Trump Opens Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and Unveils New Train and Plane for US 250th Anniversary

On July 1, 2026, President Donald Trump traveled to Medora, North Dakota, to inaugurate the new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. The event was part of a series of symbolic celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence. Trump arrived aboard a specially decorated ceremonial train named "Liberty 250," adorned in red, white, and blue with the dates "1776-2026," which passed through the Badlands region where Roosevelt spent his youth. The train was escorted by riders dressed as Roosevelt's Rough Riders cavalry unit.

The library itself spans approximately 8,900 square meters and cost $450 million to build. It overlooks the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a site significant to Roosevelt's life after the tragic loss of his wife and mother in 1884. During the visit, Trump announced a $750,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to support the library's first year of operations.

The occasion also marked the maiden flight of the newly refurbished presidential Boeing 747, gifted to the United States by Qatar. The plane features a color scheme chosen by Trump, combining red, white, dark blue, and gold. Despite criticism over refurbishment costs and accepting a foreign gift, Trump defended the new aircraft, stating the previous plane was not fitting for the nation and highlighting its advanced security systems.

In a speech delivered at a Wild West-style amphitheater, Trump praised Roosevelt as a symbol of American pride and spirit, drawing parallels between himself and the former president. He criticized his Democratic opponents, labeling them "an unattractive bunch" and vowed that "communists will not stand in our way." The library is scheduled to open officially to the public on Saturday, coinciding with Independence Day celebrations on July 4.