Milford Museum to host talk on the landmark Presidential Election of 1912

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Story by Jarek Rutz, Delaware LIVE News

The Milford Museum’s American History Series continues next month with a deep dive into one of the most pivotal elections in U.S. history.

On Saturday, September 13 at 1 p.m., historian and educator Lew Miller will present “The Presidential Election of 1912: Theodore Roosevelt and the Rise of the Bull Moose Party” at the Milford Public Library.

The talk will explore the dramatic four-way race that reshaped the American political landscape, focusing primarily on the rivalry between former President Theodore Roosevelt, running under the newly formed Progressive “Bull Moose” Party, and Democrat Woodrow Wilson, then the governor of New Jersey.

Often considered the first “modern” presidential election, the 1912 contest introduced primary elections in several states and addressed issues that still resonate today—tariffs, immigration, inflation, and inequality.

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The results of that election helped define the ideological direction of both major political parties for the next century: Republicans moved toward conservatism, while Democrats embraced a more liberal platform.

Presenter Lew Miller brings more than four decades of experience in public education.

He taught U.S. and world history before becoming an administrator and later serving as Director of Instruction for the Caesar Rodney School District.

In retirement, he continues to stay active in education through consulting and legal research.

The program is part of a monthly series sponsored by the Milford Museum, highlighting local, state, and national history.

Events are held the second Saturday of each month at the Milford Public Library, located at 11 S.E. Front Street. Admission is free and open to the public, thanks to a grant from the Delaware Heritage Commission.