Journal 33

Obviously one thing that is particular to our region is the dedication to the honoring of Abraham Lincoln. He spent a lot of his lifetime around Illinois and therefore honoring him is seen as particularly important around these parts.

Clearly there are many attractions that can be visited to honor the memory of Abraham Lincoln. In Springfield we now have a museum called the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum that is filled with artifacts from Lincoln's time and presidency. The unveiling of this museum was a huge deal around these parts. I remember the day that the museum celebrated its grand opening there was a large laser light show and a bunch of people went out to see the grand opening. This was considered a huge deal.

Also, every year at the Illinois State Fairgrounds they have an Abraham Lincoln 10k run called Abe's Amble. This run takes place through the fairgrounds and then around some of downtown Springfield. It was created in memory of Abraham Lincoln and is run every year in order to honor him. I participated in this event in August of 2009. I believe that the money raised by the race goes to some kind of Abraham Lincoln fund, however I am not sure of this. In any case, it is a great way to commemorate Lincoln while also doing some good and getting some good exercise.

Also, there is a place downtown that Lincoln lived before he became the president that has been turned into a museum. People can walk through room by room, and it has been restored to look like a genuine house from that time period.

There is also Lincoln's tomb in Oakridge Cemetery out by the airport. This is located near Lincoln Park, which is a park dedicated to Abraham Lincoln. Also we have the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in Springfield that is the public library for Springfield. This is also located downtown.

Clearly, we are big Lincoln fans around here. So, I think it is pretty much safe to say that honoring Lincoln was not only a thing started around here but is also something that is still extremely prevalent and important.