Ginkgo Tree

Harry S. Truman frequently passed this Ginkgo tree in front of the Wright/Prewitt House on his walks around Independence. Many locals say that on these walks, Truman would stop by the tree and tell it that it was doing a good job and to keep up the good work. Truman was a regular walker and appreciated the exercise. Many people noted that he walked rather quickly after coming home from World War I, likely a result of his military training. However, his pace slowed as he retired to Independence and his regular presence around town contributed to his reputation as a friendly, approachable local celebrity.

Listen to the audio to learn more about what Truman and his friends said about his walking habit, both in Independence and other places!

Harry S. Truman was born in Lamar, Missouri, on May 8, 1844. However, Truman spent much of his life in Independence, both before his time as president of the United States and after. He was known for his presence in Independence around town as well as in the Truman Library & Museum, much larger today than in Truman's lifetime. Even after his death on December 26, 1972, Truman remained a community figure of Independence.

This is one spot on a walking tour to learn more about Truman's life in Independence as well as his personal habits, philosophies, and political life outside of Independence, Missouri.

McCullough, David. Truman. New York, New York: Simon & Schuster, 1992.

Truman, Harry S. Letters Home: By Harry Truman. Edited by Monte M. Poen. Columbia, MO: University of Missouri Press, 2003.