Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum News


	For Immediate Release: June 1, 2007	Contact: Jill Burwitz (217) 558-8970 office (217) 299-6165 cell
	Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to host Mary Todd Lincoln strawberry party Festivities to take place in Union Square Park Springfield, IL — The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPLM) will host a Mary Todd Lincoln strawberry party on the lawn of Union Square Park, on Saturday, June 16, from 10:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m. Festivities include a Mary Todd Lincoln impersonator, period crafts and games for children and more in a re-creation of Mary Todd Lincoln's strawberry parties held at the Lincoln Home in Springfield. "The ALPLM is committed to offering unique programs and events to the public that also have historic meaning," said Rick Beard, executive director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. "We invite the folks to step back in time and experience what the Lincoln's enjoyed doing with friends and family during their time in Springfield." Mary Todd Lincoln's strawberry parties are well documented. Known for her hospitality, Mary did not have a well-staffed kitchen during her time in Springfield, so she opted to serve guests tea, cakes and strawberries. In a letter to her step-sister, Mary described one such party at their home at Eighth and Jackson. "I am recovering from the slight fatigue of a very large & I really believe a very agreeable entertainment," she wrote. "About 500 were invited ...300 only favored us by their presence..." Mary Lincoln to Emily Helm, February 16, 1857 Letter from the collection of Louise and Barry Taper The 1850's will come to life as the Lincoln's social scene is re-created in this day-long event. Other activities include: Lessons in 19th century manners Penmanship lessons with quill & ink Period dance lessons (12-1 p.m.) On-site jump rope maker ($2.00 fee) Musical entertainment scheduled: Mike Anderson, dulcimer, 10:00 a.m. — Noon Vintage Amusements, strolling entertainment, 10:00 a.m. — Noon Springfield International Folk Dancers, Noon —1 p.m. Steve Staley, fiddle, 1:00 p.m. — 3 p.m. Admission is free. Strawberries, desserts and beverages are available for purchase. This event is in conjunction with the ALPLM's newest, temporary exhibit Mary Todd Lincoln: First Lady of Controversy, now showing through Oct. 28. For more information, visit www.alplm.org. ###