A reminder of Lincoln the soldier
Lincoln’s powder horn from Black Hawk War now on display at Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

 

[November 06, 2018] 

The powder horn used by Abraham Lincoln during the Black Hawk War of 1832 can be seen for a limited time at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

Lincoln’s service as a soldier was brief but important. He built long-lasting relationships with other soldiers, was elected captain of his company and saw some of the horrors of war.

The one-of-a-kind artifact is on loan from Carl Harmon and family of Spencer County, Indiana.

“Generous loans like this one enrich the museum experience for our visitors,” said Alan Lowe, executive director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. “We’re grateful to both the institutions and the individuals, like Mr. Harmon, who entrust us with their treasures.”

It will be on display in the museum’s Treasures Gallery until a “Holidays at the White House” exhibit opens Nov. 16. It will return to the gallery after the holiday exhibit closes in January.

Lincoln served in the Illinois militia for less than three months. He did not participate in combat but was present for the aftermath of two battles and helped bury the dead. When the men in the New Salem area formed a militia company, they elected Lincoln their captain.

Even after his nomination for president, Lincoln said being elected captain had given him more satisfaction than any other success in life.

For generations, the powder horn belonged to the Armstrong family of New Salem, Ill. Jack Armstrong, best remembered today for a wrestling match with the future president, remained friendly with Lincoln the rest of his life. Lincoln successfully defended Armstrong’s son Duff against a murder charge in 1858.

Armstrong’s descendants sold it in the 1920s, and the powder horn – along with its letter of authenticity – was eventually acquired by the Harmon family.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, at 212 N. Sixth St. in Springfield, is dedicated to telling the story of America’s 16th president through old-fashioned scholarship and modern technology. It also serves as the state historical library.

The library holds an unparalleled collection of Lincoln material, as well as some 12 million items pertaining to other aspects of Illinois history. Meanwhile, the museum uses traditional exhibits, eye-catching special effects and innovative story-telling techniques to educate visitors.

For more information, visit www. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov

[Christopher Wills]