President Harry S Truman arrived in Key West for the first time in 1946, after being ordered by his doctor to retreat to a stress-free climate. Built in 1890, the house was renovated for the President in 1948. The guided tour takes you into the lives of Harry and Bess as you explore the rooms of the house. The exhibition room displays a permanent collection of photographs of Presidents Eisenhower and Kennedy. Explore Truman's Winter Home - the Family Quarters, Poker Porch, Dining Room, and the Living Room that includes Truman's Piano. Open Daily.

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Harry S Truman

The 33rd president of the United States, was born on May 8, 1884 in Lamar, Missouri. An excellent student, Truman's parents were unable to afford college for Harry and his eyesight prevented him from attending West Point. Following his high school graduation in 1901, Truman worked at a variety of jobs including farming, oil drilling and banking In 1917, with World War I in full force, Truman joined the Army. He served in France and left the army as a Captain in May of 1919. One month later, he married Elizabeth Wallace. After failing in the haberdashery business, Truman ran for judge in Jackson County, MO. In 1924, he ran for re-election and lost, the only election he ever lost. In 1926 he was again elected judge, a post he held until 1934 when he ran for the U.S. Senate. Truman remained in the Senate until President Franklin Roosevelt tapped him as his running mate for his fourth term in 1944. On April 12, 1945, less than three months as vice president, Harry S Truman was  sworn in as the 33rd president following the unexpected death of Roosevelt. Though not particularly popular during his terms in office, Truman is thought to be one of the best presidents in U.S. history.