Politics before the Civil War was a whirlwind of opposing interest groups. Martin Van Buren was able to unite those groups becoming president in 1837.  As frustration and violence over the extension of slavery grew in the 1840's, Van Buren ran for the presidency twice more from this house.  He hoped to unite sectional interests of the country,  but failed; ultimately so did the union.  

Following his last political campaign of 1848 he began a major expansion of his home which doubled its size from 18 to 36 rooms.  Today, Lindenwald reflects Van Buren's occupancy, with elegant furnishings, quirky colors and original French wallpaper. Visitors can tour three floors of the mansion including restored servants' rooms and learn how they kept the house running.  Thanks to conservation easements with nearby farms, nearly 1000 acres surrounding the site are protected and appear as they did during Van Buren's time.  Several trails are available which meander around the site and through adjacent farmland.