History & Culture

First Ladies National Historic Site is the home to an extensive collection of stories, places, and artifacts. Representing all of the First Ladies of the United Staes - past and present - our site covers a large expanse of American history. Explore the "History and Culture" pages to learn more about the lives and legacies of the first ladies, the historic buildings at the park site, and our museum/archival collection.

 
Woodrow and Edith Wilson
Woodrow and Edith Wilson at the White House

Library of Congress

People

"Who is a First Lady? The Evolving Role and Legacy of Presidential Wives"

Explore how the position of First Lady has been defined, and how it has developed over time.

"First Ladies of the United States"

At least 57 women have held the role of First Lady, Learn more about who they are.

"The Current First Spouse"

Dr. Jill Biden is the current First Lady of the United States. Wife to incumbent president Joe Biden, Dr. Biden is the first First Lady to hold a job outside the White House.

"Ida McKinley: Perseverance through Hardship"

Ida McKinley proved to be influential in her role as First Lady, despite frequent hardship and history's portrayal of her as an invalid.

 
Saxton McKinley House
The Saxton-McKinley House is open for tours.

National Park Service

Places

"Leaving a Legacy: Experiencing History in the Saxton-McKinley House"

Aside from being a beautiful Victorian building, the Saxton-McKinley House is the last remaining home with direct ties to Ida and William McKinley in their hometown of Canton, Ohio.

"City National Bank: Home of the National First Ladies Library"

Learn about the building that now houses the Education Center for the National First Ladies LIbrary and First Ladies National Historic Site.

 

Stories

Stories about the Site

Learn more about First Ladies National Historic Site through the stories of park rangers, top 10 tips for visiting, and things to do!

Stories about First Ladies

Learn more about our nations first ladies through different stories about their lives and legacys, from our site and beyond.

Last updated: September 25, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

205 Market Avenue South
Canton, OH 44702-2107

Phone:

(330) 452-0876

Contact Us