Hildene: The Lincoln Family Home

Hildene, located in Manchester, Vermont, is the ancestral home of Robert Todd Lincoln, the only child of President Abraham Lincoln to survive to adulthood. Built-in 1905, this Georgian Revival mansion served as a summer retreat for Robert and his wife, Mary Harlan Lincoln. The name “Hildene” comes from old English words meaning “hill and valley with stream,” aptly describing its picturesque setting between the Taconic and Green Mountains, overlooking the Battenkill Valley.

The 412-acre estate boasts the main house and 14 historic buildings, including a restored 1903 Pullman car named Sunbeam. Visitors can explore the mansion, which houses many original furnishings and family heirlooms, including one of only three known existing stovepipe hats belonging to Abraham Lincoln. The formal gardens, designed by Robert’s daughter Jessie, feature a stunning array of peonies and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Beyond its historical significance, Hildene has evolved into a multifaceted destination. It includes a working farm with a goat dairy and cheese-making facility, 12 miles of walking trails, and educational exhibits focusing on Lincoln family history, civil rights, and environmental stewardship. The estate’s commitment to sustainability and education is evident in its solar-powered agricultural center and programs that engage visitors in topics ranging from ecology to social justice, embodying its mission of putting “Values into Action.”