Key West Symposium to Explore Truman's Policies on Cuba, Latin and South America
KEY WEST, Florida Keys — During Harry S. Truman's 1945-53 presidency, he spent 175 days at the Key West residence known worldwide as his Little White House. Friday and Saturday, April 21-22, history and political aficionados can attend the Little White House's Truman Legacy Symposium, learn about the former president's accomplishments and explore Florida's only presidential museum.
The 15th annual symposium examines Truman's policies and actions relating to Cuba, located just 90 miles from Key West, and Latin America and South America.
The keynote speaker is to be Dr. Juan Carlos Espinosa, associate dean and fellow of the Honors College at Florida International University, who is an expert on Cuban political culture. His presentation is titled "Truman, Cuba & A Troubled Legacy."
Other scheduled speakers include Dr. Bradley Coleman of the Virginia Military Institute, former Truman Library associate Dr. Raymond Geselbracht, Dr. Thomas Field of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and Truman grandson and author Clifton Truman Daniel.
Events are to begin at 6 p.m. Friday, April 21, with a reception and Espinosa's keynote presentation on the grounds of the Little White House, 111 Front St. Guided tours of the property, meticulously restored to its appearance in Truman's day, are to be offered. Guests are encouraged to wear tropical attire like that favored by the 33rd president while in Key West.
Saturday's symposium events start at 9 a.m. at Key West's San Carlos Institute, 516 Duval St., a Cuban heritage center founded in 1871. Scheduled presentations and panels spotlight topics including "Tolerant Truman: The 1952 Bolivian Revolution & The United States" and "The Fighting Alliance: Truman, Latin America & the Korean War."
Following the symposium is a night of history, paella, cigars, drinks and camaraderie at the Little White House. Guests can vote for their favorite paella dishes prepared by local celebrity chefs.
Among the evening's planned highlights is a silent auction to help fund the preservation of Truman's legendary poker porch, with auction items to include a replica of the former president's poker table.
Event information and registration: trumanlittlewhitehouse.com or 305-294-9911
Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY
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During his 1945-53 presidency, Harry S. Truman spent 175 days at the Key West residence known worldwide as his Little White House.
Dr. Juan Carlos Espinosa's keynote presentation is to be held on the grounds of the Little White House. Image: Rob O'Neal
Guided tours of the property, meticulously restored to its appearance in Truman's day such as his working desk, are to be offered.