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President - Gifts Putting Green
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The original documents are located in Box 46, folder "President - Gifts Putting Green" of
the Philip Buchen Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box 46 of the Philip Buchen Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
Policy
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Proteing
January 6, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
DICK CHENEY
FROM:
PHIL BUCHEN P.W.B.
You have requested my thoughts regarding Robert Trent Jones'
letter suggesting the resurrection of the Eisenhower putting
green. The legal issues are virtually identical to those analyzed
in the attached memorandum prepared by Bill Casselman regarding
the swimming pool. In a strictly legal sense, the putting green
could be accepted directly by the White House with the prior consent
of Congress, or through the National Park Service or the National
Park Foundation. In my view, however, a number of other factors
at this time make this approach unwise, and I recommend that
this offer be graciously turned down for the present.
In view of the present state of the economy, it would be unwise
to undergo any broad based fundraising campaigns for this purpose.
It is equally undesirable to permit a relatively small group of
wealthy men to contribute this gift to the White House. The
Eisenhower putting green was removed primarily due to the
high costs for maintenance that were involved. In addition, the
Eisenhower green was located in an area that is visible to
persons outside the complex, which of course the Secret Service
now finds to be undesirable. To put up protective screening
around a White House putting green would require the approval
of the Fine Arts Commission, which is unlikely to be forthcoming
as it would decrease the public view of the White House.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 2, 1974
TO:
KEN LAZARUS
FROM:
PHIL BUCHEN
Bill Casselman has gone into a similar
question on the swimming pool project.
But in the interests of saving his time
,
for tapes and documents problems, could
you - possibly after talking to Bill - prepare
a response for me to give Dick.
T.
October 31, 1974
MEMORANDUM FOR PHIL BUCHEN
FROM: DICK CHENEY
Attached is a letter which came in from Robert Trent Jones.
It regards the possibility of constructing a putting green on
the south lawn. I think it is a sensitive matter which you
ought to take a look at in terms of whether or not it is
feasible from the legal standpoint.
I would appreciate it if you would let me know your views
on the subject SO that we can get back to Mr. Jones.
Attachment
6
7 CHURCH STREET
ROBERT TRENT JONES, INC.
MONTCLAIR, NEW JERSEY 07042
201 744-3033
TELEX: 138808
October 11, 1974
Mr. Donald Rumsfeld
Special Counsel to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C.
Dear Mr. Rumsfeld:
When President Ford was at Pinehurst for the Golf Hall of Fame
dedication he indicated that he would like to revive the Eisen-
hower putting green at the White House and would like us to be
involved.
We are more than happy to be part of it and are available at any
time to discuss the site, timing and other details with whomever
has the responsibility. We could design a very simple green with
one trap which will blend well into the environment.
As a matter of fact, if there is any need to raise funds for this
I feel that I could raise it through the membership of the Burning
Tree Club where I am a member.
Incidentally, we have a mutual friend in John Laupheimer who is a
business associate of mine in a venture we have in Europe.
I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.
Very truly yours,
Robert Thent Joses
Robert Trent Chang Chuck Jones
RTJ:ev
ok.
705 FOREST AVENUE, PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA 94301
POST OFFICE BOX 7098, FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA 33304
TELEPHONE: 415-326-3833
TELEPHONE: 305-564-3422
August 22, 1974
MEMORANDUM FOR:
General Alexander M. Haig. Jr.
FROM:
William E. Casselman II
SUBJECT:
Authority for Construction of Swimming
Pool and Related Facilities on White House
Grounds
You have asked whether authority exists for the United States to accept
the gift of a swimming pool to be constructed on the White House grounds.
You have further asked whether authority exists to accept gifts or donations
of money for purposes of constructing related facilities. These questions
will be considered jointly.
The acceptance of gifts to the United States is generally provided for by
custom and usage. The Supreme Court has stated: "We have no doubt
that the receipt of gifts, testamentary or non-testamentary, is within
the ambit of federal powers. Uninterrupted usage from the foundation
of the Government has sanctioned it." (United States V. Burnison,
339 U.S. 87)
It has been the prevailing practice for the United States to accept
unconditional gifts and bequests of money, personal property, and real
property without express statutory authority. The statutes appear to
assume such authority and merely deal with the administration or
disposition of the property after it has been received. (See, for example,
31 U.S.C. 757(e), directing the redemption of government securities
donated or bequesthed to the United States, and 40 U.S.C. 304, providing
for the disposal of lands acquired by the United States by devise).
Where, however, a gift is made to the United States for a designated
purpose the question invariably arises whether any specific officer of
the United States has authority to accept it, subject to the conditions
DERALO R. FORD
2
Imposed by the donor, and to apply it for the purpose designated. It is
customary in accepting such gifts for the Congress to enact legislation
authorizing aa officer or instrumentality of the Government to accept a
specific conditional gift OF specific types of conditional gifts and apply
them in accordance with the donor's wishes. To this effect, the United
States Court of Appeals, District of Columbia Circuit has held:
" Glita to the United States which invoive any duty, burden, or
condition
are not accepted by the Government unless by the
express authority of Congress. The national legislature, which
controls the property of the United States (Conet., Art. IV, Sec. 3),
to consulted is such a case. R (Story V. Sayder 184 F.2d 454, at 456).
