Remembering Reagan

I posted on Instagram a few weeks ago with a photo from the Pompeii Exhibit at the Ronald Reagan Library in Southern California. So many had commented they had never visited and so I thought it would be a great time to tell you about the library, which is a great place to visit, regardless of the temporary Pompeii exhibit (which is also extremely interesting to see).

So, I hadn’t been to the Ronald Reagan Library in about 10 years, prior to this most recent visit to see the Pompeii exhibit (stay tuned for that next week). Honestly, I had forgotten how wonderful the library (actually more of a museum) is to visit and so much has been added to the collection since I went last, which made the trip even better.

Just 45 minute’s drive from downtown Los Angeles, this beautiful library sits in Simi Valley and is the final resting place of the United State’s 40th president. The surroundings are spectacular as it is perched high on a mountaintop with incredible views of the mountains, valleys and Pacific Ocean surrounding it.

Inside, there are 24 galleries with informative displays and remarkable artifacts to explore. Historical documents and interactive displays all showcase the achievements of the nation’s 40th president. It starts with his younger years, including his days as an actor in Hollywood.

Then, it’s on to his path to becoming the governor of California.

Eventually, leading to the presidency of the United States and his rise as a significant world leader.

There’s even a full-size replica of the Oval Office that looks exactly as it appeared when President Reagan was in office. Just for fun, you can even have the chance to experience what it was like to give the inaugural address in front of an audience. I tried to look serious when giving my address, but I ended up just looking rather cross instead! Good thing I’m not president and giving that speech for real, but it was fun to pretend.

A highlight for me was visiting the Airforce One Pavilion. You can actually climb aboard the actual aircraft nicknamed “The Flying White House” that flew President Reagan to 26 countries and 46 states. In addition to Reagan, the aircraft flew Nixon, Ford, Carter, H. W. Bush, Clinton and W. Bush – all incredibly remarkable men throughout history. But unfortunately no photos were allowed (sorry, just looks like you’ll have to go see it for yourself, I guess).

Also, on display, are the Marine One helicopter and the Presidential Motorcade. Interesting fact: Almost half of the walls of the building containing the aircraft were actually built AROUND the aircraft after it arrived on location! After you have had a chance to see the vehicles, there is a small Irish pub inside the Pavilion if you want to take a little break.

Did you know that RR wrote in his personal diary virtually every day during his eight years as president? Excerpts from this personal gem are also on display at the museum.

Much rightful attention is given to his wife Nancy Reagan who was integral to his success. Their strong devotional relationship is felt with items that reveal a glimpse in to their lives.

The grounds of the library are equally impressive. A replica of the White House Rose Garden is in the back and contains one of the first pieces of the Berlin Wall (fitting as he was the one who gave the “Tear Down This Wall Speech”). More explanation is also given inside about the Berlin Wall and its significance.

Whether you live in Southern California or are just visiting, I highly recommend that you visit the Ronald Reagan library. Parking is free but limited, so I suggest you get there early otherwise you need to find a space going up the street and will have to walk up the hill. Stay tuned for next week when I talk about the temporary exhibit on Pompeii.

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