{"id":3140,"date":"2025-02-26T15:06:24","date_gmt":"2025-02-26T21:06:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thexradio3.com\/news\/?p=3140"},"modified":"2025-02-26T15:08:30","modified_gmt":"2025-02-26T21:08:30","slug":"legislation-introduced-to-revitalize-new-salem-state-historic-site","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thexradio.com\/news\/local-news\/3140-legislation-introduced-to-revitalize-new-salem-state-historic-site\/","title":{"rendered":"Legislation Introduced to Revitalize New Salem State Historic Site"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"image_print\"Print<\/span><\/a><\/div>

With the former home of a young Abraham Lincoln in disrepair, Illinois lawmakers are joining with local advocates to put forward a package of legislation designed to revitalize the New Salem State Historic Site.<\/p>\n

\u201cNew Salem is a powerful reminder of President Lincoln\u2019s political beginning, and people travel to the site from around the world to learn more about the man who became our nation\u2019s greatest president,\u201d said State Senator Steve McClure. \u201cThe legislation aims to restore the site\u2019s structures and its reputation, while creating a path forward for New Salem that preserves its place in Lincoln\u2019s legacy for generations to come. I thank the Lincoln League for partnering with me on our shared vision to Save Lincoln\u2019s New Salem.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNew Salem is where Abraham Lincoln spent many years creating his character and learning skills that would later help define what kind of leader and President he was. For Illinois residents, this site is crucial in learning about Lincoln\u2019s early life, and the place that would teach him how to lead our nation through challenging times,\u201d said State Representative Wayne Rosenthal. \u201cRestoring this historical site will help future generations understand the importance of education, by walking through Lincoln\u2019s place of education.\u201d<\/p>\n

The legislation was unveiled at a Capitol press conference on February 26th. McClure and Rosenthal were joined by Gin Gilmore-Wolter, President of the New Salem Lincoln League, a group of volunteers dedicated to supporting Lincoln\u2019s legacy by ensuring New Salem remains a jewel for visitors. The group was also joined by Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln interpreters, as well as two volunteers.<\/p>\n

\u201cNew Salem holds a special place in Lincoln\u2019s story, but as the site deteriorates, it discourages visitors from learning about this time in his life which led him to his destiny of becoming one of our nation\u2019s greatest presidents,\u201d said Gina Gilmore-Wolter, New Salem Lincoln League President. \u201cIt\u2019s up to us to protect and preserve the site, a gem among all of Illinois\u2019 Lincoln sites. We hope the legislation and public outreach efforts help educate the public about the importance of the site, create awareness regarding the current conditions of the village and encourage our elected leaders to join us in our efforts that are crucial to preserving New Salem.\u201d<\/p>\n