The Theodore Roosevelt
Association (TRA) was founded in 1919 and chartered by Congress in 1920 to
preserve the memory and ideals of the 26th President of the
United States.
But Theodore Roosevelt was so
much more than a President, and so it seems fitting that the TRA, dedicated
to his memory, also has a wide variety of activities.
The programs and activities of
the TRA range from the prestigious TRA Police Awards, given in New York,
Dallas, Boston, and other cities to police officers who have overcome
handicaps and continue to render outstanding service, to the Teddy Bear
program, which each year gives a Teddy Bear to hospitalized children in New
York City during the December holiday season.
The TRA also conducts many
historical and educational programs, such as essay and public speaking
contests for students, and helps public sites dedicated to TR.
At various point the TRA has
been the owner of several important historic sites including Sagamore Hill,
the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace, and Theodore Roosevelt Island in
Washington, D.C. Through the years these sites have been given to the
American people by the Association and are now operated for the public
benefit by the National Park Service.
Past Annual Dinner/Meeting
(more of a mini conference) sites include the aircraft carrier USS
Theodore Roosevelt, the Roosevelt Study Center in the Netherlands,
Sagamore Hill and Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace in New York City.
The TRA’s membership is as
varied as were TR’s interests. Members include historians and writers,
outdoor enthusiasts, supporters of the Navy, conservationists, Rough Rider
fans, political buffs and collectors, admirers of TR’s ideals, and those
who simple love "Teddy" bears!
The TRA invites anyone
interested in helping perpetuate TR’s legacy to become a member.
Membership includes a
subscription to the TRA Journal, invitations to Association functions, and
the satisfaction of participating in the preservation and perpetuation of
America’s history!
The New England Chapter was
formed to support the ideals of TR, the TRA on a regional basis.