LINCOLN TOMB

AND

WAR MEMORIALS

STATE HISTORIC SITE

INTERPRETER AND VOLUNTEER

HANDBOOK

Rev. 03/10/14

PREFACE

“A more beautiful place of pilgrimage than the reconstructed does not exist in America…The spirit of the place is the spirit of dignity, reticence, solemn beauty and eloquent symbolism.” Mr. James C. Bennett, Chicago Tribune, May 31, 1932.

“A historian should yield himself to his subject, become immersed in the place and period of his choice, standing apart from it now and then for a fresh view.” Samuel Eliot Morison (1887-1976), Vistas 1964. The Experiences and Principles of an Historian\

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this handbook is to provide in one volume the administrative policy of this site. These guidelines, and practical information on interpretive procedures are to help the interpreters and volunteers perform their work to the best of their abilities. It does not attempt to teach. The education of an interpreter comes from experience coupled with on-going study. The following pages provide orientation to the site. They are meant to be combined with periodically updated instructions provided by the administrative staff.

Significance

Lincoln Tomb is significant as the burial place of Abraham Lincoln, his wife, and three of their four children. Its design reflects an early effort at a grand tribute to the man who led the nation through what was at the time the nation’s greatest crisis. The old Oak Ridge Cemetery Receiving Vault is the site of the president’s May 4, 1865, funeral service.

Purpose

To preserve and protect the historic structures and their larger physical context. To maintain an appropriate/dignified environment around the tomb and interpret (based upon ongoing research) the story of the Tomb ’s conception, construction, and continuing commemoration of the president.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

ILLINOIS WAR MEMORIALS AT OAK RIDGE CEMETERY

Significance

The Illinois State War Memorials at Oak Ridge Cemetery are significant as the state’s tribute to those who served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, honoring especially those who lost their lives in service.

Purpose

To preserve and protect the memorials and to maintain their surroundings in a fitting manner.

PHONE NUMBERS

Lincoln Tomb Numbers

Office 217-782-2717

Fax 217-524-3738

Misc. Numbers

Dana-Thomas House 217-782-6776

Lincoln’s Home 217-492-4150

Lincoln-Herndon Law Office 217-782-6776

Lincoln’s New Salem 217-632-4000

Oak Ridge Cemetery 217-789-2340

Old State Capitol 217-785-7289

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum 217-558-8844

Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau 217-789-2369

Union Station 217-557-4588

Vachel Lindsay Home 217-524-0901

HOURS OF OPERATION

April 1 through August 31 – Seven days a week – 9am -5pm

September 1 through March 31 – Tuesday through Saturday – 9am – 4:30pm

Oak Ridge Cemetery main gates open at 7:00 am and close:

8:00pm - April 1 through August 31

5:00 pm – September 1 through March 31

VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

The purpose of this program is to bring the story of the tomb and War Memorials to hundreds of thousands of annual visitors and school groups to the monument which holds the remains of a Springfield resident and the country’s most beloved President, Abraham Lincoln and his family. Its members are asked to dedicate at least 25 hours of volunteer time each year to a worthwhile presentation and interpretation of heritage. They relate the story of the funeral train, receiving vault, Lincoln Monument Association, building of the tomb, and significant features of the tomb itself. They talk with adults, teenagers, and children from around the world. Their contribution is that of bequeathing a priceless heritage to future generations.

Each volunteer receives instruction on a variety of museum and history related subjects, including security, public relations, interpretation methods, research, and a variety of historical themes. They have the privilege of access to the collections and buildings as they relate to their work. Not the least important, is the experience and knowledge they may take with them.

Lincoln Tomb volunteers assist the site staff primarily in interpretive programs, but opportunities are also available to volunteer in maintenance, research, etc. Volunteers provide special interpretive services at various stations within the site.

Volunteers receive the same training opportunities as interpreters, and enjoy equivalent staff privileges. All volunteers, however, are required to complete minimum training in person to person oral interpretation and provide historical interpretation as a regular part of their volunteer hours.

THE LINCOLN MONUMENT INTERPRETIVE PROGRAM

The interpretive program can center in a variety of facilities or activities, but is usually located in the Lincoln Tomb. It is here that the primary story is presented in some detail to the visitor. It is usually headquarters for the interpretive staff. Most important of all, it is here that the visitor comes in contact with the total program.

It is the person at the Tomb who helps set the tone for the visitor. Its operation is one of the most important functions of the interpretive program and one of the most difficult to do well. The attitude of the visitor is largely out of the interpreters’ hands. It may be good or bad. However, the attitude he takes away is the responsibility of the interpreter. Thus, one of the first things that must be considered is the impression the visitor receives.

II. Qualifications of a Good Interpreter: The Human Approach

A. Speech

Interpreters should speak easily and informally, without having to memorize what they say and slowly enough so that they can be easily understood. The voice should be resonant enough to be heard in large spaces as well as small ones. The voice used in the Burial Chamber should be loud enough so that all can hear, but the tone should be respectful.

B. Graciousness

Long after most of the factual details about a historic site have faded from a visitor’s mind, the memory of a warm personality or a helpful and concerned person will persist. It is better to tolerate errors of fact from visitors than to allow a situation to deteriorate into a disagreement.

C. Patience

The interpreter who day in and day out must deal with all kinds of people should have the patience of a saint and the tact of a State Department protocol officer. No matter how indifferent the visitors might be to what the interpreters consider important, the visitors still must be treated with infinite patience and as if they were personal guests.

D. Flexibility

Every group of guests is different and must be treated differently. The interpreter must sense the special interests of the group and adapt to them, even though a basic interpretation is given. This is the reason why set speeches and rigid outlines should be avoided. Interpreters must also have a flexible attitude toward their work. Because new information is constantly being unearthed and new ways of handling groups are being developed, interpreters must grow with the changes. There are no interpreters more unprofessional, or people more difficult to work with, than those who heard something one way fifteen years ago and are not going to change, regardless of how incorrect or outmoded the information may be.

E. Personal Appearance

Employee uniform shirts will be provided. Volunteers will have the opportunity to purchase a uniform shirt. It is not mandatory to wear a uniform shirt. Short shorts, jeans, sweatpants, overalls, or any spandex or other form fitting pants are prohibited. Short skirts, “spaghetti-strap” dresses or bared shouldered dresses are also prohibited. Employees and volunteers need to be well groomed, with an appearance that would be appropriate for “semi-casual.” Please no jeans or flip-flops. Maintenance shirts shall have sleeves. T-shirts with potentially offensive words, terms, logos or pictures are prohibited. Extreme haircuts, colors or styles shall not be worn. Jewelry and perfume is to be kept to a minimum. If you wear the uniform shirt off-site, remember that in the public eye, you are the site.

F. Professional Attitude

Interpreters should have a professional attitude. This attitude requires that they take pride in keeping abreast of the latest developments. Remember that you represent the tomb to the public and that whatever you do reflects upon us.

G. Research

The library room is open to all of the volunteers to use. Please come and browse through our materials. If you want to check out any reference, please use the check-out sheet and return the reference in a timely manner.

H. Different Interpretations

Ideally, different interpretations should be prepared for use during busing times or in periods of lighter visitation. In addition, special interpretations should be written for school groups according to the interests of their age levels. The early age levels (4-6 grades) should have as much interaction with interpreter as possible. Asking questions, referring to objects in the rotunda, and identifying symbols for example, are excellent methods of keeping attention.

III. Mechanics of a Good Interpreter

A. Gathering Groups

The first contact of the interpreter with the guests usually occurs as a group is being gathered. The whole tone of the tour can be set at this point. If the interpreter is gracious and helpful, guests can relax and have an enjoyable tour.

B. Size of the Groups

The size of the groups is determined by such circumstances as the heaviness of visitation at the particular season of the year, the weather and the intervals between groups. In extremely busy times, groups usually have to be increased in size in order to handle the crowds, but they never should be so large that they can’t all fit in the Burial Chamber and be kept under control.

