Scholars to Gather at Hildene for Lincoln Forum Symposium

MANCHESTER, VT - Those with an interest in Abraham Lincoln and his family are invited to gather with the attendees of The Lincoln Forum Symposium at Hildene, for dinner and an evening presentation on Saturday, April 26. About 150 Lincoln historians and scholars hailing from 30 different states will to travel to Vermont for the symposium, from April 25 to 27, an event they anticipate will be held annually at Lincoln Hall, Hildene's new programs and celebrations center.

Brian Keefe, president of Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, noted the symposium is hosted in partnership with The Lincoln Forum, a nationally renowned organization that endeavors to enhance the understanding and preserve the memory of Abraham Lincoln. "Hildene has a long association with The Lincoln Forum," he said. "Our missions align well to bring our communities together for this inspiring event."

This event is a great opportunity in our 120th year to bring together scholars and leaders who share our passion for understanding and promoting the enduring wisdom of President Lincoln. ​
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​​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ — Brian Keefe, President of Hildene

Since 1996, the Lincoln Forum has held annual gatherings in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to coincide with the anniversary of President Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. Over the decades attendance at the Forum has grown, attracting around 350 participants and scholars last year. For the symposium at Hildene, Harold Holzer, chair of The Lincoln Forum, and his team have curated a special series of lectures and panels focused on the Lincoln family through the generations.

“Hildene has long been one of the principal attractions and resources among homes associated with Abraham Lincoln and his family, and the Lincoln Forum family is honored and delighted to return to the site for what promises to be an extraordinary symposium,” commented Harold Holzer, chairman of The Lincoln Forum. "An outstanding roster of speakers will be on hand in April, including leading scholars on both Mary Lincoln and Robert Lincoln. We are pleased at the enthusiasm the event has generated. Hildene was where several generations of Lincolns wanted to live—and as the response to this opportunity has proven, it is where Forum members want to visit.”

"We want to engage all symposium attendees in an ongoing dialogue to advance and share the Lincoln Legacy" said Keefe, adding that membership is not required to register separately for the Saturday evening dinner and presentation.

"This event is a great opportunity in our 120th year to bring together scholars and leaders from 30 states who share our passion for understanding and promoting President Lincoln's enduring wisdom," stated Keefe, highlighting the significance of this year, which marks the arrival of Robert and Mary Lincoln at their Manchester home in 1905. Throughout 2025, stories and notable dates related to the Lincoln family and the nonprofit's history will be shared with visitors to the estate.

Lincoln Hall is the largest capital construction project at Hildene since Robert and Mary Lincoln built their summer home. With its spacious ballroom, commercial kitchen, and comfortable facilities, the new building serves as the nonprofit's hub for learning and celebration.

"Lincoln Hall is the programs and celebrations center of our beautiful property and is home to our partner engagement efforts with organizations like The Lincoln Forum, which engage with and further our mission," Keefe explained. The upper level of this long-awaited, year-round facility was completed in 2024. The next construction phase will focus on the lower level, which will include a brand-new exhibition and orientation space, meeting and conference rooms, and expanded food services.

With these facilities, Hildene envisions hosting programming focused on contemporary issues, bringing together historians, thought leaders, and innovators for public events and discussions—ensuring the Lincoln family legacy remains relevant in today’s world.

Media inquiries regarding The Lincoln Forum Symposium at Hildene, should be directed to:

The Lincoln Forum

The Lincoln Forum is an assembly of people who share a deep interest in the life and times of Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War era.

The Lincoln Forum