The Harry S. Truman Little White House is a not-for-profit foundation that once served as the winter White House for President Truman in 1946-1952 and a Cold War Response site for later leaders. The site is now home to the living Key West museum and a place of retreat for United States government leaders.

  • What is the Harry S. Truman Little White House?
    • The Harry S. Truman Little White House was originally constructed in 1890 for naval officer housing and is the only presidential site in Florida.
  • What historical conflicts was the Little White House used for?
    • The site served as the Naval command headquarters during several major conflicts, including the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II.
  • Which U.S. Presidents have used the Little White House?
    • Six U.S. Presidents have used the house, including William Taft in 1912, Dwight Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy in 1961-62, Jimmy Carter in 1996 and 2007, and Bill Clinton in 2005.
  • Why is the house named after Harry S. Truman?
    • The most significant usage of the house was by Harry S. Truman from 1946-1952. Truman spent 175 days in the home during the winter months of his presidency.
  • What other notable figures stayed at the Little White House?
    • Inventor Thomas Edison and scientist Edward Hayden used the home for long-term stays.
  • What renovations have been made to the Little White House?
    • A $1 million restoration project was completed in 2009, turning the home into the Key West Museum.
  • What is the main attraction at the Little White House?
    • The main attraction is the house itself. Guided tours are offered every 20 minutes throughout the day.
  • Are the furnishings in the Little White House original?
    • Nearly all of the furnishings are original to when Truman resided in the house in 1949. Additional restoration efforts are ongoing to ensure accuracy to the time period.
  • What can visitors see in the gardens?
    • Surrounding the museum is one acre of tropical botanical gardens, enclosed by the original wrought iron fence.
  • Are the gardens open for tours?
    • The gardens are open during daylight hours and are self-guided. However, they are currently undergoing restoration to return them to their 1949 appearance, and some sections may be closed.
  • What makes the Little White House a living museum?
    • The museum is a living museum, meaning it is not restricted to one historic event but instead represents the entire time period of Truman’s presidency and the 1940s-50s history of Key West.
  • Is the Little White House accessible?
    • All public rooms are handicap accessible, and printed scripts are available in multiple languages.
  • Is the Little White House open year-round?
    • The Little White House is open 365 days a year, including holidays. However, it may close on short notice for government or international functions.
  • What is the Truman Symposium?
    • The Truman Symposium is an annual event that requires advance registration. It includes a Friday night welcome reception and a full-day conference on Saturday.
  • What topics are covered at the Truman Symposium?
    • The 2017 program covered Latin and South American policies. Past symposiums have covered topics such as U.S. healthcare policies, The Legacy of the Korean War, Truman’s Nuclear Legacy, National Security, and Civil Liberties.
  • Are there educational programs at the Little White House?
    • Yes, there are field trip opportunities providing a workshop in democracy for students in grades 4 and up. These tours are fully narrated by museum docents and require reservations.
  • What topics do students learn about on field trips?
    • Students learn about the use of the atomic bomb, segregation, armed forces, recognition of Israel, The Truman Doctrine, NATO, Everglades National Park, and The Korean War.
  • What special events take place at the Little White House?
    • Special events include an annual Easter Egg Hunt in April, art exhibitions, and community cook-offs.
  • Can the Little White House be rented for private events?
    • Yes, the estate can be rented for weddings, conferences, holiday events, or private parties.
  • What can visitors find at the Museum Store?
    • The Museum Store features White House collector’s ornaments that can only be purchased in person or online. There are also replicated artifacts commemorating Truman’s presidency and the 1940s-50s era.

Address: 111 Front Street, Key West, Florida, Phone: 305-294-9911

Map:


Plan Your Trip