Meeting Bob Wolz, executive director of The Little White House, is a treat. Ten years ago he came to Key West as a Civil War historian to work at Ft. Taylor. Before he knew it, he was working for Ed Swift as his Head Conductor at Old Town Trolleys, rewriting the drivers' scripts to actually reflect the true history of Key West!
After two years of that he was GM of Old Town Trolleys and, then, Shipwreck Historian at the Shipwreck Museum! There, to this day, he "entertains and imparts historical information." That's of course when he isn't pouring through the vast stores of manuscripts, photos and letters yet to be cataloged at the Little White House.
As much as he has supervised and interacted with the diverse histories of our town, it's when he speaks of Harry Truman that his smile broadens and time ceases to matter. I'm sure that he could talk an enthralling five hours on HST without repeating himself once.
The once run-down and shabby Little White House is being meticulously restored. It is owned by the State of Florida but leased to Ed Swift's Historic Tours of America— a happenstance made possible by Pritham Singh, the developer of Truman Annex.
Speaking wistfully of Truman's "175 days in Key West," Bob is quick to point out that this was "his Camp David"— a place of very real presidentializing, complete with Presidential entourage, Navy stenographer at desk-side, late night poker games (what a table!) dinner parties and first run films in the living room (no TV, natch).
Currently, there are two rooms being prepared as special exhibits: Truman's Presidency & Other Presidents who've used the Little White House (Grant, Coolidge, FDR, JFK and Jimmy Carter) have all entertained here. Wolz pointed out that it's available to any current or former president.
The built-in bar, little out-of-the-way cubbies, sunny veranda and sitting rooms are a real charmer. It's also available for weddings and special dinner parties— and so far it's available for New Year's Eve!
Though my conversation with Wolz often turned to cards and booze, Bob emphasized his commitment to education, once again emphasizing the fact that the building was nearly lost to neglect. "I think the Navy Conch boys would sneak in for beer parties." I should think so.
He singled out Bert Witt, his Curator, for his tireless labor at cataloging Truman's enormous correspondence.
All in all, a trip to The Little White House shows what devoting your career to Ed Swift can do. It also shows one what devoting one's life to Harry Truman can do.
It may not be for everybody, but sitting in the House on a beautiful day, ironically far from the clutter and spiels of trains and trolleys, one could grasp a reminder of what a rare, quiet, wonderful town this city once was.
The Little White House is open from 9-5, 7 days. Admission: $8 adults, $4 children. Info: 294-9911.