Statement of Significance (as of designation - November 7, 1973):
One of three similar institutions established in 1851, largely at the instigation of then-Senator Jefferson Davis, and now the only one remaining, this home was created for retired or disabled soldiers. Four pre-Civil War structures formed the core of the early Soldier's Home, Abraham Lincoln used the oldest, Anderson Cottage, or "Corn Riggs," as a summer White House during his presidency and wrote the second draft of the Emancipation Proclamation there.

Condition:
This historic federal property, controlled by a board of directors, is threatened with possible inapropriate new construction and/or alterations if current plans are carried out. Management is attempting to raise funds to operate and manage the existing facility by selling off and redeveloping large portions of the property.

The proposed changes to the property are being reviewed through the Section 106 process. DC SHPO is actively involved in this review process.