In October 1914, former President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt embarked on a whistle-stop tour of Schuylkill County towns, advocating for political candidates and engaging with the public. His journey commenced in Tamaqua on October 26, followed by a visit to Pottsville, where he addressed an audience at the Hippodrome Theater. His itinerary included brief stops in Shenandoah, Mahanoy City, Ashland, Mount Carmel, and concluded with a speaking engagement in Williamsport.
Though not running for president, Roosevelt was actively campaigning for John Robert Jones, a Republican from Schuylkill County seeking re-election to the House of Representatives. Roosevelt, who initially took office as vice president, ascended to the presidency following William McKinley’s assassination in September 1901. After being elected president in 1904, he served until 1909. Although a Republican, he parted ways with the party and unsuccessfully ran for president as the Progressive Party candidate in 1912.
Roosevelt was renowned not only as a statesman but also as a folk hero, particularly for leading the Rough Riders in the famous charge up San Juan Hill during the Spanish-American War in 1898. His foreign policy, summarized by the adage “speak softly and carry a big stick,” garnered widespread approval among Americans. Post-presidency, he was affectionately referred to as Colonel, and received a “royal welcome” in Pottsville upon his arrival at the Reading Railroad Station, heralded by a crowd shouting “Here comes the Colonel” as a train adorned with a massive banner arrived. Roosevelt engaged with the crowd, shaking hands and tipping his hat, prompting enthusiastic cheers.
Accompanied by Civil War veteran Col. Daniel Nagle, Roosevelt traveled in an open car to the Hippodrome, where thousands lined the streets to cheer him. At the theater, Roosevelt expressed his commitment to promoting decency and honesty in public life and endorsed Jones for his efforts in advocating the Corrupt Practices Act, which sought transparency in political campaign donations, though it was ultimately not adopted. Roosevelt also championed Gifford Pinchot, a conservationist and Progressive Party candidate for the U.S. Senate in 1914, who would later serve as Pennsylvania’s governor.
The Pottsville Republican newspaper, while opposing Roosevelt’s progressive views, recognized the overwhelming admiration for him in the community. The paper editorialized that, although Roosevelt himself would likely have received significant support if he were a Republican candidate, his backing of Progressive candidates was less warmly received. Despite this, Roosevelt remained steadfast in his support for Jones and Pinchot.
Upon his arrival in Tamaqua, Roosevelt was welcomed by a reception committee led by Dr. Francis Boyer, with members Nathan S. Beddall, S. S. Weiss, and E. G. Underwood. A memorable moment occurred when 10-year-old Thelma Reiner presented Roosevelt with a bouquet of American Beauty roses. The Reiner family then had the unique opportunity to travel with Roosevelt on the special train to Pottsville. The former president’s distinctive large, round-brimmed black hat was noted for its character, matching the commanding presence and quickness he exuded. Observers were impressed by his leadership and fighting spirit, depicted by his robust stance and confident demeanor.
Theodore Roosevelt passed away at the age of 60 at his home in Oyster Bay, New York, on January 6, 1919, leaving a lasting legacy as a dynamic leader and advocate for progressive causes.
