LEARN NC

K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Polk Memorial (NC Historic Site)

A congressman for the state of Tennessee and President of the United States, James K. Polk was a native of the state of North Carolina. This historic site celebrates his life and accomplishments.

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Learn more

  • Mr. President: Profiles of Our Nation's Leaders Portraits, fast facts, biographical information and quotes by the American presidents.
  • POTUS: Presidents of the United States Find background information, election results, cabinet members, notable events, and some points of interest on each of the presidents. Links to biographies, historical documents, audio and video files, and other presidential sites.
  • Lesson plan: Learn about your county This activity will allow fourth grade students in North Carolina to learn more about the counties that surround their home county. Using online images, students will create a multimedia presentation to share with others.
  • American President.org Provides a rich history of the presidency and it presidents, including biographies of key figures such as the first ladies and cabinet members. Additionally find information on presidential responsibilities, his offices, and his resources.

Related pages

  • The Davenport Homestead: See what everyday life was like over 200 years ago at the Davenport Homestead. The main house is the original home of Washington County's first state senator, Daniel Davenport.
  • Historic Latta Plantation: A living history farm 20 miles north of Charlotte features an African American exhibit, virtual tour and history of this once cotton plantation, activities for kids, and teacher resources.
  • Vance Birthplace (NC Historic Site): Learn about the birthplace of Zebulon Baird Vance and his famous mountain family on this site.

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The 11th President of the United States, James Knox Polk, was born in 1795 on a 250-acre farm and spent most of his childhood on this land. The log buildings have been reconstructed and their furnishings are not original to the Polk homestead but are period pieces that date from the early 1800s.

The memorial commemorates significant events in the Polk administration: the Mexican War, settlement of the Oregon boundary dispute, and the annexation of California. The Visitor Center features a film on Polk’s life and civic contributions.

The Polk Memorial is open Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. It is closed Sunday and Monday. Guided tours of the main house and kitchen are provided and organized groups should make reservations. For more information call (704) 889-7145 or send email to polk@ncmail.net.

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