By WKTV Staff
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum has announced the opening of a dynamic new exhibit, “Ford at 50: Decisions That Defined a Presidency.”
This original exhibit honors the 50th anniversary of Gerald R. Ford’s ascent to the Oval Office, and focuses on the pivotal and often controversial decisions that shaped Ford’s administration. “Ford at 50” can be viewed at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids.
Never-seen artifacts and new insights
Opening on August 9, “Ford at 50” features a blend of immersive set pieces, unique artifacts, and historic film footage, providing an unparalleled window into the critical moments and challenges that defined President Ford’s administration.
Highlights of the exhibit include his difficult decision to grant clemency to draft dodgers, his controversial pardon of Richard Nixon, his aid for Vietnamese refugees, his decisive action following the Mayaguez Incident, and more.
“‘Ford at 50: Decisions That Defined a Presidency’ offers a comprehensive exploration of Gerald R. Ford’s leadership during one of the most turbulent times in American history,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum.
“We invite visitors to gain new insights into the complexities and nuances of Ford’s presidency through this richly detailed exhibit.”
The exhibit will showcase nearly a hundred artifacts, many which have never been seen by the public before, including items from children who came to the United States via Operation Babylift, military medals sent to the President by veterans in protest of Ford granting of partial clemency to draft dodgers, and Head of State gifts given to the President and First Lady as they traveled throughout eastern Europe prior to the Helsinki Accords.
“My goal in developing this exhibition was to create a multifaceted experience for visitors, allowing an in-depth exploration of some of the pivotal moments that shaped Gerald R. Ford’s presidency and legacy,” said Dr. Mirelle Luecke, Supervisory Curator of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum.
Audio visual elements of President Ford’s speeches pertaining to each of the major events and new, engaging set pieces at each section of the exhibit will help visitors experience these historic moments.
Stay tuned…
In conjunction with the exhibit, the museum will host a series of special events honoring the 50th anniversary. Events will include expert panel discussions, film screenings, and invited speakers such as journalists, historians and other scholars to provide deeper context and engagement with the themes of the exhibit.
For more information and event updates, visit Ford Museum.
