Location

On view through July 31, 2011, Being Lincoln will explore the world of Lincoln presenters (those who dress up like Lincoln for public presentations) and will ask visitors to look beyond Lincoln’s iconic image to determine what it means to really be like Lincoln. Visitors will gain insight into the lives of Lincoln presenters and can participate in an interactive program where they will have the opportunity to “Lincoln themselves”. This interactive component will also be available online at www.lincolncottage.org. Being Lincoln will be on view in the Robert H. Smith Visitor Education Center, free of charge, and on opening day Abe and his son Tad will make an appearance!

Since his presidency, Abraham Lincoln has been resurrected numerous times on stage and the silver screen. But today it's more common to find Lincoln posing for photo opportunities at private parties, waving to crowds from a parade float, or speaking to students in the classroom. Being Lincoln will demonstrate that while Lincoln's iconic image makes it easy enough to look like him, Lincoln’s character and ideals are at the heart of his enduring public appeal.