Special Events
in and around Logan County

Coming events


Links to postings on annual festivals


Festival of Trees activities
and entertainment schedule

[NOV. 19, 2001]  An elegantly decorated dining table, gingerbread cookies and a special day for children are new features at the sixth annual Festival of Trees in downtown Lincoln. The festival opens at the Logan County Courthouse on Friday, Nov. 23 and runs through Sunday, Dec. 2. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays.

The candlelight dinner table will be displayed, along with a variety of large and small trees and wreaths. The items are sponsored and decorated by local businesses and organizations.

The new Kids Day will be Saturday, Dec. 1, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The activities will be on the second floor of the courthouse and will include making personalized potholders, visits with Santa, storytelling and a special shop where children can purchase gifts for their parents for $5 or less.

Gingerbread cookies will be available for purchase the 10 days of the festival. Christmas cards with a photo from last year’s festival will also be available for purchase. One of the Jaycees’ Angel Trees, with names of underprivileged children who need gifts, will also be located at the festival this year.

 

Music from local choirs and ensembles will enhance the festive spirit. The following groups will perform:

•  Monday, Nov. 26, 6 p.m. — Lincoln Community High School choir

•  Wednesday, Nov. 28, 6 p.m. — Heritage Ringers handbell choir from First United Methodist Church

•  Thursday, Nov. 29, 6 p.m. — St. John United Church of Christ adult chime choir

 

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•  Saturday, Dec. 1, 1-3 p.m. — Park Meadows Baptist Church children and young adult choirs

•  Saturday, Dec. 1, 5 p.m. — Faith Lutheran Church choir

•  Sunday, Dec. 2, 2 p.m. — Elkhart Grade School flute ensemble

•  Sunday, Dec. 2, 4 p.m. — First United Methodist Church Madrigal Choir

There is no admission fee for the festival, but those attending are urged to bring nonperishable food for the Logan County Food Pantry.

Items on display at the festival, with the exception of the Public Raffle Tree, will be auctioned at the Festival of Trees Gala on Saturday, Nov. 24. Proceeds from the auction will go toward the Rural Health Partnership of Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital and the economic development projects of Main Street Lincoln.

The Festival of Trees is presented by Main Street Lincoln and the Abraham Lincoln Healthcare Foundation. Premier sponsor is Lincoln Land Communications, an authorized Cingular wireless agent.

[News release]


Special Events Calendar

November 2001


Friday, Nov. 23-Sunday, Dec. 2
PREMIER SPONSOR: Lincoln Land Communications; presented by Main Street Lincoln and Abraham Lincoln Healthcare Foundation
WHO: Public
WHAT: Festival of Trees
WHERE: Logan County Courthouse
WHEN:
Monday-Saturday, 9 am - 7 pm; Sunday, noon-6 pm; open till 8:30 pm Nov. 27 and 29

Saturday, Nov. 24-Wednesday, Dec. 26
SPONSOR: Michelle's Home and Garden
WHO: Public, by admission
WHAT: Winter Wonderland Walk
WHERE: 1014 N. Kickapoo
WHEN:
Monday-Saturday, 11 am - 8 pm; Sundays 1-8 pm

Thursday, Nov. 29
SPONSOR: Oasis senior citizens center
WHO: Public; fee
WHAT: Chili supper and bake sale
WHERE: 501 Pulaski St.
WHEN:
4-7 pm

CO-SPONSORS: City of Lincoln and Lincoln/Logan County Chamber of Commerce
WHO: Public
WHAT: Christmas parade
WHERE: Courthouse square in downtown Lincoln
WHEN: 7 pm

SPONSOR: Lincoln Christian College
WHO: Public; tickets sold in advance only
WHAT: "Christmas in the Chapel"
WHERE: Lincoln Christian College chapel
WHEN:
7:30 pm

Friday, Nov. 30
SPONSOR: Lincoln Christian College
WHO: Public; tickets sold in advance only
WHAT: "Christmas in the Chapel"
WHERE: Lincoln Christian College chapel
WHEN:
7:30 pm

 

