Collection Highlights
Alexander Hamilton (1757-1804)
ca. 1793
1928.18
White marble
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Museum Collections
Luce Center
Leg brace
Object name
Leg brace
Date
ca. 1940
Medium
Leather, metal
Dimensions
Overall: 16 x 5 x 5 in. ( 40.6 x 12.7 x 12.7 cm )
Description
Lower leg brace worn by Franklin Delano Roosevelt; upper portion composed of leather "boot" opening at the front with hooks for lace closure; metal braces secured to each side of boot with metal pins, connected by two arched supports around the back; brace hinged below leather boot for rotation; three holes in shoe attachment for securing brace to shoe.
Credit Line
Purchase
Object Number
2002.76
Gallery Label
This lower leg brace was one of many used by Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882-1945) after he was permanently disabled by polio in 1921. Despite paralysis of both legs, FDR was determined to walk again and sought out numerous cures, from mineral baths to braces. Heavy steel braces allowed him to "walk" short distances, and lower leg braces, such as this example, helped to prevent atrophy of his leg muscles. This leg brace came from the estate of Roosevelt's White House Secretary, Grace Tully.
Due to ongoing research, information about this object is subject to change.
