Visiting the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library in West Branch, Iowa

Discovering Hoover: An Overdue Journey of Unexpected Insights

Let me start with a confession: growing up, I always thought Herbert Hoover was the guy who fumbled the Great Depression. That’s what I learned in history class, anyway. It turns out I was woefully wrong—and Jenny and I discovered this in the best way possible: by visiting the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Branch, Iowa.

Here’s the kicker—I’d driven past the library’s I-80 interstate exit on countless road trips back to visit my family in Chicago over the years, always ignoring the signs. But last month, after a trip to Iowa City to watch our Nebraska Cornhuskers play the Iowa Hawkeyes, we made plans and time to see what I had been missing, and what we found was a mix of fascinating history, surprising revelations, and even a few laughs.

Herbert Hoover: A Life of Service and Challenge

IMPORTANT: Don’t start your visit to the Hoover Presidential Library without taking the time to watch the introductory film in the lobby theater—it’s the perfect primer for what’s to come.

Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States (1929–1933), is remembered for his profound contributions as a humanitarian, engineer, and public servant. Born in Iowa in 1874 to a Quaker family, Hoover’s early life was shaped by his strong values and determination. He graduated from Stanford University in its inaugural class, launching a successful career as a mining engineer that took him across the globe, including a dramatic stint in China during the Boxer Rebellion.

Hoover earned worldwide acclaim during and after World War I as “The Great Humanitarian,” organizing relief efforts to feed war-torn Europe and prevent famine, even extending aid to Soviet Russia despite political tensions. His leadership and compassion exemplified his belief that hunger transcends politics.

After serving as Secretary of Commerce, Hoover won the presidency in 1928, promising prosperity. However, the Great Depression struck soon after his election, overshadowing his administration. Despite initiating programs to aid recovery, Hoover’s emphasis on local and voluntary responsibility for relief efforts drew criticism, and he was defeated in 1932.

In later years, Hoover became a vocal critic of the New Deal and led commissions under Presidents Truman and Eisenhower to improve government efficiency. A prolific writer, he continued contributing to public life until his passing at the age of 90 on October 20, 1964, leaving a legacy of service and resilience.

Bert, the Humanitarian

Right out of the gate, we learned something humbling: Herbert Hoover wasn’t just “The Depression Guy.” Did you know he was orphaned at a young age? Or that before becoming president, he rose up through sheer grit and determination, earning a remarkable education and becoming a humanitarian force? The museum beautifully captures this chapter of his life, especially his work during and after World War I, when he organized food relief efforts that saved countless lives across Europe. The gratitude from those nations is evident in the heartfelt letters and gifts on display.

Jenny even compared Hoover to Jimmy Carter—two presidents often criticized for their time in office but widely respected for their humanitarian work afterward. It’s a thoughtful comparison, and honestly, one I wouldn’t have made without this visit.

First Lady Lou Henry Hoover

Lou Henry Hoover’s story is the kind that lingers with you long after you hear it—a story of brilliance, resilience, and a partnership so dynamic it feels like it leapt straight out of a classic romance novel. Jenny and I found ourselves captivated by her life and how she wasn’t just Herbert Hoover’s wife, but his equal, his partner, and his inspiration. For Jenny, this part of our visit stood out as something truly special. She thought it was romantic—how Lou wasn’t content to stand in her husband’s shadow but walked stride for stride with him, shaping not only his story but our nation’s history as well.

Their love story began at Stanford University, where Lou became the first woman to earn a degree in geology—a trailblazer from the start. It was there that Herbert fell for her intelligence, curiosity, and adventurous spirit. Their life together reads like an epic. Newlyweds in China during the Boxer Rebellion. World travelers who lived in London, raising two sons and hosting diplomats. Humanitarians who fed millions during World War I. And through it all, Lou wasn’t just supporting Herbert’s rise—she was making waves of her own. From leading the Girl Scouts to hosting an integrated tea at the White House, Lou quietly but powerfully defied conventions, proving that change often begins with small, courageous acts.

Jenny was especially moved by Lou’s belief in private charity, her refusal to publicize the help she gave to struggling Americans during the Great Depression. To Lou, true generosity didn’t need recognition—it was enough to simply do the work. There’s something quietly heroic about that kind of humility, and Jenny found it both inspiring and deeply romantic. Lou wasn’t just a remarkable first lady; she was a woman ahead of her time, a beacon of strength and intellect who left a legacy far beyond her tenure in the White House.

As we reflected on her story, Jenny and I couldn’t help but admire the way Lou and Herbert’s partnership set a high bar for what a marriage can be—not just a union of two people, but a collaboration of minds, a meeting of equals, and a shared mission to make a difference in the world. It’s the kind of love story that sticks with you, reminding you of the beauty of shared dreams and the impact one person can have on another—and, in Lou’s case, on an entire nation.

Bitter Cold Day, Beautiful Warm Memories

The weather the day of our visit was cold, to say the least, so we didn’t spend much time outside at the home where he grew up or the rebuilt building of where his father ran his blacksmith shop. But inside the warm presidential library, the replica of Hoover’s Waldorf Astoria office caught our eye, as did the quirky fact that young Herbert Hoover went by the name “Bert.” It took me a minute to realize that all those references to “Bert” were, in fact, about the future president. Jenny still teases me about that.

We also paid our respects at the burial site of Herbert and Lou Henry Hoover, tucked into the beautiful grounds of the Hoover National Historic Site. The grounds themselves feel like a peaceful reflection of the man—unassuming yet impactful.

Following the visit to the library and museum, we stopped into a charming diner down the street called “The Serving Cafe” and had a delicous lunch.

From History to History Buffs

This visit sparked something new for us: a goal to tour all the presidential libraries. Next on the list? The Truman Library in Independence, Missouri. I vaguely remember visiting it as a kid, but Jenny and I plan to explore it with fresh eyes next summer. After that, we’ll head to the Eisenhower Library in Kansas. History feels so much more relatable and alive when you can walk through it, doesn’t it?

Know Before You Go

If you’re inspired to visit the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum (and you absolutely should), here are the details:

• Address: 210 Parkside Drive, West Branch, Iowa 52358
• Hours: Open daily, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day)
• Admission:
  • Adults (16-61): $10.00
  • Seniors (62+), Military, College Students: $5.00
  • Children (6-15): $3.00
  • Children (5 and under): Free
  • Hoover Presidential Foundation Members: Free

Please note that hours, prices, and info are subject to change. We visited in November 2024. Visit their website or call ahead to confirm before you go.

Recommendations, Please!

We’d love to hear about your experiences with presidential libraries. Which ones have you visited, and what made them memorable? Any hidden gems in the surrounding towns we should check out? Share your stories—we’re always looking for inspiration for our next adventure. Send me an email or message.

A Small but Significant Treasure

Before we left, we picked up the 2024 official White House ornament featuring Jimmy Carter. This year’s design honors former President Jimmy Carter, with a solid brass ornament finished in 24-karat gold and screen-printed with stunning colors. Shaped like an anchor, it symbolizes hope and reflects Carter’s service in the United States Navy, along with key moments from his presidency and life.

The design also highlights historic moments from his life and presidency. Every ornament ships in a keepsake box with a ribbon for hanging and an illustrated booklet on the Carter presidency.

It’s now hanging proudly on our Christmas tree, a little reminder of this unexpected and enlightening trip. Who knew Herbert Hoover could inspire a new tradition for our family? Not me…but I’m glad he did.