New Inclusive Exhibit Launches at Lincoln Museum in Springfield

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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — An innovative exhibit designed to accommodate individuals with blindness or visual impairments is now featured at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield.

Opening on May 23 and running until August 24, “Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch” invites visitors to engage with history through visual, auditory, and tactile experiences. The exhibit transforms images from Lincoln’s era into touchable three-dimensional objects while offering audio narratives about the esteemed President.

The exhibit includes precise reproductions of artifacts such as Lincoln’s briefcase, a facial mold, and Tad Lincoln’s model cannon. Alongside these are genuine artifacts from the ALPLM’s collection, many of which are accompanied by tactile replicas visitors can explore by touch.

Tactile Images, in cooperation with the National Federation of the Blind, created the traveling exhibit. They also created a brand-new piece involving Lincoln and the Gettysburg Address which will remain at the museum even after the exhibit closes.

“We firmly believe in the idea of ‘Abe for all’ – that everyone should have a chance to learn about Lincoln’s achievements and how they affect America today,” said Christina Shutt, executive director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. “This exhibit delivers on that by offering a fun, informative experience that everyone can enjoy, even if they cannot see it. We’re especially happy that part of it will remain at the ALPLM for years to come.”

Photo courtesy of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

The museum said the exhibit explores the ways in which Lincoln’s image has been used to sell products. Ads, posters, models of a sculpture from the Lincoln Memorial, a Lincoln medal and more will be available, with sensors that turn on an audio description of the object and buttons that explain the history and significance of each item.

The traveling exhibit is included with regular museum admission as a part of the ALPLM’s 20^th anniversary celebration.

You can read more about the museum and the traveling exhibits on its website.