Entertain in Presidential Style

By Leslie Bouterie

During the Lincoln presidency, Mary and Abraham Lincoln used the tranquil setting of their country retreat at the Soldiers’ Home as a venue for entertaining many guests. The “Summer White House” was the site of memorable and enjoyable gatherings of Lincoln family, friends, and business and political colleagues. Twenty-first century hosts and hostesses may now entertain friends and associates in “presidential-style” in these same spaces. President Lincoln’s Cottage at the Soldiers’ Home has initiated a facility rental program, making the historic site available for private and corporate events.

The property was once the country estate of the prominent Washington banker, George W. Riggs. Abraham, Mary, and Tad Lincoln later made the Cottage their home for one quarter of Lincoln’s presidency. The comfortably appointed and tastefully restored 1842 Gothic Revival style home was cherished by the Lincolns and today it serves as an ideal location for those seeking a unique and memorable site for modern day entertaining: for cocktail receptions, seated dinners, and corporate, academic, and networking events. The adjacent, beautifully restored Robert H. Smith Visitor Education Center, an impressive white marble 1905 Beaux Arts style building, provides spaces for lectures, meetings, receptions and intimate dinners in “turn of the century” style.

The two historic buildings and the bucolic setting offer many options for indoor and outdoor entertaining. Events may be held in either or both of the buildings and a tent may be erected on the lushly landscaped grounds to accommodate larger gatherings of up to 250 people. Ample free parking is available on site and both buildings are fully accessible.

Make your next event a memorable one worthy of presidential acclaim. For additional information about rentals at this unique historic site, please consult the Events Brochure (1.5MB) or contact Leslie Bouterie by phone: 202-829-0436, ext. 31232, or email: [email protected].

Ms. Bouterie coordinates Private & Corporate Events at President Lincoln’s Cottage.
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