There are, in fact, sumerous statutes authorizing designated officers or
instrumentalition to accept glits or bequests to the United States for
specific purposes.
Clearly the gift to the United States of a swimming pool to be constructed
on the White Hease grounds or the sin or donation of mealsa to be used
for the construction of related facilities is a conditional gift or at least
s gift involving a burden to the United States. We are usable to find any
specific authorization for the acceptance of gifts or donation to the
United States for the purpose of making improvements to the grounds
of the White House. By inference, however, such authority appears
to be vested in the Secretary of the Interior.
Since 1961, by Act of Congress, the White House has been administered
as part of the National Park System (75 Stat. 586). As used in the Act
the term "White House" includes the surrounding grounds. 16 U.S.C. 6
provides in part: "The Secretary of the Interior
is authorized
to accept
meales which may be denated for purposes of the national
park and monument system." Section b(a) further provides that nothing
shall prohibit "the Secretary of the Interier from accepting in the name
of the United States, gifts or bequests of mensy
or
property
in the interest of the National Park Service."
Therefore, we conclude that inherent authority exists in the Secretary
of the Interior to accept ca behalf of the United States the gift of a
swimming pool to be constructed aa the White House grounds and to
accept the gift or denation of meales for construction of related facilities,
where the Secretary has determined that the acceptance of such gift or
donation is consistent with and in the interest of the National Park System.
cc: Philip W, Buches
WEC:bw
THE WHITE HOUSE
Prem
WASHINGTON
Pathing
April 19, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JERRY JONES
FROM:
PHILIP BUCHEN
T.W.
B
SUBJECT:
Putting Green on the
White House Lawn
In response to your memoranda of April 10 and 11, I
enclose a memorandum with attachment prepared for
me by Barry and Bill. I think their points are well
taken and should be given careful consideration. As
between a putting green and a swimming pool, I think
the President would much prefer the latter.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 18, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
PHIL BUCHEN
THROUGH:
BILL CASSELMAN
W.
FROM:
BARRY ROTH
BK
SUBJECT:
Putting Green
While the acceptance of a putting green from Robert Trent Jones
by the National Park Service (NPS) would be legally proper, there
are several problems which should be considered prior to discussing
this matter with NPS:
1. Although a figure has now been quoted of only $300 per year
for maintenance of the green, Rex Scouton indicated to me some time
ago that the Eisenhower putting green had been removed primarily
due to the high cost of maintaining it. This new figure should be
verified once again.
2. Regardless of whether NPS is the legal entity accepting
the putting green, it will be publicly perceived as a substantial gift
to the President. Although a non-statutory gift policy has not yet
been established by the President, this type of gift does bring con-
siderable media attention, particularly prior to an election.
3. Politically, this is not the best time to install the putting
green. The construction of both a pool and a putting green are likely
to result in charges that the President is converting the White House
into a country club. Simply stated, while activities such as golf are
essential to his health and performance, prior to an election these
activities should be given a relatively low visibility.
Attached for your information is a memorandum I prepared for Ken
some months ago on an earlier proposal for the putting green.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
for Bill Casselman
to review promptly
and advise.
J.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 11, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
PHIL BUCHEN
FROM:
JERRY JONES J
SUBJECT:
Trent Jones letter
Offering Putting Green
I understand Robert Trent Jones has now
clarified the $4,000 figure mentioned
in his letter to Rex Scouten which I sent
you yesterday. He is prepared to use
his own construction crew and donate the
labor and materials for installation to the
White House. He also is prepared to bill
the White House if for some reason we feel
we should use other funds to pay for it.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 10, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
FROM:
JERRY H.
PHILIP W. M
Attached is a letter from Robert Trent Jones
to Rex Scouten, our Chief Usher. Jones would
like to restore the Eisenhower putting green
for the President. He indicates in the
letter that the restoration costs would not
be more than $4,000 and I understand from
Scouten that the yearly maintainance costs
for materials would be $300 and that no
extra gardners would be required.
Before we proceed with this, I need to know
if there is any legal problem or reason
not to do it & If the President decides to do it,
how legally it would best be done.
Thank you.
ROBERT TRENT JONES
March 18, 1975
Dear Mr. Scouten:
My sons, Robert Jr. and Rees, and I enjoyed very much
being with you yesterday and appreciate your courtesies
showing us the White House. We were all thrilled by
the experience.
We think that the site of the original Eisenhower green
is an ideal location. We would in effect be restoring
the old green. The green could be approximately 2500
to 3000 square feet in size with the trap placed between
the Nixon commemorative tree and the Hoover commemora-
tive tree. The green would also be so designed to give
the President an opportunity to pitch to it from a short
distance.
