Martin Van Buren National Historic Site

Born in Kinderhook, New York, in 1782, Martin Van Buren was the first president born a US citizen. His life spanned the American Revolution to the Civil War and was shaped by the most important issues of the era: US expansionism and the removal of Indigenous people, states’ rights, and slavery. This historic landscape invites reflection on the many lives and legacies woven into its past.

Lindenwald during fall.

Lindenwald during fall, the large Sycamore tree is prominently seen to the left rear of the house.

Lindenwald, a yellow, 3 story mansion, is surrounded by trees.

Le paysage à chasses - Zuber wallpaper

Original sections of Le paysage à chasses by Zuber that hang in Van Buren's dining room.

Le paysage à chasses, a scenic wallpaper of a hunting scene that is hung in Van Buren's dining room

Servants' Dining Room

During Martin Van Buren’s ownership, this basement space served as a work and dining area for servants. However, during the Van Ness (1797) era, it may have been part of the living space for enslaved people.

The servants' dining room in the basement of Lindenwald. A round table fill the center of the room.

Hiram Powers bust of Martin Van Buren in the Library.

Inside Martin Van Buren's library a marble bust created by Hiram Powers dominates the space.

A white marble bust of Martin Van Buren is centered between two windows and behind an oblong desk.