President Lincoln's Cottage
Robert H. Smith Visitor Education Center
The Education Center, which is adjacent to the cottage, features fascinating exhibits and media presentations of Lincoln's life and legacy. Learn More
President Lincoln's Cottage, a National Trust Historic Site
Lincoln's Cottage provides visitors with an intimate, never-before-seen view of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency and family life. Learn More
Faithfully Restored
A $15 million restoration (funded by the National Trust) has faithfully restored the cottage and landscape to its Civil War-era appearance. (Photo by Carol M. Highsmith) Learn More
Located on a picturesque hilltop in Washington, DC, President Lincoln's Cottage is the most significant historic site directly associated with Lincoln's presidency aside from the White House. During the Civil War, President Lincoln and his family resided here from June to November of 1862, 1863 and 1864. It was here that the President could take time to play with his son and read his favorite books, but he also used the cottage as a quiet setting for important meetings, visits from well-wishers, and solitary reflection. Though he considered the Soldiers’ Home a sanctuary, President Lincoln could not escape the civil war or the burdens of leadership. He made major decisions and developed the Emancipation Proclamation during the months spent at the Cottage.
Preservation History
In 2000, President Lincoln's Cottage was named as one of the 11 Most Endangered Places in America by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. In partnership with the Armed Forces Retirement Home, and thanks to generous public and private financial support, the National Trust led the efforts to restore this National Historic Landmark and develop innovative and award-winning programs to interpret Lincoln's presidency. The exterior restoration was completed in April 2005 and the Site opened to the public in February 2008.
Get Connected
President Lincoln's Cottage Blog
Decorating Our Fallen Soldiers: Memorial Day Past and Present
By Curtis Harris Today, Memorial Day often has a festive atmosphere. It serves as the unofficial kickoff for summer and vacation season as Americans enjoy barbecues and picnics. However, in the aftermath of the Civil War, Memorial Day held a … Continue reading 
Latest Happenings and Upcoming Events
The latest edition of the Cottage Courier is now available on our website! Stay up-to-date with all that is happening at President Lincoln’s Cottage by subscribing to receive our quarterly e-newsletter. The next Cottage Conversation will take place Monday, May … Continue reading 
Reflections on Evolving Views
By Erin Carlson Mast One hundred and fifty years ago, our country was deeply divided over an issue of individual liberty—slavery. We are currently divided over yet another issue of personal freedom. What’s more, political analysts and journalists are drawing … Continue reading 