December 2001


Saturday, Dec. 1
SPONSOR: First United Methodist Church
WHO: Public
WHAT: Cookie walk
WHERE: 302 Broadway
WHEN:
9 am - noon

SPONSOR: Lincoln Public Library
WHO: Children; reservations required
WHAT: Teddy bear picnic
WHERE: Library annex, 725 Pekin
WHEN:
9:30-11 am; program at 10 am

WHO: Children
WHAT: Kids Day at the Festival of Trees
WHERE: Logan County Courthouse
WHEN:
10 am - 3 pm

SPONSOR: Lincoln Christian College
WHO: Public; tickets sold in advance only
WHAT: "Christmas in the Chapel"
WHERE: Lincoln Christian College chapel
WHEN:
11 am, 3 pm, 7 pm

WHO: Public
WHAT: Christmas open house
WHERE: Courthouse on the square, Mount Pulaski
WHEN:
2-8 pm

WHO: Public
WHAT: Lighting of the Atlanta Christmas tree
WHERE: Downtown Atlanta; refreshments at Atlanta Firehouse
WHEN:
5 pm

Sunday, Dec. 2
SPONSOR: Carroll Catholic School
WHO: Public
WHAT: Christmas breakfast buffet and bazaar
WHERE: 111 Fourth St.
WHEN:
7 am - 12:30 pm

SPONSOR: Lincoln Junior Woman's Club
WHO: Public
WHAT: Tour of homes; with tickets
WHEN: 1-5 pm

SPONSOR: Lincoln Christian College
WHO: Public; tickets sold in advance only
WHAT: "Christmas in the Chapel"
WHERE: Lincoln Christian College chapel
WHEN:
3 pm

 

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Monday, Dec. 3
SPONSOR: Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital Auxiliary
WHAT: Luncheon and card party; by advance tickets
WHERE: Elk's Country Club
WHEN:
Noon

Saturday, Dec. 8
SPONSOR: Needs and Goals of Elkhart
WHO: Public
WHAT: Christmas Goodies Bake Sale
WHERE: Elkhart Fire Station
WHEN:
Starting at 8 am

SPONSOR: Zion Lutheran Church youth group
WHO: Public
WHAT: Cookie walk
WHERE: 205 Pulaski
WHEN:
8-11 am

SPONSOR: Main Street Lincoln's Economic Restructuring Committee
WHO: Public; ticket fee
WHAT: "Tour of the Tops"
WHERE: Downtown Lincoln
WHEN:
1-4 pm

WHO: Public; by advance tickets
WHAT: Christmas candlelight services
WHERE: John Dean Gillett Memorial Chapel, Elkhart
WHEN:
4 pm, 5:30 pm, 8 pm

WHO: Public; by advance tickets
WHAT: Madrigal dinner
WHERE: First United Methodist Church, 320 Broadway
WHEN:
7 pm

Sunday, Dec. 9
WHO: Public; by advance tickets
WHAT: Madrigal dinner
WHERE: First United Methodist Church, 320 Broadway
WHEN:
5 pm

Tuesday, Dec. 11
WHO: Public
WHAT: Christmas concert by school bands and choirs
WHERE: Mount Pulaski High School
WHEN:
7 pm

Friday, Dec. 14
SPONSOR: Zion Lutheran Church
WHO: Public
WHAT: Live Nativity scene
WHERE: Zion Lutheran School, 1600 Woodlawn Road
WHEN:
6-8 pm

Saturday, Dec. 15
SPONSOR: Zion Lutheran Church
WHO: Public
WHAT: Live Nativity scene
WHERE: Zion Lutheran School, 1600 Woodlawn Road
WHEN:
6-8 pm

SPONSOR: Lincoln Area Music Society
WHO: Public
WHAT: Christmas concert -- chorale and orchestra
WHERE: Lincoln Community High School auditorium, 1000 Primm Road
WHEN:
7 pm

Sunday, Dec. 16
SPONSOR: Lincoln Area Music Society
WHO: Public
WHAT: Christmas concert -- chorale and orchestra
WHERE: Lincoln Community High School auditorium, 1000 Primm Road
WHEN:
2 pm

