The Michael J. Spinelli, Jr. Center for University Archives and Special Collections is pleased to sponsor an exciting look back at the rich history of politics in New Hampshire with a new exhibit “Memories of Presidential Primaries Past.”
Given New Hampshire’s unique role in holding the first in the nation primary, Plymouth State has been fortunate to host many presidential candidates, and those who have campaigned on their behalf. This exhibit, located on the Upper Level of the Library and Lamson Learning Commons outside the Spinelli Archives, includes photographs found in the University Archives, entries from The Conning Tower Yearbook, and buttons and memorabilia on loan from PSU faculty and staff.
Featured in this photo is a montage of visits from Republican candidates in the 1980’s. On the left, George Herbert Walker Bush addressed an audience in Plymouth on February 4, 1980 during his first bid for the White House. Bush, the father of current U.S. president George W. Bush, went on to get the nod for Vice President under Ronald Reagan who eventually won the nomination and the Presidency.
In the other two photos, Senator Robert (Bob) Dole chatted with voters at Plymouth during his 1988 run for the GOP nomination. The senator may have lost the nomination to then Vice-President Bush, but he did come away with a fine jersey with the number ‘88!
Alice Staples and Susan Jarosz, from Spinelli Archives, and Anne Kulig, contributed to this story.
One Comment
First, I am very sorry that this comment is late! However, the archives and the exhibit that is presented is great. Speaking as a Political Strategist, a Historian, and a Student this exhibit is phenomenal. Susan Jarosz and Professor Alice Staples were definitely great assets. Susan even directed me to another great “Primary” resource in both terms of the word when she connected me with Professor Eileen Bennett who also provided me with a great interview. I went into the archives looking for background and research on the New Hampshire Primary for Dr. True’s Classroom Management Class. This is a unit I was planning on developing for when I teach. however, I would recommend any Professor who is even remotely interested in Politics, The New Hampshire Primary or history thereof to take a trip to the archives in Lamson Library its worth the walk over. This collection from Professors across the campus of buttons, pictures, and memorabilia is great. This resource is essential for any historian who wants to understand why New Hampshire is New Hampshire and why today Senator John Edwards said today that New Hampshire is entrusted by the people of the country to make this vital choice. This exhibit can convey that much power and history to all people.
Sincerely,
Curtis C. Roddy
Senator and Historian
105th Student Body Senate
Street Team Coordinator
Presidential Lecture Series Committee
Vice President
PSU Democrats
Volunteer Director
PSU Students For Hillary
At Plymouth State University