Lincoln sat here: Historic desk restored as part of exhibit

A desk used by Abe Lincoln
This merchant's desk was used by Abraham Lincoln to write his first inaugural address. Photo credit Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — There’s something new -- and very old -- at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in downtown Springfield.

A recently restored merchant’s desk at which President-elect Lincoln wrote his First Inaugural Address is part of an exhibit called “Lincoln’s Life in Letters.”

The letters are high-resolution blow-ups of some of Lincoln’s most famous documents. The exhibit was being assembled as officials decided to restore the desk. It has been in the state’s possession since 1953.

detail of desk used by Lincoln
Detail of a restoration job on a desk used by Abraham Lincoln. Photo credit Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Christian McWhirter, Lincoln historian at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, said the desk belonged to Lincoln’s brother-in-law. He said Lincoln needed to get away from it all to write his speech.

“Springfield was a small town,” McWhirter said.

The desk and Lincoln letters exhibit are at the library, which is across the street from the museum. The library, unlike the museum, is free to visit.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum