Category: Presidential Library

California is lucky to have two Presidential Libraries: the Reagan in Simi Valley and the Nixon in Yorba Linda.

I have visited the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum a number of times and have watched it change over the years. The library was originally started by a private foundation in 1990. It is located on land that was previously owned by the Nixon family for a failed citrus farm. The grounds still include Nixon’s childhood home, from 1912, built by Nixon’s father using a mail-order kit.

In 2007, the National Archives and Records Administration took over the collection. Nixon’s daughters Julie and Tricia are still active members of the board of directors. The biggest change in the library was the reinterpretation of Watergate. Other changes include the 2004 addition of the East Wing replica. Also, in 2006, the Army One helicopter arrived. This helicopter was flown during the Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon and Ford administrations. This is the same helicopter that transported the Nixons on their final flight from the White House lawn when Nixon resigned as President of the United States. Now is the time to see it. The helicopter is scheduled to depart the library for extensive restoration.

I have been to more than half of the presidential libraries and this one does a fantastic job at presenting interactive displays. The current permanent exhibit is a fair and honest interpretation of Nixon’s accomplishments and failures. Nixon is responsible for establishing the Environmental Protection Agency as well as Title IX which prohibits any sex-based discrimination in any education-based program or activity receiving federal funding. In addition, he ended the military draft effective 1973. His international work to establish a relationship with the People’s Republic of China after 25 years of no contact is extraordinary.

On the negative side, his campaign promise to dismantle the Vietnam War was painfully slow and frustrating. Nixon’s abuse of power and paranoia was legendary. The Watergate coverup of course, destroyed his presidency and reputation.

The current rotating exhibit celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States and includes President Dwight Eisenhower’s 4 stars, Louis Armstrong’s trumpet and the kitchen display that started Nixon’s famous “Kitchen Debate” with Khrushchev in 1959 when Nixon was the Vice President under Eisenhower.

In summary, the library does a wonderful job at maximizing indoor and outdoor space.