I have saved the best for last, a absolute must stop on your list is the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. This 40,000 square foot interactive museum takes you through Mr. Lincoln's humble childhood, family years, presidential years as well as his return home to his final resting place right here in Springfield.
You will learn about his childhood and death of his mother and be able to walk through a small cabin that will make you appreciate the space you have today, no matter how small it may be. You will also get to see first hand how taking your boys to work can play havoc on getting anything finished. You will even see the not so glamorous life that the Lincoln family struggled with on their way to the White House. While we all know how the story ends, you somehow seem to forget as you pass through, until the moment that you enter his funeral which can not be explained, but must be seen in person.
Along the way you will standing next to many original pieces that at one point belong to the Lincoln family, for example Mrs. Lincoln's gloves which look as though she has just taken them off. You will also find a top hat that I believe was worn by Mr. Lincoln.
This was my third trip to the Museum, and I strongly suggest that you visit the exhibits in order of date or journey as they call them. You will want to begin in his childhood home, progress to the white house. Along the way you will want to stop and watch the films featured on that time. The last thing I want to do is give anything away but The Ghosts of Lincoln will leave you amazed and wondering for hours afterwards. The second film, Lincoln's Eyes may not be suitable for younger children, the assassination scene shakes the chairs and could be somewhat upsetting to children our daughters age and younger.
I feel confident that if you only have time for one Lincoln stop on your visit to Springfield this is the stop you will want to make. In a matter of an afternoon you will be transformed from his childhood, early adult life including his career to his journey to the White House and less than hoped for return home to Springfield.
If you visit with children, be sure to make a stop by Mrs. Lincoln's Attic. Here your kids will be able to play with some toys from the late 1800s and even dress up and put on a little fashion show for Mom and Dad. The day we visited, stories were being read and kids really seemed to be enjoying themselves.
The Museum is opened daily from 9:00-5:00, and there is an admission starting at $12 for adults and less for seniors, military, students and children. There is also a 3,500 square foot gift shop that offers a wide arrange of gifts and souvenirs to remember your visit.
To make the most of everyone's experience there are a few rules that must be followed: No photos in the exhibits, only the main plaza. No cell phones or food and drink. There are limits on the sizes of strollers that are allowed as well as large bags, including back packs.
For information on this and other attractions in the Springfield area you can visit the Visitors Bureau and request a free copy of the 2012 guide as well as learn about the History Comes Alive program which begins in early June.
Thank you to the Springfield Visitors Center for working with us on these features, opinions are honest.
Don't miss the freebies, coupons, and deals, Subscribe Now!
2 comments:
I live in Chicago but my father had business in Springfield last year and I tagged along. We also saw the museum, the Capitol building and of course Lincoln's home (which I know you covered in a previous post). Prior to that, I hadn't visited in 10 years when I was on a school field trip. I loved it and found it so much more interesting now as an adult. I would definitely recommend anyone stop by if they have a chance.
I am so glad you enjoy your visit. We are going to try to take another day and visit a few more places later this summer. There is just so much to do in Springfield!
Post a Comment