Lincoln in Kansas

Kansas Museum of History
Special Exhibits Gallery
Through November 8, 2009

The 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth is celebrated in this display of objects associated with our 16th President's life and times.

Lincoln visited Kansas in 1859 to make political contacts. These contacts paid off the following year at the Republican Party's convention, where he was chosen as its presidential candidate.

"If I went West, I think I would go to Kansas."
--Abraham Lincoln, March 17, 1860

These were turbulent years for the nation. All eyes were on Kansas, where anti- and proslavery forces engaged in battles that preceded and, some say, initiated the Civil War. Visit our online exhibit, Willing to Die for Freedom, for background on this time of crisis.

A number of important objects are featured in Lincoln in Kansas, including:

• banner from the Lincoln-Douglas debates
• flag used in the 1860 presidential campaign
• mementoes of the assassination
• section of gallows on which the assassination conspirators were hanged
• sofa on which Harriet Beecher Stowe heard stories inspiring Uncle Tom's Cabin

. . . and much more.

Make plans to visit this display commemorating the 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth!

Special Programs

• Poster: Request a Lincoln in Kansas poster.
• Lincoln History: More on Lincoln's experiences in Kansas.
• Share Lincoln information: Tell us your Lincoln connection! What schools, streets, buildings, parks, and other sites in your community are named for Abraham Lincoln?

Museum hours and admission fees

Plan your visit to the museum.

Discover the museum's main gallery.

Learn about other upcoming exhibits.