Brewed Leadership: The Roosevelts' Naval Legacy and Old Salt Coffee's Tribute

As we celebrate Presidents' Day, it's fitting to honor two commanders-in-chief who not only led the nation but also had profound connections to naval history: Theodore Roosevelt (26th President) and Franklin D. Roosevelt (32nd President). Their passion for the sea and naval power helped shape America's maritime heritage—a legacy that Old Salt Coffee proudly embraces with every damn fine cup of coffee.

Theodore Roosevelt: The Great White Fleet Commander

Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President, was a fervent advocate for naval expansion. His 1882 work, The Naval War of 1812, underscored the importance of naval preparedness and highlighted the lessons learned from past conflicts. As president, he championed the modernization of the Navy, culminating in the deployment of the Great White Fleet in 1907, a voyage he initiated and oversaw during his presidency.

In classic Roosevelt fashion, he reportedly didn’t have enough funds to get the fleet around the world, so he sent it halfway and then told Congress that if they wanted their Navy back, they’d better cough up the rest of the money for fuel. Whether that’s entirely true or just a legendary sea story, it certainly sounds like something Teddy would pull—and Congress did, in fact, appropriate the funds to complete the journey.

Although Roosevelt left office in March 1909, his successor, President William Howard Taft, saw the fleet's return to the United States. This 14-month global tour wasn’t just a joyride for Sailors—it was a full-throttle flex of American naval power, a move that made sure the world knew the U.S. Navy wasn’t to be messed with. (USNI)

Roosevelt’s love for the sea wasn't just about strategy—it was personal. He often spent time aboard Navy ships, learning from Sailors and probably drinking coffee so strong it could take the paint off a bulkhead. His belief in the necessity of a strong and ready fleet is still reflected in today’s U.S. Navy, making him a true pioneer of maritime strength and preparedness. (Naval History and Heritage Command)

Franklin D. Roosevelt: The Navy's Commander-in-Chief

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s love for the sea wasn’t just political—it was personal. A lifelong naval enthusiast, he collected over 400 ship models, with one of his favorites being a meticulously detailed model of the USS Constitution, affectionately known as "Old Ironsides." Roosevelt personally re-rigged the model while serving as Governor of New York and later placed it in his White House study, where it remained a source of inspiration throughout his presidency. This model was later donated to the Roosevelt Library before his passing. (FDR Ship Models Collection)

Roosevelt also had a humorous side when it came to his ship models. In 1933, he received a model ship crafted from turkey breast bones as a Christmas gift. Yes, you read that right—a ship made out of turkey bones. This unconventional model found a permanent spot in his Hyde Park residence, proving that even the most powerful man in the country appreciated a good laugh and some old-school ingenuity. (NPS.gov)

Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President, shared his cousin's affinity for the sea. Serving as Assistant Secretary of the Navy during World War I, he played a pivotal role in expanding and modernizing the fleet. His tenure laid the groundwork for the Navy's significant contributions during World War II. In fact, his leadership was instrumental in preparing the U.S. for global conflict, ensuring that the fleet was equipped to handle the challenges of modern naval warfare. (FDR Library)

FDR’s connection to the Navy was lifelong. He collected naval manuscripts and artifacts, studied naval history, and even requested that a model of a Navy ship be placed near his bedside in the White House. His love for the fleet wasn’t just academic—it was heartfelt and enduring. Roosevelt’s leadership during WWII ensured the U.S. Navy would emerge as a dominant force in the Pacific, changing the course of history. (Naval History and Heritage Command)

The Roosevelts' Legacy in the Fleet Today

The legacies of Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt continue to sail the seas with the U.S. Navy today. Two modern warships honor their names:

• USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71): A Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, known as "The Big Stick," carries on Theodore Roosevelt’s belief in naval power as a means to maintain peace and project strength worldwide. (USS Theodore Roosevelt Official Site)

• USS Roosevelt (DDG-80): An Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, uniquely named in honor of both Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, reflecting their joint contributions to the nation and its armed forces. (USS Roosevelt Official Site)

Hoist a Mug to Our Naval Leaders

This Presidents' Day, we invite you to hoist a mug of Old Salt Coffee in honor of Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt and their enduring naval legacy. As you savor each sip, remember the leaders who championed our maritime strength, shaped our Navy, and left a lasting impact on American history. Their vision continues to inspire service members and naval enthusiasts alike.

So, Hoist A Mug and enjoy a coffee as bold as the men who shaped naval history. And if you happen to be drinking it on watch? Well, that just makes it taste even better.

Fair winds, following seas, and Hoist A Mug, shipmates! And you can use discount code POTUS10 and get 10% off your next purchase thru the weekend.