Herbert Hoover Presidential Library

The first in a series on presidential libraries focused on Herbert Hoover’s life and career using rarely-seen materials housed at the library. Guests talked about the significance of Hoover’s presidency and the collection of film and sound recordings, as well as letters, documents and artifacts in the stacks and vaults of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library in West Branch, Iowa. Library officials conducted a tour of the library and responded to telephone calls and electronic mail. Series historian and consultant Richard Norton Smith participated from the studio in Washington, D.C.

Highlighted film, sound, documents, and artifacts featured during the show included a 1927 television transmission featuring Herbert Hoover prior to his presidency, campaign footage from 1928 and 1932, and video from the presidential retreat at Camp Rapidan where he attempted to battle the Great Depression. Additionally material depicting Hoover as a former president including his relationship with Harry Truman, a 1960 television interview from his fishing camp in Florida, and the library dedication in 1962 were shown.

C-SPAN’s Presidential Libraries: History Uncovered was a 12-week series airing live on location from the 12 presidential libraries spanning Herbert Hoover to Bill Clinton. close