Presidential
Vehicles
Daily Activities at Presidential Vehicles
While there are no scheduled activities today, be sure to see our complete activities listing for upcoming offerings.
Presidential vehicles must provide visibility and security for the chief executive. The Henry Ford’s Presidential Vehicles exhibit traces the changing balance between a president’s need to be seen, and need to be safe. Included in this exhibit are the horse-drawn carriage used by Theodore Roosevelt and presidential parade cars that transported Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. The most prominent vehicle is the 1961 Lincoln Continental Presidential Limousine that John F. Kennedy was riding in when assassinated on November 22, 1963. The vehicle was rebuilt and used regularly by Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon.
Highlights
Interactive Kiosk—Presidential Vehicles
Explore the Kennedy mystique
Interactive Kiosk—Presidential Vehicles
Learn why Kennedy’s limousine doesn’t look like the one in the famous news footage from November 22, 1963. Become a true insider in this one-of-a-kind interactive kiosk.
This interactive experience provides the backstory on President John Kennedy’s limo, along with images and videos on the Kennedy’s mystique and legacy.
Presidential Vehicles
Check out some of vehicles in which 20th century American presidents traveled. You'll see them first-hand when you visit our Presidential Vehicles exhibit in Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation.
President Reagan's Limo
On March 30, 1981, President Reagan sought refuge from would-be assassin John Hinckley, Jr.’s gunfire in this limo.
FDR's "Sunshine Special"
This 1939 Lincoln was the first car built specifically for presidential use.
Eisenhower's Convertible
This Lincoln was built in 1950 for President Truman, but Eisenhower added its distinctive "bubble top."