C. Keeping the Groups Together

Please use skill and tact in keeping the groups together. Don’t be afraid to suggest, for example, that group pictures or rubbing of Lincoln’s nose should wait until after the group’s tour of the tomb.

D. Moving Groups

Groups can be moved from one station to another at the desired speed by using a statement that plants the idea that they are ready to move, such as, “Now let’s move on to the Burial Chamber.”

PUBLIC RELATIONS

In the eyes of the visitor, you are Lincoln’s Tomb & War Memorials. This may sound like a simplification, but it is a fact that the impression which a visitor leaves with is to a great extent determined by your attitude and ability to do your job well.

Do you perform your work, knowing that the reputation of other staff members depends on it? Do you welcome visitors into the site as if they were friends coming to your home? Do you listen to them, cultivate their interests, and make them the center of your attention? If not, then you have some practicing to do as a public relations person.

Cultivating the public comes easier for some people than for others. Some of us are natural extroverts, while others are on the introvert side of the scale. Being an extrovert, however, is no guarantee of good public relations ability. The task is more than one of entertaining people. They must be made to feel welcome. You must practice conversational skills and learn how to deal tactfully with a wide range of personality types, their interests and problems. Sooner or later, every type of personality will walk though the doors of your museum. More often than not, the most belligerent or callous individual will appear at the seemingly worst possible time. Finding that extra bit of fortitude and wearing a smile at that moment is a mark of a good interpreter.

“The customer is always right” may be a truism. But as far as you are concerned the taxpayers are our customers, and they have a right to have certain expectations of you. For the close-minded visitor who finds fault in everything, your goal is not to reach him. He does not want to be reached. You should be warm and gracious, not only for his sake, but for that of other visitors.

As the person with whom visitors most often come in contact, you are the front-line representative of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency. You also have an obligation to maintain our good relationship with other museums, institutions and communities in the immediate area. Familiarize yourself with the other sites such as the National Park Service at the Lincoln Home, and visitor services such as lodging, restaurants, etc. in the vicinity. Avoid offering comparative value judgments on such operations, but be prepared to offer information at an opportune time during the tour. Our goal is to make the overall visit to central Illinois enjoyable.

LINCOLN TOMB & WAR MEMORIALS

STATE HISTORIC SITE

ILLINOIS HISTORIC PRESERVATION

WORK RULES FOR STAFF ONLY

1. All employees must be at work at his/her work area and prepared to begin to work at the start of their work shifts. Employees shall not leave work before the scheduled quitting time of their shifts without the specific approval of their supervisor.

2. The meal period for all employees is established by the employee’s supervisor, at approximately mid point of the work day. Meal periods shall be 60 minutes long.

3. For employees, a work break of 15 minutes is allowed during the first and second half of the work shift. Breaks shall be taken as scheduled by the supervisor. If it is not possible to take breaks away from the work area, employees must conduct themselves in a manner which will not disrupt working employees.

4. If an employee is absent from work due to illness, it is the employee’s responsibility to report that fact directly to his/her supervisor or his/her supervisor’s designee promptly at the start of their work shift and daily thereafter, unless a mutual agreement is made otherwise.

Days off, such as holiday liquidation or unpaid absence shall be scheduled sufficiently in advance to be consistent with the operating needs of the employer, except in emergency situations. A leave request MUST be filled out by employee.

5. Employees are expected to follow proper written or oral supervisory instructions, directions, and assignments.

6. Employees shall not report to work under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. Employees shall not possess or use alcohol or narcotics (unless prescribed by a physician) during working hours or while in uniform.

7. Each employee is responsible for maintaining an orderly work area. Each employee is responsible for proper care and maintenance of equipment.

8. All employees are expected to conduct personal business on their own time. Phones are for business use, except in emergencies. Long distance phone calls must be reported.

9. It is the employee’s and supervisor’s responsibility to insure compliance with these rules. There is a shared obligation on both parts for effective communication.

Smoking in any of the site buildings is prohibited.

11. There shall be no more than two employees stationed in the rotunda at

any time.

12. Employees shall not wear hats, sunglasses or improper accessories

in the tomb .

13. Seats in the rotunda are provided for no or low traffic periods and no

employee shall be seated when visitors are present.

14. Cell phones or other personal electronic devices shall not be used

15. Employees will maintain a low tone of voice and attitude of respect

while in the Burial Chamber. Leaning on wall, railings and furniture is

prohibited.

16. Provided staffing allows, employees will be stationed outside the tomb.

In extreme weather and inclement weather, accommodations will be

made for the general health and safety conditions of the employee

on a case by case basis.

17. Employees will rotate stations throughout the day as staffing allows.

18. Employees are required to wear provided name badges while on the site.

General Rules for Volunteers

Please call as soon as you realize that you have a conflict with a scheduled duty.
Keep your personal belongings in either the tomb workroom or the office.
Stand while talking to guests.
Enforce the rules of no smoking, drinking, or food in the tomb, or using a cell phone to communicate while in the tomb.
Rain ponchos and umbrellas are available on the coat rack in the tomb workroom or in the office.
Parking is available in the staff parking area.
Please do not correct your fellow interpreters in front of visitors.
Volunteers will have a 20 minute break during their shifts.
Make sure that you have access to a walkie-talkie by picking one up in the tomb or one in the workroom at the tomb. Keep it on at all times.
There are refrigerators in both the tomb and the office kitchen. Please feel free to use them. There may be snacks and drinks in the office kitchen.
Volunteers should wear name tags while on duty.

RULES & REGULATIONS FOR VISITORS

FOOD AND BEVERAGES – No food or drink is allowed inside the tomb.
SMOKING – Smoking is not permitted in any building on the site premises.
CELL PHONES – Cell phones should be turned to vibrate or turned off in the tomb.
DRUGS – Controlled substances are not allowed on the site.
INTOXICATION – No person who in staff judgment is in a state of intoxication which might jeopardize the safety of other visitors or the interruption of the appropriate attitude inside the tomb shall be allowed on the site. Volunteers should alert the staff.
LITTERING – Littering in any amount on the site grounds is prohibited.
PETS – Visitors’ animals are not allowed in any building. Any working animal which is leashed is the only exceptions.
PHOTOGRAPHY – Photography is allowed throughout the perimeter of the tomb with or without the use of flash.
SALES, SOLICITATION, AND ADVERTISING – Concessions, organized groups, or individuals conducting any of the activities must have written approval of the Site Manager.
MEETINGS – Meetings or activities of any group, including any religious group or sect, must have written approval of the Site Manager.
METAL DETECTORS – The use of metal detectors anywhere on the

site is prohibited.

ORGANIZED GROUPS AND SCHOOL GROUPS – Organized groups,

Including all school groups traveling by bus, must register their request for a site visit and have written confirmation from the Springfield Convention Bureau. Other groups traveling by bus are encouraged to make reservations as well. Groups with reservations are given priority.

SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS AND CHILDREN – Adults shall be responsible for the enforcement of these regulations for all minors under their care.

Injuries and Illnesses

1. In case of a medical emergency or injury at the tomb, the first thing you should do is to notify a staff member.

2. If the person has had a heart attack and you are certified in CPR training, you can provide this care.

3. If the victim or their family requests an ambulance, please call 911.

4. If the victim is alone and unable to communicate, please call 911.

5. An accident report should be filled out and returned to a staff person.

Emergency Evacuation

The only time you may need to evacuate the tomb is during a power outage. We keep flashlights by the breaker panel in the storage room on the left. No visitors will be allowed to go through the tomb until the power is restored.

BURIAL CHAMBER POLICY

During group tour season (spring and fall), and, assuming that there are enough staff and volunteers, the burial chamber will be interpreted to the groups.

During the summer season when the majority of tourists are families on vacations and assuming there is adequate staff and volunteers, the interpreter stationed in the burial chamber will acknowledge and welcome all visitors. Inform the visitor(s) if they have any questions, or would prefer to have the chambers interpreted, the visitor(s) should by all means be accommodated. Due to the cultural diversity of the visitor(s) of the tomb, everyone has different ways of expressing bereavement. But always allow the visitor(s) the option to just answer questions or give them an interpretation. Upon further questions, or a question that will require a longer than reasonable time to answer, walk with them to the West hallway and speak in a suitable volume.

