With former President George H. W. Bush’s 85th birthday on June 12, 2009, came an opportunity to reflect upon what he has meant to the Kennebunks, as well as what the Kennebunks— so often referred to as his “anchor to windward”—have meant to him. The Brick Store Museum unveiled Happy Birthday, “41”! as a History Showcase display. History Showcases are temporary displays that change throughout the year and address a timely theme, current event or new acquisition, thus ensuring that visitors are always seeing something new.
President Bush has frequently stated that he has returned to the Kennebunks every year but one, when he was serving his country in WWII. While the world has come to know George H. W. Bush as congressman, ambassador, Director of the CIA, Vice President and 41st President of the United States, to many locals he is the neighbor, friend, golf or fishing companion affectionately known simply as “41.” This commemorative display drew primarily from the Museum’s Bradbury and Kippax collections, replete with memorabilia telling not so much the national story as the story of the unique Maine connection. Personal snapshots, thank-you notes, Kennebunkport souvenirs, local headlines, campaign buttons, and invitations to area events juxtaposed statesman Bush with citizen Bush and illustrated the intersection of the international political stage with the village green. The iconic home on Walker’s Point that served as the “Summer White House” and backdrop to so many news anchors’ reports is also a retreat, a gathering place where the Bushes reconnect with family and friends, relive memories and create new ones.
This birthday salute included a giant card upon which visitors penned their greetings, which was presented to the President in September 2009. In addition, the display encouraged locals to document their own recollections of the President, First Family, press corps, and Secret Service over the years. These anecdotes were added to the Museum’s archival collections chronicling the President’s enduring presence in the community.
History Showcase made possible by our proud business partners, Ocean Bank, Captain Jefferds Inn, Captain Lord Mansion, and Kennebunk Savings. | >
