First Ladies National Historic Site • Ohio

a front view of the Ida Saxton McKinley House

A piano in the Saxton McKinley Home

Close up view of home entrance.

Historic gowns in the education center.

The front of the education center.

First Ladies National Historic Site consists of two properties in downtown Canton, Ohio - the home of First Lady Ida Saxton-McKinley and our Visitor Center. Come learn about how the position of First Lady has evolved over time to include a public role.

This was the longtime residence of William and Ida McKinley.
NPS Photo

Ida Saxton's original piano is just one of many items belonging to President McKinley and First Lady Ida McKinley.
NPS Photo

The Saxton McKinley Home is significant as the only residence with direct historical ties to President William McKinley remaining in his hometown of Canton.
NPS Photo

Learn about the role of the first lady at our education center.
National First Ladies' Library

The education center is is the historic City National Bank building.
NPS Photo

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Duration:: 2 minutes, 40 seconds

The First Ladies National Historic Site (NHS) in Canton, Ohio was established as a National Park Site in 2000 and is comprised of two buildings: The Saxton House and the Visitor Center. We want to make your visit memorable and enjoyable through the curation of our two buildings. Follow us and our seasonals on this tour to get to know our site and #FindYourPark.

View of the main gallery in the visitor center

Learn more about First Ladies in our rotating museum exhibits.

The formal parlor where the Saxtons and McKinleys would greet guest.

The formal parlor where the Saxtons and McKinleys would greet guest.

Every Kid Outdoors allows U.S. fourth graders and family members free access to over 2,000 federal lands and waters.

Eleanor Roosevelt addressing the troops

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

Portraits of Abigail Adams, Mary Lincoln, Edith Wilson, Mamie Eisenhower, and Barbara Bush

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

Portrait of Ida McKinley holding fan

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

tables and bookcases display various items for sale in the park shop

Explore the park shop for your favorite first lady souvenir. Shop in store or online!

Michelle Obama hugs Girl Scouts

Girl Scouts have a long connection to First Ladies and we celebrate that here by helping troops earn patches.

Complete a Junior Ranger book to earn your Jr. Ranger Badge!

Last updated: December 18, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

205 Market Avenue South
Canton, OH 44702-2107

Phone:

(330) 452-0876

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