SPONSOR: Logan County Arts Association
WHO: Public
WHAT: Classical guitar concert presented by Christian Culleton
WHERE: Trinity Episcopal Church, 402 Pekin
WHEN:
2 pm

Tuesday, Dec. 18
SPONSOR: Lincoln Community High School
WHO: Public
WHAT: Christmas concert -- band and choir
WHERE: Lincoln Community High School auditorium
WHEN:
7 pm

Thursday, Dec. 20
SPONSOR: Main Street Lincoln and the Lincoln/Logan County Chamber of Commerce
WHO: Public; ticket holders must be present to win
WHAT: Ho Ho Dough holiday cash giveaway
WHERE: North side of Logan County Courthouse
WHEN:
6 pm

Saturday, Dec. 22
SPONSOR: Lincoln Correctional Center employees
WHO: Public
WHAT:
Christmas dinner for senior citizens and low-income families of our community; reservations required
WHERE:
Eagles Lodge, 1621 N. Kickapoo
WHEN:
11 am - 2 pm

 

[Click here for more information on November and December events.]


Main Street Lincoln presents...

‘Season’s Schedule’ of holiday events

Lincoln/Logan County "Season’s Schedule"

Festival of Trees

Premier sponsor: Lincoln Land Communications, Inc. an authorized Cingular Wireless Agent.

Presented by Main Street Lincoln and Abraham Lincoln Healthcare Foundation.

Nov. 23-Dec. 2

Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday noon-6 p.m.

Logan County Courthouse, Lincoln

Free admission

For more information: (217) 732-2929

Start the holiday season off right by bringing friends and family to the annual Festival of Trees. View lavishly decorated trees and wreaths sponsored by individuals, businesses and civic organizations. This year’s display will also include the "Angel Tree," where kind-hearted citizens can adopt a special child for Christmas. The Angel Tree is coordinated by the Lincoln Jaycees. The 18-foot Logan County Christmas tree will again be the centerpiece, decorated with ornaments donated by the "family" of Logan County: churches, schools, businesses, organizations, families and individuals. Admission is free, but you may bring a nonperishable food item to be donated to the Logan County Food Pantry.

[Click here for "Festival of Trees activities and entertainment schedule"]

Festival of Trees Gala

Premier sponsor: Lincoln Land Communications, Inc., an authorized Cingular Wireless Agent

Saturday, Nov. 24

Knights of Columbus Hall, Lincoln

Open to the public, reservations required

For more information: (217) 732-2161

This "black tie optional" event begins with a tree viewing at the Festival of Trees. The event moves to the enchanted ballroom at the Knights of Columbus Hall for an elegant dinner, capped by an auction of the trees, wreaths and other holiday items. The evening concludes with music and dancing. Proceeds from the auction go to Main Street Lincoln and the Abraham Lincoln Healthcare Foundation.

Winter Wonderland Walk

Nov. 24-Dec. 26

Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Sundays 1-8 p.m.

Michelle’s Home and Garden, 1014 N. Kickapoo, Lincoln

Admission $1 for age 2 to adult

For more information: (217) 732-1649

This new event has all the season’s best. Wander through the luminaries outside to gaze on the lighted scenes of Christmases past. Inside, warm up with hot chocolate, coffee and baked treats while viewing trees decorated by local scouts. Purchase your own real tree and do some Christmas shopping in the gift shop. Special weekend events will include carolers, Santa and a story time. Specific times and dates to be announced.

Candlelight Courthouse Tour

Tuesday, Nov. 27

6-8 p.m.

Logan County Courthouse, Lincoln

Free admission

For more information: (217) 732-2929

Enjoy an evening that hearkens back to a simpler time and highlights our historic heritage. This encore event is being presented by the local Looking for Lincoln committees and will feature candlelight tours of the Logan County Courthouse.

[Click here for "Festival of Trees activities and entertainment schedule"]

Oasis Chili Supper and Bake Sale

Thursday, Nov. 29

4-7 p.m.

501 Pulaski St., Lincoln

$4

Start the evening off with a warm bowl of chili at the annual Oasis senior center’s supper and bake sale. This is right before the Christmas parade, so stop by and warm up. Coffee and hot chocolate will be available after the parade, as well as pictures with Santa. Photos are $5.