Staff and volunteers should try their best to accommodate all visitors, but not at the expense of other visitors or the interruption of the flow of traffic.

Bus Greeters

Please use the following rules to greet the buses.

“Welcome to the Lincoln Tomb. The historic site is in the middle of Oak Ridge Cemetery that may have a funeral procession going by or a funeral in progress. We ask that you be quiet and respectful while you are here.”

Keep the noise level down, no running or loud voices.
No food, gum, or drinks.
Please remove hats when entering the tomb.
Please refrain from talking while in the tomb.
You may take pictures while in the tomb.
Please wait until after the tour to rub Lincoln’s nose.
Turn off cell phones or turn to vibrate if using the phone to take pictures.
Please, no texting while in the tomb
The only sculpture that may be touched is the Borglum Lincoln face on the plaza.

Exterior Talk

The exterior is constructed of dressed granite. The obelisk is 117 feet tall. Over the entrance door is a bronze plaque bearing the Gettysburg Address. There are 40 total shields or ashlars, 37 bear the name of a state and 3 each individually say U, S, and A. These are the states which made up the Union at the time the tomb was dedicated in 1874. The four bronze statuaries were executed by Larkin G. Mead, the designer of the tomb. They represent the fighting forces of the U.S. during Lincoln’s administration and American Civil War. They are the Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery and the Navy. Mounted on a square pedestal at the front of the obelisk is a statue of Lincoln. In his left hand he holds a copy of the Emancipation Proclamation. On the face of the pedestal is a bronze plaque ornamented with a modified U.S. Coat of Arms, representing the Constitution. The broken chain in the mouth of the eagle represents the broken chains of slavery.

ROTUNDA TALK

On May 4, 1865, the final funeral of President Lincoln was held here at Oak Ridge Cemetery, and the President’s remains were placed in the public receiving vault along with his son William. The remains were in the receiving vault until December of 1865, at which time they were placed in a temporary family vault up the hill behind the tomb. Edward, another son who had preceded the President in death, was moved from Springfield’s Hutchinson Cemetery to the family vault where they stayed

The tomb was dedicated in October of 1874, and took five years to build at a cost of $171,000. Donations were given to the National Lincoln Monument Association by friends, school groups, church groups, veteran groups, and the State of Illinois. During the period of 1899 to 1901, the tomb was disassembled and the foundations were dug deeper. At that time, 15 feet was added to the obelisk making it 117 feet tall. The President was placed 10 feet below the floor at this time. The hallways were opened, and the statuary, plaques, and marble were added during the period of 1930 to 1931.

Entering the tomb you see the working study of Daniel Chester French’s “Seated Lincoln.” The original is the central theme of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D. C.

Around the walls of the Rotunda, there are 16 marble columns for the 16^th President. There are 36 bronze columns for the 36 states at the time of President Lincoln’s death. The ceiling in the rotunda is made from palladium. The marble came from 5 states: Utah, Missouri, Arkansas, Minnesota and Massachusetts, and four countries: Italy, Spain, France, and Belgium. The gratings are designed to resemble the corn stalks of Illinois.

BURIAL CHAMBER TALK

The burial stone is made of Red Ark Fossil from Arkansas, and weighs seven tons. The President is buried 30 inches back from the front of the stone and 10 feet deep in a steel and concrete vault. The body lies parallel to the stone, his head toward the West and his feet the East. Inscribed on the wall directly above the Stars and Stripes are the words, “Now He Belongs to the Ages.” Lincoln’s Secretary of War, Edwin McMasters Stanton, uttered these words in the bedroom of the Peterson house at the moment of Lincoln’s death. The flags from left to right are Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Virginia which are states where Lincoln’s ancestors settled when they came from England. On the right, you have Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois; states where Lincoln lived. On the end is the Presidential Flag. The ceiling in the burial chamber is gold leaf. Across from the headstone you will see the name of Mary Lincoln, Edward Baker Lincoln, William Wallace Lincoln, and Thomas Tad Lincoln. They are interred in the crypts behind their names. Edward was the first son to die at the age of 3 years and 10 months from cosumption, which is now known as Tuberculosis. William or “Willie” died at the age of 11 years old of typhoid fever. Thomas or “Tad” died at the age of 18 years old from Pleurisy or dropsy of the chest.

Robert Lincoln is not buried in the tomb, but is at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

OPTIONAL BEHIND THE TOMB TALK

Please note: This is an optional talk that may be given when there are groups waiting on the plaza to enter the tomb. This talk is given on the steps behind the tomb, with the group facing the Oak Ridge Receiving Vault. Although there are many dates and facts, please edit the length of your talk as you see fit.

“Battle of the Gravesite” or How Lincoln Tomb Came to Be Here

When Lincoln was assassinated, there was no Lincoln Tomb here.
On April 24^th an editorial in the “State Journal” newspaper announced a public meeting to form a committee to make arrangements for the interment of the President. The committee evolved into the National Lincoln Monument Association. The NLMA launched a nation-wide drive for funds.
As a site for the monument, the NLMA selected Mather Square—site of the present state capitol building, and began building a tomb. On May 4^th, 1865, the funeral procession left the State Capital seemingly headed for the Mather block, but soon headed toward Oak Ridge Cemetery instead. Lincoln was then interred in the Oak Receiving vault with Willie. Over the next few weeks, the Association pressed its plans contrary to Mrs. Lincoln’s wishes to inter President Lincoln at the Mather site.
Mary Lincoln disliked the Association’s choice. She wanted her husband buried in consecrated grounds, choosing Oak Ridge Cemetery.
In the belief that Mrs. Lincoln would change her mind, the committee allowed work to continue on finishing the crypt at the Mather site. On June 5^th, she gave the association ten days to send an official assurance that the monument would be erected in Oak Ridge Cemetery or she would take the body to Washington D. C. or Chicago. Mrs. Lincoln demanded a formal promise that Lincoln would be buried at Oak Ridge. She gave them a 10 day deadline. On June 14, 1865, the NLMA agreed to build the tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery by a vote of 8-7.
The vault which cost the city more than $50,000 was torn down.
The city of Springfield donated 6 acres in the cemetery to the NLMA for the monument.
On December 21, 1865, after completion of a temporary vault, the bodies of the late president and Willie were moved from the Oak Ridge Receiving vault. Eddy Lincoln, who had reposed in Hutchinson Cemetery, was also transferred to the just completed vault.
The newer vault, in which the Lincolns remained until 1871, no longer exists. Like the Oak Ridge Receiving vault, it was behind and below the monument site.
In July, 1871, Thomas (Tad) Lincoln died in Chicago. By this time the monument’s construction had progressed to the point where the body of Tad, and later, President Lincoln and Willie could be placed in the crypt.
On October 15, 1874 the edifice was dedicated.

MORE USEFUL INFORMATION

Exterior of the Lincoln Tomb

The sculptor, Larkin G. Mead of Brattleboro, Vermont, and the designer of Abraham Lincoln’s Tomb, created six of the seven works of art on the exterior of the tomb. Attached to the south side of the obelisk, a sacred symbol of State originated by the ancient Egyptians, is the statue of Abraham Lincoln. Immediately below his statue is a modified Coat of Arms of the United States. An Infantry group statue is located on a pedestal at the southwest corner of the obelisk, the Cavalry group is located on the southeast corner, the Naval statue on the northeast, and the Artillery located on the northwest corner. These statues were sculpted in Italy and were cast in bronze at the Ames Foundry in Chicopee, Massachusetts. Sixty-five old cannons were donated by the Federal Government after the Civil War to be melted down for the casting material.

