Welcome to the Beardstown Lincoln Museum, a place steeped in American history and a pivotal site in the life of one of the nation’s most revered presidents, Abraham Lincoln. Located in Beardstown, Illinois, this museum is housed in the Old Lincoln Courthouse, an establishment dating back to 1844. The courthouse is renowned for being the only one still in use where Lincoln once practiced law.
The most famous event associated with this courthouse is the Almanac Trial of 1858, where Lincoln’s legal prowess came to the fore. It was here that Lincoln defended William “Duff” Armstrong, a man accused of murder. The trial became legendary due to Lincoln’s innovative use of an almanac to discredit the prosecution’s key witness, who claimed to have seen the crime by the light of a full moon. Lincoln’s cross-examination revealed that the moon was low on the horizon at the time, casting doubt on the witness’s testimony and ultimately leading to Armstrong’s acquittal.
Beyond its association with Lincoln, the museum showcases artifacts that weave together the rich tapestry of Beardstown’s past. Visitors can explore a collection of Native American tools, firearms from the Rudie A. Black collection, and exhibits highlighting the importance of the Illinois River to the region’s development.
Beardstown itself was founded by Thomas Beard in 1819, who traded with local Native Americans and operated a ferry on the Illinois River. The town played a role during the Black Hawk War in 1832 as a supply base for Illinois troops. Over the years, it has evolved from a trading post to a vibrant community, rich in history and cultural heritage.
Visitors to the Beardstown Lincoln Museum are not just stepping into a building; they are stepping into a key chapter of American history. The courtroom, the artifacts, and the stories all serve to bring the past to life, offering a vivid glimpse into the world Lincoln inhabited and the community’s evolution over time.
