Lincoln 1860

Lincoln 1860

Friday, June 13, 2008

Update About Lincoln Museum Collection

In March of this year Lincoln Financial Group announced it is closing the famous Lincoln Museum in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The museum houses an extraordinary collection of Lincoln memorabilia, including books, manuscripts, photos, and other unique pieces associated with the nation's 16th president. It's served as a invaluable repository of information for Lincoln scholars, researchers, and fans. Unfortunately, the museum has suffered from declining attendance and a company which values the financial bottom line over corporate good will.

According to the Fort Wayne News-Sentinel, the state of Indiana and Allen County (where Fort Wayne is located) have put together a strong proposal to keep the collection in Indiana. A group headed by retired Lincoln Financial CEO Ian Rolland spearheaded the package presented to the company.

While the group feels it has made a strong case, it's up against formidable competition. The Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library in Springfield, Illinois are it's chief rivals to take over the collection.

However it turns out, it appears that the general public will be able to get access to the collection and in the final analysis, that's what really counts. Let's hope it stays in Indiana, where it has resided for decades.

To access my other postings about this continuing story, click here and here.

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