Rare Lincoln Family Artifacts Donated to Illinois State Museum
A remarkable collection of artifacts linked to President Lincoln's extended family was recently donated to a museum in Illinois.
Historic Donation in Memory of Catharine Officer Saxe Loucks
According to a press release from the Illinois State Museium (ISM), the donation was made by descendants of the Hickox-Edwards families and provides a rare glimpse into Abraham Lincoln's personal and political circle while honoring the memory of Catherine Officer Saxe Loucks.
READ MORE: 10 Best Spots to Float a River in Illinois
These items have reportedly been passed down through five generations and belonged to Virgil and Catarine Hickox, and Ninian and Elizabeth Todd Edwards.
A Window Into Lincoln's Springfield
Elizabeth Todd Edwards was the eldest sister of Mary Todd Lincoln, and her husband Ninian was a long time friend of Lincoln.
The artifacts that Lincoln's descendants have preserved will offer a never-before-seen insight into life in Springfield, Illinois during the 19th century.
Never-Before-Seen Artifacts
Included in the donation of artifacts was a daguerreotype of Lincoln's niece, Lizzie Edwards, that was taken between 1855 and 1860.
According to Wikipedia, the daguerreotype was the earliest form of the photographic process.
A daguerreotype of Ninian Edwards with his son Charles from 1850 and Elizabeth Todd Edwards' personal copy of the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer were also included in the donation to the ISM.
These items tell the story of people who helped shape Illinois history. The Illinois State Museum is thrilled to receive such an amazing donation. We cannot wait to share it with the people of Illinois.- ISM Director Jenn Edginton
Exclusive Public Viewing of Artifacts
You can get a first look at these new donated artifacts during an exclusive first look coming up on Wednesday, April 23 at 5:30 pm at the Illinois State Museum's Research and Collections Center in Springfield.
The free event is open to visitors of all ages.
LOOK: 15 formerly popular foods in America that are rarely eaten today
Gallery Credit: Stacker
More From Rockford's New Country Q98.5
