While our 16th president Abraham Lincoln was born in Kentucky, he lived in Indiana between the ages of 7 and 21. For anyone traveling to southern Indiana this year, it's a particularly poignant time to see some of the sights dedicated to this great leader.
Here's just a peek at some of the places in Spencer County, where visitors can learn how Lincoln spent his time as a young man in Indiana:
Lincoln National Boyhood Memorial
Watch an orientation movie about Lincoln before walking the grounds to see the gravesite of his mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, who died at just 36 years old, as well as the Lincoln Living Historical Farm, which recreates a pioneer homestead. Also visit the Cabin Site Memorial, which marks the spot where Lincoln's childhood home once stood. The National Boyhood Memorial is operated by the National Park Service, which means that young visitors can earn a Junior Ranger badge upon completing a few activities in the park.
Lincoln State Park
This state park named for the 16th president features 10 miles of hiking trails, pretty forested hills and two lakes, where visitors can boat, fish and swim. It is also the site of the preserved home of Colonel Jones, the merchant employer of a young Abraham Lincoln. The Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Plaza debuts here June 12, 2009, with a circular monument dotted with limestone pedestals signifying key moments in young Abe's life.
This is an inexpensive place to overnight in the area; pitch a tent, roll up an RV or rent a cabin or cottage for budget-friendly lodging in an incredibly scenic area.
Lincoln Amphitheatre
Located in Lincoln State Park in Lincoln City, Indiana, the 1,500-seat, covered Lincoln Amphitheatre debuts a brand-new play "LINCOLN," to celebrate the remarkable man's life. Ticket prices for the entire "Lincoln Experience," include a meal, admittance to the state park, children's pioneer games and free popcorn and drinks during intermission. Performances are currently scheduled every day but Monday through August 15.
Buffalo Run Farm, Grill & Gifts
This is a working buffalo farm just a mile from the Lincoln National Boyhood Memorial. While it's a convenient place to grab a buffalo burger in between sightseeing stops, it also has a Lincoln connection: the "Legendary Lincoln Cabin" is where young Abe was forced to spend the night when he was passing by and his oxen's yoke broke. It's now a small museum and free to enter.
For more information about Abraham Lincoln, the Lincoln Bicentennial and traveling to Spencer County, log on to the Spencer County Visitors Bureau or the Indiana Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission websites.
Kara Williams - Kara Williams is a longtime journalist, having worn many different hats in her 20-year editorial career--newspaper reporter, corporate ...
