You would expect Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg and I am sure many readers recall seeing Lincoln downtown in this Civil War city. That statue, which thousands of tourists have taken their picture with, is at Gettysburg Square next to the Wills House. This is not that statue. This is of a seated Lincoln next to the National Military Park’s Visitor Center and Museum. Lincoln is on a bench and kids like to sit next to him.
The statue was dedicated on November 19, 2009 on the anniversary of the Gettysburg Address. It was sculpted by Ivan Schwartz of Brooklyn, New York. His approachable historical sculptures have been erected in many cities and towns across the United States. His most popular are those of Lincoln.
Lincoln is sitting on a bench, waiting to deliver his Gettysburg Address. His right hand rests on his top hat and in his left hand he holds the immortal words of his Address. The bench invites people to sit next to him and many people place their hands on his shoulders, as can be seen from the shine on both shoulders!
Lincoln’s face shows a keen awareness that he is in a cemetery filled with thousands of the Battle of Gettysburg’s casualties who answered his call for troops to save the Union, and, after January 1 of 1863, to abolish slavery. His face has a grim determination that would see his country through to the end of the war, but no further.
Lincoln’s right hand seems to be resting on his hat, but no one puts pressure on a top hat without expecting it to be crushed. Perhaps he is safeguarding it, with the crowns pushing in on him at the new national cemetery.
The vacant seat is an invitation for children to sit next to Lincoln.
Next to the statue is the plaque commemorating the dedication in 2009 on the anniversay of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.
Nearby are the words of the Gettysburg Address.
Go through the doors to the visitors center and go up and as the National Park Service Rangers about where you can see where Lincoln delivered his address.
There is a cafeteria where you can seek refreshments. You can also go to the museum or to the Cyclorama.
In the same building is a well-stocked bookstore with Bradley Gottfried signing his books that day!
All color photos taken by Pat Young.
Photo Tour of Gettysburg National Military Park Museum
Photo Tour of Elizabeth Thorn Statue Gettysburg
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