Herbert Hoover NHS collection

Mary, Herbert (in the middle), and Theodore Hoover

The Eli Hoover and Theodore Minthorn families were among the early West Branch settlers. The Hoovers came from Miami County, Ohio, and the Minthorns from Canada. On March 12, 1870, Jesse Hoover, son of Eli and Mary Davis Hoover, married Hulda Minthorn, daughter of Theodore and Mary Wasley Minthorn.

Jesse and Hulda Hoover had three children. Theodore was born in 1871, Herbert in 1874, and Mary in 1876. As young children they were known as "Tad," "Bert," and "May."

Jesse Hoover died of pneumonia on December 13, 1880, at the age of 34. Hulda kept her family together by taking in sewing. She also had assistance from some of her relatives.

After Hulda died in February 1884, relatives gathered to decide who should care for the children. Mary Hoover stayed with grandmother Minthorn, Tad went to live with Uncle Henry Davis Hoover in Hardin County, where he was expected work off his board by helping with farm work. Herbert was taken into the family of his Uncle Allan and aunt Millie Hoover. In 1885 Herbert left West Branch and traveled to Newberg, Oregon to live with his uncle, Dr. Henry John Minthorn. The children were reunited in Oregon in 1888.