The bronze plaque typifies the Constitution of the United States. Mr. Lincoln, on the pedestal above, makes the whole an illustration of his position at the outbreak of the rebellion. He took his stand on the Constitution as his authority for using the four arms of the war power of the Government (the Infantry, Navy, Cavalry and Artillery) to hold together the states, which are represented still lower on the monument by a cordon of tablets linking them together, in a perpetual bond of union.

THE STATUE OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN

The statue of Lincoln represents a calm, but weary president standing above the fray, holding the pen in the right hand which blotted out the stains of slavery, and, in other hand, he holds the Emancipation Proclamation. As a symbol of union, the fasces, the Roman badge of authority, is placed near his feet which are covered by the glorious banner of the republic. Reclining in the fasces is a crown of laurel; a crown which mankind has unanimously placed on the head of the victor. In this case, the victor has been judged to be the union, not Abraham Lincoln, the ruler. The Lincoln statue weighs 4,862 pounds, and is eight feet, six inches tall. It was cast in the years of 1871-72.

Bronze Plaque

The Bronze Plaque is displayed a few feet below the statue of Lincoln in the form of a bronze bas-relief which measures three feet wide by two and one-half feet tall. Weighing 284 pounds, it was cast in 1870 at a cost of $1,500. Near the bottom of the relief, the shield, typifying the United States Constitution, has part of the stars obscured by the foot of the eagle (the South attempting to leave the union). The olive branch, the symbol of peace, is on the ground showing that it has been tendered to the South, and was rejected. Then, the conflict begins and rages until the chains of slavery are torn asunder, one part remaining grasped in the talon of the eagle, and the other half aloft in his beak. What Mead represents more realistically and literally in the military groups is also presented symbolically in the bronze relief on the pedestal supporting the statue of Lincoln.

THE NAVAL OR MARINE GROUP

Weighing 7,826 pounds, measuring eight foot and six inches in height, the Navy group was cast in the years of 1874 to 1875. At its completion, it was first shipped from Chicopee to Philadelphia, where it was exhibited at the Centennial Exposition which opened July 4, 1877. The statue, costing $13,500 was purchased by the state of New York.

The Naval group represents a scene on deck of a river gun-boat. The mortar is poised ready for action, the gunner has rolled up a shell, ready to put it into the mortar, and the powder monkey and the gunner believe that they are on the evening of battle. But the officer in command, having examined the situation through his telescope finds that there is no preparation for battle on the part of the enemy and dismisses the subject.

THE INFANTRY GROUP

Weighing 7,609 pounds and measuring eleven foot, two inches in height, the Infantry group was cast during the years of 1874 to 1875; it cost $13,700 to build. It was presented by the city of Chicago. The Infantry group represents a body of Infantry soldiers with all their arms and baggage on the march, not in immediate expectation of battle, but they have been fired on by an enemy ambush, and the color bearer killed. The officer in command raises the flag with one hand, and pointing to the enemy with the other, orders a charge. The private with the musket, as the representative of the whole line, is in the act of executing the charge. The excited drummer boy has lost his cap, thrown away his haversack (food bag), and drawn a revolver to take part in the conflict, but then looks as though he is not sure whether to fight or get behind the officer.

THE ARTILLERY GROUP

The seven foot, five inch tall Artillery group arrived in Springfield on February 24, 1882. Its purchase price was the same as the other groups, $13,700, and was paid for by the State of Illinois. This group represents a section of the Artillery in battle. The enemy artillery has shelled the gun, thereby destroying it. The officer in command, escapes unhurt, mounts the dismantled gun, and with drawn saber, is boldly facing the enemy. The young soldier appears to be oblivious to the danger from the approaching enemy, but is horrified at the havoc beneath and around him. The wounded soldier lying on the ground has a look of intense pain, but bravely keeps his face toward the enemy.

THE CAVALRY GROUP

The eight foot five inch tall Cavalry group was placed on the tomb in 1883. It also cost $13,500, which was borne by the State of Illinois. The group consists of two human figures and a horse, and represents a battle scene. The horse from whose back the rider has just fallen is frantically rearing. The wounded, dying trumpeter, supported by a comrade, involuntarily assumes a prayerful and tragic attitude.

THE “LINCOLN HEAD” STATUE

The “Lincoln Head” statue is the only replica art work on the exterior of Abraham Lincoln’s tomb. It is located in the plaza. The original, carved by Gutzon Borglum, was accepted by Congress on May 7, 1908, and is in the Hall of Fame in the United States Capitol building, Washington, D. C. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum, best known for his presidential stone faces at Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, used the Volk life mask of Lincoln and photographs to create this unforgettable portrait.

Hallways

Commencing in 1930, part of the exterior of tomb was repaired and the inside remodeled. At that time, nine statuettes were obtained for the interior, seven replicas of well-known statues, and two originals.

1. (Southeast corner, on the right) LINCOLN THE SOLDIER – Replica

By Leonard Crunelle

Original in Dixon, IL

In 1832, while living in New Salem, Lincoln became a member of a company of Illinois Militia. Elected Captain of the company, Lincoln served in this capacity for thirty days when the company was mustered out of federal service. He volunteered twice more as a private, and served a total of eighty days. He saw no live Indians or fighting.

The original stands in the center of the square in Dixon, Illinois, atop a pedestal about six feet in height. On the face of the pedestal is the simple title “Lincoln – 1832.” The statue represents Lincoln as a young man, with unbuttoned shirt open at the neck, clad in a loose coat and trousers tucked in to his boots which reach nearly to his knees, his right hand curled around a belt while the left loosely clasps a sword. The young soldier, twenty-three years old, stands squarely on his feet, head high, looking straight forward, with a hint of stern resolution in the set jaw and the closed lips. The statue was dedicated on September 24, 1930.

2. (Southeast corner, on the left) LINCOLN THE RANGER -- Original

By Fred M. Torrey

An equestrian study of Lincoln the Ranger. In 1832 while living in New Salem, Lincoln became a member of a company in the Illinois Militia. On the following day after the company was mustered out of the federal service, Lincoln enlisted as a private in a company of independent rangers. He served a total of about 80 days in the Black Hawk Indian War, and since he saw no live Indians, he took no active part in the fighting. This statue was added to the tomb in 1930-31.

3. (Northeast corner, on the right) STANDING PRESIDENT -- Replica

By Augustus St. Gaudens

Original in Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL

We see a plain man, giant in stature, with huge feet, powerful hands, and long limbs, standing in an attitude which carries no hint of affectation. The chair suggests power of the office he holds, the power he wields, the responsibility he must never ignore. Nothing indicates an extraordinary occasion. We see Abraham Lincoln as he might have appeared scores of times during the four years of war. The face holds our attention. The statue was dedicated on October 22, 1887.

4. (Northeast corner, on the left) LINCOLN THE CIRCUIT RIDER – Original

By Fred M. Torrey

During Lincoln’s life as an Illinois lawyer, much business was transacted on the Judicial Circuit. While on the circuit, lawyers and a judge would travel together from one county courthouse to another and then back to Springfield. It was during this period that Lincoln formed a close personal relationship with Judge David Davis. A complete trip over the circuit required about three months and covered more than 450 miles. Court was held in the spring and the fall. Lincoln’s work on the circuit earned him an enviable reputation as a most effective trial lawyer, and he became acquainted with a number of men who would be influential in his political career. The most notable of these men was Judge David Davis of Bloomington, Illinois. Lincoln appointed Davis Associate Justice of the United States in 1861. Davis was the administrator of the Lincoln estate. This statue was added to the tomb in 1930-31.

5. (Northwest corner, on the right) SEATED LINCOLN, THE PRESIDENT –Replica

By Adolph A. Weinman

Original in Hodgenville, KY

The President sits at ease in the wide curve of the chair, one hand gripping its arm, and the other clasping a folded document. The folds in the coat and the creases in the vest are not smoothed out, as though Lincoln, indifferent to all such minor matters as personal appearance, had dropped into a chair with a problem in hand for consideration. The face is serious; he looks worn, but not as worn as in the final months of his life. The original statue was dedicated on Memorial Day, May 30, 1909.

