The Birthplace of Herbert Hoover Poster

Painted in 1931 by renowned American Regionalist Grant Wood, The Birthplace of Herbert Hoover depicts the modest white frame cabin in West Branch, Iowa, where the 31st U.S. president was born. Executed in oil on masonite, this large-scale work (approximately 75 x 101 cm) captures the rural Midwestern landscape with Wood’s characteristic precision and stylised simplicity, emphasizing geometric forms and rhythmic patterns. The painting features warm autumnal tones and a bird’s-eye perspective, highlighting the contrast between the small cabin and the larger house in front, as well as the orderly trees and path. A small figure points towards the birthplace, guiding the viewer’s attention and adding a narrative element. Commissioned by Iowa businessmen as a tribute to Hoover, the painting reflects both pride in local heritage and Wood’s mastery of American folk art-inspired Regionalism. It is part of the Minneapolis Institute of Art collection.