Reagan Library Review

On December 31, 2009, I had the pleasure of visiting the Ronald Reagan library. As my companion and I walked the grounds leading up to the front desk, we noticed signs barring the use of backpacks. This was a bit unsettling since my companion's backpack is purely for his camera and accessories which we were happy to have along for a trip of this nature. But our fears were put to rest when we were at the front desk and bought our tickets. The back pack was searched and we were able to take it along through the library. Of course, anyone these days should understand backpacks being searched for security reasons.
The first area that we went into was the Hall of Heros. There were many heros of our time and before that were recognized with pictures and memorabilia, but I was especially impressed at how up to date they were as they had a special plaque for Sully.
We also enjoyed perusing the memorabilia from President Reagan's childhood in Dixon Illinois.
One of the most beautiful exhibits was the Hall of Christmas trees from 26 different countries. I was amazed at how creative people from different places could be in decorating their Christmas trees. It was truly a sight to see and no words can describe it.
Throughout the library, I was also astonished at all of the gifts that had been given to the Reagans from different Kings, Queens and dignitaries from around the world. I wondered to myself if they got to keep any of the items for their families or if it is understood that all items would be donated to the library. They were truly beautiful items and as much as I was happy to be able to view them, I would imagine that some items that are gifts may have personal meaning.
There was the Airforce One Pavillion that was a sight to behold. They actually have Airforce One in the Pavillion. I had no idea that the actual airplane would be in the library. There was quite a line of people waiting to be able to walk around and look inside. We decided that we would forgo that pleasure for that particular day. I hope to go again someday as their were a lot of interesting things to take in.
The last part of the library has a replica of the oval office from Reagan's time and a lot of memorabilia from the Reagan Ranch including many of his belt buckles. Again, I hope the family kept some of them as family heirloom's, but again, I was very happy for the opportunity to look at them.
I'm not a political history buff or anything even close to that, but I must say, this visit was better than going to the Natural History Museum which I had really been looking forward to. There was just so much really great stuff to look at and take in.
And the final impressive point about this visit is how much I miss having a President in office who is so well spoken. There were at least a few areas in the Library where you get to view some of Ronald Reagan's best speeches. He was such an eloquent and moving speaker. I so miss that. I hope that someday we can have a President who makes us proud of being an American as much as Ronald Reagan did.