Abe Lincoln Visits Indiana

About a week ago, we were honored to attend the re-enactment of Abraham Lincoln's famous visit to Indianapolis in 1861, while on his way to Washington after being elected President. The speech was given on the steps of the State House and was hosted by the then governor of Indiana, Oliver Morton. After Lincoln's speech, a reporter questioned Lincoln and his responses were heard by all.

This re-enactment was so fun. They took great care with the details, (except that it actually took place on a cold, snowy, February day) including a world-renown Lincoln impersonator by the name of Fritz Klein. He was incredible! (If you ever get a chance to see him, you won't be sorry!) Both my children were mesmerized, which is saying a lot considering the speech was political, the sun was in our eyes, and daughter is just four. We were sad that there wasn't a bigger crowd, and that there were hardly any children, but some schools here had already started.

Having the governor and the reporter (actors) also present was like the icing on the cake. It made the experience a lot more real. Everyone seemed to really enjoy it and since we are deep into our Civil War studies, I was very curious to hear what the President-elect had to say on a few issues. Very interesting stuff.

After the event, we headed to the Indiana Historical Society for the afternoon. They had Lincoln crafts, Civil War & Lincoln exhibits and a great picnic spot on the canal, that we enjoy. This was all part of the Lincoln Bicentennial celebrating 200 years of Abraham Lincoln.

Next, we'll be heading to Springfield, IL (sometime this fall) to visit his home there. We've already been to Lincoln State Park in southern Indiana. That was a lot of fun too!