This year we will remember the 55th anniversary of the passing of Lou Henry Hoover and the 35th anniversary of the death of Herbert Hoover. Today, they rest in peace in a modest grave site on the grounds of the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. The site overlooks the simple cottage where Herbert Hoover was born on a hot evening in August 1874. We are reminded of all that they accomplished whenever we visit West Branch and tour the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site and the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library. It is an extraordinary record for all to see.
Death holds no dominion over two people who did so much for so many.
When anyone of us helps another, we perpetuate the goals and ideals of Herbert and Lou Henry Hoover. Recalling their legacy of compassion and humanitarianism is a fitting way to end this, the most violent of all centuries in world history. Timothy Walch is the director of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library in West Branch and the author or editor of 15 books on American history.