P is for Presidential retreat

The Summer White House

George H. W. Bush descends from the Walkers on his mother's side.  The large home on Walker's Point was constructed in the early 1900s.  Although Walker's Point has been connected with the Walker/Bush families since the 1740s, it was really not until George H. W. Bush ran for the Republican Presidential nomination in 1980—and was eventually chosen as Ronald Reagan's running mate—that the locale became internationally known.  The rocky shoreline and family home became a favorite backdrop for television reporters' "live shots" during George Bush's vice-presidency (1981-88) and subsequent presidency (1989-93).

French President Francois Mitterand, Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, British Prime Minister John Major, Jordan's King Hussein, and—in June 2005—former President Bill Clinton have each been hosted at Walker's Point, along with many celebrities like Jim Nance and the Oak Ridge Boys.

Today the property contains ten buildings, including housing for guests, visiting dignitaries, staff and Secret Service agents.  The former President and First Lady typically arrive for the summer in late May and participate in Kennebunkport's Memorial Day ceremonies.  While at Walker's Point, the Bush family flies the United States and Texas flags from the flagpole.  They regularly attend church and can be seen at various local events.  The former President is frequently spotted at Cape Arundel Golf Course or on his triple-engine powerboat, Fidelity III.

Kennebunkport Souvenirs

The presidential election of George H. W. Bush in 1988 raised Kennebunkport's profile on the national scene and inspired a new line of souvenirs. Each year, thousands of vehicles and tour buses drive down Ocean Avenue for scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and a glimpse of the Bush summer home on Walkers' Point.

Brick Store Museum Collection. Gift of Tom Bradbury, 2005.

Sea Captain Figurines

George H. W. Bush's return to Kennebunkport in May 1993 after leaving office was met with local fanfare. He was presented with a cake topped by these figurines.

Brick Store Museum Collection. Gift of Tom Bradbury, 2005.