One of the most powerful moments inside the newly renovated library and museum at the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center is sitting behind the replica of the Resolute Desk. Crafted from the HMS Resolute, a British Royal Navy ship the U.S. returned to the United Kingdom after it was found abandoned in 1855, the real desk was a gift from Queen Victoria to President Hayes in 1880, and currently sits in the Oval Office at the White House. It’s been used by every president since Hayes except for Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, and has been re-created countless times for TV and film. “You could sit there and have your picture taken,” says Nan Card, curator of manuscripts. The replica, which sits in the museum’s Presidential Gallery surrounded by artifacts such as glassware from Hayes’ time in the White House, is part of a recently completed $1.5 million renovation to the 100-year-old library in Fremont. Sitting near Hayes’ former estate and his tomb, the library and museum was the first of its kind for a president, and includes 14 galleries such as one dedicated to his time fighting for the Union in the Civil War. The new Hayes Family Gallery features a huge family tree taking up an entire wall, which lets us trace the president’s family history, and artifacts from the family’s time living in Fremont such as dollhouses that belonged to his only daughter, Fanny. “Hayes loved his country and his family with equal compassion,” says Card. “The family lived in the house [nearby] until the 1960s, and they had the foresight to save everything that you’re seeing.” Don’t miss: The Reflection Wall in the Life After the White House Gallery lets visitors write a message about how they would make the world a better place. “Sticking it on the wall becomes a reminder,” says Card. Spiegel Grove, Fremont, 419-332-2081, rbhayes.org
Where to Stay: Get presidential treatment at Eagle Isle Day Spa Bed & Breakfast with full service spa treatments available. $350 per night, 2720 N. County Road 198, Fremont, 419-332-4245
Where to Eat: A former speakeasy, Chud’s Grille serves up favorites such as crispy breaded walleye nuggets ($8.29) and the Chud Burger ($4.99) topped with bacon and American cheese. 419-332-9565, 1103 Napoleon St., Fremont, 419-332-9565, chuds.com