Plan Your Visit
This site is located on land once owned by the parents of James K. Polk, the 11th U.S. president. The state historic site commemorates significant events in the Polk administration: the Mexican-American War, settlement of the Oregon boundary dispute, and the annexation of California. Historic log buildings, including a kitchen, main house, and pack house, give visitor's the chance to immerse themselves in 18th and early-19th century life in the Backcountry. The visitor center features a film on Polk's life and exhibits on his family and tumultuous presidency.
Hours and Location
Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday, and most major holidays
12031 Lancaster Highway (P. O. Box 475)
Pineville, NC 28134
Admission
Admission is free
Donations are appreciated
Guided Tours
There is no charge for a guided tour for families or groups of less than 10 people. Tours take approximately 25 minutes and include visits to the Main House and Kitchen House. Please note that the safety of both our visitors and the artifacts in our care is our greatest concern and, therefore, inclement weather (including rain, wind, ice, snow, extreme heat) may impact the availability of tours.
Tuesday - Friday: guided tours leave from the Visitor Center at 10:00, 12:00, 2:00, and 4:00.
Saturday: guided tours leave from the Visitor Center each hour at the bottom of the hour beginning at 9:30. The final tour of the day leaves at 4:15.
If your group contains more than 10 people a reservation is required and a fee will apply.
Facilities
- Historic Structures
- The historic log cabins are typical of those during Polk’s childhood. The kitchen and house are authentically furnished with period pieces from the early 1800s.
- Visitor Center
- The visitor center features exhibits on the life and times of President Polk. A short video tells of his accomplishments.
- Trails, Monuments, Outdoor Exhibits
- The Mecklenburg Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution erected a stone monument at the site in 1904. It was the first monument dedicated in North Carolina to the eleventh president.
- Handicapped Accessibility
- The visitor center and restrooms are accessible to all visitors. The path to the historic area may require assistance. There are three steps to enter the house and kitchen.
- Picnic Facilities
- Seven picnic tables are available at the site.
- Gift Shop
- A sales desk is located in the visitor center containing items related to James K. Polk.
Programs, Group Activities
Special events are held on the grounds throughout the year. Special programs and activities are planned for scheduled school groups upon request.
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