Prairie State Wire

The Illinois State Museum has unveiled its latest exhibition, "Presidential Illinois," at its Springfield location on the Capitol Complex. This exhibit highlights significant artifacts from four U.S. presidents associated with Illinois: Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Ronald Reagan, and Barack Obama.

Among the items on display are pieces of furniture used by Obama during his time in the Illinois State Senate, including his chamber chair. These items have been loaned from the Illinois State Senate. Additionally, visitors can view a signed copy of Obama's speech in Springfield when he announced Joseph Biden as his running mate; this artifact is on loan from the Old State Capitol State Historic Site.

Other notable objects include Lincoln's inkwell from his law office in Springfield and a campaign ribbon from Grant's 1880 presidential run provided by David Joens. The exhibition also features Reagan campaign buttons worn by an Illinois delegate to the 1984 Republican National Convention.

"Illinois boasts a rich presidential history, which we are delighted to showcase in this exhibit," stated Erika Holst, curator of history at the Illinois State Museum. "We are excited to showcase some truly fascinating objects, including some never before seen."

The exhibition will be open until the end of March at the museum located in Springfield. It operates Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4:30 p.m., with free admission for all visitors.

The Illinois State Museum was established in 1877 and is known for promoting understanding of Illinois' past and present through dynamic exhibits. It is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is part of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience.