Photos from Star’s archive reveal Harry Truman in candid moments beyond the presidency
By Monty Davis
Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president of the United States, served from 1945 to 1953. He is remembered for decisive leadership during the closing months of World War II, the beginning of the Cold War, and the implementation of the Marshall Plan. Truman, a Missouri native, he remained closely connected to his hometown of Independence throughout his life.
The Star has curated a series of rare photographs that show Truman in more personal and candid moments. These images capture him away from the formal pressures of the presidency and highlight his human side. From vacations to casual walks in his hometown, the photos offer a glimpse into the life of a leader beyond the office.
One photograph shows Truman treading the waters of Delaware Bay during a 1946 vacation cruise to Bermuda, wearing swimming trunks and enjoying the warm water. Another shows him proudly holding a fish he caught during the same trip. In these moments, the president appears relaxed, far removed from the weight of global politics.
Truman’s interactions with friends and the public also reveal his approachable nature. In 1945, he played piano alongside actress Lauren Bacall and later with comedian Jack Benny at the National Press Club. These playful moments show a president willing to step into everyday pleasures and share a laugh with those around him.
Harry and Bess Truman, both avid readers, are absorbed in their books during a typical evening of after-dinner relaxation in their home in Independence, Missouri, in 1953. Kansas City Star archives
President Harry S. Truman makes toast in the kitchen as his wife, Bess, looks on in this undated photo. Kansas City Star archives
President Harry S. Truman at the wheel of his car in an undated photo. Kansas City Star archives
President Harry S. Truman swims off the side of a yacht in Delaware Bay during a 1946 vacation cruise. A member of his party stands ready to dive in and join him. Kansas City Star archives
President Harry S. Truman holds up a fish he caught during a 1946 vacation cruise to Bermuda. He was in a small boat when the photo was taken, with a Navy cook partially visible behind him. Kansas City Star archives
President Harry S. Truman operates a movie camera on the south lawn of the White House in 1947. Members of the White House News Photographers Association presented him with a movie and still camera during a brief ceremony. Kansas City Star archives
Vice President Harry S. Truman plays piano while comedian Jack Benny performs on violin at the National Press Club in 1945. Kansas City Star archives
Actress Lauren Bacall poses on the piano as Vice President Harry S. Truman plays during a program for servicemen at the National Press Club canteen in 1945. Kansas City Star archives
The photos also capture his bond with young admirers. In one 1945 image, students from Independence meet Truman as he walks near his home. The children paused for photographs and handshakes, demonstrating the personal connection he maintained with his community.
Young Independence students meet President Harry S. Truman as he walks near his home in 1945. From left, Jimmy Zimmerman, 13, waits with a camera; Jimmy Brand, 12, moves closer and Junior Dulas, 14, reaches for a handshake. The boys attended Bryant School. A Secret Service agent accompanies the president. Kansas City Star archives
Truman’s lighter side is further illustrated by his participation in leisure activities. In 1953, he opened a bowling alley at the White House, rolling pins in southpaw style while celebrating an early birthday gift from anonymous friends. These moments of recreation contrast sharply with the high-pressure decisions he made as commander-in-chief.
President Harry S. Truman rolls a ball in southpaw style during the formal opening of a bowling alley at the White House. The alley, a birthday gift from a group of anonymous friends, was installed ahead of Truman’s 63rd birthday on May 8. Kansas City Star archives
Missouri mules were a major attraction at past American Royal events. As shown in this undated photo, former President Harry S. Truman often attended to congratulate the winners. Kansas City Star archives
President Harry S. Truman returns a sheet of note paper with his autograph to 11-year-old Virginia Jennings of Independence after she caught up with him on Van Horn Road during his morning walk in 1946. Kansas City Star archives
President Harry S. Truman appears in swimming trunks on a beach, surrounded by unidentified people, in an undated photo. Kansas City Star archives
Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson hugs former President Harry S. Truman upon arriving in Kansas City in April 1961 for a luncheon. Johnson came to brief Truman on the Cuban crisis and visit his longtime friend and mentor. Kansas City Star archives
President Harry S. Truman holds his first press conference since his election two weeks earlier at the “Little White House” in Key West, Florida, in 1948. Truman is standing at right. Kansas City Star archives
Former President Harry S. Truman visits Key West, Florida, with his grandchildren in March 1968. It was likely one of his final trips there. Kansas City Star archives
Barber Frank Spina cuts President Harry S. Truman’s hair in 1945. Spina, a longtime friend, rushed to meet the president’s call for a trim. Kansas City Star archives
Former President Harry S. Truman returns to his home in Independence, Missouri, in 1953, cane in hand, after one of his famous talks in town. Kansas City Star archives
This story was originally published September 30, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
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