Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Traveling Secretary Used by George Washington
Artifact IDMO 1947.93.485
Object Type
Desk, Portable
Maker
Unknown
Date18th century
Mediumwood (mahogany), metal (brass)
Dimensionsoverall (depth without key) H 10 in x W 9 in x D 5 in (25.4 cm x 22.9 cm x 12.7 cm )
Physical DescriptionA small mahogany traveling secretary supported by four ball feet, featuring marquetry designs and a hinged panel that opens forward to create a flat writing surface. The exterior of the panel is decorated with an inlaid wood 16-segment fan design and includes a keyhole with a small metal key. The interior contains one fixed shelf and an inlaid wood compass rose design on the hinged panel.
A brass plaque mounted to the exterior top of the secretary has the inscription: "Presented to Franklin Delano Roosevelt / Governor of the State of New York / by Miss Myra H. Avery / November 1930." An additional brass plaque mounted to the bottom front exterior reads: "Traveling Secretary / Formerly the Property of / George Washington".
Historical NoteThis mahogany is connected to three American presidents. Originally owned by George Washington, it was later used by President Woodrow Wilson during the 1919 Paris Peace Conference. In November 1930, the desk was presented to Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt by Myra H. Avery of Poughkeepsie, New York.Additional DetailsA brass plaque mounted to the exterior top of the secretary has the inscription: "Presented to Franklin Delano Roosevelt / Governor of the State of New York / by Miss Myra H. Avery / November 1930." An additional brass plaque mounted to the bottom front exterior reads: "Traveling Secretary / Formerly the Property of / George Washington".
Custodial History NoteDonated as a bequest of Franklin D. Roosevelt to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in 1947.
Credit LineEstate of Franklin D. Roosevelt
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGift Items and Commemorative Artifacts (National Archives Identifier 782690)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedCopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.In Collection(s)
Not on view
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