Step into the Majestic World of Hildene - The Historic Lincoln Family Home

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Are you a history buff looking for a unique way to experience the life and times of President Abraham Lincoln and his family? Look no further than Hildene, the historic Lincoln family home located in the stunning beauty of Vermont's Green Mountains. Stepping through the doors of this magnificent estate is like taking a trip back in time, to an era where elegance, grace, and sophistication reigned supreme.

This breathtaking property offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore the elegant mansion, complete with stunning gardens, Mead Chapel, observatory, and Carriage Barn exhibit space. Learn about the fascinating legacy of the Lincoln family, including Robert Todd Lincoln's esteemed career as chairman of the Pullman Company and ambassador to Great Britain, and his wife's tireless work on behalf of education, the arts, and the environment.

From the serene tranquility of the formal gardens to the intricate details of the interior design, the sheer beauty and majesty of Hildene will leave you breathless. Whether you're a student of history, an admirer of architecture, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this extraordinary home has something to offer everyone. So why wait? Plan your visit to Hildene today and step back into a world of grace and grandeur, where the Lincoln family legacy still shines bright.


Step into the Majestic World of Hildene - The Historic Lincoln Family Home

The Overview of Hildene

Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home is located in Vermont. It is a historic site and a beautiful destination for anyone interested in American history, architecture, or nature. The home was built by Abraham Lincoln's son, Robert Todd Lincoln, in 1905.

The House Tour

The house tour is an excellent way to learn about the Lincoln family and life in the early 20th century. The guided tour begins with the lower level of the mansion, where you can see the original power systems used to operate the house. You will also see the kitchen, pantry, and butler's pantry, where the family and their staff prepared and served meals.

The tour proceeds to the upper levels where visitors can see the spacious bedrooms, living rooms, and library. An experienced guide offers insights into the lifestyle, history, and significant events that took place within the walls of this iconic home.

The Grounds Tour

The gardens and grounds of Hildene are as fascinating as the mansion itself. Two terraced gardens and multiple hiking trails capture the natural beauty of Vermont. Visitors can walk through a woodland garden, take in the exquisite view of Vermont's Green Mountains, or stroll down the vista-lined formal garden terrace.

You can also take some time to explore the Lower Meadow, where goats, sheep, and other animals graze, giving visitors an opportunity to watch and interact with them. Additionally, the Pullman Palace Car, the restored railway car used by Robert Todd Lincoln, provides a glimpse into the transportation of the past.

The Artifacts

The historical site houses various artifacts related to Lincoln's son, Robert Todd Lincoln, his family, and their time. The Pin Collection and the inaugural ball gown worn by Robert Todd Lincoln's wife, Mary Harlan Lincoln, are among several fascinating artifacts displayed at Hildene.

A table comparison showcasing the different artifacts available in Hildene:

Artifacts Descriptions
Lincoln Family Furniture An assortment of furniture items used by the Lincoln family in their everyday lives.
The Calliope A 1909 automatic musical instrument that produces sound by steam from a steam locomotive.
The Pullman Palace Car A rare opportunity to see the restored railway car used by Robert Todd Lincoln.
Pin Collection A charity fundraising method made popular during Robert Todd Lincoln's time.
Inaugural ball gown of Mary Harlan Lincoln The iconic gown worn by Mary Harlan Lincoln, highlighting the grandeur of the presidential inauguration.

The Events and Exhibitions

Hildene hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year to reflect the family's history, arts, and culture. Some significant annual events include the Celtic Festival, Fall Art and Craft Festival, and A Singing Christmas Tree. In addition, visitors can experience different seasonal exhibits, including cultural, educational, and environmental projects.

The Joinery Workshop

The Joinery Workshop at Hildene provides visitors with an opportunity to learn hands-on how to make furniture out of wood. Participants can test their creativity by building either a birdhouse, a small table, or a chessboard. Not only is it an excellent way to develop new artisanship skills, but it also creates a fun experience for families and friends.

The Sustainability Mission

On top of being a historic site and a beautiful destination, Hildene is committed to sustainability. As a testament to this role, the estate has installed over 300 solar panels, making them home to the first residential Tesla Powerwall in Vermont. The Powerwalls store energy created by the solar panels, reducing reliance on non-renewable sources.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Overall, Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, is a fabulous place to visit, learn, and explore. The guided tours, gorgeous ground, art exhibition, etc., reveal an abundance of stories that illuminate history through time. If you are interested in American history, nature, architecture, or artisanship, I highly recommend visiting Hildene the next time you are in Vermont.


Thank you for taking the time to explore Hildene-The Historic Lincoln Family Home with us. We hope that this blog post has provided you with valuable information about this fascinating destination and perhaps even inspired you to plan a visit of your own.

Hildene offers visitors a truly unique glimpse into the history of one of America's most iconic families. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover or simply looking for a memorable experience, Hildene has something to offer everyone. From the beautifully preserved estate grounds to the collection of family artifacts and exhibits, there is no shortage of things to see and do at this incredible property.

We encourage you to take the opportunity to step into the majestic world of Hildene and discover the magic for yourself. With its rich history, stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings, it's easy to see why this National Historic Landmark has captured the imagination of so many visitors over the years. So why not plan a visit today and see what all the fuss is about!


  • What is Hildene?
    • Hildene is the historic family home of Abraham Lincoln's descendants.
  • Where is Hildene located?
    • Hildene is located in Manchester, Vermont.
  • What can I see at Hildene?
    • Visitors can tour the historic mansion, gardens, and observatory. There are also exhibits on the Lincoln family and the history of Vermont.
  • When is Hildene open?
    • Hildene is open daily from May through October, and on weekends in November and December.
  • How much does it cost to visit Hildene?
    • Admission prices vary depending on the season and age of the visitor. Check the Hildene website for current prices.
  • Can I bring my dog to Hildene?
    • No, pets are not allowed on the Hildene property.
  • Are there any special events at Hildene?
    • Yes, Hildene hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and workshops. Check the Hildene website for a calendar of events.
  • Is Hildene accessible for visitors with disabilities?
    • Yes, Hildene is accessible for visitors with disabilities. There is a designated parking area, and the mansion and gardens are wheelchair accessible.