Celebration commemorates Abraham Lincoln’s formative days
By Angie Fenton
Courtesy photos
Kentucky may claim Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace, but Rockport, Indiana, served as home to the 16th president of the United States “in his formative years” from 1816 to 1830, says Nancy Kaiser, director of Lincoln Pioneer Village and Museum – and you’re invited to the commemorative celebration.
Lincoln Pioneer Village will host Fall Heritage Days 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 27 and 28 to give visitors an opportunity to walk in Lincoln’s footsteps.
“You really step back in time that weekend with the costumed interpreters, demonstrators, music and more,” says Kaiser. “Although small, most visitors are amazed by what we have. Often confused with the Lincoln Boyhood Memorial, which is about 20 minutes north of us, we have just as much if not more to see.”
The weekend event will be highlighted by costumed interpreters throughout the village, tours of cabins that replicate what life was like when Lincoln was alive; demonstrations that include chair caning, weaving and wool spinning and candle dipping; museum tours filled with authentic artifacts; an antique quilt exhibit; food, music and other entertainment.
“Sometimes Indiana is skipped over” when it comes to Lincoln’s history prior to his presidency, “but we feel his years here were his most important ones in (terms of) what he became,” Kaiser maintains.
Educating younger generations is imperative, too, Kaiser says.
“Educating (people about) how life was when our ancestors came to Southern Indiana is so important. It needs to be preserved for this generation and the next,” she explains. “We are trying to keep the history alive.”
Fall Heritage Days
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 27 and 28
Lincoln Pioneer Village and Museum
928 Fairground Drive
Rockport
812.649.9147
lincolnpioneervillage.com
lpvdirector@gmail.com
Lincoln Pioneer Village and Museum is closed Nov. 1 through April 30 but is open by appointment and for tours
