Sets and props from the biopic "Reagan," including a full-scale replica of the Oval Office, will become permanent exhibits at a new museum in Dixon, Illinois, the hometown of the late president. The Young America’s Foundation (YAF) is partnering with the movie's production to showcase the materials, which will complement YAF's existing stewardship of Reagan's boyhood home in Dixon and the historic Reagan Ranch in Santa Barbara, California.
The collection includes replicas of the Situation Room, the office of the Soviet leader, and the wall of the Hilton Hotel where Reagan was shot, along with hundreds of other artifacts from the film. The museum is expected to open in 2028.
YAF President Scott Walker stated that the new museum aims to help students and families learn more about Reagan's life and ideas. "Our hope now is with the connection with the ‘Reagan’ movie, we helped them film a number of the things, particularly at the ranch, created this bond, and then after the movie was done, I thought how cool would it be to connect [with] things like the Oval Office, and have students and families and other guests come in and have a chance not only to take a picture and see what it was like, but then ask questions about, ‘What did he learn here in the Midwest, what impact, what influences, what books, what life experiences shaped not just him becoming President of the United States, but one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century in the entire world?’" Walker said.
Walker added that the exhibits will be integrated with virtual and photographic elements to connect young people with Reagan's legacy, focusing on themes such as "Bringing down communism, bringing patriotism back to America, and revitalizing our economy."
Mark Joseph, producer of "Reagan," expressed his hope that the museum will allow visitors to "experience the story of Reagan’s humble beginnings" and serve as a gathering place for movie fans to enjoy the meticulously built sets.
When "Reagan" premiered in Dixon in 2024, lead actor Dennis Quaid attended, reinforcing the town's connection to the film. Quaid remarked at the time that Hollywood had "forgot" about small towns.
Walker highlighted Reagan's humble upbringing as a key lesson for students, emphasizing that success is achievable regardless of privilege. He noted Reagan's mother's efforts to support the family and her community involvement as examples of resilience and humility.
The museum's announcement coincides with the upcoming release of the director's cut of "Reagan," featuring 10 additional minutes, which is set to be released nationwide on September 25. The film previously garnered a wide disparity between critics and audiences, with an 18% score on Rotten Tomatoes among critics and a 98% audience score.