History Happy Hour: Dear Bess, Love Harry

National Archives at Kansas City
Kansas City, MO

He first saw her in Sunday school at the age of six. "She had golden curls and… beautiful blue eyes," he recalled. They graduated from high school together in 1901, but went their separate ways until becoming reacquainted nine years later in 1910. Then Harry Truman began his first and longest campaign…to win the heart of Bess Wallace. Archivist Tammy Williams will tell the story of the Truman’s love and devotion to each other through the letters they exchanged over their nine year courtship and fifty-three years of marriage.

This event is offered in partnership with Happy Hour -- an upscale wine, beer, spirits, cigars and gifts store in Independence. Owner Carolyn Marsh and Beverage Specialist Sean will pour tastings of: Monk & Honey beer from Torn Label and Romantic Chemistry from Dogfish Head Brewery, Dreaming Tree Chardonnay, and Four Roses Bourbon. Truman Library Institute members are free, price of museum admission for non-members. Limited space available. Email Truman.events@nara.gov to RSVP. Program offered in partnership with Truman Library.