6. (Northwest corner, on the right) LINCOLN THE DEBATER – Replica

By Leonard Crunelle

Original in Freeport, IL

Crunelle’s statue of “Lincoln the Debater” stands among the trees in Taylor Park on a base of rough hewn granite. It was created to commemorate the Lincoln – Douglas Debates held in Freeport in 1858. There stands the Lincoln of the famous duel, in his usual stance, feet in line and firmly planted, shoulders squared, hand clasped behind the back holding a small roll of papers. The pose is challenging, almost defiant. This is the man who does not fear the “Little Giant,” the foremost senator and the most dreaded debater of that day. Lincoln is master of himself, calm, self-possessed, ready to meet his great rival. The statue was dedicated in August 27, 1929.

7. (Southwest corner, on the right) STANDING LINCOLN – Replica

By Daniel Chester French

Original in Lincoln, NE

French’s “Standing Lincoln” is located about 75 feet from the West entrance of the State Capitol Building in Lincoln, Nebraska, facing the West. In back of it on a marble slab measuring 20 feet by 12 feet is inscribed the Gettysburg Address. The sculptor shows the President standing with his arms straight down and his hands clasped. His head is tilted forward, as if he were thinking of the address he is about to make. Mr. French is reported to have said that he “kind of felt as if Lincoln must have stood like that for a few minutes before he began his Gettysburg speech.” The statue was dedicated on Labor Day, 1912.

8. (Southwest corner, on the left) LINCOLN THE LAWYER – Replica

By Lorado Taft, Original in Urbana, IL

Lawyer Lincoln is shown with his hands resting on the ends of the heavy stone slab at his back on which are carved two inscriptions. At the top, one reads, “If there is anything which is the duty of the whole people to never entrust to any hands but their own, that thing is the preservation of perpetuity of their own liberties and institutions” (from the Peoria speech of 1854). Below are the words from the President’s opinion of December 31, 1863, on the admission of West Virginia into the Union, “It is not the qualified voters, but the qualified voters who choose to vote that constitute the political power of the state.” The statue was dedicated on July 3, 1927.

9. (Rotunda) SEATED LINCOLN – Replica

By Daniel Chester French

Original in Washington, D. C.

The Civil War President sits in a massive chair of state, the sides of which end at the front of flat-faced pillars. On these are carved Roman fasces (a bundle of rods with an ax blade which represented a badge of authority) symbolic of the power and indivisibility of the American Union. Atop the pillars, as on the arms of a chair, rest Lincoln’s hands. The pose of the figure conveys the impression of rest; the muscles are relaxed; but this is not the man sprawled for comfort in the office back in Springfield. The President is calm, his head high, his torso erect; the body is imbued with life, ready on the instant of action. The statue was dedicated on Memorial Day, May 30, 1922.

HISTORY OF THE TOMB

On April 24, 1865, fifteen political and personal friends of Lincoln conceived the idea of an association to honor President Lincoln by erecting a permanent monument in Springfield, Illinois. On the morning of May 4, 1865, a procession carried the President’s remains to Oak Ridge Cemetery where final services were conducted. The casket was then placed in the tomb next to Willie’s. On May 11, 1865, the National Monument Association was formed. The completion of that monument depended on the generosity of the people and agents were appointed to collect public funds. Funds were collected from school children, Sunday schools, veterans groups, benevolent societies and the State of Illinois.

On December 21, 1865, in order to vacate the Temporary Receiving Vault, the remains of President Lincoln and his son Willie were relocated to a temporary vault located on the northeast hillside. In December of 1865, the remains of Edward, who died in 1850, and were buried in Hutchinson Cemetery in Springfield, were moved to the temporary vault with his father and brother.

In January of 1868, the Association resolved that compensation of $1,000.00 would be awarded to the artist who would submit a design for a suitable memorial at a cost not to exceed $200,000.00. The advertisement appeared in newspapers friendly to the cause. Thirty seven designs were submitted by 31 artists. In September of 1868, the Association chose the design submitted by Larkin G. Mead of Brattleboro, Vermont. The contract for construction was awarded to W.D. Richardson of Springfield. On September 9, 1869, ground was broken in construction of the $171,000.00 tomb.

On July 15, 1871, Thomas (Tad) Lincoln passed away in Chicago. Though the monument was not completed, the catacomb was far enough advanced to be occupied. On July 17, 1871, Tad’s remains were the first to be placed in the crypts of the monument. On September 19, 1871, while making preparations for placing President Lincoln’s remains in the catacomb of the monument and because it was thought the embalming was a failure, his remains were removed from the walnut casket in which they came from Washington and placed in a metallic casket. Thirteen members of the National Lincoln Monument Association viewed the corpse and signed papers testifying to the identity of the body. President Lincoln’s coffin was then placed in the crypts of the monument. The coffins of the Willie and Edward were then placed in the crypts to the right of their father.

On October 9, 1874, at the completion of the and prior to the dedication, Lincoln’s remains were transferred to a red cedar coffin lined with lead by Ghoma C. Smith, undertaker. The remains were found to be in a good state of preservation. The coffin was soldered airtight by Colonel A.J. Babcock and placed in a marble sarcophagus in the center of the catacomb. Again affidavits were signed by members of the National Lincoln Monument Association that testified to the identity of the body. On October 15, 1874, the tomb was dedicated.

On November 7, 1876, an unsuccessful attempt was made to steal the remains of Lincoln. Although the attempt was unsuccessful, Lincoln’s coffin was removed from the sarcophagus and secreted within the inner recesses of the tomb. On July 16, 1882, Mary Lincoln passed away in Springfield. On October 14, 1887, the coffins of Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln were placed in a specially constructed vault beneath the floor of the burial chamber. On March 5, 1890, Abraham Lincoln II (Jack), son of Robert Lincoln passed away of blood poisoning and his remains were placed in the tomb. On July 9, 1895, the only surviving member of the National Lincoln Monument Association, Richard Oglesby, deeded the property to the State of Illinois.

The first reconstruction of the tomb began in November of 1899 due to uneven settling. The tomb was completely dismantled; foundations were dug to bedrock, reset and the tomb completely rebuilt. The main difference to the appearance was the addition of fifteen feet added to the height of the obelisk, making the tomb 117 feet tall. On March 10, 1900, the remains of the Lincoln family were removed from the tomb and placed in an underground vault which was located outside near the northeast corner of the tomb. On June 1, 1901, at the request of his son, Robert Lincoln, Abraham Lincoln’s remains were placed in a specially designed steel and concrete vault located ten feet below ground and two and one half feet behind the front of the grave marker. Before lowering the coffin into the vault it was opened and his face exposed to the view of friends and former associates for the purpose of identification. Again papers were signed testifying to the identity of President Lincoln. At last his remains were placed in the final resting place.

In May of 1930, the remains of Mary Lincoln and her three sons were moved to a mausoleum in Oak Ridge Cemetery to allow for the work to be done on the on its second reconstruction. At this time the remains of Abraham Lincoln II (Jack), the son of Robert Lincoln, were removed from the tomb to be buried along side his father in Arlington National Cemetery. Jack was buried in Arlington on May 27, 1930. During this reconstruction the solid wings were opened to make hallways and marble from Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, Missouri, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Utah, and Arkansas was placed in the tomb. In May of 1931, the remains of Mary Lincoln and her three sons were moved back to the tomb and placed in the crypts they now occupy. On June 17, 1931, the tomb was rededicated. On June 11, 1946, the Public Receiving Vault at Oak Ridge Cemetery was deeded to the State of Illinois by the City of Springfield to become part of the historic site.

