Our New York trip began with a tour of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s home and today we toured Theodore Roosevelt’s home. As we moved through the home I could not help but notice the difference between the two homes. Franklin’s home was a square two story home with plain furnishings. His house seemed to be in order all the time. The kids’ behavior was expected to be a certain way. The kids sat at the kids table until Grandma said they could move to the adult table.
Franklin Roosevlet's Home
Theodore Roosevelt's Home
Theodore’s home was very large with many animal mounts, dark woods, and many furniture pieces. The home is one that kids are welcomed which is a good thing because there were six children in the family. I can imagine the children running down the paths and playing on the shoreline. The trees are spectacular and are great for climbing, which I could not resist. One lesson from today is enjoy the scenery. The beautiful, tranquil walk down to Oyster Boy was refreshing. Again I could imagine the kids running down the path, or swinging on the vines. When reaching the water, some took off their shoes and played in the water. Listening to the tour guide, it was apparent the children were encouraged to play and experience life. That is one point I am going to stress to my students. Go out and skin your knees, play in the water, climb a tree, and enjoy your childhood.
Theodore’s home was not all about play. He was a public servant also, He held different public offices which ranged from New York State Assembly man to President of the United States. In 1906, Theodore Roosevelt was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in negotiating a peace treaty. On January 6, 1919 Theodore Roosevelt died in his sleep.
