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
Tours take approximately 25 minutes and include visits to the Main House and Kitchen House. Tours are limited to 10 people each. Please signup for the next available tour at the front desk. 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.
Guided tours of the historic structures cost $2 per adult; $1 for children ages 5-12, and seniors. The Visitor Center and site grounds remain free to visit.
Tours begin at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays. Pre-registration is required.
Tours are limited to 10 people. If you plan to visit and wish to go on the tour, we recommend reserving a spot online prior to your visit. If open spots remain on the day of a tour, you may sign up at the front desk in the Visitor Center.
*Please note that the interior of the cabins are unavailable for viewing unless you are on a guided tour.
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 Little Sugar Creek Greenway connects to the site for walking and bike riding. 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.
Contact us at polk@ncdcr.gov