Lincoln Tribute

February 12, 2007

Today is the anniversary of the birth day of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. For many years, in remembrance of his life, the 12th of February was a national holiday.
However, in the move to not have 2 presidential holidays in February, the celebration of Washington's and Lincoln's birthdays was combined and now occurs on the Monday between the 12th and the 22nd.

Redlands still has a substantial celebration of Lincoln; perhaps largely due to the fact that the only Lincoln museum west of the Missippi River is located in Redlands.

The Lincoln Shrine was a gift to the citizens of Redlands from Robert Watchorn and 2007 is the 75th anniversary of the Shrine. A new exhibit is being premiered which highlights the lives of both Lincoln and Watchorn and is entitled "We Cannot Escape History." I urge everyone who can to take advantage of this opportunity to view memorabilia from Lincoln's era. There are some awesome pieces in this collection. Admission is free.