7th and Cook street
Springfield, Illinois
Open Noon until 4p.m.
Wednesdays and Saturdays
In 1924 the Illinois Watch Company Of Springfield, Illinois initiated the Lincoln Essay Contest, with these words..."In view of this city, Springfield, Illinois, being the home of our martyred President Abraham Lincoln, and desiring to encourage the study of his life and character, this company decided to conduct this (essay) Contest."
To 23,000 high schools, the company sent an informative letter, this 24 page instructional booklet, and an invitation to join in the contest. Each winning student from participating schools would receive a presentation box containing a bronze Lincoln Essay Medal with his/her name and date egraved on the back. (booklet cover on left)
After 82 year hiatus these medals were to be used again.
Farrel Gay, Founder of the Museum of Springfield History, resurrected the 1924 contest and presented the program to the highschools of Springfield, Illinois. The revived essay year was 2009, with 5 of the 6 high schools participating.
essay winner 1
essay winner 2
