A diorama detailing aspects of Missouri history frames the entrance.

The Library & Museum www.trumanlibrary.org recreate historically critical moments with interactive displays plus audio and visual news clips.

June 25, 2010 marks the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the Korean War. Special exhibit “Memories of Korea” will recall the war and its legacy through the eyes and memories of people who lived and fought there. Mar. 27 - Dec. 31, 2010. Telephone 800-833-1225, 816-268-8200 for information.

For newshounds like me, the curved panorama wall of LIFE magazine stories holds a special fascination. I wanted to read them all, as some visitors seemed to be doing.

Truman was instrumental in White House renovations, as indicated by the replica of the Oval Office when he occupied it. During his second term the entire structure, with the exception of his controversial south wing addition, was declared unsafe and rebuilt from the inside out.

Harry and his wife, First Lady Bess (Wallace), the sweetheart he courted after returning from the trenches of Europe in 1919, are buried in the central court. An eternal flame burns nearby.

With some strings attached, a diminutive Harry greeted us at the Puppetry Arts Institute (11025 East Winner Road, Independence, MO 64052, Tel 816-833-9777). Former staff puppeteer Paddy Blackwood gave us a demonstration of the president’s toastmaster abilities with a lively little song and dance. The Institute gives puppet shows and organizes puppet-making classes in addition to its display of international and locally made puppet collection from creators Robert Smith and Hazelle Rollins.

I think Harry’s lighter side would have approved. With a wry sense of humor he once said: "My choices early in life were either to be a piano player in a whorehouse or a politician. And to tell the truth, there's hardly any difference." [The New York Times]