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Downtown Christmas Parade

Thursday, Nov. 29

7 p.m.

Historic courthouse square, Lincoln

Co-sponsored by the city of Lincoln and the Lincoln/Logan Co. Chamber of Commerce

For more information: (217) 735-2385

Get in on the sights and sounds of the holidays at the annual Christmas parade. This year’s theme is "May Your Days Be Merry and Bright," and here comes Santa Claus, arriving as our special guest. Join the community in celebrating as marching bands and floats decorated by area businesses and organizations parade through the downtown bringing loads of cheer and a festive atmosphere.

Christmas in the Chapel

Nov. 29-Dec. 2

Thursday, Nov. 29, and Friday, Nov. 30, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 1, 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 2, 3 p.m.

Lincoln Christian College Chapel, Lincoln

$5 tickets sold in advance only

For more information: (217) 732-3168, Ext. 2295

Each year thousands of people from central Illinois come to experience this wonderful tradition. Presented in the 1,200-seat auditorium on the campus of LCC, the program blends music, drama and costume in a celebration of the deeper meaning of the holiday season.

Kids Day at the Festival

Saturday, Dec. 1

10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Logan County Courthouse, Lincoln

Free admission; nominal fee for certain activities

For more information: (217) 732-2929

It’s a children’s winter wonderland at this first-ever event. Besides the brightly lit trees and wreaths, this day will have special activities for children. Celebrity readers will present Christmas stories, and a make it-take it craft gift will be available. Children can shop for Mom, Dad, little sister or teacher at a special store featuring gifts for less than $5. How delighted they will be to pick out presents to put under the tree! And "Ho, ho, ho," who will be here? Santa Claus will listen to wish lists from every good boy and girl.

Teddy Bear Picnic

Saturday, Dec. 1

9:30-11 a.m.; program at 10 a.m.

Lincoln Public Library Annex

725 Pekin, Lincoln

Free admission, reservations required

For more information: (217) 732-5732

This special children’s event includes everything a child would love — great activities, cookie decorating and a brown bag lunch! Children are invited to bring their teddy bears and join in this "Babes in Toyland"-type treat. Attendees must preregister before noon on Friday, Nov. 30.

Cookie Walk

Saturday, Dec. 1

9 a.m.-noon

First United Methodist Church, 302 Broadway, Lincoln

Free admission

Yum, yum. Holiday cookies will be sold by the pound. Brighten your holiday by purchasing some of the one-of-a kind crafts available.

Mount Pulaski Courthouse Christmas Open House

Saturday, Dec. 1

2-8 p.m.

Courthouse on the square, Mount Pulaski

Donations accepted

For more information: (217) 732-8930

Come and enjoy the beautifully decorated historic Mount Pulaski Courthouse. Traditional and seasonal musical performances will be highlighted. Coffee and cider will be served.

Lighting of the Atlanta Christmas Tree

Saturday, Dec. 1

5 p.m.

Downtown Atlanta

Kick off the holiday season with the lighting of the Atlanta Christmas tree. Continue the excitement of the season at the Atlanta Firehouse with cookies, cocoa and carols.

Christmas Breakfast Buffet and Bazaar

Sunday, Dec. 2

7 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Carroll Catholic School, 111 Fourth St., Lincoln

$4.50 adults, $2.50 children

Fill up on this delicious breakfast. Be certain to also partake of the many Christmas crafts and baked goods available for purchase.

Tour of Homes

Sponsored by the Lincoln Junior Woman’s Club

Sunday, Dec. 2

1-5 p.m.

