Orphaned at age nine, Herbert Hoover left West Branch never to live here again. In later years, he returned to his humble birthplace to celebrate his long career of public service. A memorial landscape remains to tell his story: how community, hard work, honesty, and usefulness to others opened a world of opportunity— and the presidency of the United States— to a child of simple beginnings.
Values learned in his hometown of rural West Branch guided Herbert Hoover throughout his life of service to the nation and the world.
A landscape of historic buildings, exhibits, and natural areas commemorate the life of Herbert Hoover.
Decide what to see and do during your visit.
Use the NPS App on your visit to Herbert Hoover to discover the places and people that shaped the early life of the 31st President.
Reserve picnic shelters, book field trips, and apply for special use permits.
Help protect the park by knowing the rules before you visit.
Artists-in-residence share their inspirations with visitors as they creatively interpret the historic site.
Last updated: April 15, 2021
