Abe Lincoln’s boyhood home commemorates the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth.
by Kim Weissman, Columbus Wired Correspondent
 

Abe Lincoln lovers, American history and Civil War enthusiast will appreciate the rich historical sites found in Lincoln City Indiana. Local residences of Lincoln City Indiana tell Columbus Wired, “Most people are surprised to learn that Abe Lincoln spent fourteen of his most formative year’s right here in Southern Indiana.”

The site of Abraham Lincoln’s boyhood home can be found on what is known today as Lincoln State Park, located in Southern Indiana. The state park offers the usual camping, swimming, boating and fishing plus… just a little bit more.

The first recommended stop when visiting the park is the Memorial Visitor Center which offers a wealth of information on the Lincoln Family, including a brief orientation film, a bookstore, two Memorial Halls and museum exhibits.

The exterior of the Visitor’s Center showcases several sculptured panels craved out of Indiana limestone depicting the places Abraham Lincoln lived. Featured above them are quotations of Lincoln’s own speeches. .

Young and old alike will enjoy The Living Historical Farm. This re-creation of the 1820’s homestead sits upon four of the original 160 acres owned by the Lincoln Family.
Visitors can enjoy the sites offered such as a log cabin, livestock as well as vegetable and herb gardens. Rangers dressed in period clothing will provide demonstrations of farm life that were typical done in the 1820’s.

Just beyond the farmstead is the location of the Lincoln Spring, a fresh water source for the Lincoln’s. Near by one will find the Cabin Site Memorial which features a bronze casting of the fireplace hearthstones symbolizing the cabin built by the Lincoln’s beginning in 1829. The most common question children will ask is, “Did Abe Lincoln really live in a cabin that was that small?”

If you enjoy a nice nature walk there are a number of trials worth exploring. The Lincoln Boyhood Trial is the link between the Living Historical Farm and the Pioneer Cemetery. While exploring the trials visitors will find the memorial grave that provides a marker for Abraham’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln. The Trail of Twelve Stones is a unique way the park offers a visual reminder of notable milestones in Lincoln’s life.

A must see is the Young Abe Lincoln Drama. This new theatrical experience is featured in the Lincoln Amphitheatre located inside Lincoln State Park. As you relax in the outdoor 1,500-seat amphitheatre artistic professionals will transport you back in time to learn about the frontier life of the Indiana boy who eventually became our nation’s 16th president. Tickets can be purchased at www.lincolnamphitheatre.com 

This outdoor venue will include a delicious meal, Lincoln Life Experience, Scenic Walking Trails, Children’s Pioneer Games, Free concessions and Artisans on Site.

The address of Lincoln State Park is 15476 N CR 300 E Lincoln City, IN 47552