Director’s Letter
The day Abraham Lincoln arrived at the Cottage for what he didn’t know would be his final season here, he signed into law An Act to Encourage Immigration. It was July 4, 1864. Signed months before his death, the Act embodied principles that had taken root in Lincoln as a young man in part through the myriad relationships he had with immigrants throughout his life, including the veteran residents of the Soldiers’ Home. Abraham Lincoln recognized immigrants as one of America’s greatest resources and its best hope for the future. Though our 2015 exhibit American by Belief, which shed light on Lincoln’s immigration values and policy, is no longer on public view, you can still experience it virtually through Bloomberg Connects.
Abraham Lincoln often spoke of the “unfinished work” of American democracy. His call to action wasn’t a singular plea, but a bold vision for an ongoing process towards freedom and equality. He understood that realizing this vision required continuous effort and dedication from future generations.
The pursuit of Lincoln’s vision is also where our organization has found its deepest and most meaningful work. As we journey toward our nation’s 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026, just one year from now, President Lincoln’s Cottage is committed to a commemoration that reflects our common humanity, cultivates belonging, and honors the complexity in our nation’s history.
We hope you will join us along the way!
Sincerely,
Callie Hawkins
CEO & Executive Director
President Lincoln’s Cottage
Cottage Cool: It’s Not Just a Vibe
Lincoln and his family came to the Cottage in the summers to escape the heat, but is it really discernably cooler at the Cottage than at the White House?
Two of our staff members conducted an experiment to find out. Check it out here, and then go listen to our Q&Abe episode, “Was it this hot when Lincoln was around?” HERE or wherever you listen to podcasts.
HAPPENING NOW: Our week at Chautauqua
We are delighted to be presenting at the Chautauqua Institution this week. We have created a mobile version of our award-winning grief exhibit and are presenting related programming (shwn above). Our presence will complement the experience of the new Lincoln in the Bardo opera workshop, also happening this week.
Stay tuned for a recap of the event and pictures!
Save the Dates: Homecoming and Bourbon & Bluegrass
We are thrilled two announce that we have dates for two big upcoming events!
President Lincoln’s Cottage in the News
- The Wallstreet Journal quoted Director Callie Hawkins defending the humorous Broadway smash hit Oh, Mary!
- WTOP recommended our Juneteenth programming.
- Washingtonian also shared about our Juneteenth family tours.
- EWTN spotlighted the Strawberry Soiree in an article on DC Social Collective.
SUPPORT PRESIDENT LINCOLN’S COTTAGE
Support our educational programs, preservation efforts and public events by making a contribution to President Lincoln’s Cottage. Donate online today.
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