The Grand Canyon’s Visitors
The Grand Canyon is one of the most recognizable natural wonders of the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. Over the years, it has also drawn the attention of many well-known figures, including US Presidents. Numerous Presidents have visited the Grand Canyon, making it a significant destination for world leaders. Here, we explore the history of Presidential visits to one of America’s most stunning natural sites.
First Presidential Visit to The Grand Canyon
The first President to visit the Grand Canyon was Benjamin Harrison in 1899. However, he did not visit the canyon itself but instead viewed it from the veranda of the El Tovar Hotel. It was not until a few decades later that Presidents began to take a more active interest in exploring the area.
Theodore Roosevelt and His Connection to the Grand Canyon
Theodore Roosevelt was one of the most ardent supporters of conservation and the environment, making him a natural advocate for the Grand Canyon. He visited the site in 1903 and was impressed by its beauty and majesty. As a result, he declared the Grand Canyon a national monument in 1908, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The First Sitting President to Visit The Grand Canyon
William Howard Taft became the first sitting President to visit the Grand Canyon in 1909. He traveled by train and horseback to the canyon, taking in the stunning views along the way. Taft was so taken with the beauty of the area that he called it "the most wonderful sight I have ever seen."
Woodrow Wilson’s Visit to The Grand Canyon
Woodrow Wilson made his way to the Grand Canyon in 1913. While he was not an outdoorsman like Roosevelt, he still appreciated the natural beauty of the area. Wilson spent several hours exploring the canyon, taking in the stunning views and marveling at the geological formations.
The Grand Canyon and Warren G. Harding
Warren G. Harding’s visit to the Grand Canyon in 1923 was not without controversy. Harding and his entourage took a train to the canyon, causing significant damage to the environment along the way. Despite this, Harding was struck by the beauty of the area and pushed for conservation efforts.
Calvin Coolidge’s Grand Canyon Visit in 1927
Calvin Coolidge visited the Grand Canyon in 1927, becoming one of the first Presidents to fly to the site. He took a helicopter tour of the area, getting a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape. Coolidge was impressed by the beauty of the canyon and encouraged others to visit.
The Grand Canyon and Herbert Hoover
Herbert Hoover visited the Grand Canyon on several occasions, but his most notable visit was in 1930. He traveled to the site with his wife and several other dignitaries, taking in the stunning views and exploring the area. Hoover was a strong supporter of conservation efforts, and his visit helped to raise awareness of the importance of protecting the environment.
Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Grand Canyon Visit during the Great Depression
Franklin D. Roosevelt visited the Grand Canyon in 1933 during the height of the Great Depression. He saw the trip as a way to boost morale and promote tourism in the United States. Roosevelt and his wife took a mule ride through the canyon, and he was struck by the natural beauty of the area.
Harry S. Truman’s Visit to The Grand Canyon
Harry S. Truman visited the Grand Canyon in 1953, taking in the stunning views and exploring the area. Truman was impressed by the natural beauty of the canyon and recognized the importance of conservation efforts.
The Grand Canyon and Lyndon B. Johnson’s River Trip
Lyndon B. Johnson’s visit to the Grand Canyon in 1964 was unique in that it involved a river trip. Johnson and his wife, Lady Bird, spent several days rafting down the Colorado River, taking in the stunning views and exploring the area. Johnson was struck by the natural beauty of the canyon and recognized the importance of preserving it for future generations.
In conclusion, the Grand Canyon has been a destination for many well-known figures, including US Presidents. From Theodore Roosevelt’s conservation efforts to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Great Depression morale-boosting visit, each President who has visited the Grand Canyon has recognized the importance of preserving this natural wonder for future generations.
