The Pasttimes of Presidents

11. James Garfield had a number of hobbies and toys with which he relaxed

James Garfield was president for just a few months before he was assassinated, but during his short term, he impressed visitors to the White House with his language skills. He was ambidextrous and challenged visitors to ask him a question, which he would then answer in writing using both hands simultaneously, with one answer written in Greek, and the other in Latin. He was also fluent in German, and when visiting German neighborhoods while campaigning often spoke in the language. His interest in mathematics led to him developing a new proof of the Pythagorean Theorem.

He also enjoyed physical play. For both amusement and exercise, Garfield juggled Indian war clubs, gifts to the White House during previous administrations. The clubs were heavy, shaped similarly to modern bowling pins, and Garfield’s ability to juggle several at once is a testimony to his physical strength. Garfield also found solace from the trials of his job reading the Bible. He was the first and to date only ordained minister to serve as president (Disciples of Christ). Throughout his life, Garfield also relaxed through outdoor activities such a fishing and hunting.