|
 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.
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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] |
A
reminder of Lincoln the soldier