ROMAN STONE

Prior to 1930 it was possible to enter the obelisk and ascend to the top by way of the stairs, but in 1931 the entrance was closed with stone. The stone, bearing a Latin inscription, is a fragment of the ancient Servian Wall which was built around the Seven Hills of Rome in the year 578 B.C. by the sixth legendary King of Rome, Servius Tulius. When becoming ruler of Rome, Servius Tulius, born in serfdom, freed the people of Rome and awarded to them the rights of citizenship. Early in 1865 the people of Rome, feeling that there was a parallel in the lives of Servius Tulius and Abraham Lincoln, sent the stone to Lincoln as a memento. It remained in the White House for a number of years, until by joint resolution of Congress, it was sent to the tomb. In 1936, a group of representatives of the Italian government came to Springfield and formally dedicated the stone to the memory of Abraham Lincoln. When the people of Rome sent the stone they could not have known how soon and how complete, would be the parallel in the lives of these two men. In 538 B.C. Servius Tulius was assassinated by his son-in-law Tarquinius and in 1865 Abraham Lincoln fell from a bullet fired by the assassin John Wilkes Booth.

11 MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. When was the tomb built?

a. The tomb was started in 1869 and completed in 1874.

b. The first reconstruction began in September of 1899 and was completed in June of 1901.

c. The second reconstruction began in 1930 and was completed in 1931.

2. Where is the marble from?

During the second reconstruction in 1930, the marble from Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, Missouri, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Utah and Arkansas was placed in the tomb.

3. What are the ceilings made of?

The ceiling in the rotunda is palladium leaf and the burial

chamber, 24 k. gold leaf.

4. What do the flags in the burial chamber represent?

The states where the first six generations of the Lincoln family lived after arriving in this country from England:

I. Massachusetts

II. New Jersey

III. Pennsylvania

IV. Virginia

The United States Flag

The states where Abraham Lincoln lived:

I. Kentucky

II. Indiana

III. Illinois

The Presidential Flag

5. How old was Mary Lincoln when she died?

Mary Lincoln was 63 years old when she died on July 16, 1882. She was born on December 13, 1818. She lived 17 years longer than her husband.

6. Is Robert Lincoln buried here?

Robert Lincoln is buried in Arlington, Virginia, at the National Cemetery with his wife, Mary, and his son Abraham II. Robert was born August 1, 1843, and died July 25, 1926, six days before his 83^rd birthday.

7. What did Abraham Lincoln’s children die of?

a. Edward (Eddy) Baker Lincoln 1846-1850 died of TB also known as consumption.

b. William (Willie) Wallace Lincoln 1850-1862 died of typhoid fever.

c. Thomas (Tad) Lincoln 1853-1871 died of pleurisy also known as dropsy of the chest.

8. Who shot Booth?

John Wilkes Booth was shot April 26, 1865, in a barn on the Garrett farm at Port Royal, Virginia, by Sergeant Boston Corbett.

9. Where is Booth buried?

John Wilkes Booth as buried on June 26, 1869, in the Green

Mount Cemetery in Baltimore, Maryland. Immediately after his

death, he was taken to the old United States Washington

Arsenal.

10. Why are the state abbreviations on the ashlars (shields) unusual?

There are five state abbreviations on the ashlars that deviate from the official recommendations of the Post Office’s “1869 Directory.”. Non-standard abbreviations for states include “ILLS” which is Illinois,” PENN.” which is Pennsylvania, “KAN.” which is Kansas, “ON” which is Oregon, “NEB.” which is Nebraska and the letters “U”, “S”, and “A” which stand for USA. These ashlars were not used for their intended purpose; that is, a place to engrave the names of the 38^th, 39^th, and 40^th states as they entered the Union. The three blank ashlars were put in to make the total number more symmetrical (40). The question as to why the deviations were made remains unanswered.

11. Why was Robert Lincoln buried at Arlington instead of Oak Ridge?

In November of 1922, in his letter to Dr. Nicholas Murray Butler, Columbia University, New York City, Robert made it clear that he intended to be buried with his family in the Lincoln Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery

After his death in 1926, Robert was temporarily placed in a vault near his estate of Hildene in Vermont. His wife, Mary Harlan Lincoln, chose to ignore Robert’s wishes. Robert was moved to Arlington National Cemetery and buried on March 14, 1928.

From the period of 1890 to 1930, Robert’s son, Abraham Lincoln II (Jack) was buried at the Lincoln Tomb. He was placed in the tomb at the time of his death. In May of 1930, Jack’s remains were removed from the Lincoln Tomb to be buried at Arlington near his father. Jack was buried in Arlington on May 27, 1930.

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was born the second child of Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks Lincoln on February 12, 1809. The family resided at Rock Creek Farm in Hodgenville, Hardin County, Kentucky (now known as LaRue County) at the time Abraham was born. Prior to Abraham’s birth, the couple had one child, Sarah. In 1811, Nancy gave birth to Abraham’s younger brother, Thomas, their third and final child. During the time the family resided in Knob Creek Abraham’s younger brother Thomas died. On October 5, 1818, Abraham’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, passed away of milk sickness. Abraham was 9 years old. When Abraham was 10 years old, Abraham’s father, Thomas Lincoln, married Sarah Bush Johnston in Elizabethtown, Kentucky.

On July of 1827, Abraham was hired to operate a ferry across the Anderson River in Perry County, Indiana; Abraham was 18 years old. Abraham’s sister, Nancy (Sarah) Lincoln passed away on January 20, 1828.

In April of 1828, Abraham was hired to pilot a flatboat from Rockport, Indiana, to New Orleans, Louisiana. In 1830, Abraham and his family relocated to Macon County, Illinois, and settled ten miles southwest of Decatur. Abraham resided in Macon County with his family until March of 1831, when he was hired to build a flatboat at Sangamo Town, Illinois, to take a load of produce to New Orleans, Louisiana.

At this time Abraham was 22 years old, and this was when he started claiming residency in New Salem in Sangamon County, Illinois (now known as Menard County).

In the spring of 1832, Lincoln volunteered to fight in the Black Hawk War. He was elected captain of his company, and years later he was to write that he was “surprised” at this election and had “not since had any success in life which gave him so much satisfaction.” On June 16, 1832, Abraham mustered out as a volunteer, reenlisted as a private and served a total of 80 days. He then returned to New Salem, Illinois, where he lived until 1837. While he lived there he was unsuccessful in a general merchandise business with a partner, but later went on to receive a saloon license with William F. Berry, and was appointed Postmaster of New Salem.

On August 6, 1832, Abraham was defeated for the Illinois House of Representatives. This is the only time Lincoln was defeated by a vote of the people. [See note below] On August 4, 1834, he was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives from Sangamon County and served a total of four terms. On March 1, 1837, Lincoln was admitted to the Bar.

When Lincoln moved to Springfield, he became a law partner with John Stuart. In 1839, he began practicing on the Eighth Circuit Court and was named presidential elector. In 1840, he argued his first case before the Illinois Supreme Court. He was 31 years old. In 1841 he obtained a new law partner by the name of Stephan Logan.

Abraham Lincoln married Mary Todd in Springfield on November 4, 1842. On August 1, 1843, Mary gave birth to the couple’s first son Robert Todd Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois. In February of 1844, the Lincoln family moved to their home at the corner of Eighth and Jackson in Springfield. Mary gave birth to the couple’s second son, Edward Baker Lincoln on March 10, 1846.

On August 3, 1846, Lincoln was elected as the only Whig among seven Congressmen from Illinois, to the United States House of Representatives, serving from March 4, 1847, to March 3, 1849. He was also admitted to practice law before the United States Supreme Court in 1849.

Edward Baker Lincoln died February 1, 1850, of tuberculosis, in Springfield, and was buried in Hutchinson Cemetery.

On December 21, 1850, Mary gave birth to the couple’s third son, William Wallace Lincoln. Mary gave birth to the couple’s fourth and final son, Thomas (Tad) Lincoln, born April 4, 1853, in Springfield.

On November 7, 1854, Abraham was elected to a fifth term in the Illinois House of Representatives, but resigned to run for United States Senate. Lincoln was unsuccessful in 1855, in obtaining the United States Senate seat from Illinois on the Whig ticket, and in 1856, was unsuccessful again, this time in obtaining the Republican Vice Presidential nomination.

