1981 Presidential Inauguration Luncheon Folio with Address of Ronald Reagan — Owned by the White House Curator

Updated on July 3: This has been sold.

Ronald Reagan’s first inauguration in 1981 was the first presidential inauguration held on the west front of the U.S. Capitol. Following the ceremony, a celebratory luncheon took place in the National Statuary Hall, where 200 guests were treated to a “California Cuisine” menu and live music by the U.S. Air Force String Quartet and U.S. Army Strings.

Each guest received a commemorative red portfolio from the 49th Presidential Inaugural Ceremonies. Bound in red leather and stamped in gold with the Great Seal of the United States, the portfolio opens to reveal two folios held in place by a blue ribbon.

Includes the official luncheon menu and program, a copy of President Reagan’s inaugural address, and a collection of historical details and images from past presidential inaugurations, including reprints of Inaugural scenes from Harper’s Weekly.

The folio is stamped in gold with the name of the recipient, Betty Monkman (August 24, 1942 – January 7, 2025), who a White House Curator. She wrote The White House: Its Historic Furnishings and First Families and The Living White House.

Upon her retirement, she had served as curator under eight presidents.

Portfolio size when closed: 16.625" x 12.25"

Shipping: $20. Please allow two weeks for shipping.