The Entry Drive Allee

The Front lane of the Eisenhower Farm near the Millerstown Road

Quick Facts

Location:

Eisenhower National Historic Site

Significance:

Main Entrance to the Eisenhower Home

Designation:

National Historic Site, National Historic Landmark, National Register of Historic Places

Amenities

6 listed

Audio Description, Cellular Signal, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Parking - Auto, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Wheelchair Accessible

In 1954, the Eisenhowers' driveway was lined with fifty-three Norway Spruces, which were gifts to them from Republican State Committees from U.S. states and territories. The trees were along both sides of the driveway with spacing of roughly 100 feet between them. Each had a small bronze plaque indicating which state or territory had provided it. The following year, crabapple trees were planted along the driveway as well, a birthday gift to the president from members of his cabinet.  

In 1955, Eisenhower suffered the first of what would be several heart attacks during his lifetime. That fall, he spent several weeks at his Gettysburg farm recovering and regaining his strength. As part of his rehabilitation, the president took daily walks on his farm, especially up and down the front lane. After his walks, Ike would come back and report to Mamie which state or territory’s Norway Spruce tree he had gotten to that day, using the small bronze plaques to mark his signs of progress and recovery with familiar and beloved landmarks from their property. 

Today, the National Park Service is working to restore the historic allee by replanting missing trees. Since crabapple trees have an average life-span of 30 years, almost all of the originals are long gone. Norway spruce, on the other hand, have a 100-year life expectancy; so with very few exceptions, the original trees still line the drive.