IN BRIEF
Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace NHS in Manhattan, opened to the public in 1923, memorializes the early childhood home of the only President born in New York City.

Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, lived at this site from his birth on October 27, 1858 until he was 14 years old. The reconstructed house, built as a memorial after his death in 1919, contains five period rooms, two museum galleries and a small bookstore.

Roosevelt started his political career as a New York State Assemblyman from 1882-1884. From 1889 to 1895 he was a member of the United States Civil Service Commission. After two years as President of the New York Board of Police he was appointed Assistant Secretary of the Navy from 1897-1898.

During his term as Assistant Secretary of the Navy he led his Rough Riders up San Juan Hill in Cuba during the Spanish American War. This courageous charge earned him great acclaim and he was elected Governor of New York in 1898 and served until 1901, when he became Vice President to William McKinley.

Governor Roosevelt's support for several progressive business and labor reforms created a difficult political climate for the Republicans. In an effort to diminish party dissention, Thomas Platt, Republican Party boss, engineered Roosevelt’s nomination as Republican candidate for vice-president, a position which held prestige, but little power. Theodore Roosevelt became president when President William McKinley was assassinated in September 1901.

DESIGNATIONS
Authorized - July 25, 1962