My sons and I would like to donate our services as well
as the construction of the green itself to President
Ford. We can arrange to have it contoured and built if
that is acceptable. We would like to do something for
the President who is in turn doing so much for the game
of golf. The outside cost of materials and installa-
tion should not exceed $4,000.00. We can also make
recommendations for the maintenance of the green to
conform to government regulations.
We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Very truly yours,
Robert Robert Trent That Jones Jones
Mr. Rex Scouten
Chief Usher
The White House
Washington, D. C.
FORD
LIBRARY
FORD is 078836
THE WHITE HOUSE GREEN
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 22, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JIM CONNOR
FROM:
PHIL BUCHEN
T.
SUBJECT:
Indoor Golf Range
This is in response to your request for guidance on Mr. Robert
Spindell's offer to donate an indoor driving range to the President
for installation in the EOB. From a strictly legal standpoint,
there is authority to accept this by several alternative methods
as an unconditional gift to the United States, as long as there is
no specific requirement of where or how it is to be used, and the
annual maintenance does not impose a legal "burden upon the
United States for its upkeep.' "
Although no firm policy has been established for the acceptance
of domestic gifts, we have generally sought to avoid the acceptance
of valuable gifts such as this or the putting green. Without meaning
to bring into question Mr. Spindell's motives, I point out that such
gifts have been the subject of considerable media attention over the
last several years. Clearly no acceptance should be made unless
we also know about Mr. Spindell's occupation and business interests.
In addition, this is a time when we should avoid emphasizing such
high visibility gifts that appear to take away from the time the
President devotes to his official duties. It is my understanding
that these were also the main reasons for turning down the putting
green last spring.
For the above reasons, we recommend against acceptance of this
gift.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 8, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
PHIL BUCHEN
FROM:
JIMMONNOR Joy
Phil, I understand you have a letter dated
June 25th from Robert F. Spindell of
Chicago concerning an offer of Mr. Spindell
to the President. I have been asked to
get a package together on this matter for
the President. Could you let me have
a copy of the June 25th letter along with
your recommendation of how this
request should be handled. Mr. Spindell
is obviously going to persist on this one.
Thanks.
(p. S. it apparently concerns an 'inside golf
range.)
FORD
ROBERT F. SPINDELL
135 SOUTH LA SALLE STREET
CHICAGO
October 1, 1975
Dear Don:
As you observed first hand, the inauguration of
the Illinois Republican Committee was a resounding
success. It was a full house and the President was
in great fettle. His speech was just right for the
occasion and left everyone with the impression that
the Presidency is in the best possible hands. He
has such a wonderful way of looking at the people
with whom he shakes hands that everyone of them
immediately becomes his friend. Even staid old
Jim Kemper came away with a great big, highly pleased
smile!
During my conversation with the President I
mentioned again the inside golf range at Camp David
and told him I would like to give him one to be in-
stalled in an empty office in the Executive Office
Building. He asked me if I thoughtit would improve
his golf game and when I assured him it would, he
indicated he liked the idea. I told him that I had
sent to you a letter setting forth the details which
you had forwarded to Phil Buchen and that I would
remind him to bring it to the President's attention.
He said that would be fine. Accordingly, Don, I
would appreciate it very much if you would ask Mr.
Buchen to show my letter of June 25th to the President
or discuss it with him. All that would be necessary
to go ahead would be the designation of someone to
meet with me in the Executive Office Building so that
we could take the appropriate measurements. It would
require about two months to acquire the material and
install it.
When Mr. Buchen discusses this matter with the
President, please ask him to emphasize the following
three points to the President:
1. It would very definitely improve his golf
game.
2. Hitting golf balls for 15 or 20 minutes in
the late afternoon would stir up his circulation and
make him refreshed for the rest of the day and evening.
3. The problems of the day would vanish from
his mind for the 15 or 20 minute period, because it
is impossible for one to think of anything else while
hitting a golf ball. It constitutes a splendid change
of pace.
I know the important part you played in arranging
Harold Smith's big party last night, and I am delighted
that it was so completely successful. It will materially
strengthen the Republican Party in Illinois.
I am looking forward to seeing you in person and
in action on the 30th at the same place. You are ob-
viously convinced that Illinois will be a vitally im-
portant state next year. And you are so right.
Sincerely,
Bob.
Mr. Donald Rumsfeld
Assistant to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C.
P.S. I thought you might like to have me enclose a
copy of my letter to you of June 25th.
June 25, 1975
Dear Don:
When visiting with the President last evening at
the RN Associates reception in the White House, I
asked him if he would like to have an indoor golf
range in one of the rooms in the Executive Office
Building. (We had just talked about the golf range
at Camp David). Since the idea is new and the execu-
tion of it a little complex, I told him I would write
to you about the details and ask you to bring them to
his attention. Hence this letter.
