School's out for summer: Part 2

Our Memorial Day long weekend concluded with us taking a trip to the little township of Warm Springs, a quaint, hilly township, which is home to the Little White House - Franklin Delano Roosevelt's retreat.

The Little White House was a lot more interesting than I'd expected, and we spent several hours taking in the museum, the house itself, gardens and gallery. We were lucky to have met a charming guide, David Burke, who was as enthusiastic and interested in Australia and our government, as we were in his.

I'm not afraid to acknowledge my ignorance, especially when it comes to American history, and taking time to visit a museum like this really brings history to life. Even Isabella was engaged and actively learning about FDR, thanks to an activity sheet from David. 

Amongst some of the tidbits we learnt were that this American President served a record four terms, had a Scottish Terrier called Fala, was stricken by polio as a child, and primarily came to Warm Springs for the restorative effects of the natural springs, and suddenly died there, whilst having his portrait painted, only a couple of weeks before the end of WW2.

The unfinished portrait, for which he was sitting when he collapsed of a stroke

The same artist later completed another painting of FDR

This is for you, Poppa!!

Admiring the wheels ... It was a beautiful thing! 

Gorgeous tea service - I love the little birdy salt and pepper shakers!!

David sharing his knowledge and setting Isabella off on her fact-finding mission

There was even an Aussie item in the museum ...

 

Isabella looking for "the number of panic buttons in the living room" ... this is where FDR was sitting for his portrait when he collapsed.

Counting the state flags and stones ... There were 53!

On sentry duty - or off!?

We were starving by the time we'd finished and shared a picnic near the carpark ... Just as well we'd left our alcoholic ciders in the car!

Off home, to Abby Cadabby ... and the imminent arrival of more family.