Q&A with Presidential Grandson Clifton Truman Daniel
The 120th annual Spring Outing will be held virtually on Wednesday, May 19th. Featuring our keynote speaker, Clifton Truman Daniel, who is the grandson of U.S. President Harry S. Truman and First Lady Bess Truman, this Nashville tradition will offer stories, insight and perspective on what it means to have a President in the family tree.
Mr. Daniel offered some answers to a few of our questions, giving a glimpse of what Spring Outing attendees will hear during his live presentation next month.
Who is the most unique person you have met (celebrity or not) as a result of your family ties?
I treasure my friendships with other presidential descendants. But the most unique person is the one I missed. When I was 12, my mother invited me to lunch one Saturday. I declined I favor of watching a Star Trek rerun. When she returned, she said, “You should have gone with me.” Turned out her agent stopped by her table with another client, a young actor. William Shatner.
Does your family do anything special to honor your grandfather every year?
Over the next seven years, we’re commemorating the 75th anniversary of various milestones in his presidency.
What does speaking at Spring Outing this year mean to you?
Originally, it was going to be my chance to finally visit the home of my grandfather’s favorite president. Still, I’m very glad to be able to take part, even if I have to wait to see The Hermitage in person.
What do you think your grandfather would say about you being our featured speaker?
Don’t screw it up.
What is one thing you want everyone to know about him?
He’s been called an uncommon common man, a farmer, small businessman and soldier who rose to the highest office in the land and did a better job of it than almost anyone else.
For tickets and more information on Spring Outing, click here.