Tour of President Lincoln’s Cottage

Cornellians here in Washington and in Ithaca honored Abraham Lincoln's 200th Birthday in back-to-back events on October 20th and 21st. CCW members who were unable to participate in October can still join the celebration between now and Abe's birthday on February 12th, and even through the end of April 2010.

Tour at the Lincoln Cottage

The tour of Lincoln's Cottage on the grounds of the Soldiers' Home in Washington was a big success. Organized by the Cornell Club of Washington on October 21, the tour benefited from an outstanding and knowledgeable guide and great weather. Our group of seventeen was surprised to learn that Lincoln actually commuted almost daily from this fine house outside the then edges of the city to the White House during the summer months. Insights into the President's family life and official life, and his conduct of the war were enlightening. Most of our group then walked across the street to an enjoyable luncheon at El Limeno Restaurant.

Rare Documents on Display on Campus

Cornell University's celebration of the Lincoln Bicentennial is highlighted by a special exhibition at the University Library. It opened on October 20th, and will remain on view until the end of April 2010. Entitled "The Lincoln Presidency: Last Full Measure of Devotion," it includes three seminal documents that are an important part of our American heritage. Cornell is fortunate to own original copies of the Gettysburg Address, the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment. Also on display are scarce and important photographs of Lincoln, memorabilia from both his election campaigns (1860 and 1864) and rare materials from the Lincoln and Civil War collections of Andrew Dickson White, Cornell's first president.

Cornell Club members interested in touring the Lincoln Cottage in Washington, either as a group or as individuals, or in viewing the exhibition at the University Library in Ithaca may contact CCW Programming Committee member Bob Day for further details and tips on arranging enriching visits. He can reached by phone at 301-438-7755 or by e-mail: .