Remembering George H.W. Bush at Sunnylands
As the nation remembers the life and legacy of 41st president George H.W. Bush, so does the Coachella Valley. The former president frequented the historic Sunnylands estate with First Lady Barbara Bush more than 15 times.
His most notable visit was in 1990 when he scheduled an urgent meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Toshiki Kaifu to avoid the possibility of Japan closing its markets to the United States.
The former president also played in the 1995 Desert Classic — a particularly historic golf game — alongside Bill Clinton who had just beaten him in the presidential race.
Sunnylands issued a statement Saturday morning offering condolences to the Bush family and reflected on his time spent in the valley.
“The foundation cherishes the friendship and memories that President George H.W. Bush and his wife shared with the Annenbergs. His legacy will serve as an inspiration to Sunnylands staff and trustees for years to come,” said David J. Lane, president of The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands.
According to the statement, the Sunnylands serves as a site for both diplomacy and relaxation. George H.W. Bush spent his time playing golf and fishing at the estate.
George H.W. Bush died late Friday evening, November 30th, at his home in Houston, Texas. He was 94 years old. Former First Lady Barbara Bush died in April of 2018.
