Lincoln Memorial University (LMU)’s Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum (ALLM) has completed a new permanent exhibit entitled “Log Walls to Marble Halls,” which tells the story of Lincoln’s humble start and his rise to the presidency. The enhancement is the first phase of the Dorothy M. Kincaid $1 Million Matching Challenge Campaign announced earlier this summer.

“We’re extremely proud of our new gallery and very grateful that the Kincaid estate made it possible,” said Michael Lynch, director of ALLM. “It’s going to give our visitors a deeper and more engaging encounter with the story of Lincoln’s pre-presidential years than ever before.”

“Log Walls to Marble Halls” features items that have not been on display before, such as the scales from Lincoln’s New Salem grocery store, a champagne glass from the home where Lincoln first met Mary Todd, a first edition copy of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” as well as a historically authentic cabin wall. With new built-in technology, museum visitors can listen to the voices of those who knew Lincoln.

“This is also the first stage in a larger effort to transform all our exhibit galleries, which is the goal of our $1 million fundraising campaign,” Lynch said. “We hope this new exhibit will show people what’s in store once that campaign reaches its goal.”

ALLM launched the public phase of the Dorothy M. Kincaid $1 Million Matching Challenge Campaign with a ceremonial ground breaking on June 19.

Since 1897, Lincoln Memorial University has honored the legacy of Abraham Lincoln by serving as a living memorial to our 16th President. Former LMU President Dr. Robert L. Kincaid worked for over thirty years, expanding LMU’s Lincoln collections and greatly enhancing LMU’s standing in the Lincoln community. Today, the Kincaid family continues their commitment to LMU through the philanthropy of Hansel O. and Dorothy M. Kincaid.

The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum is located on the historic campus of Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee. Housing one of the top five Lincoln and Civil War private collections in the world, the Museum is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information about this and other programs at the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum, call 423.869.6235.