Tickets $6 in advance, $7 at the door

Tickets available at MKS Jewelers, Brandt’s Arcade Cafe or any member

For more information: (217) 732-2878 or 732-5906

This year’s tour includes six of Lincoln’s most distinctive homes. Julie and Mark Gerardot (311 Delavan) have lovingly restored their home to its current state and filled it with cherished family antiques. Marsha and Spud Newhouse (30 Windsor Place) have a holiday tree in every room, including one for the family pet. Marsha’s collection of animated Christmas dolls and numerous snowmen will also be featured. Collections of New York and Hollywood memorabilia bring a comfortable eclectic style to the home of Susan and David Hanger (425 Clay St.). Troy and Stacy Hanger’s children are the sixth generation to occupy the wonderful Italianate home located at 227 Lincoln Ave. Steve Miller’s home at 113 Hudson is a showcase of mission oak wall panels, hardwood floors, beveled glass doors and windows, highlighted with a grand staircase. Over 35 Christmas trees fill the home of Norman and Virginia Newhouse (240 Lincoln Ave.), as well as a forest of more than 20 aluminum trees. Also featured is Virginia’s collection of 250 standing Santas.

Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Luncheon
and Card Party

Monday, Dec. 3

Noon

Elk’s Country Club, Lincoln

Tickets: $10 in advance only at the ALMH gift shop

For more information: (217) 732-2161 or (217) 732-3574

This event, sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, takes place at the Elk’s Country Club. Those who can linger after the lovely luncheon may visit with friends over coffee or have the option of retiring to play bridge or pinochle. Bring a friend and share this special holiday treat!

Cookie Walk

Saturday, Dec. 8

8-11 a.m.

Sponsored by the Zion Lutheran Church youth group

Zion Lutheran Church, 205 Pulaski, Lincoln

A variety of delicious holiday cookies will be available for purchase at $5 per pound.

Tour of the Tops

Sponsored by Main Street Lincoln’s Economic Restructuring Committee

Saturday, Dec. 8

1-4 p.m.

Downtown Lincoln

Tickets $5

Stroll through the beautifully illuminated downtown area and visit the "tops of the town." This tour will feature second-story developments of historic downtown buildings. Different stages of development will be shown, so you may visualize all the possibilities, including housing, offices, and bed and breakfasts. The use of downtown second-stories is a growing trend in America; come and see what’s developing in Lincoln!

Christmas Candlelight Service at the Chapel on the Hill

Saturday, Dec. 8

4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 8 p.m.

John Dean Gillett Memorial Chapel, Elkhart

Tickets $10 in advance beginning Nov. 19

For more information: (217) 947-2238

The serene setting of John Dean Gillett Memorial Chapel will house a memorable Christmas candlelight service. Proceeds will help support the chapel and Hunter House programs.

Madrigal Dinner

Saturday, Dec. 8, 7 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 9, 5 p.m.

First United Methodist Church, 320 Broadway St., Lincoln

$15 tickets; limited seating

For more information: (217) 732-4763 or 732-2204

Put today’s cares at rest and hearken back to the days of old. Come enjoy a night of old English fun and Christmas carols.

Mount Pulaski Christmas Concert

Tuesday, Dec. 11

7 p.m.

Mount Pulaski High School

Free admission

Enjoy the sounds of Christmas! The Mount Pulaski school bands and choirs will perform a variety of holiday music.

Live Nativity

Friday, Dec. 14, and Saturday, Dec. 15

6-8 p.m.

Zion Lutheran School, 1600 Woodlawn Road, Lincoln

Free admission; drive through in your car

This re-creation of the birth of Jesus features people dressed in costumes. The scene is complete with a stable, donkey, llamas, cattle and sheep. You don’t even have to get out of your car to view this very special tableau.

Lincoln Area Music Society Christmas Concert

Saturday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 16, 2 p.m.

Lincoln Community High School auditorium

1000 Primm Road, Lincoln

Free admission

Come enjoy the beautiful holiday music of the Lincoln Area Music Society’s chorale and orchestra.

Classical Guitar Concert

Sponsored by the Logan County Arts Association

Sunday, Dec. 16

2 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal Church, 402 Pekin, Lincoln

Tickets $5

For more information: (217) 899-2643

Classical guitarist Christian Culleton will present beautiful melodies and sounds of the season.

LCHS Christmas Concert

Tuesday, Dec. 18

7 p.m.

Lincoln Community High School auditorium, Lincoln

The LCHS band and choir will ring in the sounds of the season at their annual Christmas concert.

Ho Ho Dough Holiday Cash Giveaway

Sponsored by Main Street Lincoln and the Lincoln/Logan County Chamber of Commerce

Thursday, Dec. 20

6 p.m.

