"...a position where I can do the most good..." Eleanor Roosevelt

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

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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 Education 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.

Jackie Kennedy sits with her arm draped over a couch and her other hand tucked up under her chin

Visit the Education Center

Learn more about First Ladies in our rotating museum exhibits.

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

Tour the Saxton House

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

Front of the Saxton House with red, white, and blue bunting between the 8 pillars on the front porch

Top 10 Tips for Visiting

Plan like a park ranger and use these insider tips to have a great visit to First Ladies National Historic Site.

Eleanor Roosevelt addressing the troops

Who is a First Lady?

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

First Ladies of the United States

Over 50 women have held the role of First Lady as of 2021. Who are they?

Portrait of Ida McKinley holding fan

Ida McKinley

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

two fingers hold up a lapel pin with the official volunteer in parks logo on it

Volunteer at First Ladies NHS

You can make our great places better. Become a VIP and volunteer with us today!

Michelle Obama hugs Girl Scouts

Girl Scout Programs

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

Junior Ranger Logo

Junior Ranger

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

Last updated: April 29, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

205 Market Avenue South
Canton, OH 44702-2107

Phone:

(330) 452-0876

Contact Us