First Ladies National Historic Site

The First Ladies National Historic Site is an interpretive centre in Canton, Ohio, devoted to the lives and legacies of the United States’ First Ladies. The programme is anchored by historic properties and a visitor centre that present exhibits and research resources.

Exhibitions cover the lives, public roles and cultural impact of First Ladies; the historic Ida Saxton McKinley House is presented as a period house museum. Programming includes tours and educational materials related to First Family history.

The site and its associated collections were developed to recognise and interpret the role of First Ladies in American history, using preserved historic properties and archival material to illustrate changing public expectations and private lives.

The site is located in downtown Canton, Ohio, and is part of the city’s broader set of memorial and historic attractions.

• Focus: The site interprets the public and private roles of U.S. First Ladies and includes the Ida Saxton McKinley House as a central historic property.

What to See #

• Ida Saxton McKinley House: The restored late 19th-century home of Ida Saxton McKinley, preserved to reflect the period and the First Lady's association with President McKinley.
• Visitor center / National First Ladies' Library: A visitor centre and research facility operated in partnership with the National First Ladies' Library offering exhibits about U.S. First Ladies.