North side of the Logan County Courthouse, Lincoln

For more information: (217) 735-2385 or 732-2929

Participating Lincoln-area businesses will distribute numbered tickets to their customers beginning Nov. 10 and continuing through Dec. 20. The winning ticket will be drawn on Thursday, Dec. 20, at 6 p.m. for $5,000 cash. Ticket holder must be present to win.

Christmas Dinner

for senior citizens and low-income families of our community

Hosted by Lincoln Correctional Center employees

Saturday, Dec. 22

11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Eagles Lodge, 1621 N. Kickapoo, Lincoln

Reservations required

For more information: (217) 735-5411, Ext. 210

The holidays are a time to give of our heart. Lincoln Correctional Center employees are lovingly giving of their energies to feed those who may not otherwise have a traditional Christmas meal. Entertainment and door prizes are planned, as well as treats from Santa for those under age 14. Transportation is available, as well as delivery to shut-ins.


Sites to See


‘Walking on the Path of Abraham Lincoln’

A walking tour of historic Lincoln, Ill.

Note: The following material is from a brochure produced as a high school project by J.R. Glenn and Angie Couch for Main Street Lincoln. The Main Street Lincoln office and local tourist information center is on the second floor of Union Planter’s Bank at 303 S. Kickapoo.


[Click here for larger map]

1. Town christening site

Broadway and Chicago streets

In August 1853 the first sale of lots in the new town of Lincoln took place near this spot. Abraham Lincoln, in whose honor the town was named, was in attendance. When asked on the day of the land sale to officially "christen the town," Lincoln obliged. Lifting the cover off a pile of watermelons stacked on the ground by a local farmer, Lincoln picked up a melon and conducted a brief ceremony using its juice. Lincoln, Ill., is the only town named for Lincoln before he became president.

2. Lincoln railroad depot

101 N. Chicago St.

Abraham Lincoln frequented this city by train after its founding. As president-elect, Lincoln came hereon Nov. 21, 1860. He stopped near this spot to make a few remarks from the rear of his train. This was his last speech in Logan County and the last time Lincoln would visit his namesake city. His funeral train stopped here on May 3, 1865. The current depot was built several decades later, in 1911.

3. State Bank of Lincoln

111 N. Sangamon St.

Abraham Lincoln met sculptor Leonard Volk for the first time on the boardwalk in front of the Lincoln House Hotel. Volk asked Lincoln to pose for a bust and life mask of his face and hands. Signed copies of the life masks by Volk, as well as original artwork by Lloyd Ostendorf of Lincoln in Logan County, are on display in this bank building’s lobby.

4. Site of the Lincoln House Hotel

501 Broadway St.

The Lincoln House, one of the grandest hotels between St. Louis and Chicago, stood on this spot from 1854 to 1870. All the political luminaries of the day, including Abraham Lincoln, Stephen A. Douglas, David Davis and Richard Oglesby, crossed its threshold at one time or another The Lincoln House was a two-story frame structure that fronted the railroad tracks and featured a large veranda.

5. Robert Latham home site

400 N. Kickapoo St.

Robert B. Latham joined John D. Gillett and Virgil Hickox in founding the town of Lincoln in 1853. Abraham Lincoln, other lawyers and judges were often guests at his house.

6. Logan County Courthouse

When Lincoln became the county seat in 1853, a courthouse was built on this spot. A second courthouse was built in 1858 and remained in use until the early 20th century, when it was replaced with the current building. Abraham Lincoln practiced law and attended political functions in the first two courthouses built on the square. A statue of Lincoln stands in this courthouse. A Civil War monument and cannon sit on the north side of the courthouse grounds.

7. Lincoln lot site

523 Pulaski St.

A plaque located on the right-hand side of this store identifies the location as a lot Lincoln once owned. James Primm, in need of money, approached former Illinois Gov. Joel Matteson for a $400 advance. Matteson directed him to have Lincoln sign a note as Primm's guarantor. Lincoln co-signed the note. Later Primm defaulted and Lincoln had to pay the note. Eventually Primm deeded Lincoln this property in recompense.

