Interactive Lincoln Exhibit Runs Through Aug. 24

A new interactive exhibit at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum invites visitors to engage with history through multiple senses. “Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch,” which opened last month, is on display through Aug. 24 and features three-dimensional representations of images from Abraham Lincoln’s life, paired with audio narratives that highlight his achievements and legacy.

Designed to be accessible to all visitors, the exhibit offers a particularly enhanced experience for individuals with visual impairments. It was developed by Tactile Images in partnership with the National Federation of the Blind.

In addition to the traveling exhibit, the ALPLM is showcasing tactile reproductions of items such as Lincoln’s briefcase, a life mask, and a model cannon that belonged to his son Tad. Original artifacts from the museum’s collection are also on display, including various commercial products bearing Lincoln’s likeness.

A newly created piece focusing on Lincoln and the Gettysburg Address was developed specifically for the museum in collaboration with Tactile Images. This addition will remain at the ALPLM after the exhibit concludes, serving as a permanent resource for visually impaired visitors.

"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."

The exhibit also explores how Lincoln’s image has been used in commercial advertising, including items such as war bond posters, car ads, and cigarette promotions. These visual materials have been transformed into tactile panels equipped with sensors that activate audio descriptions and historical context.

“Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch” is included with regular museum admission and is part of the ALPLM’s 20th anniversary celebration.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum’s mission is to promote civic engagement through the lens of Illinois history and to share the story of Abraham Lincoln with a global audience. The institution supports this mission through scholarly research and multimedia exhibitions, drawing on a collection of approximately 13 million historical items.

More information is available at www.PresidentLincoln.illinois.gov. The ALPLM can also be followed on Facebook, X/Twitter, and Instagram.