Summary
On October 1st, 1986, a dedication ceremony was publicly held to celebrate the opening of the Carter Presidential Center complex in Atlanta, Georgia. The complex contained the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, The Carter Center (including the offices of founders Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter), a Japanese garden, a shared cafeteria, and 35 acres of outdoor space with views of Freedom Park and downtown Atlanta. It was also the date of Jimmy Carter's 62nd birthday.
Mayor of Atlanta Andrew Young, Governor of Georgia Joe Frank Harris, President Ronald Reagan, Dr. James Laney of Emory University, former Deputy Secretary of State Warren Christopher, Archivist of the United States Frank G. Burke, and President Jimmy Carter provided remarks.
There were non-public events as well, including preview tours, meetings with students, the dedication of the Japanese Garden with representatives from the YKK Corporation, and more.
This online exhibit highlights holdings related to the development, construction, and opening of the Carter Presidential Center on the event of its 40th anniversary, October 1st, 2026.
Documents
Records from the Post-Presidential papers of Jimmy Carter relating to the development and opening of the Carter Presidential Center
Images
Galleries depicting the various events related to the opening of the Carter Presidential Center
Videos
Videos from the 10/1/1986 Dedication Ceremony courtesy of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum