NPS Photo

A blacksmith demonstrates the craft of Herbert Hoover's father Jesse.

Blacksmith Shop

Jesse Hoover, Herbert's father, owned and operated a blacksmith shop similar to this one from 1871 to 1879. One of several blacksmiths in the community, Jesse advertised in the local newspaper that horse shoeing and repairing plows were his specialties.

A skilled and ambitious businessman, Jesse sold his blacksmith shop in 1879 and bought a larger farm implement store on Main Street where he sold pumps, wagons, barbed wire, and sewing machines. He successfully operated that shop until his death in December 1880. Though he died at age 34, in his short life he had provided an excellent example of the Quaker work ethic for his children.

"My recollection of my father is of necessity dim indeed, but I retain one vivid memento from this time. Playing barefoot around the blacksmith shop, I stepped on a chip of hot iron and carry the brand of Iowa on my foot to this day."

Herbert Hoover

Later owners moved the blacksmith shop moved from its original lot before it burned down. The present Blacksmith Shop was built in 1957 based on recollections from Herbert's brother Theodore and using timber from a nearby barn owned by a contemporary of Jesse Hoover. While not intended to fully reproduce Jesse Hoover's shop, it represents the work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit of the growning town and of the Hoover family in the 1870s.

The Blacksmith Shop is a working shop with a part-time blacksmith. Check the schedule of events for dates and times of blacksmith demonstrations. Items made by the blacksmith during his demonstrations are on sale at the bookstore.

Take a Virtual Tour

This is a stop on the virtual tour of Herbert Hoover National Historic Site.

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