Abraham Lincoln lived in Springfield IL for 25 years. While there he was a state legislator - a lawyer - and a member of the US Congress. He bought this house for $1500 - at the time it was just 1000 square feet and one story. He raised the roof - and put on a full second floor - also he put an extension out back. After he died his son willed it to the state as long as they kept it open to the public with free admission.
It was foggy all day Tuesday in Springfield - temperatures were in the 40s - dropping to the 10s tomorrow. Lulu and I enjoyed breakfast in our hotel - then toured the Lincoln home and Lincoln Library. Lulu's first meeting was at 4 PM today - so we had to hurry back for that. I am on my own for the rest of the day.
Lincoln was born in Kentucky in 1809 - move to Indiana in 1818 - then on to Illinois around 1835. He spent 25 years here - then in 1860 moved to Washington DC. They brought him back to Springfield in a pine box on a train in 1865. The train went from Washington to Baltimore - Harrisburg - Philadelphia - New York City - Albany - Buffalo - Cleveland - Columbus - Indianapolis - Chicago - and finally he was buried a few blocks north of here.
In his living room - they had a stereoscope for the kids. The house was completely furnished with original pieces. Lulu likes to pose with audio-visual items.
The 4 block area around the house is a historic park. Most of the buildings are preserved. The streets have no cars - the sidewalks are boardwalks. This picture was taken using my iPhone with a bluetooth remote control - the ultimate selfie.
Abraham and Mary had separate bedrooms with a connecting door. This was Abe's bed. Notice that the style was many different patterns - none matching.
Mary had her own little wood stove right next to her potty. The house had no indoor plumbing.
That is the outhouse in the backyard with a boardwalk. Notice the high pine board fences.
The first 6 years of my life I had an outhouse. So did Lincoln.
Lincoln's home is in the distance - in the middle.
Route 66 runs north and south through downtown Springfield. It winds from Chicago to LA.
Lincoln's law office was a short walk from home - and just across the street from the State House.
The State House is no longer used - they build a new one after Lincoln left town.
The famous Donner Party - the people eaters - started in Springfield - and ended in Nevada.
The replica doll house of Lincoln's home was at the Lincoln Library.
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