Thursday, September 20.. Exploring the Lincoln sites.

Each morning our group enjoyed the "All American Hot Breakfast Buffet" at the hotel -- many choices including cereal, waffles, eggs, bacon, breads, fruit, and juices.  Our day of exploration began about 8:45 when we gathered to either walk or ride in the van to Lincoln's home, located in the downtown historic district, about 3/4 mile from the hotel.  The program coordinators did an excellent job of offering transportation to any participants who did not want to do all the walking required during the days' programs.  The historic district is actually part of the National Park Service and the area around Lincoln's Home is being restored to be just as the area was it when Lincoln moved to Springfield in 1837.
         After viewing two films and hearing a short lecture at the Lincoln Home Visitor Center, we were given a very complete tour of the Lincoln home.  It is easy to imagine Lincoln and his family during their years in Springfield.

The Old State Capitol

 Our next stop was the Old State Capital Historic Site, located several blocks from Lincoln's home.  Upon our arrival we enjoyed a pre-ordered Panera Bread box lunch, before listening to a talk on Lincoln as politician and debater, given by the site manager.  We then had a tour of the Capital, followed by two to three hours of free time.  Some participants explored additional historic sites, while others took van rides back to the hotel.  The van was also available later in the afternoon to give rides to those with tired feet!  Several of us visited the restored Lincoln Law Offices, where one of the volunteers provided us with a very complete tour.  A large school group arrived at the same time, so our tour was a nice combination of teenagers and our mostly senior group.

Inside the Law offices

We had many chances to get
acquainted with Lincoln and his family.

After another dinner at the hotel, we listened to an excellent lecture on the Lincoln-Douglas debates and the 1860 election, given by a history professor from Lincoln Land Community College.  We were all looking forward to another lecture by the professor on the program's last morning.

It was very evident that the program coordinators have put together an excellent program that weaves together lecture, films, tours, and explorations.  All aspects seem to flow together but clearly took a great deal of planning.  It would be very difficult to have all these experiences if one were trying to plan this trip independently.