Presidential Chandelier
As the summer encapsulates us with its hot temperatures here in the Midwest, it may be a good time to take trips to museums, libraries, and cathedrals, absorbing the history within these places with all our senses, admire the architectonical styles and decorations of these structures, and of course cool off at the same time.
Recently, I made such a trip to the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum & Boyhood Home in Abilene, Kansas. This library was one of many on my imaginary list to visit. At their gift shop, I purchased the Passport to Presidential Libraries, which I wished I already owned sooner during my previous visits to other US presidential libraries and museums. Nevertheless, my first official stamp is there!
In Abilene, I absorbed information and visually appreciated all the exhibit spaces, including the constant presence of the president’s nickname, Ike. It evoked memories of my childhood, as some friends called me Ika. Then I walked toward the library building on the opposite side of the spacious outdoor area.
As I made my way into the building, a large chandelier received my attention, hanging high from the ceiling. I stepped closer to see what this enclosed atrium in the lobby is and what it represents, with such a nice chandelier hanging high above. So I started reading the panel (see photo) and my eyes were immediately drawn to the word “Czechoslovakian.” My heart jumped.
The description said this area is the library courtyard and the crystal chandelier was presented to President Dwight D. Eisenhower at the 1959 Trade Fair in New York City, during his visit to the Czechoslovak pavilion.
It was a nice feeling – finding a homeland connection in unexpected places (note: I was born in former Czechoslovakia). I wished I could show this elegant crystal chandelier, majestically hanging from the ceiling to my trip companion, who rested on one of the outside benches, so I at least took a few photos to share, and now I am also sharing them with you.
Interestingly, the Czechoslovak exhibit that President Eisenhower visited in NYC, received excellent reviews, including from former first lady Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt, who mentioned it in her papers. Here is a citation: “It seemed to me that Czechoslovakia has a most beautiful exhibit. The Czechs must have someone in charge of foreign exhibits who has a real artistic flair. For at the Brussels World's Fair last year the exhibits in the Czechoslovak building were among the finest there, and here her products are as well displayed as possible.” Eleanor Roosevelt, "My Day, May 21, 1959," The Eleanor Roosevelt Papers Digital Edition (2017), accessed 7/14/2024.
The Czechoslovak Pavilion at Expo 58 Brussels World’s Fair, in Brussels, Belgium, that lady Eleanor Roosevelt mentioned in her correspondence, was officially awarded as the best pavilion of Expo 58. About 6 million people paid visit to just this pavilion alone! The famous Laterna Magika was introduced there for the first time – at that time a new phenomenon - the first multimedia theater in the world.
I am attaching a few pictures, for you to see the crystal chandelier brought from Czechoslovakia, which found its home at the Abilene, KS, Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, the main entrance with a gift shop, and a photo of me standing in front of the boyhood home.
So, what is your unexpected discovery of Czech or Slovak connection during your summer trips?
Looking forward to your blog.
S pozdravom, Iveta B.
