Become acquainted with Abraham Lincoln’s entire life and history as you explore the family-friendly Lincoln Museum. Enter into the log cabin where Lincoln grew from a child to his life as a lawyer and political leader. Read old newspaper headlines and cartoons from when Lincoln was running for president. Then enter into the old White House and look at dresses that Mary Lincoln once wore and view a collection of Lincoln artifacts in the Treasure Gallery.
Watch a four-minute Civil War animation that quickly goes through the North and South progress throughout the war, showing the battles and constant changing borders. Take note of the fast ticking death tally in the bottom right-hand corner of the animation where visitors can see in numbers just how many lives were lost on each side of the Civil War.
The two shows, “Ghosts of the Library” and “Lincoln’s Eyes” (both have showings every 30 minutes), bring history and Lincoln to life. The magical effects of the Ghosts of the Library shows children why “old stuff” is important to our history and who we are today. “Lincoln’s Eyes” is a performance that looks inside the Civil War and Lincoln’s presidency with lots of loud and chair-shaking special effects throughout. Both are short presentations (under 20 minutes each) and definitely will hold children’s attention. The shows may be the highlight of the museum.
But don’t miss Mrs. Lincoln’s Attic either, where kids can play dress up and play in a dollhouse replica of Lincoln’s home. Also be sure to stop for a photo opportunity with the Lincoln family statues that stand in front of the White House.
Hours
9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily; last ticket sold at 4 p.m.
Admission
$15 adults, $12 for 62 years and old, $6 for children ages 5 to 15, free for children under 4, Military ID $10, and $12 with student ID
Dining
No food or drinks are permitted inside the museum (this includes bottles and sippy cups) and bags and strollers will be searched prior to entering. However, there is a Subway sandwich shop located within the museum.
Parking
Garage parking is available for a fee on 6th Street between Madison and Mason streets. Metered street parking can also be found surrounding the museum and library.