In 1858, the Illinois State Republican Convention unanimously nominated Abraham Lincoln as “first and only choice of the Republicans of Illinois for United States Senate.” Lincoln accepted the nomination and then delivered his famous “House Divided” speech in the House of Representatives in Springfield. The first of seven Lincoln-Douglas debates took place in Ottawa, Illinois, with the final Lincoln-Douglas debate taking place in Alton, Illinois. Lincoln lost the campaign for United States Senator to Steven A. Douglas because of gerrymandered legislative districts.

Abraham Lincoln was nominated for President of the United States by the Republican Convention in Chicago, Illinois, on the third ballot, May 18, 1860. On November 6, 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected the first Republican President. On February 9, 1861, the Confederate States of America was formed with Jefferson Davis as President. Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated as the 16^th President of the United States in Washington, DC, March 4, 1861, and at 4:30 a.m. April 12, 1861, the Confederates opened fire on Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina, starting the Civil War. On September 22, 1862, Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation and ordered it into effect on January 1, 1863. Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, November 19, 1863.

On June 7, 1864, Abraham Lincoln was re-nominated for President of the United States by the Union Republican Convention in Baltimore, Maryland. He was elected to his second term of office on November 8, and on March 4, 1865, was inaugurated President of the United States for a second term. On April 9, 1865, General Robert E. Lee surrendered his Confederate Army to General Ulysses S. Grant at the Appomattox Court House in Virginia.

On April 14, 1865, Good Friday night, Abraham Lincoln was shot at Ford Theater by John Wilkes Booth and was taken to the William Peterson house. At 7:22 a.m. on April 15, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln died from a gunshot wound to the head; he was 56 years and 62 days old.

President Lincoln was

The first President born in Kentucky.
The first President assassinated.
The third President to die in office.
The fifth President who was a resident of a state other than his native state.
The first President not born in the original 13 Colonies.

Note: It was not until 1913 that the Seventeenth Amendment (Amendment XVII) to the United States Constitution established direct election of United States Senators by popular vote. The amendment supersedes Articles 1 & 3, Clauses 1 and 2 of the Constitution, under which Senators were elected by state legislatures. It also alters the procedure for filling vacancies in the Senate, to be consistent with the method of election. It was adopted on April 8, 1913.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN FUNERAL

Following the President’s assassination on April 14, 1865, there were two funeral services held in Washington D.C., one in the White House, the other in our Nation’s Capitol Building. The President was then placed on a funeral train to begin his journey home to Springfield. In ten of the larger cities, the train stopped and his coffin was taken to a special place of honor where separate funerals were held.

On the morning of May 3, the train arrived in Springfield and the President was taken to the Hall of Representative of the State Capitol. Today we refer to that building as the Old State Capitol. During the next 24 hours 75,000 mourners filed past his coffin to pay their final respects.

The following day his final funeral was held here at Oak Ridge Cemetery in front of the city’s Public Receiving Vault.

MARY LINCOLN HISTORY

Mary Todd was born on December 13, 1818, in Lexington, Kentucky, to Eliza Ann Parker Todd and Robert Smith Todd. In 1839, while on a trip to visit her sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Edwards, in Springfield, Illinois, she made the acquaintance of Abraham Lincoln. On November 4, 1842, Mary Todd was married to Abraham Lincoln. On August 1, 1843, she gave birth to the couple’s first child, Robert Todd Lincoln, and on March 10, 1846, she gave birth to the couple’s second child, Edward Baker Lincoln (Eddy). On February 1, 1850, Eddy died. On December 21, 1850, she gave birth to the couple’s third child, William Wallace Lincoln (Willie), and on April 4, 1853, she gave birth to the couple’s fourth and final child, Thomas (Tad) Lincoln. Her husband was inaugurated as President of the United States on March 4, 1861. On February 20, 1862, Willie, died from typhoid fever. March 4, 1865, was the second inauguration of her husband. On April 9, 1865, she witnessed the ending of the Civil War. John Wilkes Booth shot her husband at Ford Theatre on April 14^th, and on April 15, 1865, she endured the loss of her husband to a gunshot wound to the head. On July 15, 1871, her fourth born child, Tad, died. Mary Lincoln passed away at her sister Elizabeth Edward’s home in Springfield, Illinois, at the age of 63 years and 215 days. She survived her husband in death by 17 years and 92 days.

THE LINCOLN DESCENDENTS

Robert Todd Lincoln was the first child born to Abraham and Mary Lincoln on August 1, 1843. He was the only Lincoln child to survive to adulthood. He married Mary Harlan on September 24, 1868. In 1869, Mary Harlan Lincoln gave birth to the couple’s first daughter Mary (Mamie) Lincoln. Mary Harlan Lincoln gave birth to the couple’s only son, Abraham Lincoln, II (Jack) on August 11, 1873. In 1875, Mary Harlan Lincoln gave birth to the couple’s second daughter and final child, Jessie Harlan Lincoln. On July 16, 1882, Robert experienced the passing of his mother. His son Jack passed away on March 5, 1890, from blood poisoning, and was buried in the Lincoln Tomb. In 1901, Robert requested the remains of his father be placed in a specially constructed steel and concrete vault and buried beneath the floor of the burial chamber. In a letter to Dr. Nicholas Murray Butler, Columbia University, New York City, Robert made it clear that he intended to be buried, with his family in the Lincoln Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery. On July 25, 1926, he passed away in Manchester, Vermont. After his death, Robert was placed in a vault near his estate of Hildene in Vermont. Whether Robert changed his mind between 1922 and 1926, or his wife, Mary Harlan Lincoln, was unaware of (or chose to ignore) Robert’s wishes is not known. Robert was moved to Arlington National Cemetery and buried on March 14, 1928. In May of 1930, Jack’s remains were removed from the Lincoln Tomb and buried at Arlington near his father on May 27, 1930. Robert and Mary Lincoln’s children died in the following years:

Mary Harlan Lincoln passed away in 1937,

Mary (Mamie) Lincoln Isham died in 1938,

Jessie Harlan Lincoln Beckwith died in 1948,

Lincoln Isham passed away in 1971

Mary (Peggy) Lincoln Beckwith passed away in 1975.

Robert Todd Lincoln Beckwith died in December of 1985.

Edward Baker Lincoln (Eddy) was born the second child to Abraham and Mary Lincoln on March 10, 1846. Eddy was also the first of the Lincoln children to pass away when he died on February 1, 1850, from tuberculosis also known as consumption at the age of 3 years and 10 months. He was originally buried in Hutchinson Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois, but was moved to the temporary family vault on December 21, 1865. Then on September 19, 1871, his remains were moved to the crypts of the monument. On March 10, 1900, his remains were moved for the first reconstruction and returned to the tomb by 1901. In May of 1930, his remains were moved with his mother and two brothers to a mausoleum in Oak Ridge Cemetery for the second re-construction. Finally, in May of 1931, his remains were placed where they are today in the crypts of the tomb.

William Wallace Lincoln (Willie) was born the third child to Abraham and Mary Lincoln on December 21, 1850. Willie was the only Lincoln child to pass away in the White House. He died on February 20, 1862, from typhoid fever at the age of 11 years. Willie’s body traveled with the remains of the President over the 1654 mile journey from Washington, D. C., to Springfield, Illinois. His body was placed in the Public Receiving Vault on May 4, 1865, alongside the remains of the President. His remains were moved to the temporary family vault on December 21, 1865. Then on September 19, 1871, his remains were moved to the crypts of the monument. On March 10, 1900, his remains were moved for the first reconstruction and returned to the tomb by 1901. In May of 1930, his remains were moved with his mother and two brothers to a mausoleum in Oak Ridge Cemetery for the second reconstruction. Finally, in May of 1931, his remains were placed where they are today in the crypts of the tomb.

