Beam signing marks progress for Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library

MEDORA, ND — State officials and guests gathered Wednesday at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library construction site for a beam signing ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the project’s four-year campaign toward completion.

The project has raised over $270 million in private donations, surpassing the initial $100 million needed to unlock a $50 million state endowment.

Gov. Doug Burgum, a vocal advocate for the endowment, emphasized that the state controls the $50 million, generating investment earnings. He highlighted that the library is on track for a grand opening on July 4, 2026, coinciding with the nation’s 250th birthday.

“This historic milestone that we have today is one of many that we’re going to have as this great project moves forward,” Burgum said during the Wednesday, Aug. 14 ceremony. “We’re on a journey to create the best presidential library in the nation. There are 14 others; this will be the best. This will have the biggest impact on generations to come, and it’s going to be a library worthy of carrying the name of our 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt.”

Sen. John Hoeven, who has played a key role in advancing the library’s establishment, attended the ceremony. Hoeven’s efforts include passing legislation that enabled the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TRPL) Foundation to purchase U.S. Forest Service land in Billings County. He worked with local and state officials and the Medora Grazing Association to negotiate the land purchase agreement.

Hoeven also secured provisions in the Interior appropriations bill to support the loan of historic artifacts from the Smithsonian for display at the library. He introduced bipartisan legislation to preserve and display materials related to Roosevelt’s life.

“This library is a historic project for our state, honoring Teddy Roosevelt and the significant impact North Dakota had on his presidency,” Hoeven said. “Today’s milestone is a welcome step in the library’s construction, and we look forward to seeing this tremendous project come to completion.”

U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer also participated in the ceremony.

“It’s hard for me as a former tourism director to exaggerate the impact the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library will have,” Cramer said.

Guests toured the site, learning about the construction and status details. They gathered to sign and watch the beam be lifted and hoisted into position in what will be “The Arena” exhibit at the TRPL.

The architecture firm Snøhetta designed the library to integrate seamlessly with the Badlands, reflecting Theodore Roosevelt’s deep connection to the landscape and his legacy of conservation.

Ed O’Keefe, the CEO of the TRPL Foundation, addressed the crowd and thanked all those present. O’Keefe has played a major role in the development and vision of the library.

O’Keefe, a North Dakota native with a rich background in journalism, aims to make the library one of the most sustainable museums globally, targeting zero energy, water, emissions, and waste.

Addressing the crowd, O’Keefe said, “As I look out today, it’s pretty amazing to see all of the people who are responsible for this incredible event. I think Theodore Roosevelt would have really enjoyed today.”

LeAnn can be reached by phone at 701-456-1212 or via email at lstasiowski@thedickinsonpress.com