Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation

10/08/2026

President Ford reflected on the Nixon Pardon years later and why he thought it was necessary.

Gerald Ford discusses his reasoning for pardoning Richard Nixon whe...

10/05/2026

What would you ask Thomas Jefferson if you could meet him face-to-face?

This November, you can get pretty close!

Acclaimed historical actor Bill Barker brings Jefferson to life at the Ford Presidential Museum in a fascinating first-person performance exploring the man behind the history—the ideas, ambitions, contradictions, and legacy that continue to shape America.

Thursday, Nov 5, 6:30 PM. Cost is FREE.

Come meet Thomas Jefferson and experience history differently. Register today!

Back to All Events An Evening with Thomas Jefferson Thursday, November 5, 2026 6:30 PM 7:30 PM Google Calendar ICS Thomas Jefferson Comes to Lifewith Bill BarkerExperience history in a remarkable new way as acclaimed historical actor Bill Barker brings Thomas Jefferson to life in a first-person ...

10/01/2026

The Jonathan Turley program at the Ford Library in Ann Arbor was packed last night, and we are expecting the same when he speaks in Grand Rapids this evening. If you'd like to catch Professor Turley's program, where he talks about his book "Rage and the Republic: The Untold Story of the American Revolution," watch the livestream here starting at 6:30 PM:

Join us for an evening with George Washington University professor ...

09/29/2026

SCOUTS - we only have 4 Cititzenship Merit Badge classes left at the Ford this fall, and one is nearly sold out. Sign up link is in the comments:

10/17 Citizenship in the Community **only 1 seat left**
10/17 Citizenship in the World
11/21 Citizenship in the World
11/21 Citizenship in the Nation

Michigan Crossroads Council, Scouting America

09/28/2026

How well do we really know the American story? Join Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Beverly Gage at the Ford Presidential Museum for a fascinating journey through the people and places that have shaped our nation.

Drawing from her new book, "This Land Is Your Land," Gage explores America through unexpected landmarks and stories we often overlook, offering a fresh perspective on our complicated past and what it means to love our country.

- October 28, 6:30 PM - Cost: FREE - Ford Presidential Museum
📚 Book signing to follow

09/18/2026

FORTY FIVE AND LOOKING FINE! Help us wish the Ford Presidential Museum a happy birthday today!

In 1981, the Museum opening kicked of the first "Celebration on the Grand" with week of events around town that included a parade, the Museum grand opening, unveiling the remodeled Amway Grand Hotel, the filming of the "Bob Hope special Grand Rapids,” and more.

Everyone was dazzled by the world leaders and celebrities that descended upon an otherwise quiet city, including Bob Hope, Pearl Bailey, Sammy Davis, Jr., Glen Campbell, President Ronald Reagan, Vice President George H.W. Bush and Ladybird Johnson.

Here's to another 45 years of Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum history.

09/11/2026

We are proud to be the location for what might be the longest-running 9/11 commemoration in the nation outside of NYC. The Community Day of Remembrance and Scout Salute, hosted by Michigan Crossroads Council, Scouting America, is marking 25 years since the 9/11/2001 attacks.

All are invited to participate in a 3-minute salute, which runs from sun-up til sun-down. You don't have to be a first responder or Scout pay your respects. (And yes, as you can see, you can bring your dog, too.)

09/11/2026

Want to explore downtown GR through the eyes of Jerry and Betty Ford? 👟

Join us for a FREE 90-minute walking tour! Register today: https://www.devoslearningcenter.org/walking-tours

09/10/2026

Kent County Educators, do you want more ideas for bringing local history to life in your classroom?

Join us at the Ford on October 20 for an engaging day of professional learning designed to strengthen place-based learning and inquiry-driven social studies instruction.

Led by iCivics, this hands-on workshop will explore how the stories, people, and events of Grand Rapids and Kent County can spark curiosity and deepen student learning. Discover practical ways to connect your students with the history happening right in their own community.

Bonus: You can also tour the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, the only presidential museum in the state.

Space is limited—register today: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/2snnyq7

Kent ISD

09/09/2026

Earning a Scouting America merit badge at a presidential museum is a pretty unique experience, so it never surprises us when classes fill up. In our fall lineup, we are already starting a waitlist for the 10/17 Citizenship in the Community, and the 9/19 combo class is nearing capacity, too.

Don't delay - if your student is aiming to earn their Eagle, sign them up today for the merit badge classes they need!

https://www.devoslearningcenter.org/citizenship-badges

Michigan Crossroads Council, Scouting America