miraculously, myriad firefighting teams put the fires out in just eight months, the last of which was ceremoniously extinguished on November 6, 1991.
Freedom Tribute Exhibit
Freedom Tribute Exhibit
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According to Kuwaiti custom, when a man gives you the key to his home, he is your friend for life. When a man gives you the door of his home you are a member of his family. A sign of appreciation, this door was a gift from the people of Kuwait to President Bush. Also in this section, you can make a rubbing from the engravings of the names of servicemen and women who died restoring freedom to Kuwait.
President Bush attends a Strawberry Festival in Plant City, FL. 16 Mar 92
President and Mrs. Bush tour the Illinois Farm Exposition at the Illinois State Fairgrounds and addresses the Springfield Community in Springfield, IL. 23 Aug 92
President Bush waves from the back of a train car during his campaign whistlestop in Bowling Green, OH. 26 Sep 92
A Tough Campaign and a Life of Service Exhibit
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The hard fought, but ultimately disappointing campaign of 1992, when President Bush ran for re-election against Bill Clinton, is documented here. Despite President Bush's late surge in the polls, the popularity of the Independent candidate, Ross Perot, siphoned too many votes away in this tight campaign, leading to then Governor Clinton's victory.
President Bush and General Scowcroft boating in the Fidelity in the waters off Walker's Point, Kennebunkport, ME. 28 Aug 89
President George Bush fishing with his son, George W. Bush, off Kennebunkport, ME. 13 Aug 1991
George Bush purchased this 28-foot, 8-inch Cigarette boat in 1973, with the proceeds from the sale of his stock in the Fidelity Printing Company of Houston. This type of boat was designed for offshore powerboat racing on the open sea. Fidelity was equipped with twin 185-horsepower inboard engines and could reach speeds up to 50 mph. President Bush used Fidelity often, not just for fishing and family recreation, but also as a tool of diplomacy in entertaining foreign heads-of-state.
In his book, "Call the Briefing," Marlin Fitzwater, former Press Secretary to Presidents Reagan and Bush, recalled several outings on "Fidelity:" "He loved that boat and fishing more than anything.....He kept it at full-throttle all the way, water spraying over the bow, taking every wave with a thud and a burst of speed. He said it was the closest he could come to duplicating the race of the wind from an open-cockpit airplane, the TBM Avenger he flew during World War II."
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One of President Bush's favorite things was getting out on the water in his speedboat. Here we have his actual boat, Fidelity, which he loved racing on the Atlantic waters off Kennebunkport, Maine, until the boat's retirement in May 1998.
Former President George H. W. Bush celebrates his 75th birthday by skydiving at his library in College Station, TX. 09 Jun 99
Former President and Mrs. George Bush celebrate his 75th birthday. 10 Jun 99
Former President and Mrs. Bush at the opening of the "Fathers and Sons" exhibit at his library in College Station, TX. 11 Mar 02
Former President and Mrs. Bush pose in front of the Library for their 2002 Christmas card photo with their dog, Sadie. 08 Nov 02
Former President and Mrs. Bush read to school children at Carver Early Learning Center, Bryan, TX. 17-18 Mar 03
After losing their young daughter Robin to leukemia in 1953, George and Barbara Bush worked tirelessly to raise money for cancer research. MD Anderson Cancer Center, located in their hometown of Houston, Texas, was very near to their hearts.
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Life after the White House was certainly not boring for the Bushes. They remained active in many volunteer and humanitarian activities. President Bush wrote two bestsellers and completed three parachute jumps, and Mrs. Bush continued her quest for national literacy wrote two bestselling books.
President Bush sits at his desk in the Oval Office of the White House, Washington, DC. 11 Jan 90
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The Points of Light Foundation is an organization devoted to encouraging volunteerism within our communities. This part of the exhibit features a fiber-optic map of the United States, whose lights represent the points of light across America, and an interactive database that allows you to search and view profiles of the 4000 named Points of Light, including those chosen during the Bush Administration.
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President Bush passed away on November 30, 2018. This exhibit highlights some of the many ways he was remembered. Here you can also meet Sully, his service dog.
