(FORT WAYNE, IN) – The Allen County Public Library invites the community to explore three new exhibits at the Rolland Center for Lincoln Research located at the Main Library. The exhibits opened to the public January 29.
The new exhibits feature photographs, artifacts, and digital archives related to three key Lincoln-era topics including:
The Battle of Gettysburg and its Aftermath
Featuring photographs, postcards, and fine art lithographs, guests can view items commemorating the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery and celebrating President Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address honoring soldiers who lost their lives at the legendary battle.
Indiana’s Civil War Soldiers
Starting with their enlistment to memorial events after the war, discover stories about Hoosier soldiers’ wartime experiences. Through photographs, letters, and fine art lithographs, visitors will gain an intimate view of life as a soldier from Indiana.
Wartime President
Learn about President Lincoln as a wartime president and explore the choices that he made during the bloodiest war in American history. View images of Lincoln’s various generals, Lincoln-signed documents, and items outlining his war powers.
“The legacy of the Civil War and Lincoln’s presidency continues to influence our world today,” said Senior Lincoln Librarian Jessie Cortesi. “At the Rolland Center, we believe that putting history front and center helps our community connect to the past and consider how history can inspire us to make a positive impact on the future with our actions today.”
The public can view the collection, which is updated and curated regularly by expert Lincoln Librarians, at the Library’s Main Branch (900 Library Plaza, Fort Wayne) during Rolland Center hours. There is no cost to visit.
About the Allen County Public Library
The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) has fostered lifelong learning and discovery in northeast Indiana for more than 125 years. The ACPL consists of fourteen branches throughout Allen County, serving more than one million visitors per year. The ACPL’s collection includes more than 2.7 million items, with a circulation total of 3.6 million items borrowed annually. It also houses The Genealogy Center, the nation’s largest public genealogy research center, and The Rolland Center for Lincoln Research, consisting of more than 30,000 artifacts related to President Abraham Lincoln.