President Eisenhower Selects “Aspen” as the Name for Camp David’s Main Lodge (1958)

Date: November 17, 1958

Created By: E.P. Aurand

Original or Replica: Original

Era: The Presidency

Collection: Eisenhower Presidential Library

Citations: Evan P. Aurand Papers, Box 7, Reading File Oct. 2, 1958 – Nov. 19, 1958; NAID #12023031

This memorandum was written by Major General E. P. Aurand, Military Aide to President Dwight D. Eisenhower, to First Lady Mamie Eisenhower on November 17, 1958. The brief note concerns the naming of the Main Lodge at Camp David, the presidential retreat in Maryland. Aurand explains that he had discussed the matter with President Eisenhower, who believed the First Lady would prefer a name associated with Colorado rather than California.

Aurand reports that the President rejected the proposed name “Redwood,” noting its association with California, and instead recommended the name “Aspen.” He expresses confidence that Mrs. Eisenhower would approve of the choice. Though only a few sentences long, the memorandum offers a glimpse into the personal decisions surrounding one of the nation’s most important presidential retreats and reflects the Eisenhowers’ appreciation for Colorado, where they spent significant time throughout their lives.