SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS

                                              (The following is one of a series of articles
                                   we wrote while taking what became known
                                   to our family in 1977 as our Great Western 
                                   Trek, as we travelled from Maryland to Utah.) 
                                                                      
                                        
                                        SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS

                              This quiet, small town was the Mr. Lincoln's
                              last home prior to his leaving to serve in
                              the White House. We visited Lincoln's home,
                              his law office, and his tomb.
  
                              In addition to his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln,
                              three of Lincoln's sons are entombed with
                              him in Springfield. Edward (Eddie) Lincoln,
                              1846-1850, died in Illinois a month before
                              his fourth birthday.

                              William (Willie) Lincoln, 1850-1862, died at 
                              the age of 11 while living in the White House.

                              Thomas (Tad) Lincoln, 1853-1871, died at 
                              the age of 18, while living in Chicago.

                              Robert Todd Lincoln, 1843-1926, was the
                              Lincolns' last child. He died at the age of
                              82 and is entombed at Arlington National
                              Cemetery.

                              President Lincoln will always be remembered
                              for his character, virtues, and accomplishments.