I told the President that Mr. Nixon and I had
played golf together a good deal and that I had pro-
posed setting up a golf range in the Executive Office
Building. Mr. Nixon asked Bud Wilkinson to work with
me on this and we found an empty office that we thought
would provide the idea inside golf range. The ceiling
was SO high that it would permit the use of a 7 iron,
which is almost unheard of in an inside range. Nets
would be hung about 18" from each of the side walls
and from the ceiling. Two canvases would be hung at
the front edge about a foot apart. A rubber mat with
a 30" X 12" astro turf insert, would constitute the
last ingredient. A frame would hold a mirror and the
golf sticks. As Johnny Miller has repeatedly said, it
is impossible for one to improve one's golf swing un-
less he can see it, either in a mirror, movies or
video-tape. I have a golf range in my basement and
one in the back yard and I find the mirror is invaluable.
Two last items are adequate lighting from the ceiling
and a ball "picker-upper."
FORD
GERALD
LIBRARY
I would be more than delighted to make a gift of
such a range to the President, and I would buy the
materials and ship them to Washington, as I did for
the Camp David range, and then give instructions as
to how they are to be erected.
I am not familiar with whether there is space in
the White House for a golf range, but it must have a
ceiling clearance of 7½ to 8' and I doubt that the
ceiling of the ground floor space is that high. My
basement range is only 18' long, 9' wide and 7½' high.
The President said that there was a move afoot to
re-establish the putting green and put in a sand trap.
If he added the golf range to these two items he would
soon have his golf scores in the lower 80's and occa-
sionally the higher 70's. If this became known to the
public, they would think that he was neglecting his
job! I must emphasize in passing that hitting balls
hard for twenty minutes can do more to stir up one's
circulation and at the same time take one's mind off
everything else than any other physical activity. One
simply cannot hit a golf ball and think of anything
else!
I am sure that everyone who listened to the
President's short but stimulating speech, and visited
with him afterwards felt the same as Ethel and I:
First, he looked definitely younger than the photographs
and television indicated; he looked to be in excellent,
robust good health: he has stunningly handsome blue eyes
which both women and men like; he has a truly infectious
smile; he is disarmingly forthright and everyone that
meets him instinctively likes him and feels that our
Federal Government is in very good hands indeed. He
has that rare combination of being your leader, but
at the same time your friend. This was a very critical
audience and everyone with whom I talked felt that we
had just the right man to lead us, both now and in the
four years commencing in November 1976.
As I read the Washington Post this morning I could
not help but chuckle at Mr. Meany's complaint about the
lack of a veto-proof Congress!
-3-
How are you holding up under your 12 to 14 hour
days?!
With warmest personal regards, I am
Sincerely,
Mr. Donald Rumsfeld
Assistant to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C.
LIGHTER GERALD B. FORM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 13, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
BARRY ROTH
FROM:
PHILIP BUCHEN
T.
SUBJECT:
Robert Spindell's Offer
to Donate Indoor Driving
Range
In response to Jim Connor's memo of November 1,
I called Robert Spindell. I find that he is a
practicing lawyer who specializes in estate
planning work. He and his firm do not represent
any corporations on any stock exchange, and he
has no litigation pending with the Federal
Government. The indoor driving range proposed
will consist of a mat for the floor, an upright
canvas into which the balls could be hit, and
netting which will frame and protrude from the
canvas backing. The out-of-pocket expenses for
Mr. Spindell will amount to about $200.00, but
he will need help from carpenters who work in
the building to make the installation.
The gift would not be a personal one to this
President but would be made for the purpose of
having the installation remain to be used by
future Presidents. Mr. Spindell would like to
have arrangements made so that he can come to
Washington and consult with appropriate
building personnel on the location and instal-
lation of the equipment.
This proposal seems to be well within the bounds
of propriety and I would like you to make the
necessary arrangements for a productive visit by
Mr. Spindell. Please call him to establish a
convenient time at 312-372-2900.
CC: Jim Connor
Dick Cheney
Nift
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 1, 1975
ADMINISTRATIVELY CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR:
PHIL BUCHEN
FROM:
JIM CONNOR
SUBJECT:
Robert Spindell's offer to Donate Indoor
Driving Range
Your memorandum of October 22 and the entire question of
Robert Spindell's offer to donate an Indoor Driving Range were
reviewed by the President.
The President requested that you discuss the matter further with
Mr. Spindell to explore the possibility of his accepting the gift
and where it might be located.
Please follow-up with appropriate action.
cc: Don Rumsfeld
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Date 2/17/76
TO: Phil Buchen
FROM:
Barry Roth
FYI
Bary
noted
GENALD R. FORD
Patients
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 17, 1976
10:59 a.m.
JIM CONNOR:
Re: Indoor driving range
I called Robert Spindell, 312-372-2900,
and advised him of our decision not to
go ahead with the indoor driving range.
He said that he understood the political
considerations of such a venture at this
time and felt that the decision was a good
one. He accepted our thanks graciously.
