Iowa is a state with quite the history! Did you know that Captain Kirk was born here – on March 22, 2228? You can find the marker for his future birthplace in Riverside. Hundreds of years before Kirk, though, Iowa was the birthplace of another leader – Herbert Hoover. Today, Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is home to the Hoover birthplace cottage, and sits on a park that encompasses nearly 187 acres. The site truly showcases what Hoover loved most about the Hawkeye State.

When asked about West Bend and his birthplace cottage, Hoover declared that his upbringing was “physical proof of the unbounded opportunity of American life.”

National Park Service

In 1965, a park was established here, and just a few years later, it was declared a national historic site.

National Park Service

National Park Service

17,000 visitors came to see the cottage in that first year! Upon Scellers’ death, the cottage was sold to Allan Hoover, Herbert’s son. He began to restore the site so that it would be a replica of where his father was born.

National Park Service

Restoration work began in 1935 and was completed by 1938. Now, when you visit the Hoover Birthplace Cottage, you can see replica furniture and a few pieces, like Hoovers’ high chair, that are original to the site.

National Park Service

The main room of the birthplace is furnished with antique items similar to what the Hoover’s may have possessed.

National Park Service

Can you imagine living way out here over a century ago?

National Park Service

Many Iowans visit the Hoover Birthplace Cottage on school field trips when they’re young. If you haven’t been back since your class took a tour, it’s time to plan a visit!

National Park Service

The Cottage and park are run by the National Park Service, and the building is open daily.

National Park Service

Find current operating hours on the NPS website, here.

National Park Service

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Address: Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, 110 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358, USA