Bernard Baruch Bench of Inspiration

Bernard Baruch Bench of Inspiration

NPS / Claire Hassler

Quick Facts

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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Bernard Baruch (1870-1965), a financial advisor from New York City, made his fortune on Wall Street. His greatest satisfaction, however, was his service to his country as an economic advisor during World War I and World War II and as a confidante to six presidents. The story is told that Mr. Baruch disliked being driven to the White House to confer. He preferred to sit on a bench and wait for a signal light from the White House indicating that the president was ready to meet with him. He was so well-known in this role that he was dubbed "the Park Bench Statesman," and once received a letter addressed simply, "Bernard Baruch, Lafayette Park, Washington, D.C." A commemorative bench with a bronze plaque set in granite block was dedicated on August 16, 1960, Baruch's ninetieth birthday. The bench is located just northwest of the Jackson statue.

Inscriptions
The Bernard Baruch Bench of Inspiration
Dedicated in Honor of
Mr. Baruch's 90th Birthday - August 19, 1960
For His Inspiring Devotion to Country
And Distinguished Service to Boyhood
By Both The
National Capital Area Council and the Boy Scouts of America
The Boy Scout Motto - Mr. Baruch's Philosophy
"BE PREPARED"
Set in the center of the plaque is a circular plate inscribed to read:
For God and Country
Fifty Years of Service
1910 1960
Boy Scouts of America