He said that he would like to renew the
offer after the election. I responded
that there was nothing to indicate that
the offer would be accepted after the
election, but he responded that he would
like to do so anyway.
Thank you.
if
DAVID C. HOOPES
Attachments
cc:
Barry Roth
Hold
Wednesday 1/28/76
2:50 Robert Spindell said he talked with Dave Hoopes, who
(312) Franklin 2-290
said the plans for the President's indoor golf range
had been given to Mr. Cheney some weeks ago by
Mr. Hoopes.
Mr. Spindell asked if you could jog Mr. Cheney to
do something about it.
Barry, what's happening?
FORD is 07V839 LIBRARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 2, 1974
TO:
KEN LAZARUS
FROM:
PHIL BUCHEN
Bill Casselman has gone into a similar
question on the swimming pool project.
But in the interests of saving his time
,
for tapes and documents problems, could
you - possibly after talking to Bill - prepare
a response for me to give Dick.
T.
October 31, 1974
MEMORANDUM FOR PHIL BUCHEN
FROM: DICK CHENEY
Attached is a letter which came in from Robert Trent Jones.
It regards the possibility of constructing a putting green on
the south lawn. I think it is a sensitive matter which you
ought to take a look at in terms of whether or not it is
feasible from the legal standpoint.
I would appreciate it if you would let me know your views
on the subject so that we can get back to Mr. Jones.
Attachment
6
7 CHURCH STREET
ROBERT TRENT JONES. INC.
MONTCLAIR, NEW JERSEY 07042
201 744-3033
TELEX: 138808
October 11, 1974
Mr. Donald Rumsfeld
Special Counsel to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C.
Dear Mr. Rumsfeld:
When President Ford was at Pinehurst for the Golf Hall of Fame
dedication he indicated that he would like to revive the Eisen-
hower putting green at the White House and would like us to be
involved.
We are more than happy to be part of it and are available at any
time to discuss the site, timing and other details with whomever
has the responsibility. We could design a very simple green with
one trap which will blend well into the environment.
As a matter of fact, if there is any need to raise funds for this
I feel that I could raise it through the membership of the Burning
Tree Club where I am a member.
Incidentally, we have a mutual friend in John Laupheimer who is a
business associate of mine in a venture we have in Europe.
I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.
Very truly yours,
Robert Thent Joses
Robert Trent Jones
RTJ:ev
ok.
looketit
705 FOREST AVENUE. PALO ALTO. CALIFORNIA 94301
POST OFFICE BOX 7098, FORT LAUDERDALE. FLORIDA 33304
TELEPHONE: 415-326-3833
TELEPHONE: 305-564-3422
August 22, 1974
MEMORANDUM FOR:
General Alexander M. Haig. Jr.
FROM:
William E. Casselman II
SUBJECT:
Authority for Construction of Swimming
Pool and Related Facilities on White House
Grounds
You have asked whether authority exists for the United States to accept
the sift of a swimming pool to be constructed on the White House grounds.
You have further asked whether authority existe to accept gifts or donations
of money for purposes of constructing related facilities. These questions
will be considered jointly.
The acceptance of gifts to the United States is generally provided for by
custom and usage, The Supreme Court has stated: "We have no doubt
that the receipt of gifts, testamentary or non-testamentary, is within
the ambit of federal powers. Uninterrupted usage from the foundation
of the Government has sanctioned it." (United States V. Burnison,
339 U.S. 87)
It has been the prevailing practice for the United States to accept
unconditional gifts and bequests of money, personal property, and real
property without express statutory authority. The statutes appear to
assume such authority and merely deal with the administration or
disposition of the property after it has been received. (See, for example,
31 U.S.C. 757(e), directing the redemption of government securities
donated or bequesthed to the United States, and 40 U.S.C. 304, providing
for the disposal of lands acquired by the United States by devise).
Where, however, a gift is made to the United States for a designated
purpose the question invariably arises whether any specific officer of
the United States has authority to accept it, subject to the conditions
FORD
GERALD
2
Imposed by the donor, and to apply it for the purpose designated. It is
customary in accepting such gifts for the Congress to enact legislation
authorizing as officer or instrumentality of the Government to accept a
specific conditional gift or specific types of conditional gifts and apply
them in accordance with the doner's wishes. To this effect, the United
States Court of Appeals, District of Columbia Circuit has held:
" Glits to the United States which involve any duty, burden, or
condition
are not accepted by the Government unless by the
express authority of Congress. The national legislature, which
controls the property of the United States (Conet., Art. IV, Sec. 3),
is consulted is such a case." (Story V. Sayder 134 F.2d 454, at 456).
There are, in fact, sumerous statutes authorizing designated officers or
instrumentaliticn to accept glits or bequests to the United States for
specific purposes.
Clearly the gift to the United States of a swimming pool to be constructed
on the White House grounds or the gin or donation of mealsa to be used
for the construction of related facilities is a conditional gift or at least
a gift involving a burden to the United States. We are usable to find any
specific authorization for the acceptance of gifts or donation to the
United States for the purpose of making improvements to the grounds
of the White House. By inference, however, such authority appears
to be vested in the Secretary of the Interior.
