The Filson Historical Society Digital Projects

Closing out the 20th Century: Reagan to Clinton, 1981-2001

Ronald Reagan: President from 1981 to 1989

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Letter from Ronald Reagan to Dr. and Mrs. William C. Gist, Springfield, Louisville, Kentucky, 26 July 1985

26 July 1985: A letter gratefully acknowledging and commending efforts of Dr. and Mrs. Gist in restoring "Springfield," the Kentucky home of President Zachary Taylor. Also compliments them for their participation in the 200th anniversary observance at the Zachary Taylor National Cemetery. Reagan writes that to have a national cemetery named after Taylor is befitting "our twelfth President" who was "first and foremost a military man."

George H. W. Bush: President from 1989 to 1993

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Letter from George H.W. Bush to Miss Patricia N. Richards, 14 August 1974

14 August 1974: Letter from Bush during his tenure as chair of the Republican National Committee to Patricia N. Richards. Letter acknowledges Richards' loyalty to President Nixon but assures her that Republican principles are valid and that President Ford will do a good job. Letter also states that Inaugural invitations from 1969 and 1972 are enclosed (not present).

Bill Clinton: President from 1993 to 2001

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Letter from Bill Clinton to Wendell Ford, Washington, D. C., 25 August 1994 

25 August 1994: Letter thanking Wendell Ford, U.S. senator from Kentucky, for his support of the Crime Bill conference report and his waiver of the Congressional Budget Act.