Gadisar Lake | Jaisalmer

Information

Landmark: Gadisar Lake
City: Jaisalmer
Country: India
Continent: Asia

Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer, India, Asia

Hildene is the former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln and his family, located in Manchester, Vermont, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The main house is a 24-room Georgian Revival mansion constructed primarily of granite. It features a slate roof and white trim. The property also includes a large agricultural building, a greenhouse, and formal gardens. The surrounding landscape consists of rolling hills and wooded areas.

Location & Access Logistics

Hildene is situated approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) west of the Manchester town center. Access is via Hildene Road, which connects to VT Route 7A. Ample parking is available on-site. The nearest public transport is limited to seasonal shuttle services within Manchester; no direct bus lines serve Hildene.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Hildene began in 1905 and was completed in 1907. It was designed by architect William Rutherford Mead for Robert Todd Lincoln, son of President Abraham Lincoln. The estate was built as a summer residence and a place for the family to manage their agricultural interests. The land itself is part of the Taconic Mountains foothills, characterized by deciduous forests and meadows.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the historic house, which contains original Lincoln family furnishings and artifacts. The estate offers walking trails through its grounds and woodlands. Demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as cheesemaking and beekeeping, are often conducted. The Lincoln family cemetery is also accessible.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in the Welcome Center and near the main house. Shaded areas are present in the gardens and along some walking trails. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available on the property. Limited food and beverage options are typically offered at the Welcome Center cafe.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography of the house and gardens is during the morning or late afternoon when sunlight is less direct. The property is open seasonally, typically from late May through October. Weather is most favorable for outdoor activities during July and August.

Facts & Legends

A unique feature of Hildene is its working farm, which includes a herd of goats producing cheese. Robert Todd Lincoln was the only child of Abraham Lincoln to survive into adulthood and live a full life. A specific tip for visitors is to explore the walking trails beyond the immediate house area for different perspectives of the estate.