Who Said This?

[Gene C]

My first guess would be Benjamin Butler ?

[RJNorton]

John Parker Hale?

[Amy L.]

No, not Benjamin Butler, but a figure who also argued for the impeachment of Andrew Jackson. (So his political party is clear, and that he held office following Lincoln's Administration is inferred.)
And not John Parker Hale.
(I gotta look up who these people are...)

[AussieMick]

Thaddeus Stevens?

[Amy L.]

Less famous than Thaddeus Stevens.
A lawyer who sought and won a seat that Lincoln curiously never sought. (And served in three of the seats that Lincoln did pursue.)

[Amy L.]

Gene had suggested Elihu Washburne, but no, it was not from Mr. Washburne, although on the right track - A representative from Illinois.

You know, the quoted elected official was a Big Wig, with a busy schedule and lots of responsibilities - Still, he was one of several representatives to personally deliver "hospital supplies to the succor of the wounded." (And got points from the Electorate for his good deed.)

[RJNorton]

Jesse Olds Norton?

[Amy L.]

No, not Jesse Olds Norton.
I'm running out of clues!
Just to review, what we know:
A lawyer and Representative who eventually turned Republican.
He visited the White House some time during the Civil War.
He held seats in (at least) the Illinois House of Reps, Congressional House of Reps & the US Senate.
(oh, oh, to clarify, he was Rep for a different district in the House of Reps, not the 6th)

Another clue: He was succeeded by Richard Oglesby

Admittedly, I wouldn't have gotten as far as y'all have.

[RJNorton]

Richard Yates?

[Amy L.]

Mister Richard Yates! Yes, Roger!
My source: Terry's KY History

[Dave Taylor]

"I congratulate the people of the community on the public spirit shown by so many of its citizens in acquiring this home. I also congratulate you on the splendid and timely aid given you by [redacted]. He has had the vision of what might be accomplished not only for this country and State but for the people of all the world in creating anew this spot, which must always be a consecrated one to every true American and all who venerate the memory of Abraham Lincoln."

I have a tricky three parter for you all with this one. In order from least to most difficult:
1. What is the speaker talking about?
2. Who is [redacted]?
3. Who said this quote?

[Eva Elisabeth]

1. Peterson House? Or Appomattox Court House?

Is the place located in a southern (Confed.) state?

[Dave Taylor]

Good guesses, Eva but the subject matter is neither The Petersen House nor Appomattox.

The location is in a Union state.

[RJNorton]

Is it about the Lincoln Home in Springfield? Lincoln Tomb?

[Dave Taylor]

Correct state, wrong places.