James Staples House

Dr. John and Eliza Staples were neighbors of the Hoovers.

"The Staples House," painting by Heather Heckel

Quick Facts

Location:

West Branch, Iowa

Significance:

Part of Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

OPEN TO PUBLIC:

No

Amenities

1 listed

Audio Description

The main wing of this white, two-story wood frame structure was completed in 1872, two years before Herbert Hoover was born. Did you know that the yellow-trimmed door on the left was the original entry to the home? Another owner added the enclosed five-windowed porch in the early 1900's. After Wetherell's death in 1876, his widow, Mary sold the three lots, along with the home, to Dr. John Staples and his wife Eliza for $1,500.00.

The couple, originally from Vermont, had decided to retire in West Branch. When the 76-year old doctor passed away in 1891, he left the home to his four grandchildren. The Staples house has since become a part of the historic village landscape from Herbert Hoover's youth.