Tour the home of the only American president born in Iowa and learn about this town’s ties with the abolition of slavery.
West Branch is a quaint town in eastern Iowa, with a charming downtown district and the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. It is known as the birthplace of the 31st president of the United States. Make your way through the vast park dedicated to the former leader of the country for an insight into the town’s place in American history.
Visit the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site to see the Birthplace Cottage. The former president grew up here as the son of a blacksmith. Examine the intriguing exhibits in the Visitor Center, including activity booklets for kids, enabling them to become Junior Rangers.
Watch the movie about the former president and purchase souvenir items in the store. Attend the presentation in the Blacksmith Shop and look around the Presidential Library and Museum.
Stroll through the park’s picturesque surroundings and bring a picnic to enjoy in a shady spot. Enjoy the hot summer afternoons and pleasant evenings here. Visit in winter, when snow covers the buildings in the town center. On the northeastern outskirts of the town is Cedar Valley Park, where you can stroll along the banks of the Cedar River.
Consider the history of West Branch, which was initially settled by Quakers in the 19th century. Its past is entwined with the story of the American Civil War and slavery, as it was part of the Underground Railway route. Note that abolitionist John Brown lodged at a farm a little east of the town.
The town is in the counties of Cedar and Johnson on the eastern side of Iowa, just 10 miles (16 kilometers) east of Iowa City. Fly to Eastern Iowa Airport in the southern outskirts of Cedar Rapids and drive southeast for 30 miles (50 kilometers) to get here in about 30 minutes. Get around the small town and its large park by car.
West Branch is a serene and picturesque settlement surrounded by a vast and informative park.
