President Lincoln’s Cottage is an historic site and museum located in the Petworth neighborhood in northwest Washington, D.C. It is the only place the public can experience the history of Abraham Lincoln’s public and private life where he lived and worked for over a quarter of his presidency. President Lincoln’s Cottage first opened to the public in February 2008, after an eight-year capital restoration project under the auspices of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. On January 1, 2016, President Lincoln’s Cottage became an independent 501(c)(3) organization.
While in residence at the Cottage, Lincoln made nation-changing decisions about the Union, Freedom, and the Presidency, most notably the Emancipation Proclamation. He encountered people from all walks of life here and on his commute, gaining new perspectives on freedom, justice, and humility, while also bringing him closer to the war’s human cost. The importance of what Lincoln accomplished and experienced in this space encourages us to embrace the Cottage as a Museum of Ideas over a traditional historic house museum model.
Every day on our tours and in every program, we witness that the stories of what happened here historically have the power to bring out the leader in any person today, inspiring courageous ideas, respectful dialogue and thoughtful compromise. We believe the world still needs a Home for Brave Ideas and are committed to being that place.
MISSION STATEMENT
Reveal the true Lincoln and continue the fight for freedom
VISION STATEMENT
Plant the seeds of Lincoln’s brave ideas around the world so that all people, everywhere, can be free
For more information, visit www.lincolncottage.org.