Lincoln College seminar explores slavery fact and fiction         

'A State of Freedom? Abraham Lincoln and Illinois in a Nation of Slavery'

[June 01, 2007]  Slavery and racism did exist in what people think of as the "free state" of Illinois during the Civil War period. During a seminar in June, the Lincoln College Museum will give middle school and high school history teachers some creative ideas on creating lesson plans dealing with slavery.

The three-day seminar, called "A State of Freedom? Abraham Lincoln and Illinois in a Nation of Slavery," will be presented June 19-21 on the campus of Lincoln College. Registration is required.

Ron Keller, Lincoln College Museum curator and seminar facilitator, says he hopes teachers will find supporting facts on slavery in Illinois and gain clarity when creating a lesson plan. "The topic of slavery continues to be more emphasized in state teaching standards, and more necessary for students' fuller appreciation of American history. The seminar will give lesson activities to provide teachers with a deeper awareness of slavery overall, especially as it related to Abraham Lincoln and to Illinois -- which was not a ‘free state' as is generally believed," said Keller.

The course is taught by Keller, associate professor of history, and Paul Gleason, author and instructor of history, both of Lincoln College.

Total cost, which includes all seminar material fees, transportation costs for traveling to area sites during the seminar, and room and board, is $165. For teachers in the central Illinois area, not needing room and board, the adjusted cost is $95. This seminar is certified through the Illinois State Board of Education, and successful completion will earn 25 continuing professional development units. Reservations are requested.

For more information on the seminar, contact Keller at the Lincoln College Museum, 217-732-3155, ext. 295, or [e-mail].

[Text from file received from Lincoln College]