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Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum: A Glimpse into Lincoln's Past

Step back in time at the Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum, where Abraham Lincoln once stayed, and experience life in the 1850s in Sterling, Illinois.

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Visit the Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum in Sterling, Illinois, where Abraham Lincoln once spent the night in 1856. This beautifully restored home offers a glimpse into 1850s lifestyle and Lincoln's connection to the local community.

A brief summary to Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date tour schedule, as hours may vary.
  • Consider visiting during one of the museum's special events or educational programs for a unique and engaging experience.
  • Donations are welcome and help support the preservation of this historic site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum is located at 607 E 3rd St, in a residential area of Sterling. From most points in downtown Sterling, the museum is easily accessible by foot. From the Sterling Public Library, walk east on E 3rd St for about three blocks. The museum will be on your right. There is no fee for touring the museum, but donations are appreciated.

  • Driving

    The Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum is located at 607 E 3rd St, Sterling, IL. From IL-2, turn onto E 3rd St and continue for several blocks. The museum will be on your right. Off-street parking is available. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum

The Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum, located in Sterling, Illinois, offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life in the 1850s. The original portion of the home was built in 1847, and it is believed that it may have initially served as a store due to the lack of a kitchen in its original design. Shortly after, a wing was added to include a kitchen. The museum's significance lies in its connection to Abraham Lincoln, who stayed there on July 18, 1856. Lincoln, then a lawyer and political figure, was in Sterling to deliver a campaign speech for presidential candidate John C. Fremont. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Lincoln was offered lodging at the home of Sheriff William Manahan. Because no bed was available, Lincoln spent the night on a couch, with chairs placed at each end to accommodate his long legs. The Sterling Rock Falls Historical Society purchased the home in 2007 and meticulously restored it to its 1856 appearance, opening it as a museum in 2011. The museum features exhibits and furnishings that reflect the period, providing insights into the daily life of a mid-19th-century family. In addition to the home itself, the site includes the Lincoln Learning Center, which hosts historical programs and events. The Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum not only preserves local history but also serves as an educational resource for students and visitors alike.

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