21 Jul - Lincoln Museum

Our trip to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum was fabulous. We spent two hours perusing the exhibits, and it just wasn’t enough time. We began our self-guided tour in the plaza, where several people took pictures of the lifelike statues of Lincoln’s family. Then we began Lincoln’s journey to the White House in a replica of the log cabin from his youth. Walking through this exhibit, we learned of experiences that shaped Lincoln’s views, including a slave auction in New Orleans, women in his life, and a simulated “modern” campaign report featuring Tim Russell.

In the White House exhibit, most of the tour focuses on the Civil War as states began seceding from the Union as soon as Lincoln was elected. There were interesting aspects of both Lincoln’s and Mary’s life in the White House. Mary faced a social battle while Lincoln was absorbed in the Civil War. One great part of the exhibit was “The Civil War in 4 Minutes,” which showed the progress of the war and casualties week by week. There were many primary sources—quotes from soldiers, supporters, and antagonists. One sad exhibit depicted Abraham and Mary tending to a sick William during a White House social gathering.

Three parts of this exhibit focuses on the Emancipation Proclamation, showing the kitchen, cabinet room, and President’s office. Perhaps the most touching part was the replica of Lincoln’s casket as he lay in state in the Illinois Capitol building. It was truly inspiring; one could get the feeling that he was there “for such a time as this.”

Two 3D presentations were extremely well done. One, entitled “Lincoln’s Eyes,” was an artist’s interpretation of his research into Lincoln’s life. He told the story from both sides—North and South. There were special effects, including explosions and smoke. The other, entitled “Ghosts of the Library,” was about the importance of keeping and analyzing artifacts and records from the past. Who knows what stories they have to tell. The voices of those who have gone before can speak to us through their letters and possessions.

“Abraham Lincoln’s day was a day to remember. Only in America can one who is born in a log cabin and educated through his own efforts become president of the USA. On the wall in the museum was a quote he wrote in his math book: ‘Abraham Lincoln his hand and pen-he will be good but God only knows when.’ Truly like the Prophet Joseph Smith, his [Lincoln’s] legacy will be an eternal gift from God. I’m so pleased to quote, ‘out of small things proceedeth that which is great (D&C 64:33).” From Carol.