West Branch in Cedar County, Iowa — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Friends Meetinghouse
Photographed by Beverly Pfingsten, June 15, 2011
1. Friends Meetinghouse Marker
The Hoover family worshipped in this building along with neighbors and relatives who were members of the Religious Society of Friends, or Quakers as they are often called. West Branch was predominately a Quaker community in the 1850's when this meetinghouse was built in 1857. Silent meetings for worship were held here on First Day and Fourth Day each week. Religion played a strong role in Herbert Hoover's childhood. His family were active participants in the Society of Friends where his mother, Hulda Hoover, was a recorded minister.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Religion & Religious Structures. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #31 Herbert Hoover, and the Quakerism series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1857.
Location. Marker is missing. It was located near 41° 40.179′ N, 91° 20.796′ W. Marker was in West Branch, Iowa, in Cedar County. It could be reached from North Downey Street. Touch for map. Marker was in this post office area: West Branch IA 52358, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker was
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this location: Raised With Quaker Values (a few steps from this marker); To Herbert Hoover (a few steps from this marker); Helping War Victims (within shouting distance of this marker); Birthplace Cottage (within shouting distance of this marker); From Downey Street to Pennsylvania Avenue (within shouting distance of this marker); Herbert Hoover (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Hoover Home (about 300 feet away); Birthplace of Herbert Hoover (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in West Branch.
Another marker is no longer nearby. Herbert Hoover's Birthplace (was within shouting distance of this marker but has been replaced with another marker now near it).
Photographed by Bill Coughlin, August 4, 2015
2. Friends Meetinghouse Marker
Marker has been relocated to a post between the two doors of the Meetinghouse.
Photographed by Beverly Pfingsten, June 15, 2011
3. Friends Meetinghouse
Photographed by Bill Pfingsten, June 15, 2011
4. Friends Meetinghouse Interior
Photographed by Beverly Pfingsten, June 15, 2011
5. Friends Meetinghouse Interior
Photographed by Jason Voigt, June 19, 2025
6. Friends Meetinghouse Marker
Marker is no longer there
Credits. This page was last revised on July 30, 2025. It was originally submitted on October 14, 2011, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland. This page has been viewed 849 times since then and 20 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on October 14, 2011, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland. 2. submitted on August 26, 2015, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey. 3, 4, 5. submitted on October 14, 2011, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland. 6. submitted on July 30, 2025, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois.
