Harry S. Truman Little White House
The house was built on the waterfront of the harbor of Key West. In the beginning of the 20th century, the home was converted into a single family dwelling to house the base commandant.
The house has been host to many distinguished guests. Thomas Edison resided in the house during World War I, while working on depth charge research for the U.S. Navy.
In 1946, Harry Truman began visiting Key West for rest and relaxation and returned for 175 days during his presidency. Quarters A was the Winter White House.
President Dwight Eisenhower used the home while recuperating from a heart attack in 1956. In 1961, the Little White House played host to President John F. Kennedy and British Prime Minister Harold MacMillan during the Bay of Pigs incident. The house remained a living quarters for the commanding officers of the base until Truman Naval Station was closed in 1974. In 1996, President Jimmy Carter and his family, visited the home while on holiday and celebrated New Year’s Eve here with family and friends. In April of 2000 the Joint Chiefs of Staff for the U.S., Great Britain, Germany, and France along with their wives had a private dinner at the Little White House.
Our history tellers relate a fascinating & personal glimpse of the most important man of his time.
Key West Old Town Trolley Tours
There’s no better way to see all of Key West than with Old Town Trolley Tours.
The island of Key West is full of fun and exciting things to do and see. From the Southernmost Point to the quaint streets of Old Town, our tour takes you to all the major areas and attractions. See Key West’s first tourist attraction, the Key West Aquarium, which was also the world’s first open air aquarium. Cross the street and you’ll find yourself back in the 1800s at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum, learning about how Key West became one of the richest cities in the US. The Oldest House Museum is also nearby; it is one of the many beautifully restored homes that are open to the public in Key West.
Marvel at the beautiful species of butterflies in the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, and wander next door to the Southernmost House Mansion and Museum, known for its 19th century architecture and tropical gardens. Cool off with a drink at the famous Sloppy Joe’s Bar or Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville in the Old Town area. But don’t leave Key West until you’ve watched the sunset from Mallory Square, a truly memorable experience!
Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Discover the perils of the shipwrecking industry as you journey back in time to 1851. See how the rewards of this dangerous profession made Key West one of the richest cities in America. Artifacts, laser technology, video presentations and live actors as well as a 65-foot observation tower make the museum a unique experience. See and hear film clips, interviews and actual underwater footage in the re-created shipwrecker’s warehouse. Experience the mesmerizing tale of the Isaac Allerton, one of the richest shipwrecks in the history of Key West. Many of the artifacts on display come from her watery grave. Summon all your strength to lift a silver bar salvaged from a Spanish galleon. Learn about Asa Tift and other individuals who made their fortunes in the exciting and perilous world of wreck salvage.
Then climb to the top of the lookout and imagine yourself spotting the wrecks of Spanish galleons and turn-of-the-century cargo ships like the wrecking captains of old. A top attraction in Key West for kids of all ages.
