Five days from today is a small mid-winter holiday that celebrates the birth of one of my favorite historical leaders – Abraham Lincoln. It is difficult to even talk about him in modern times because the folktales, legends, stories, accounts, and opinions surrounding his life are completely iconic. I carry his face around on five-dollar bills, but it seems fitting that he also represents the penny – the humblest of coins. And, indeed, Lincoln’s story represents the humblest of beginnings and the greatest of tragedies. Even now, it’s hard for me to write about him while still reminding my dear readers he was a real human being with real qualities! Although his campaign nickname was "The Rail-splitter" and he was born in a one-room log cabin, Lincoln was not an advocate for the simple country life. He was a very progressive individual, and at no time does this demonstrate his personality more than when he tested the first machine gun – the Gatling gun – on the White House lawn! Lincoln believed in technology, urbanization, progress, and industry. He was an Industrial Revolutionist of the highest order. Next year is going to be a wonderful celebration for Lincoln enthusiasts – February 12, 2009 is his 200th birthday! Congress has already authorized $30,000 to the Lincoln Memorial to repair the Gettysburg Address etched in the stone walls of this awe-inspiring tribute. A Bicentennial Commission has sprung up as well. Take a look at thier official website. Would you like to be a part of the birthday celebrations? I have a February birthday, too – but mine is the 9th! I fell three days short! Oh, well. I guess I’ll have to settle for admiring and studying my favorite President. I have never been to Illinois or Kentucky, but I did visit Washington, D.C. and saw the Lincoln Memorial ‘in the marble.’ I must say, it was a moving experience. It was raining and gray out, so there weren’t that many people there. The statue was immense and the whole interior of the memorial was hushed like a cathedral. If I walked towards the left or right, it felt like he was watching me! It was incredible. In this momentous year of elections, take a look at our 16th President. Check out a biography from the library or take a look at his Wikipedia entry.
Hang our Lincoln Portrait in a prominent place and be reminded of his legacy with the Americana Print titled "Created Equal." We also feature a wonderful Gettysburg Address print with antique parchment and the beautiful penmanship of the 19th century.
Oh, and speaking of February birthdays – Don’t forget George Washington on the 22nd. He did a lot of great things, too!
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