President James K. Polk

U.S. President – Mexican American War

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. Reconstructions of typical homestead buildings—a log house, separate kitchen, and barn—are authentically furnished. The visitor center features a film on Polk's life and exhibits on his family and tumultuous presidency.

Read the full site information

What's New

Volunteer!

We are currently recruiting volunteers who can share their time and talents. A few hours a week or even a month is all you need to make friends and support your community. Call 704-889-7145, or email Courtney Rounds.

Upcoming

  • May 24: Open Hearth Cooking
    Thursday 10am - 2pm.
    What did the Polks eat during their time here in NC? Join members of the Catawba Valley Cooking Guild as they demonstrate what it took to craft a meal over an open hearth. For more information, call (704) 889-7145, or email polk@ncdcr.gov.
  • June 9: The Art of Music in the Mid-Nineteenth Century
    Saturday 10am - 4pm.
    The first our summer "Second Saturdays" series, this program features various music popular during President Polk's administration. The focus will vary from classical to folk, and visitors will get the chance to try their hand at making music. Artisans will sell instruments and sheet music, and visitors can even make their own simplified versions of instruments. Admission is free. Email Courtney Rounds or call 704-889-7145.
  • Through November 10: Political Conventions
    New exhibit on the history of US political conventions and the role they play, featuring the Democratic Convention of 1844. Free and open to the public.

Polk Memorial Information

Contact Us

President James K. Polk State Historic Site
Box 475
Pineville, NC 28134
[12031 Lancaster Hwy.]
Phone: (704) 889-7145
Email: polk@ncdcr.gov
GPS: 35.07800069980, -80.88263317450

Hours of Operation

Tuesday - Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday, and most major state holidays.

Admission

No fee. Donations are accepted and appreciated.

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