The annual event at the James A. Garfield National Historic Site offers visitors an opportunity to explore the historic location and several of its facilities free of charge. The event will be hosted by a historical reenactor portraying First Lady Lucretia Rudolph Garfield.
James Garfield, who ascended to the presidency as the 20th president of the United States in 1880, was shot on July 2, 1881, at a railroad station in Washington. He succumbed to internal hemorrhage and infection on Sept. 19, 1881, according to the White House’s biography page for the former president. In addition to his presidential tenure, Garfield served nine terms in the US House of Representatives starting in 1863.
On Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, visitors are invited to the James A. Garfield National Historic Site for a special event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Other historical figures such as President George Washington and his wife, President Abraham Lincoln and his wife, and President Theodore Roosevelt and his wife will also be portrayed by reenactors on site. Additionally, visitors can partake in presidential-themed games and activities at the visitor center of this historic site.
"Presidents’ Day is one of our favorite holidays and busiest days here at James A. Garfield National Historic Site," said site manager Todd Arrington. "What better place is there to spend Presidents’ Day than a presidential home? We invite everyone to stop by to learn about our Chief Executives and have a little fun here on Presidents’ Day."
The historic site was once home to President James Randolph Garfield and First Lady Lucretia Randolph Garfield; it also served as a campaign spot where thousands of well-wishers were greeted during his presidential campaign. The property includes features such as a carriage house and horse barn, along with a gasholder that housed a gas well. The gasholder was later attached to the carriage house and horse barn. As per the National Park Service, natural gas was discovered on the property in the 1880s.
The James A. Garfield National Historic Site is located in Mentor, Ohio. From November through April, it is open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with guided tours at 10 a.m., as stated on the website for the historic site.
