Abraham Lincoln

The "Abraham Blue" mural on the Peoria County Courthouse is getting an update.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum hosted another lecture to shine a light on Lincoln and American history. The lecture titled "Lincoln, Race, and the Future of American Freedom" was given by author Dr. Lucas Morel.

Historian W. Dale Weeks wrote the book "Cherokee Civil Warrior: Chief John Ross and the Struggle for Tribal Sovereignty." In a forum presented by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Weeks discussed the Civil War from the perspective of the Cherokee nation and the negotiations between President Lincoln and Ross.

Jack LeChien, the Belleville historian and co-chairman of the Gustave Koerner House Restoration committee, had heard people speculate for decades on whether Abraham Lincoln had slept in the city during his 1856 visit. If so, where?

The Looking for Lincoln Stories podcast shares stories about the people and places of Abraham Lincoln’s time. It also highlights lesser known stories about African Americans who lived in the area. Heather Feezor is the director and David Blanchette writes for the podcast. They spoke to Community Voices about slavery and indentured servitude in Illinois and how African Americans at the time were affected by Illinois law.

Anne Moseley is the director of engagement and curator of the Sangamon Experience and acting director for the Center for Lincoln Studies. She spoke to Community Voices about her love of history and shared her favorite local Illinois stories. She also gave details on upcoming presentations to celebrate Black History Month, including the presentation "Memories of State Government," on Feb. 15 and "Untold African American Stories," on Feb. 21. More information can be found at the Sangamon Experience Facebook page.

Bob Bunn will provide more details Monday Feb. 13, at Lincoln Land Community College. The lecture will be at the Trutter Center at 9 a.m.

Graham Peck and Beth Hatt visit Community Voices to share how the Lincoln Legacy Lectures have broadened into providing continuing education for teachers through the expert guest speakers.

Tim Townsend is the Chief of Interpretation and Historian at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, Ill. He spoke to Community Voices about Springfield’s rich history, which includes not only stories about Lincoln, but also other lesser-known stories about the people of color and immigrants who lived in Lincoln’s community.

Olivia Partlow, director, Lincoln Heritage Museum shares what the Lincoln, Illinois museum offers including its current 9-11 special exhibit and the Hawes family letters that provide a window to life at and away from battle during the Civil War.