 

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8. Rustic Inn

412 Pulaski St.

In 1876 members of a counterfeiting gang met here to hatch a plot to steal Lincoln's corpse from its burial vault in Springfield. The gang had planned to hide Lincoln's body in the Indiana sand dunes on the shore of Lake Michigan and negotiate with the governor of Illinois for $200,000 in cash and the release of Ben Boyd. The bartender at the Rustic Inn overheard the plot and reported it to the authorities. The Secret Service later apprehended the gang members. Robert Todd Lincoln had his father's coffin encased in several tons of cement to prevent future attempts to steal the body.

Other Lincoln sites in Lincoln

9. Stephen A. Douglas speech site

Comer of Fourth and Logan streets

Stephen Douglas visited this city during the famous 1858 Illinois senatorial campaign. Douglas paraded with all his supporters through the decorated streets to the tent that was pitched on this site. Lincoln, who was also in town, listened to his opponent from the back of the crowd. In the end, a majority of Logan County voters favored Lincoln, but Douglas won the 1858 election.

10. Postville Courthouse

914 Fifth St.

This state historic site is a replica of an 1840 courthouse where Lincoln argued, won and lost cases while he traveled the 8th Judicial Circuit.

11. Site of Deskins Tavern

915 Fifth St.

Lincoln often stayed at Deskins Tavern when he traveled to Postville. A well where he quenched his thirst is also at this site.

12. Postville Park

1300 Fifth St.

Abraham Lincoln was well-known for his athletic abilities, and he frequently joined in games of "town ball" at this village park.

13. Lincoln College and Museum

300 Keokuk St.

A nationally registered landmark, Lincoln College was founded and named for President Lincoln on Feb. 12, 1865. The museum houses an extensive collection of memorabilia on the life of Abraham Lincoln.

 

Other sites of interest in downtown Lincoln 

Lincoln Public Library (a Carnegie building)

725 Pekin St.

Logan County Genealogical
& Historical Society

114 N. Chicago St.

Lincoln City Hall

700 Broadway St.

U.S. Post Office

102 S. McLean St.

Courthouse Square Historic District

including historic sites, restaurants and shops


[Click here for larger map]


Logan County historical landmarks

Atlanta

J. H. Hawes wooden country elevator. Open Sunday afternoons June through August. Free.

Atlanta Public Library and Museum. On National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1908. Comer of Race and Arch. Phone (217) 648-2112. Free.

Chestnut

Monument proclaims the geographic center of the state of Illinois. Town was laid out in 1872.

Elkhart

Elkhart Cemetery. Richard J. Oglesby, who was elected governor of Illinois in 1864, 1872 and 1884, is buried here; also John Dean Gillett, known as the "Cattle King of the World," and Capt. Adam Bogardus, wing shot champion of the world. For tours of the cemetery and John Dean Gillett Chapel, please phone (217) 947-2238.

Emden

Bethel Church. Built in 1854. Three miles from Route 136 between Emden and Atlanta on County Road 20.

Lincoln

Site of Deskins Tavern. Across the street from Postville Courthouse, 915 Fifth St. Signage. Free.

Site of well Abraham Lincoln drank from. Across the street from Postville Courthouse, 915 Fifth St. Free.

Site of town christening by Abraham Lincoln on Aug. 27, 1853. Lincoln was the first community in the United States to be named for Abraham Lincoln before he became famous. Also, Lincoln's funeral train stopped here on May 3,1865. Located at the south side of the Lincoln Depot, Broadway and Chicago streets. Official Looking for Lincoln signage. Free.

Logan County Courthouse. Contains second-largest courtroom in Illinois. Built in 1905. Located on the courthouse square, downtown Lincoln. Open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; Saturday until noon. Phone (217) 732-6400. Free.

Lincoln College Museum. Over 3,000 historic items. Lincoln College was founded and named for President Lincoln on Feb. 12, 1865. Keokuk and Ottawa streets. Summer hours: 9 to 4 Monday through Friday; 1 to 4 Saturday and Sunday; closed May 28 and July 4. Free.

Heritage In Flight Museum. Museum is filled with memorabilia from all U.S. military conflicts back to World War I. Located at the Logan County Airport. Phone ahead (217) 732-3333 to confirm hours. Free but donations accepted.

