White House Gates in Ohio - Atlas Obscura
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White House Gates in Ohio

Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums
Fremont, Ohio

After a battle with Congress, Webb C. Hayes installed the gates of the White House on the fence of his father's Presidential Library and Museum.  

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This is one of five sets of gates at Spiegel Grove. Rocksand (Atlas Obscura User)
This is one of five sets of gates at Spiegel Grove. Rocksand (Atlas Obscura User)
A closeup image of the crest on the gates. Rocksand (Atlas Obscura User)
This map showcases Spiegel Grove property. Rocksand (Atlas Obscura User)
Enter through the side gate on Spiegel Grove property. Rocksand (Atlas Obscura User)
The library and museum for Rutherford B. Hayes is open to the public. Rocksand (Atlas Obscura User)
The Presidential seal is visible on this set of gates. Rocksand (Atlas Obscura User)
Tomb of Rutherford B. Hayes and family is located on the property. Rocksand (Atlas Obscura User)
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In 1871, decorative gates and a strong fence made of iron were erected around the White House in Washington D.C. to control traffic and protect the property. By the time the Industrial Revolution approached, the gates were too small to handle the new vehicles invented so updates were made to the White House entry points. Sadly, the ornamental gates were fated for the landfill.  

Fast forward to 1921 when Webb C. Hayes, the son of Rutherford B. Hayes, was quite proud of the presidential work of his father. So proud that he worked to develop and construct the first Presidential library and museum in the United States in Fremont, Ohio.

While in Washington D.C. researching materials for the library, Hayes learned that the decorative gates from the White House were removed. Webb Hayes, a war hero, reached out to Warren G. Harding, the then-president and fellow Ohioan. Harding was happy to oblige, but soon found resistance from Congress who stated that the gates were the property of the country. After six years of debate and legal woes, the gates were finally moved to Fremont, Ohio in 1928. 

Today, there are six sets of gates featured on this triangular property. Each gate features an ornamental seal of the United States. The main entrance to the park for vehicles is located on Buckland Avenue with the gates used for walking traffic.  

Know Before You Go

The property includes the library, tomb, museum, and home of Rutherford B. Hayes. There is also a wonderful walking path on the grounds for a family to enjoy. While walking in the park, visitors will notice that the squirrels are loved and admired by the community. On a visit, be sure to bring squirrel-friendly snacks to feed them. Please check the website for changes to hours of operation and special events.

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