Living the Legacy: Lincoln in Washington, DC
One of history’s greatest leaders, Abraham Lincoln brought unity to a nation at war, comfort to citizens in crisis and freedom to people enslaved. As a congressman and as president, Lincoln carved out his legacy of strong leadership and powerful ideals in Washington, DC. Honest Abe continues to inspire and influence leaders around the world, including Barack Obama, who drew upon Lincoln’s words and actions for his historic inauguration earlier this year. In honor of his 200th birthday, DC joins in a nationwide bicentennial celebration. Running Jan. 1-April 30, 2009, Living the Legacy: Lincoln in DC is a collection of more than 75 exhibitions, lectures, performances and special events exploring the life of the 16th president and his years in the nation’s capital.
Featured Event
Ford’s Theatre Reopening and Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commemoration
Beginning at 9 a.m. on February 12, Ford’s Theatre will commemorate Abraham Lincoln’s 200th birthday with a series of public programs including a morning wreath-laying by National Park Service Rangers, and performances of Lincoln’s great speeches and Civil War-era music by the Federal City Brass Band. The theatre will be open to the general public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
On President’s Day, February 16, Ford’s Theatre will host an all-day open house. Events will include new Ranger-led interpretive programs, a reading of the new one-act play The Road From Appomattox by Richard Hellesen, a performance of One Destiny and songs from The Civil War. The theatre will be open to the general public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
