Lincoln Monument Association: Honoring the Legacy

The Lincoln Monument Association, situated in the serene Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois, serves as a poignant tribute to Abraham Lincoln. Founded shortly after Lincoln's assassination, the association's primary mission was to construct and maintain a monument befitting the fallen president. The Lincoln Tomb, completed in 1874, stands as the centerpiece of this mission, housing the remains of Lincoln, his wife Mary Todd Lincoln, and three of their four sons.Oak Ridge Cemetery, where the Lincoln Tomb is located, is the second most visited cemetery in the United States, after Arlington National Cemetery. The cemetery itself is designed in the Rural Cemetery Landscape Lawn style, with rolling hills and many oak trees. Besides the Lincoln Tomb, the cemetery also features war memorials dedicated to the Korean War, World War II, and the Vietnam War.Visitors to the Lincoln Monument Association can explore the tomb, view the statues representing the infantry, navy, artillery, and cavalry of the Civil War period, and learn about Lincoln's life and legacy through exhibits and guided tours. A highlight for many is rubbing the nose of the Lincoln statue for good luck. The Association also works to preserve and promote Lincoln's legacy through educational programs and events.