The Funeral Cortege

The Funeral Cortege

Photo: NPS / Kelsey Graczyk

Quick Facts

Amenities

4 listed

Audio Description, Braille, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Tactile Exhibit

"He Died in Harness"

Voters did not know the seriousness of Franklin Roosevelt's heart disease when they elected him to a fourth presidential term. With victory in sight, FDR made a final trip to Eastern Europe and the Middle East. At Yalta, he negotiated post-war agreements with the Soviet Union and Great Britain. On his return, Roosevelt addressed Congress seated, saying, "it makes it a lot easier for me not to have to carry about ten pounds of steel around on the bottom of my legs." He died months before the end of World War II. 

This bas relief (right) by sculptor Leonard Baskin represents a grieving nation. Baskin placed a riderless, blanket-draped horse honoring the fallen commander at the head of the procession. Mourners with heads bowed walk behind the casket. 

FDR died on April 12, 1945. New President Harry truman told reporters he felt as though "the moon, the stars, and all the planets had fallen on me." A horse-drawn caisson transported Roosevelt's body through Washington, D.C., from Union Station to the White House. 

Memorial Quotes in Room Four

"More than an end to war, we want an end to the beginnings of all wars." Undelivered Address, Prepared for April 13, 1945

"Unless the peace that follows recognizes that the whole world is one neighborhood and does justice to the whole human race, the germs of another world war will remain as a constant threat to mankind." Radio Address, February 12, 1943