The California Historical Society presents California Presidential: Candidates and Campaigns from the Golden State an exhibition of artifacts and ephemera exploring the history of California’s colorful presidential candidates and the important role the State has played in presidential elections. Developed in partnership with the American Political Items Collectors - Northern California chapter, the exhibition highlights an extraordinary collection of campaign memorabilia ranging from vintage political ribbons from the 1800s to contemporary candidates’ posters and everything in between including buttons, bumper stickers, and badges. California Presidential: Candidates and Campaigns from the Golden State offers a fun and fascinating look at the wide array of Californians who either ran, or were urged to run for the presidency. From quirky characters like Pat Paulsen (Straight Talking American Government [STAG] Party) and Gracie Allen (The Surprise Party) to hard-hitting history makers like Ronald Reagan (Republican) and Richard Nixon (Republican), as well as a few controversial groundbreakers like Eldridge Cleaver (Peace & Freedom Party) and Angela Davis (Communist Party, vice presidential candidate), the exhibition examines both the significant and the silly contributions Californians have made to the history of the presidential race.
California Presidential: Candidates and Campaigns from the Golden State continues to delve into California’s presidential past by exploring the State’s role in electing the president. The exhibition includes artifacts and information related to the political conventions held in California, such as the Republican conventions in San Francisco in 1956 and in 1964 and the Democratic conventions in Los Angeles in 1960 and 2000. Major visits to California by noteworthy out-of-state candidates with memorable campaigns, including Dwight D. Eisenhower (I Like Ike), and prominent presidents who toured the state to rally support, such as Theodore Roosevelt, are also integrated into the exhibition.
"In presidential politics, like everything else, California redefines the rules. California Presidential is great politics, great fun, and a great exhibit," explains David Crosson, CHS Executive Director. "From the Prohibition Party to the STAG Party, California has given America some of its most colorful and inventive presidential candidates, including three Republican presidents. You will not want to miss this exhibit."
Another component to California Presidential: Candidates and Campaigns from the Golden State examines the allure of collecting political memorabilia. The American Political Items Collectors started in 1945, has over 2000 members, and is one of the oldest hobby organizations in the country. Members of the APIC, Northern California chapter have generously contributed items from their own collections for use in this exhibition.
"For me, collecting political memorabilia has been a passion since I was 11 years old,” said Adam Gottlieb, President, Northern California chapter, American Political Items Collectors. “When you grasp a button, poster, or a ribbon you are holding history in your hand. These artifacts serve as touchstone to America's political past and inspire countless collectors to pursue a fun, interesting hobby."