Since 1961, by Act of Congress, the White House has been administered
as part of the National Park System (75 Stat. 586). As used in the Act
the term "White House" includes the surrounding grounds. 16 U.S.C. 6
provides in part: "The Secretary of the Interior is authorized
...
to accept meales which may be denated for purposes of the national
park and monument system." Section ó(a) further provides that nothing
shall prohibit "the Secretary of the Interior from accepting in the name
of the United States, gifts or bequests of mensy
...
or
property
in the interest of the National Park Service.'
Therefore, we conclude that inherent authority exists in the Secretary
of the Interior to accept ca behalf of the United States the gift of a
swimming pool to be constructed on the White House grounds and to
accept the gift or denation of meales for construction of related facilities,
where the Secretary has determined that the acceptance of such gift or
donation is consistent with and in the interest of the National Park System.
ec: Philip W. Buches
WEC:bw
GERALD R
LIBBARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
Pres.
WASHINGTON
April 19, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JERRY JONES
FROM:
PHILIP BUCHEN T.W.B
SUBJECT:
Putting Green on the
White House Lawn
In response to your memoranda of April 10 and 11, I
enclose a memorandum with attachment prepared for
me by Barry and Bill. I think their points are well
taken and should be given careful consideration. As
between a putting green and a swimming pool, I think
the President would much prefer the latter.
TORDO is 07V839 LIBRARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 11, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
PHIL BUCHEN
FROM:
JERRY J
SUBJECT:
Trent Jones letter
Offering Putting Green
I understand Robert Trent Jones has now
clarified the $4,000 figure mentioned
in his letter to Rex Scouten which I sent
you yesterday. He is prepared to use
his own construction crew and donate the
labor and materials for installation to the
White House. He also is prepared to bill
the White House if for some reason we feel
we should use other funds to pay for it.
14
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 10, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
PHILIP W. BUCHEN
FROM:
JERRY H. JONES
Attached is a letter from Robert Trent Jones
to Rex Scouten, our Chief Usher. Jones would
like to restore the Eisenhower putting green
for the President. He indicates in the
letter that the restoration costs would not
be more than $4,000 and I understand from
Scouten that the yearly maintainance costs
for materials would be $300 and that no
extra gardners would be required.
Before we proceed with this, I need to know
if there is any legal problem or reason
not to do it & If the President decides to do it,
how legally it would best be done.
Thank you.
ROBERT TRENT JONES
March 18, 1975
Dear Mr. Scouten:
My sons, Robert Jr. and Rees, and I enjoyed very much
being with you yesterday and appreciate your courtesies
showing us the White House. We were all thrilled by
the experience.
We think that the site of the original Eisenhower green
is an ideal location. We would in effect be restoring
the old green. The green could be approximately 2500
to 3000 square feet in size with the trap placed between
the Nixon commemorative tree and the Hoover commemora-
tive tree. The green would also be so designed to give
the President an opportunity to pitch to it from a short
distance.
My sons and I would like to donate our services as well
as the construction of the green itself to President
Ford. We can arrange to have it contoured and built if
that is acceptable. We would like to do something for
the President who is in turn doing so much for the game
of golf. The outside cost of materials and installa-
tion should not exceed $4,000.00. We can also make
recommendations for the maintenance of the green to
conform to government regulations.
We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Very truly yours,
Robert Robert Trent That Jones Jones
Mr. Rex Scouten
Chief Usher
The White House
Washington, D. C.
FORD
GEORLD
LIBRARY
FORD
LIBRARY
THE WHITE HOUSE GREEN
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 22, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JIM CONNOR
FROM:
PHIL BUCHEN
SUBJECT:
Indoor Golf Range
This is in response to your request for guidance on Mr. Robert
Spindell's offer to donate an indoor driving range to the President
for installation in the EOB. From a strictly legal standpoint,
there is authority to accept this by several alternative methods
as an unconditional gift to the United States, as long as there is
no specific requirement of where or how it is to be used, and the
annual maintenance does not impose a legal "burden upon the
United States for its upkeep."
Although no firm policy has been established for the acceptance
of domestic gifts, we have generally sought to avoid the acceptance
of valuable gifts such as this or the putting green. Without meaning
to bring into question Mr. Spindell's motives, I point out that such
gifts have been the subject of considerable media attention over the
last several years. Clearly no acceptance should be made unless
we also know about Mr. Spindell's occupation and business interests.
In addition, this is a time when we should avoid emphasizing such
high visibility gifts that appear to take away from the time the
President devotes to his official duties. It is my understanding
that these were also the main reasons for turning down the putting
green last spring.
