World's Largest Covered Wagon named No. 1 Roadside Attraction in America by Reader's Digest

[June 09, 2010]  The Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County gained recognition recently when it was announced in the June-July issue of Reader's Digest that the World's Largest Covered Wagon was named as the No. 1 Roadside Attraction in America from a survey of their readers. The publication recently polled 1,100 readers for their favorite Best of America: Readers Choice 2010 "only in America oddities."

The Railsplitter Covered Wagon, with Abraham Lincoln seated at the helm, was donated to the tourism bureau a few years ago by Lincoln philanthropist Larry Van Bibber and is also featured in the Guinness Book of World Records.

The wagon was recently moved in front of the new Best Western hotel at 1750 Fifth St. in Lincoln.

"Interestingly enough, the big wagon is known more as a Route 66 attraction but is loved by Abe Lincoln fans as well," said Geoff Ladd, executive director of the Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau. Ladd also noted that the attraction will be interpreted soon with a new Route 66 Scenic Byway wayside exhibit.

Postcards of the wagon are now available.

The wagon is a vendor location for the upcoming Route 66 Garage Sale on Friday and Saturday. The event is a fundraiser for the restoration of The Mill on 66, and there will be sales in the communities of McLean, Atlanta, Lawndale, Broadwell, Elkhart and Williamsville as well as Lincoln.

Volunteers are needed for landscaping and putting a fresh coat of paint on the giant wagon. For more information, contact the tourism bureau at 217-732-8687 or visit www.abe66.com.

[Text from file received from Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County]