Springfield Tour

[Anita]

Just returned from a fantastic tour with the best guides ever- Joe and Gene. This was my first time on the Springfield Tour they graciously have hosted for many years. We went to Lincoln, IL and the Lincoln Heritage Museum. This is the only college named after Lincoln during his lifetime. In addition to Lincoln artifacts and documents, the highlight is the unique and engaging way Lincoln's life if presented. Visitors step into the past just after Lincoln's been shot at Ford's Theater and walk through what he's seeing as his life flashes before him. We met the former Curator, a Professor at Lincoln College, happened to be in the lobby. I had corresponded with Ron for several years when I first began my Lincoln studies in 2010 and reached out to him. He spent time with us and shared original civil war letters. Ron's just written a new book:

https://www.lincolncourier.com/news/2019...tive-years


Gene knew every mural and Lincoln related site, including the Rustic Inn where the conspirators met to discuss plans for stealing Lincoln's body from Oakridge Cemetery. We had a yummy lunch at the Blue Dog Inn. I had a hamburger! Yes, I was also at the very spot Lincoln christened the city with watermelon juice! In the afternoon we went to the Foursquare book store in Springfield. I bought three books. My favorite, a signed first edition by W.A. Evans, "Mrs. Abraham Lincoln." Gene bought more books! look for his reviews on the forum. That night we ate at Suputo's Italian restaurant.

Saturday we had beautiful weather and we gathered for breakfast at the Homestyle Cafe to discuss our visit to New Salem. We were joined by Scott, his friend Brian and Dave Grimm. Joe talked about the history of the area we'd be traveling through, including the Broadwell Inn and Tavern in Clayville. Scott was in search of forgotten burials/cemeteries. That's how I learned about Sangomo Town. New Salem was commemorating May 22, 1919, the day the site was given to the people of Illinois by owner, William Randolph Hearst, who had purchased the 62-acre site in 1906.(see Gene's post) Good news for us because Terry Jones was there in period costume and spent so much time with us at the museum and as we strolled the site of restored cabins. It doesn't get better than being in New Salem listening to Joe and Terry, Gene and Dave discuss the many aspects of this historic site. I brought Joe's book with me from CA so he could sign it, but I didn't need it Saturday. We had Joe!

Saturday night we had dinner at Maldener's , one of the oldest restaurants on Route 66 (http://sangamoncountyhistory.org/wp/?p=6339). The food was excellent. We had so much fun getting to know each other beyond the Forum that brought us together. Speaking of which, Roger was with us in spirit.

Sunday we headed out early to Oakridge Cemetery, a beautiful serene location. Mary was correct in demanding that Lincoln's final resting place was here. Knowing Gene, you shouldn't be surprised he showed me the burial site of an accordion! Saw the resting place of many from Lincoln's time, including law partner William Herndon. Went on to the Lincoln Home with Gene and Joy. Being in this home and imagining all that took place was an emotional experience. Much of the original furniture and many smaller items belonging to the Lincolns are here. I saw Mary's stove, and understood why she wanted to take it to Washington. On the way to the Lincoln museum Gene showed me the Lincoln depot. There's a mural depicting Lincoln's farewell as he spoke to the crowd from the back of the train. The afternoon was spent at the Lincoln museum with Dave Grimm, who is a docent there. Dave's depth of knowledge, insights and passion for history enriched my time here. I'm grateful to Dave for coming in on a Sunday.

This was an amazing three days. It doesn't get better than the camaraderie and pure enjoyment of spending time sharing, learning and laughing on the scene in search of Lincoln. If they offer this opportunity again, sign up. I'm ready to return.