For the above reasons, we recommend against acceptance of this
gift.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 8, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
PHIL BUCHEN
FROM:
JIMICONNOR Joy
Phil, I understand you have a letter dated
June 25th from Robert F. Spindell of
Chicago concerning an offer of Mr. Spindell
to the President. I have been asked to
get a package together on this matter for
the President. Could you let me have
a copy of the June 25th letter along with
your recommendation of how this
request should be handled. Mr. Spindell
is obviously going to persist on this one.
Thanks.
(p.s. it apparently concerns an 'inside golf
range.)
ROBERT F. SPINDELL
135 SOUTH LA SALLE STREET
CHICAGO
October 1, 1975
Dear Don:
As you observed first hand, the inauguration of
the Illinois Republican Committee was a resounding
success. It was a full house and the President was
in great fettle. His speech was just right for the
occasion and left everyone with the impression that
the Presidency is in the best possible hands. He
has such a wonderful way of looking at the people
with whom he shakes hands that everyone of them
immediately becomes his friend. Even staid old
Jim Kemper came away with a great big, highly pleased
smile!
During my conversation with the President I
mentioned again the inside golf range at Camp David
and told him I would like to give him one to be in-
stalled in an empty office in the Executive Office
Building. He asked me if I thoughtit would improve
his golf game and when I assured him it would, he
indicated he liked the idea. I told him that I had
sent to you a letter setting forth the details which
you had forwarded to Phil Buchen and that I would
remind him to bring it to the President's attention.
He said that would be fine. Accordingly, Don, I
would appreciate it very much if you would ask Mr.
Buchen to show my letter of June 25th to the President
or discuss it with him. All that would be necessary
to go ahead would be the designation of someone to
meet with me in the Executive Office Building so that
we could take the appropriate measurements. It would
require about two months to acquire the material and
install it.
When Mr. Buchen discusses this matter with the
President, please ask him to emphasize the following
three points to the President:
1. It would very definitely improve his golf
game.
2. Hitting golf balls for 15 or 20 minutes in
the late afternoon would stir up his circulation and
make him refreshed for the rest of the day and evening.
3. The problems of the day would vanish from
his mind for the 15 or 20 minute period, because it
is impossible for one to think of anything else while
hitting a golf ball. It constitutes a splendid change
of pace.
I know the important part you played in arranging
Harold Smith's big party last night, and I am delighted
that it was so completely successful. It will materially
strengthen the Republican Party in Illinois.
I am looking forward to seeing you in person and
in action on the 30th at the same place. You are ob-
viously convinced that Illinois will be a vitally im-
portant state next year. And you are so right.
Sincerely,
Bob.
Mr. Donald Rumsfeld
Assistant to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C.
P.S. I thought you might like to have me enclose a
copy of my letter to you of June 25th.
11.
GEAMLE
GROA
LIBRARY
June 25, 1975
Dear Don:
When visiting with the President last evening at
the RN Associates reception in the White House, I
asked him if he would like to have an indoor golf
range in one of the rooms in the Executive Office
Building. (We had just talked about the golf range
at Camp David). Since the idea is new and the execu-
tion of it a little complex, I told him I would write
to you about the details and ask you to bring them to
his attention. Hence this letter.
I told the President that Mr. Nixon and I had
played golf together a good deal and that I had pro-
posed setting up a golf range in the Executive Office
Building. Mr. Nixon asked Bud Wilkinson to work with
me on this and we found an empty office that we thought
would provide the idea inside golf range. The ceiling
was so high that it would permit the use of a 7 iron,
which is almost unheard of in an inside range. Nets
would be hung about 18" from each of the side walls
and from the ceiling. Two canvases would be hung at
the front edge about a foot apart. A rubber mat with
a 30" X 12" astro turf insert, would constitute the
last ingredient. A frame would hold a mirror and the
golf sticks. As Johnny Miller has repeatedly said, it
is impossible for one to improve one's golf swing un-
less he can see it, either in a mirror, movies or
video-tape. I have a golf range in my basement and
one in the back yard and I find the mirror is invaluable.
Two last items are adequate lighting from the ceiling
and a ball "picker-upper."
FORD
LIBRARY
I would be more than delighted to make a gift of
such a range to the President, and I would buy the
materials and ship them to Washington, as I did for
the Camp David range, and then give instructions as
to how they are to be erected.
I am not familiar with whether there is space in
the White House for a golf range, but it must have a
ceiling clearance of 7½ to 8' and I doubt that the
ceiling of the ground floor space is that high. My
basement range is only 18' long, 9' wide and 7½' high.
The President said that there was a move afoot to
re-establish the putting green and put in a sand trap.
If he added the golf range to these two items he would
soon have his golf scores in the lower 80's and occa-
sionally the higher 70's. If this became known to the
public, they would think that he was neglecting his
job! I must emphasize in passing that hitting balls
hard for twenty minutes can do more to stir up one's
circulation and at the same time take one's mind off
everything else than any other physical activity. One
simply cannot hit a golf ball and think of anything
else!
