The 14-by-20-foot birthplace cottage was moved to its current position from its original foundation in the early 20th century.
Herbert Hoover is one of only two U.S. Presidents to be buried in the state of Iowa.
The site contains a reconstructed blacksmith shop representative of the one operated by Hoover’s father, Jesse, in the 1870s.
A 77-acre tallgrass prairie restoration project serves as a living laboratory for native Iowa plant species.
The gravesite area is marked by a simple, unadorned marble slab, reflecting the modest Quaker traditions of Hoover's youth.
The site includes a one-room schoolhouse, the West Branch Schoolhouse, which was relocated to the grounds from a nearby farm.
The Presidential Library and Museum building was dedicated by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965.
The visitor center displays artifacts from the Boxer Rebellion in China, where Hoover and his wife lived while working as engineers.
The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site preserves the birthplace and final resting place of the 31st U.S. President. The site features the original two-room cottage where Hoover was born in 1874. Visitors can explore the gravesites of Herbert and Lou Henry Hoover, located on a hillside overlooking the historic village. The grounds include a restored prairie landscape and a blacksmith shop. The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is located within the park boundary and is operated by the National Archives. The site encompasses over 80 acres of land in West Branch, Iowa. It commemorates the life and public service of Hoover, highlighting his Quaker upbringing and humanitarian career.
The elevated overlook point near the gravesites provides a panoramic view of the historic village and surrounding parkland.
Walk the trail through the tallgrass prairie to see the site's restoration efforts.
Allow extra time to visit the Presidential Library and Museum, which is a separate entity on the grounds.
Check the National Park Service website for scheduled ranger-led talks during the summer months.
Do not overlook the walking trails connecting the historic village area to the Presidential Library.
The Presidential Library and Museum may have different operating schedules than the National Park Service grounds; check both prior to visiting.
Maintain a respectful distance from the burial site and refrain from loud conversations near the grave marker.
