First Annual Presidents’ Day Celebration with President Jimmy Carter The Jimmy Carter National Historic Site hosted its first Presidents’ Day Celebration with former President Jimmy Carter on Presidents’ Day. The staff was honored to have both President and Mrs. Carter in attendance at the Plains High School Museum, their alma mater, on this special occasion. Dr. W. Gary Kline, Chair of the Department of History and Political Science at Georgia Southwestern State University, spoke on the significance of Presidents’ Day.
Dr. Kline’s presentation focused on presidents Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson, Truman and Carter. Former President Jimmy Carter spoke following Dr. Kline on the Carter Presidency’s greatest moments. His highlights of his presidency on the domestic side included his energy program conducted by a new Department of Energy and major environmental protection legislation including the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act. Foreign policy highlights included the Panama Canal treaties, the Camp David Accords, the treaty of peace between Egypt and Israel, and the establishment of U.S. diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. President Carter stated that he would like to be remembered as a champion of human rights and peace. He stated that during the Carter Presidency, no bombs were dropped and no missiles were launched.
President Carter took several questions from audience members and was available for a book signing. Former First Lady, Rosalynn Carter also addressed the audience briefly during the event, sharing personal stories about her and President Carter’s life together.
Superintendent Gary Ingram stated, “As Jimmy Carter National Historic Site held its first ever President's Day celebration, I was humbled to have President Carter address our visitors and staff. His time and commitment to this park and the National Park Service is deeply appreciated. It is my hope that we honor him as our special guest at all future Presidents’ day events.”