Thomas (Tad) Lincoln was born on April 4, 1853. He passed away on July 15, 1871, of pleurisy or dropsy of the chest in Chicago, Illinois, at the age of 18 years. His remains were the first to occupy the catacombs of the monument and were placed in the crypts on July 17, 1871. On March 10, 1900, his remains were moved for the first reconstruction and returned to the tomb by 1901. In May of 1930, his remains were moved with his mother and two brothers to a mausoleum in Oak Ridge Cemetery for the second reconstruction. Finally, in May of 1931, his remains were placed where they are today in the crypts of the tomb.

THOMAS and NANCY HANKS LINCOLN HISTORY

Thomas Lincoln was born on January 6, 1778, in Rockingham County, Virginia. He resided in Jefferson County, Kentucky, from 1782 to 1786. From 1786 to 1802 he resided in Washington County, Kentucky. From 1802 to 1806, he resided in Mill Creek, Hardin County, Kentucky. On June 12, 1806, Thomas Lincoln married Nancy Hanks in Beechland, Kentucky, he was 28 years old. From 1806 to 1808, Thomas and Nancy resided in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. During this time Nancy gave birth to a daughter on February 10, 1807, by the name of Nancy Lincoln; however, the family called her Sarah. Thomas was 29 years old. The family moved to Rock Creek Farm in Hodgenville, Harden County, Kentucky. By the time Nancy gave birth to their second child, Abraham Lincoln, on February 12, 1809, Thomas was 31 years old. The family resided at Rock Creek Farm until 1811, when they moved to Knob Creek in Hardin County, Kentucky, and Thomas and Nancy gave birth to their third and final child Thomas. The family resided at Knob Creek from 1811 to 1816. In 1813, Abraham’s younger brother, Thomas, passed away. In 1816, the family moved from Knob Creek to Little Pigeon Creek in Perry County, Indiana (now known as Spencer County). On October 5, 1818, Nancy Hanks Lincoln passed away of milk sickness. She was 34 years and 242 days and Abraham was 9 years old.

SARAH BUSH JOHNSTON

Sarah Bush was born on December 13, 1788, in Hardin County, Kentucky (now known as LaRue County). Sarah Bush married Daniel Johnston on March 13, 1806, and took the name of Sarah Bush Johnston. She was 17 years old. During their marriage the couple had three children. Daniel Johnston passed away in October of 1818, leaving Sarah and their three children. Sarah was 30 years old. The widow, Sarah Bush Johnston, married the widower, Thomas Lincoln on December 2, 1819, in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. Sarah took the name of Sarah Bush Johnston Lincoln. Abraham was 10 years old. On March 1, 1830, the family moved from Little Pigeon Creek in Perry County, Indiana (now known as Spencer County), to Macon County, Illinois, and settled ten miles southwest of Decatur. Abraham was 21 years old. The family resided there until March of 1831 when Thomas and Sarah moved to Coles County, Illinois. Abraham was then 22 years old. Their final residence was Goose Nest Prairie in Coles County, Illinois. Sarah Bush Johnston Lincoln witnessed the death of her second husband Thomas Lincoln on January 17, 1851. She was 62 years old. Sarah lived to experience Lincoln becoming a well-known attorney, hold office in the Illinois State Legislature, marry his wife Mary Todd, hold office in the United States Congress, have four children, witness the passing of two of his children, become elected to the Presidency of the United States twice, fight the Civil War and be assassinated. Sarah passed away at the age of 80 years and 119 days on April 10, 1869, in Charleston, Illinois.

Oak Ridge Cemetery’s public receiving vault

Oak Ridge Cemetery’s Public Receiving Vault, located at the bottom of the rise on which Lincoln Tomb stands, is significant as the scene of the May 4, 1865, burial service of Abraham Lincoln. The president’s remains rested here until their removal on December 21, 1865, to a specially-constructed temporary tomb located half-way up the hill behind the tomb.

Changes began to be made to the receiving vault even as the remains of the president and Willie Lincoln rested there. Just days after the funeral services, cemetery officials approved the construction of new retaining walls of “Joliet stone,” quarried near Lemont, Illinois. Over the years cemetery officials approved a number of repairs and modifications, each altering the structure’s original appearance.

The most noticeable changes to the vault came in 1900-01. Cemetery improvements made that year included a major remodeling of the receiving vault and the construction of a nearby office/chapel building, which included a bell-tower.

At the same time, the large stone slab on which the Lincoln coffins rested in 1865, was incorporated into the bell tower of the then-new office/chapel building. Though the office has long-since disappeared, the tower with its relic of the Lincoln funeral remains today, standing just northeast of the receiving vault.

The receiving vault passed to state ownership in 1947, and is managed today by the Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site. It has been renovated to appear as it did after the 1900-01 remodeling, thus retaining elements that are historic, though not of the Lincoln Era.

The Temporary Lincoln Tomb

The temporary Lincoln Tomb, (located above the Public Receiving Vault on the hill and to the east) constructed in the fall of 1865, held the Lincoln family remains until September, 1871, when the permanent tomb was largely completed. On December 21, 1865, President Lincoln and his son William were moved from the receiving vault, site of the May funeral services. On December 13, 1865, the remains of Edward Lincoln were placed there after removal from Hutchinson’s Cemetery. In September, 1871, the president and his sons were moved to the almost-completed, permanent tomb. This temporary tomb was then dismantled and the site removed during subsequent landscaping.

During the transfer the president’s coffin was opened and a number of his friends viewed the remains. They then signed a document certifying that the body was in fact that of Abraham Lincoln. Robert Lincoln was the only family member present during the low-key transfer of the remains. Mary Lincoln briefly visited the cemetery that morning, but did not remain.

WAR MEMORIALS

World War II War Memorial

Dedicated in December 2004, this memorial honors the 987,000 Illinois men and women who served in World War II and the 22,000 who gave their lives. Its focal point is a white 22-ton concrete world globe flanked on two sides by black granite walls. Stainless steel buttons on the globe identify major battles, and quotations from military leaders, and Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman, are engraved on the walls.

Korean War Memorial

The Korean War State Memorial, honoring 1,748 Illinoisans killed during the 1950-53 Korean War, was dedicated on June 16, 1996.

The Memorial consists of a twelve-foot-tall bronze bell, with a diameter of twelve feet, mounted on a granite base. At the circumference of the bell are four niches, each with a larger-than-life figure representing a branch of the armed services. Inscribed on the base are the names of Illinoisans killed in Korea. A carillon system in the Memorial plays brief musical programs at regular intervals.

A nearby building houses the carillon controls and lighting systems. The surrounding large lawn provides space for special events. The Memorial is provided with parking facilities for 48 vehicles.

Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial

The Illinois Vietnam Veterans Memorial, dedicated in 1988, honors the almost 3,000 Illinoisans killed or listed as missing in action during the Vietnam War.

The center of the Memorial is an eternal flame supported by five vertical gray granite walls, each representing a branch of the armed services. Radiating from the vertical walls are five polished black-granite horizontal walls, enclosed by a low circular wall forming five courtyards. The names of the dead and missing in action are carved into the black granite.

The “Vietnam Veterans Vigil and Memorial Service” is held on the first full weekend in May, with a Memorial Day observance later in the month. A “Christmas Remembrance” is observed on the second Saturday in December.

Bibliography:

Lincoln Tomb custodian’s home

http://sangamoncountyhistory.org/wp/?p=7236

November 11, 2008
Richard Norton Smith talked about President Abraham Lincoln’s funeral and tomb. This was part of an eight-day President Abraham Lincoln bicentennial tour that Mr. Smith was leading through about 20 Lincoln sites in Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois.http://www.c-span.org/video/?283790-1/lincoln-tomb

Bibliography:
A tour guide interview from 2005 gives a great overview. He gives a lot of credit to the Lincoln Monument association for which I'm an officer of the board for the next 2 years. It's an honor during this 2015 anniversary of the funeral of Abraham Lincoln.

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Friday, April 17, 2015

Lincoln Tomb-Oak Ridge Cemetery Interpretive Tour

Lincoln Tomb custodian’s home

http://sangamoncountyhistory.org/wp/?p=7236

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