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May 27, 1938

President Franklin D. Roosevelt addresses Arthurdale graduates

President Franklin D. Roosevelt visited Arthurdale and delivered the high school's commencement address on May 27, 1938. The occasion is remembered as the only high-school commencement address of his presidency, placing the small Preston County community on a national stage.

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Where this entry comes from

FDR Presidential Library speech file 1135; American Presidency Project; West Virginia History OnView 005249; Arthurdale Heritage

From the James Brown collection

Roosevelt’s arrival in Reedsville

The supplied identification connects this scene to Roosevelt’s arrival for graduation at Arthurdale. The photograph’s date has not been independently confirmed.

Crowds and automobiles beside a passenger train and brick building, identified as President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s arrival in Reedsville.
Identified as President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s arrival in Reedsville, West Virginia, for graduation ceremonies at Arthurdale. The photograph is undated; the occasion may be his May 27, 1938 visit. Photos courtesy of the James Brown collection. Open image in separate tab

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