PETERSBURG, Ill. — Long before he became the nation’s cherished 16th president or guided the country through the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln had his roots planted in the small village of New Salem, Illinois. This quaint community played a significant role in shaping Lincoln into the leader he would eventually become.
New Salem, located about 200 miles southwest of Chicago, attracts thousands of visitors each year. Volunteers in historical attire demonstrate life as it was in Lincoln’s time, bringing alive the spirit of the 1830s when Lincoln lived there. However, despite its historical importance, the site has suffered from neglect, and many structures have fallen into disrepair since it was recreated in the 1930s as part of a federal public works initiative during the Great Depression.
This spring, a committed local volunteer and support from state lawmakers helped secure state funding to begin restoring New Salem. While work has yet to be scheduled, the funding represents a hopeful start for the site.
Lincoln’s journey to New Salem began in 1831 when, at just 22 years old with minimal formal education, he encountered challenges that altered his life. He was navigating the Mississippi River when his flatboat got caught on a dam at New Salem. “That was destiny,” said Guy Fraker, an attorney and Lincoln biographer. If Lincoln hadn’t experienced that mishap, Fraker believes the nation could have ended up divided.
After freeing his boat, Lincoln returned to New Salem, where he immersed himself in a vibrant community that included people from all walks of life. He faced failures, such as running a store that went bankrupt, but he also took on various roles, including postmaster and surveyor, all of which contributed to his growth. State Senator Steve McClure emphasized that New Salem was crucial for Lincoln’s education and development, making it one of the most significant historic sites in Illinois and the nation.
Despite its importance, parts of New Salem are currently off-limits due to structural issues. A flood in 2016 damaged the gristmill, while other buildings, including the carding mill and a barn, have experienced significant wear. Gina Gillmore-Wolter, president of the New Salem Lincoln League, played a key role in rallying support to secure funding for restoration efforts alongside lawmakers like McClure and state Rep. Wayne Rosenthal.
Fortunately, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has pledged $8 million for repairs, which is expected to help stabilize the site. Nevertheless, as of now, no complete assessment of the problems or potential solutions has been conducted.
The history of New Salem is marked by transitions. After Lincoln left in 1837, many residents relocated, taking their structures with them. Interestingly, the best-preserved building in New Salem is the original Onstott Cooper Shop, where Lincoln once borrowed an auger to save his stranded boat. Over time, the site transformed from a vibrant community to a mere cow pasture before being revitalized by notable figures who recognized its historical value.
In recent years, budget constraints have hindered maintenance efforts, and advocates believe that significant improvements have not occurred since the 1970s. Gillmore-Wolter stressed the importance of prioritizing New Salem, stating, “This is Lincoln’s alma mater. It deserves attention and care.”
