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Lincoln Tomb Porch Talks

The Lincoln Tomb was formally dedicated on October 15, 1874, 150-years ago. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will present “Porch Talks” on the grounds of the Residence at the Lincoln Tomb providing 20-30 minute programs about lesser-known facts surrounding the monument.  Days and times for each program are listed below; please scroll down for a description of each program. Programs are free and open to all ages; no reservations are necessary. 

Program Schedule

Day Time Program

Wednesday

11:00 AM

Lincoln's Life in Statues

Wednesday

1:00 PM

Lincoln Across Borders

Wednesday

2:00 PM

Why is the Emancipation Proclamation Important?

Thursday

11:00 AM

The Lincoln Legacy

Thursday

2:00 PM

Restoration of the Lincoln Tomb

Saturday

11:00 AM

Lincoln's Life in Statues

Saturday

1:00 PM

Lincoln Across Borders

Saturday

2:00 PM

Why is the Emancipation Proclamation important?

Sunday

11:00 AM

The Lincoln Legacy

Sunday

2:00 PM

Restoration of the Lincoln Tomb

Program Descriptions

Restoration of the Lincoln Tomb - 150 years ago, the Tomb of Abraham Lincoln was completed, and the public came to pay their respects. Discover how the monument has stood the test of time, how it has evolved, been preserved, and continues to stand for the perpetual union of America. In this 20-minute program, learn about its construction, reassembly, interior redesign, and today’s restoration work.

Why is the Emancipation Proclamation Important? - Most Americans have heard of the Emancipation Proclamation, but there are many misunderstandings about it. This porch talk discusses what the document accomplished and why Lincoln issued it when he did

Lincoln Across Borders - Springfield, Illinois is best known for Lincoln history, but Lincoln’s legacy reaches across international borders. Discover how his beliefs in freedom and equality continue to be heard around the world, even today. Join us for a 30-minute conversation and enlightening stories about one of America's most cherished leaders, reaching across borders to ignite audiences worldwide. Meet at the Caretaker’s Residence at the Lincoln Tomb.

The Lincoln Legacy - Abraham Lincoln tops many "favorite president" lists, is the subject of more than 15,000 books, and has become part of modern pop culture. This porch talk will discuss how Lincoln was viewed in his own time, and what about him enamors so many today. 

Lincoln's Life in Statues - There are many sides to Abraham Lincoln, and his history has been captured in statues all over the world. The ones on display at Lincoln’s Tomb signify many important parts of his life story. In this porch talk, we’ll discuss and reflect on the life of Abraham Lincoln through an examination of the statues at the Lincoln Tomb

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