Exclusive look at President and Mrs. Ford’s treasures set for Valley auction

You will soon be able to buy personal treasures from the Rancho Mirage home of former President Gerald Ford and Betty Ford.

We got a sneak peek at a few of the 1,000 items set to be auctioned off on Nov. 16, at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa.
The President & Mrs. Gerald R. Ford Estate Auction will be held at 9 a.m. To 3 p.m.

“It gives everyone a chance to have a piece of history since they have been so prominent in the Valley and it meant so much to them,” said Jan Hart, Mrs. Ford’s personal secretary.

Hart said the collectibles include Betty Ford’s designer clothes, a suit that she wore in 1997.

“Most people don’t realize we would jot down where she wore things, so she wouldn’t wear it to the same place again,” said Hart.

Betty Ford’s personalized luggage will also be up for grabs.

“She used it all of the time. It’s something she really liked. It travels well. It was the only luggage I saw her use,”
said Hart.

A collection of decorative sculptured elephants, personal home decor, crystal and porcelain, President Ford’s personalized Stetson hats and his pipes will go the highest bidder.

“There’s another pipe there that everyone will clamor for, it’s carved as President Ford’s face. It looks just like him with a wry smile,” said Hart.

The event will feature live and silent auctions that will benefit the Betty Ford Center, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coachella Valley, and St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Palm Desert, organizations near and dear to the Ford family.

“It’s a legacy they leave. It’s the last piece of their being here in the Valley,” said Hart. “This is the last event that has to do with their direct belongings and part of history from their residence,” said Hart.

Jack Ford said it’s his parents’ gift to the people of the Coachella Valley.