I am sure that everyone who listened to the
President's short but stimulating speech, and visited
with him afterwards felt the same as Ethel and I:
First, he looked definitely younger than the photographs
and television indicated; he looked to be in excellent,
robust good health: he has stunningly handsome blue eyes
which both women and men like; he has a truly infectious
smile; he is disarmingly forthright and everyone that
meets him instinctively likes him and feels that our
Federal Government is in very good hands indeed. He
has that rare combination of being your leader, but
at the same time your friend. This was a very critical
audience and everyone with whom I talked felt that we
had just the right man to lead us, both now and in the
four years commencing in November 1976.
As I read the Washington. Post this morning I could
not help but chuckle at Mr. Meany's complaint about the
lack of a veto-proof Congress!
-3-
How are you holding up under your 12 to 14 hour
days?!
With warmest personal regards, I am
Sincerely,
Mr. Donald Rumsfeld
Assistant to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C.
BERALD FOOT
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 13, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
BARRY ROTH
FROM:
PHILIP BUCHEN
T.
SUBJECT:
Robert Spindell's Offer
to Donate Indoor Driving
Range
In response to Jim Connor's memo of November 1,
I called Robert Spindell. I find that he is a
practicing lawyer who specializes in estate
planning work. He and his firm do not represent
any corporations on any stock exchange, and he
has no litigation pending with the Federal
Government. The indoor driving range proposed
will consist of a mat for the floor, an upright
canvas into which the balls could be hit, and
netting which will frame and protrude from the
canvas backing. The out-of-pocket expenses for
Mr. Spindell will amount to about $200.00, but
he will need help from carpenters who work in
the building to make the installation.
The gift would not be a personal one to this
President but would be made for the purpose of
having the installation remain to be used by
future Presidents. Mr. Spindell would like to
have arrangements made so that he can come to
Washington and consult with appropriate
building personnel on the location and instal-
lation of the equipment.
This proposal seems to be well within the bounds
of propriety and I would like you to make the
necessary arrangements for a productive visit by
Mr. Spindell. Please call him to establish a
convenient time at 312-372-2900.
CC: Jim Connor
Dick Cheney
Nift
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 1, 1975
ADMINISTRATIVELY CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR:
PHIL BUCHEN
FROM:
JIM CONNOR
SUBJECT:
Robert Spindell's offer to Donate Indoor
Driving Range
Your memorandum of October 22 and the entire question of
Robert Spindell's offer to donate an Indoor Driving Range were
reviewed by the President.
The President requested that you discuss the matter further with
Mr. Spindell to explore the possibility of his accepting the gift
and where it might be located.
Please follow-up with appropriate action.
cc: Don Rumsfeld
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Date 2/17/76
TO: Phil Buchen
FROM:
Barry Roth
FYI
Bary
noted Q.
BERALD ? GHOS
Process
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 17, 1976
10:59 a. m.
JIM CONNOR:
Re: Indoor driving range
I called Robert Spindell, 312-372-2900,
and advised him of our decision not to
go ahead with the indoor driving range.
He said that he understood the political
considerations of such a venture at this
time and felt that the decision was a good
one. He accepted our thanks graciously.
He said that he would like to renew the
offer after the election. I responded
that there was nothing to indicate that
the offer would be accepted after the
election, but he responded that he would
like to do so anyway.
Thank you.
if
DAVID C. HOOPES
Attachments
cc: Barry Roth
Hold
Wednesday 1/28/76
2:50 Robert Spindell said he talked with Dave Hoopes, who
(312) ranklin 2-290
said the plans for the President's indoor golf range
had been given to Mr. Cheney some weeks ago by
Mr. Hoopes.
Mr. Spindell asked if you could jog Mr. Cheney to
do something about it.
Barry, what's happening?
LIBRARY GERALD ? FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 18, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
PHIL BUCHEN
THROUGH:
BILL CASSELMAN
FROM:
BARRY ROTH
BK
SUBJECT:
Putting Green
While the acceptance of a putting green from Robert Trent Jones
by the National Park Service (NPS) would be legally proper, there
are several problems which should be considered prior to discussing
this matter with NPS:
1. Although a figure has now been quoted of only $300 per year
for maintenance of the green, Rex Scouton indicated to me some time
ago that the Eisenhower putting green had been removed primarily
due to the high cost of maintaining it. This new figure should be
verified once again.
2. Regardless of whether NPS is the legal entity accepting
the putting green, it will be publicly perceived as a substantial gift
to the President. Although a non-statutory gift policy has not yet
been established by the President, this type of gift does bring con-
siderable media attention, particularly prior to an election.
3. Politically, this is not the best time to install the putting
green. The construction of both a pool and a putting green are likely
to result in charges that the President is converting the White House
into a country club. Simply stated, while activities such as golf are
essential to his health and performance, prior to an election these
activities should be given a relatively low visibility.
Attached for your information is a memorandum I prepared for Ken
FORD
some months ago on an earlier proposal for the putting green.
GERALD
LIBRARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
for Bill Casselman
to review promptly
and advise.
J.)
etten