Lincoln Public Library. Original Carnegie library built in 1902. Tiffany-style glass inner dome. 725 Pekin St. Open Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 9 to 6; Saturday, 9 to 3. Phone (217) 732-8878. Free.

Postville Courthouse State Historic Site. Guided tours. 914 Fifth St. Noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Ph. (217) 732-8930 for additional information. Free but donations accepted.

Middletown

Stage Coach Inn. The inn was on the old stage route from Springfield to Peoria. Built mid 1800s. Village is also famous for its aeronautical history. Free.

Mount Pulaski

Mount Pulaski Courthouse. This building is one of only two original 8th Judicial Circuit courthouses in Illinois. On National Register of Historic Places. Was Logan County Courthouse from 1847 to 1855. Guided tours. Open 12 to 5 Tuesday through Saturday. Phone (217) 732-8930. Free.

[Link to historical information on communities in Logan County]


Heritage In Flight Museum open on weekends

A little-known historical site full of large and small treasures sits on the outskirts of town on the Logan County Airport property. The Heritage In Flight Museum building itself is a part of history. It is a remnant of Camp Ellis, located west of Havana, which was the largest military training and prisoner-of-war camp in the United States during World War II. After the war the camp was closed and the buildings were sold. Logan County Airport is fortunate to have one of the few remaining structures from Camp Ellis.

A little-known historical site full of large and small treasures sits on the outskirts of town on the Logan County Airport property. The Heritage In Flight Museum building itself is a part of history. It is a remnant of Camp Ellis, located west of Havana, which was the largest military training and prisoner-of-war camp in the United States during World War II. After the war the camp was closed and the buildings were sold. Logan County Airport is fortunate to have one of the few remaining structures from Camp Ellis.

Several historic items are found outside at the airport, including the rotating beacon, the green-and-white light that identifies the airport location to pilots flying at night. Before being moved to Logan County Airport, it was part of the lighted airway system that the airmail pilots in the 1920s used to navigate at night. The one that now resides here was originally located between Lincoln and Atlanta and provided a bright signal for Charles Lindbergh when he flew the airmail route between St. Louis and Chicago.

While outside you can also view a number of aircraft that are on display from various time periods.

Moving to the inside, you find that the Heritage in Flight Museum is filled with items of aviation history from the military and civilian branches of flying and from the earliest days of open-cockpit biplanes to the latest jets. Veterans who reside in Logan County have donated much of what the museum has. Families from the community have donated items that belonged to our war heroes, revealing special sentiments, symbolism and forgotten practices that held a community together in war times. Other items offer a look at early technology such as the airplane and ship radios. Of the thousands of items in the museum, each can be said to teach us something about our past. Visitors can relive history through the numerous displays, mostly grouped in wartime periods, and gain a strong sense of patriotism while studying military displays throughout the building.

 

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A guided tour is recommended to get the most from these displays. The volunteers are both knowledgeable and passionate about their subject matter and will bring to light little-known nuances that make the displays fascinating.

The museum is always interested in adding items of aviation history. Its greatest need, however, is for more volunteers to help in the guardianship of this important gateway to Lincoln and Logan County.

The museum requires lots of care and maintenance. Members are always looking for interested people of all ages to help care for it, share their interests and preserve a bit of aviation history.

Heritage In Flight Museum is operated by an all-volunteer, non-profit organization: Heritage-In-Flight, Inc. You are invited to come meet the members and sit in on their meetings anytime. Meetings take place at 1 p.m. the first Saturday of each month in the terminal meeting room.

The museum is a great resource to educate our youth about our aeronautical and military past and shares the wealth of military traditions from a community and national perspective. Schools, youth groups and families are welcome.

Heritage in Flight Museum

1351 Airport Road, Lincoln

Open Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Phone: (217) 732-3333

Call the airport and leave a message to request a guided tour, schedule a time during the week or ask for more information.

[LDN]

You can read more about HIF from the archives of LDN. Go to: http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2001/Feb/15/comunity/business.shtml#Logan County is host to a unique museum rich in special military stories and treasures


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