Festivities to mark 130 years since Harry Truman’s birth

Several events in Independence will mark the 130th anniversary of President Harry Truman's birth, which is May 8.

A wreath-laying at the Truman gravesite begins at 9 a.m. today at the Truman Library in Independence, 500 W. U.S. 24. That is free and open to the public.

Beginning at 1:30 p.m., Truman re-enactor Niel Johnson will help serve birthday cake to visitors in the library lobby. The library’s regular admission price will be in effect beginning about 10 a.m.

Today is also a state holiday in Missouri.

On Saturday, U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver will receive the Truman Public Service Award, given annually by the city of Independence. The ceremony begins at 2:30 p.m. on the Truman Library’s south steps. The event is free. In the event of rain, the ceremony will move indoors to the library auditorium.

Next Wednesday, Leon Panetta will receive the annual Harry S. Truman Good Neighbor Award. The former secretary of defense and director of the CIA will accept the award at the Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. Tickets, which cost $75, can be reserved through the end of this week by calling 913-722-1211.

This story was originally published May 7, 2014 at 4:52 PM with the headline "Festivities to mark 130 years since Harry Truman’s birth."