James A. Garfield NHS

The James A. Garfield National Historic Site preserves the Lawnfield Estate and surrounding property of James Abram Garfield, the 20th president of the United States. The site includes the first presidential library established in the United States. The estate was originally purchased by Garfield's father in 1833, and the family lived there for nearly two decades. In 1881, just months after taking office, President Garfield was shot by an assassin while walking through the Washington, D.C. train station. He died two months later, and his body was returned to Mentor for burial. Today, visitors to the historic site can tour the Garfield home, stroll through the gardens, and learn about the life and legacy of one of America's most unique presidents.