Jun 28, 2024, 6:20 PM
Jun 27, 2024, 12:00 AM

Theodore Roosevelt's stolen pocket watch recovered after 37 years

Highlights
  • The pocket watch of President Theodore Roosevelt, stolen 37 years ago, is finally returned to his family home.
  • The stolen watch, taken from a museum in Buffalo, New York, was found and returned to Sagamore Hill National Historic Site.
  • After almost four decades of being missing, the cherished possession of Theodore Roosevelt is back where it belongs.
Story

In a significant historical moment, a pocket watch belonging to the 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, has been returned to his family home on Long Island after being stolen almost four decades ago from a museum in Buffalo, New York. The silver pocket watch, engraved with Roosevelt's name and the initials of his younger sister and brother-in-law, was ceremoniously repatriated to the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site in Oyster Bay, where Roosevelt had his "Summer White House" during his presidency. The watch holds great sentimental value as it accompanied Roosevelt during pivotal moments in American history, including his leadership of the Rough Riders during the Spanish-American War and his exploration of the Amazon River in 1913. Roosevelt's personal connection to the watch was evident in a letter he wrote to his sister expressing gratitude for the gift. The watch will now be displayed at the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, allowing visitors to connect with the rich history it represents. Officials from the National Park Service and the FBI were present at the formal repatriation ceremony, underscoring the collaborative effort to return this significant artifact to its rightful place. Despite its modest appearance, the watch's historical significance lies in its association with Roosevelt's remarkable life and presidency. The return of the watch to Sagamore Hill marks a poignant moment in preserving and honoring the legacy of one of America's iconic leaders. The watch's journey from being a stolen artifact to a cherished historical item underscores the enduring impact of Theodore Roosevelt's legacy. Its return to the place where he spent the final years of his life serves as a reminder of his contributions to American history and the enduring value of preserving such artifacts for future generations to appreciate. The watch's presence at the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site will undoubtedly enrich the visitor experience and further illuminate the remarkable life of President Theodore Roosevelt.

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