HOOVER ARTIFACTS FROM CALIFORNIA include artwork, personal possessions, a blanket chest and more Chinese porcelains, a Stetson cowboy hat of Lou Hoover's, and the headboard and footboard of the Hoovers' bed.
Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, West Branch IA

FLOOR PLANS for each of the three floors of "Lou Henry Hoover House"
Stanford University Archives, Stanford CA

Although both Iowa-born, Herbert and Lou Hoover were Californians at heart. In April 1917, Lou began designs for a sprawling home on the edge of the campus of Stanford University . In 1920 they moved in, although Bert's duties in Washington kept the family hopping from the east coast to the west, and back again.

Mrs. Hoover collaborated with architect Birge M. Clark to create a unique residence with a mix of architectural styles. The exterior encourages indoor-outdoor living with rooftop terraces and exterior stairways. The interior featured leaded glass windows, ceiling beams that echo coved ceilings, and secret panels. Displayed within its 26 rooms and 12 fireplaces were collections from their years abroad: Persian rugs, Peruvian bowls, Chinese porcelains, and embroidered Belgian four sacks.

After Lou's death in January 1944, Herbert Hoover donated their home to the university. The "Lou Henry Hoover House" now serves as the official residence of Stanford presidents and has been designated a National Historic Landmark.