Iowa is full of history, including some of the most significant figures in American history. Maybe the most famous person born in Iowa is the 31st US President, Herbert Hoover – and his humble hometown of West Branch has become a tribute to his impact on American history. So why not pay a visit this summer and explore the many sites celebrating his Presidency, his post-presidency work, and his traditional Iowa childhood? But West Branch is much more than history – it’s a wonderful small town with great sights and eats for you to enjoy after you’re done exploring living history.
The charming downtown of West Branch makes it look like an ordinary Iowa small town, but it has one big secret.
Rpogge/Wikipedia
This was where Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States, grew up.
Library of Congress/Wikipedia While Hoover only served one term amid the Great Depression, he’s considered to have one of the most successful - and longest - post-presidencies.
His birthplace cottage has been preserved at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, so you can witness his humble beginnings.
Billwhittaker/Wikipedia
You can even visit a recreation of the blacksmith shop owned by his father Jesse Hoover.
Billwhittaker/Wikipedia
The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is also in the town and can be visited for a more in-depth look at his life.
Susan D/TripAdvisor
But that’s not the only historic site in the town - you can explore the old-fashioned Gruwell and Crew General Store, which is currently a museum.
Bill Whittaker/Wikipedia
West Branch has natural beauty, too, so make sure to visit
Management/TripAdvisor
GailCheryl/TripAdvisor
There, you’ll find heaping portions of authentic Mexican cuisine like smoky carnitas.
NVJudie/TripAdvisor
Before you leave West Branch, make sure to stop by Main Street Sweets to pick up one of their irresistible house-made pies!
Main St. Sweets/Facebook
Have you visited West Branch, Iowa? What did you think of its extensive tributes to Herbert Hoover, probably the most famous person born in Iowa? Let us know in the comments section, and if you’re planning a visit make sure to drop by the West Branch website for more information on the town. If you’re interested in more famous people born in the Hawkeye State, check out this surprising list.
Rpogge/Wikipedia
Library of Congress/Wikipedia
While Hoover only served one term amid the Great Depression, he’s considered to have one of the most successful - and longest - post-presidencies.
Billwhittaker/Wikipedia
Susan D/TripAdvisor
Bill Whittaker/Wikipedia
Management/TripAdvisor
GailCheryl/TripAdvisor
NVJudie/TripAdvisor
Main St. Sweets/Facebook
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Address: West Branch, IA 52358, USAAddress: Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, 210 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358, USAAddress: Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, 110 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358, USAAddress: Main Street Sweets, 104-1/2 E Main St, West Branch, IA 52358, USAAddress: Mexico Lindo Grill & Cantina, 711 S Downey St, West Branch, IA 52358, USA
