Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home has Plenty to Offer Visitors. Many who visit the picturesque village of Manchester, Vermont come to see Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home. The mansion and the grounds are beautiful, interesting, and full of history, a perfect place for everyone in the family to go.
Robert Todd Lincoln, who happened to be the only child of President Abraham Lincoln and his wife Mary Todd Lincoln to live to adulthood, built this Georgian Mansion in 1905. Descendents of the Lincolns made the home their residence for 70 years.
Today, the historic home, along with the gardens, trails, and farm set on 412 lovely acres, is one of the most visited places in the entire state. Those who come to Hildene will find that it has quite a few different things to offer the visitor.
When guests visit the mansion, they are treated to a short orientation video that welcomes them and tells them a bit about the history of the house and the interesting people who lived there. You can take a self-guided tour of the home and see all the different Lincoln family artifacts, and you can even watch a demonstration of the Aeolian pipe organ.
Besides the house, there are quiet a few other interesting areas on the grounds that are sure to capture your attention. At the Farm, you will be able to see a number of different animals as they graze. Kids love the Farm area!
The Formal Gardens, created in 1907, are beautifully manicured and elegant. Many will enjoy spending time walking amongst the peony blossoms and hedges. The Cutting and Kitchen Gardens have a number of paths, as well as flowerbed and vegetable gardens.
The Meadows are found in a valley 300 feet below the main house. You can find some outbuildings and farmhouses, as well as a one-room schoolhouse that dates back to 1832.
Another feature of the grounds that you don’t want to miss is the walking trails. The trails take you around the beautiful natural areas on the grounds and come complete with interpretive signs filled with information.
The main building is open 9:30AM to 4:30PM daily, and your visit will begin at the Welcome Center. Tickets are $12.50 for adults, $5 for children. Those under six are free. For a pass to the grounds, adults pay $5, and children pay $2. Again, those under six are free. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmastime (December 24, 25, 26), and Easter.
1005 Hildene Road
Manchester, VT 05254