There is no better way to learn about the 16th President of the United States than through a journey to his past. On this comprehensive Lincoln experience, OLLI members visited the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, the Old State Capitol, the Lincoln Tomb, and lastly, the Lincoln home. Our Lincoln experience was made complete with the help of OLLI favorite Randy Saxon, who served as a fabulous guide to Lincoln's life.
It's easy to see how the Abraham Lincoln Museum became a museum of international-acclaim. With many exhibits, and a plethora of historical objects and Lincoln memorabilia, one could easily spend an entire day taking in the rich environment. The state-of-the-art technology took you back in time, and the hologram exhibits were truly awe-inspiring. The newest addition to the museum "Lincoln: From History to Hollywood" featured sets from the Academy Award-winning film on loan from director Steven Spielberg.
Before lunch at the Springfield favorite Saputo's, OLLI members enjoyed a short visit to the Old State Capitol. The historic building, with architecture characteristic to its era, was filled with relics from the past. After the Old State Capitol, we were off to Lincoln's Tomb. Lincoln's Tomb also holds the famous statue of Lincoln's face--urban legend has it that if you rub Lincoln's nose, you will be welcomed with good luck. Learning about the Lincoln's lineage, and the challenges faced in creating the present-day tomb brought our experience full-circle.
Lastly, we had the opportunity to experience Abraham Lincoln, the lawyer, husband, and father--before he was president, through a visit to his Springfield home. The wonderful park rangers took us through the levels of Lincoln's home, and with each room, more of Lincoln was exposed. It's hard to imagine standing in the same room as such a revolutionary individual, but within the walls of his home one could witness the many sorrows and triumphs Lincoln had experienced throughout his life.
We were especially grateful to have Randy Saxon join us, and share his insight on the Lincoln and the history surrounding his time.
OLLI at Bradley
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