NEWS

History under two roofs

Lincoln library/museum looks at entire life of Springfield’s most famous resident

Deana Stroisch Correspondent
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum opened in 2005. File/The State Journal-Register

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum on North Sixth Street in downtown Springfield tells the story of Abe Lincoln “like no other place on Earth,” officials say.

“It displays artifacts from his presidency and personal life. It presents lectures, shows and exhibits that explain his life and times,” said Chris Wills, ALPLM spokesman. “It uses creative techniques to immerse visitors of all ages in Lincoln’s world.

“If you want to understand Abraham Lincoln, his museum and library is the place to start.”

More than 3 million people have visited the site since it opened, museum officials said.

The 100,000-square-foot museum opened in 2005. The library, which was formerly the Illinois State Historical Society, opened in 2004.

Upcoming events:

* Through Aug. 31: “Annie Leibovitz - Pilgrimage,” Illinois Gallery at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. The exhibit includes more than 70 photographs by Annie Leibovitz from the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection.

* Ongoing: “Lincoln: From History to Hollywood,” Union Station at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum Complex.

The exhibit includes key sets, costumes, and props from the movie “Lincoln,” starring Daniel Day-Lewis and Sally Field.

* July 24-27: “The Civil War” (musical), Union Square Park. A musical honoring those who fought and lived through America’s Civil War.

Location and hours:

* Museum: 212 N. Sixth St. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (last ticket sold at 4 p.m.)

* Library: 112 N. Sixth St. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, open some weekends for exhibit viewing.

For more information:

* 557-4588, www.alplm.org