Hildene was the summer home of Abraham Lincoln's only surviving son, Robert Todd Lincoln. It is important to note that President Lincoln never visited Hildene (as it was built 40 years after his assassination). The Lincolns were, however, familiar with the Manchester area. In the summer of 1864, Robert, his mother (Mary Todd Lincoln), and younger brother (Tad) visited the nearby Equinox Hotel as a retreat from Washington D.C. which was still in the throes of the Civil War.
Completed in 1905, the house was occupied by members of the Lincoln family until 1975. Photography was not allowed inside which was a shame as there are many lovely things to behold. Nearly everything is completely original to the house and Lincoln family. Even articles belonging to Abraham himself. Unfortunately, one of his signature top hats (and one of only three still in existence) was on loan to another institution. There was, however, a very nicely curated exhibit titled, "The American Ideal: Abraham Lincoln and the Second Inaugural." Focusing on key excerpts from Lincoln's second inaugural address accompanied by artifacts belonging to Hildene and some on loan from from the John Hay Library at Brown University, the exhibit engulfs its visitors and helps to exercise understanding of the president's words. What the war meant, the impact it had on the nation, and the forthcoming era of reconciliation and reconstruction are all there to contemplate while examining speeches, telegrams, photographs, maps, and engravings, etc.
Photography was allowed on the grounds which, now that the history bit is out of the way, I will go ahead and share. A formal garden designed by Robert's daughter is situated behind the house. If we had visited in June we would have been treated to thousands of peony blooms. Some are even the original plantings. A small conservatory occupies a knoll near the house. The property also features a farm, walking trails, and a fully restored 1903 train car (which we forgot to see). After Robert Todd Lincoln's political career (Secretary of War under both Presidents Garfield and Arthur and U.S. minister to the U.K. under President Harrison) was over, he served as president of the Pullman Palace Car Company. Next time: train car and peonies!
Did I forget to mention the mountains? The estate is surrounded by gorgeous views of both the Green Mountains in Vermont and the Taconic Mountains in New York.