Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is inviting the public to participate in events commemorating President Abraham Lincoln's birthday at various state historic sites throughout Illinois. Born on February 12, 1809, Lincoln spent much of his adult life in Illinois before becoming the 16th president of the United States.

At the David Davis Mansion State Historic Site, a meet and greet with a President Lincoln impersonator will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, February 8. Visitors can take pictures with the impersonator, engage in crafts, and enjoy birthday cake at this Bloomington location.

The Vandalia Statehouse State Historic Site will host an event on Sunday, February 9. Bond County historian Kevin Kaegy will present a program about the Lincoln boys in the White House at 2 p.m., followed by birthday cake and punch. The site will also offer tours and free cookies on Wednesday, February 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In Coles County, the Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site welcomes visitors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, February 12 for refreshments and children's crafts.

Additionally, Springfield's Lincoln Tomb will be open for visitors from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, February 12. This site is the final resting place of President Lincoln, his wife Mary Todd Lincoln, and three of their children.