March 03, 2015

A letter from George H.W. Bush

One of the most notable people to visit Beloit College came in 1978: George H.W. Bush.

At the time, George H.W. Bush had just completed his tenure as director of the CIA and was about to throw his hat in the ring for the Republican nomination for U.S. president.

During a visit to campus, Bush stayed overnight at the invitation of President Martha Peterson. Later, he wrote to Peterson about his “cozy room,” the tasty food, and his positive impressions of Beloit, experienced in no small part through his stay in the historic President’s House. The following year, Barbara Bush was an overnight guest, too.

The Letter

Original

A letter from George H.W. Bush to Beloit President Martha Peterson after a visit in 1978.

Transcription

Dear Martha,

Isn’t it funny how a little contact can turn into a neat experience. I just loved my visit to Beloit (so did Karl, so did Craig). I liked it all – your staff people – not just Ann who spoiled us sick but all the professional staff; the lively press conference; the exchange with the students; my cozy bedroom; your wonderful dinner guests; those biscuits (darn you Ann); my walk; but most of all being taken in by all in such a warm way.

I like what I saw at Beloit – I loved their feeling for you.

Shishi ni, wode pengyou– wo shi hen gaoshing–

George

Staff Note

We believe the last line to mean:

“Thank you, my friend– I am very happy–”

谢谢你, 我的朋友– 我是很高兴–
Xièxiè nǐ, wǒ de péngyǒu– wǒ shì hěn gāoxìng–


Also In This Issue

  • Sea lions playing in the beach waves in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

    Rolling in the Waves

    more
  • Jessica Vogel’15 identifies a painting she created in a workshop with Chinese landscape painter Master Zhang Jin.

    Arts and Culture

    more
  • What was done, and what must be done

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  • Record Applications

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