Originally Posted by bluestater The new museum is seriously fantastic. |
Amen, sister!
Before going, I had heard reports about how it it was a "Disneyfacation" of history... but it uses modern technology and display techniques to bring Lincoln's life to life and makes it compelling for folks of all ages, in a way that doesn't dumb it down. I found the "Civil War in four minutes" display to be especially compelling; it features a constantly changing map of the US, to reflect each side's gains/losses in territory... while, on the side, are rapidly-spinning tallies of the dead for the Union and the Confederate armies. It brings the ebb and flow of the war -- and tremendous loss of life -- in a very clear way.
For those who would never consider visiting a Presidential Museum, the Lincoln in downtown Springfield, Illinois is a must-see. It'll change your mind. (Tho, don't go, expecting displays RE Abe's wrestling prowess. At least I'm not remembering any. Correct me if I'm wrong.)
And... thanks to all for your positive comments. It was a fun story to do. FYI, last night we added street addresses and phone numbers for the museums/facilities featured in the article.
Mark