The property is dominated by the museum complex and parking lot; the Birthplace is located in a slightly secluded setting east of the main building, in a grove of trees.

The north roof face has a broad shed-roof dormer projecting, and a gabled hood shelters the main entrance.

[5] The house was built in 1912 from a mail-order construction kit by Francis A. Nixon, on ranchland owned by the family.

[6] Richard Nixon was born in this house the following year, and the family remained here until 1922, when they moved to Whittier.

[7] Nixon formed a nonprofit library organization in 1968, after winning his first election as president.