Lincoln the 'States' Man

Lincoln is revered in Springfield.

 

Lincoln is big business in Springfield.

 

Springfield loves Lincoln.

 

Part of our trip was spent in the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. It is built around two seemingly polar ideas. At the museum, there is an almost deification of the president. Wax models of his retinue, his image emblazoned on everything. The myth of Abraham Lincoln is alive and well on the museum side. Across the street is the library, where the myth and the reality are explored.

 

Remember, I said my mantra next year was, "Let's go exploring!" so I loved the library.

 

Our last stop in Springfield was the Old Capitol. Probably the best experience was exploring (there it is again) the House Divided in the ether Lincoln delivered it. I am still unpacking that experience and will write about it at a later time, but...loved, loved, loved it.

 

Again, here are photos from the ALPLM and Old Capitol. Will caption later.

 

This is actually on the SIUE campus. One of the few portraits of Lincoln smiling. Not sure I feel about this one.