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Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Leg Braces Used by Franklin Roosevelt
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.

Leg Braces Used by Franklin Roosevelt

Artifact IDMO 1998.3
Object Type Brace, Leg
Maker
Date20th century
Mediumsteel, leather, elastic
Dimensionsoverall (width at thigh / depth at foot) H 36 1/2 in x W 7 1/2 in x D 6 1/2 in (92.7 cm x 19.1 cm x 16.5 cm )
Physical DescriptionA pair of steel leg braces, left leg (a) and right leg (b). The braces follow the inner and outer contours of legs. Metal collars slide to lock and unlock the hinged knees. Leather padding and straps are at the upper thighs and below the knees. Rounded leather pads are placed at the hinges on the inside of the leg. The bottoms of the leg braces are fitted with hinged ankles and flat metal foot plates with leather pads. Each brace weighs approximately five pounds.
Historical NoteFDR could not stand without the support of leg braces. They were strapped to his legs and locked at the knees. These steel and leather braces each weigh approximately five pounds. In order to appear to walk in public, Roosevelt used a cane and a strong companion’s arm to support his weight while he pitched his body forward. This required skill and considerable upper body strength, developed through practice and exercise.
Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPersonal Possessions of the Roosevelt Family (National Archives Identifier 782689)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestricted
CopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view
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