[February 12, 2013]    

MOUNT PULASKI -- Today, Feb. 12, 2013, marks the 204th birthday of Abraham Lincoln. In other parts of the country, he is well known as the 16th president of the United States, but here he is much more because our history with him began before he was president.

This past weekend, the Mount Pulaski Courthouse was the scene of one of two celebrations for Mr. Lincoln.

The day began with a visit from the man himself, accompanied by his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln. Also on hand to help celebrate was Lincoln's dear friend and law partner Billy Herndon.

The Lincolns were portrayed by Gary Simpkins and his wife, Carol, who are as well known to Logan County as the real Lincolns. Brian "Fox" Ellis portrayed Herndon.

Fox gave a presentation in the upstairs courtroom, standing on the very floor where Lincoln stood in his days as circuit rider.

Pictures by Curt Fox

Mt. Pulaski courthouse

President and Mrs. Lincoln

 

courtroom on the second floor of the courthouse

crowd gathers in the 2nd floor courtroom

 

courthouse volunteer Wallie Kautz handing out copies of the Emancipation Proclamation and a US Postal Service
forever commemorative stamp

President Lincoln reading the Emancipation Proclamation