Community Corner

Exhibit Offers Glimpse Into Lincoln's Life

"People love the hat," said Dave Oberg.

Did you know that Abraham Lincoln is the only president to hold a patent?

While most people know that Lincoln was a surveyor and a lawyer, they'll likely be surprised to learn that Lincoln came up with a floatation device to help lift boats off of sandbars, said Dave Oberg, executive director of the Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum. Guests can see a reproduction of the patent model, along with high-quality reproductions of other items, at the "Abraham Lincoln: Self-Made in America" traveling exhibition.

The exhibition will be at the Grayslake Heritage Center until June 16.

"People love the hat," said Oberg. A self-proclaimed Lincoln enthusiast, Oberg noted that Lincoln used his hat to carry important papers. Guests who visit the exhibit will see a reproduction of the paper-filled hat in the exhibit.

Guests can also check out a wall plaque that shows the similarities between Lincoln and Elijah Haines, the namesake of Hainesville. Charlotte Renehan of the Grayslake Historical Society put together the list that explores this question: "How did their lives compare?" For example, guests will see that the two men came to Illinois within five years of each other, and they both serves as postmasters, surveyors and lawyers.

The Abraham Lincoln exhibit can be seen Wednesdays and Thursdays from noon until 8 p.m., and on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from noon until 4 p.m. Groups can schedule tours through the Grayslake Heritage Center by calling (847) 543-1745.

Check out the list of upcoming Lincoln-related events on the Heritage Center's website.


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