Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library opening in North Dakota Badlands

A new presidential library honoring Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th U.S. president, is under construction in North Dakota's Badlands, with an opening scheduled for June 21, 2026. This 96,000-square-foot tribute aims to be as grand as Roosevelt's likeness on Mount Rushmore, but with a more subtle integration into the natural environment. Architect Craig Dykers described the design's intent: "Nature is transformative here. It transformed Theodore Roosevelt, and it will transform new visitors to this library." The library's gently sloping roof is covered in native grasses and incorporates walking paths, offering visitors panoramic views of the adjacent Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Dykers emphasized a desire for a "primitive" feel, with the structure appearing to emerge organically from the earth. Inside, skylights provide natural illumination, supported by walls constructed from compressed earth, blurring the lines between the interior and the surrounding landscape. The $450 million project is the largest undertaking in the history of the small town of Medora, North Dakota. The library's placement in the Badlands is deeply connected to Roosevelt's personal history. He reportedly stated that without his experiences in this region, he would never have become president. Edward O'Keefe, CEO of the library and author of "The Loves of Theodore Roosevelt," explained that Roosevelt, initially a sickly child who lived through books, found his true calling on the North Dakota plains. O'Keefe highlighted that Roosevelt's decision to reside in the Badlands stemmed from personal tragedy. In 1884, Roosevelt's mother and young wife died on the same day, Valentine's Day. "The light has gone out of my life," Roosevelt wrote in his diary. Following this double funeral, he was reportedly so devastated that his safety was a concern. After settling his affairs, including arranging for his sister to care for his newborn daughter, Alice, Roosevelt retreated to the Badlands, where he found solace and transformation in nature.

“

Nature is transformative here. It transformed Theodore Roosevelt, and it will transform new visitors to this library.