Funding boosts restoration of Lincoln's New Salem site

Efforts are underway to restore Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site, where Abraham Lincoln began his political career. Recent funding and new legislation have brought hope for the site’s repair. Lincoln arrived in New Salem in 1831 on a sinking flatboat and impressed a local merchant named Denton Offutt. This led to a job offer and Lincoln’s decision to stay, eventually becoming a state legislator. The site was reconstructed in the 1930s but has deteriorated over time, suffering from significant maintenance issues. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) estimates that restoring the site may cost around $19 million. Recently, the site was allocated $8 million from the Rebuild Illinois capital plan. It has received total funding of about $3 million since 2019. A bipartisan legislative effort is also underway to formally create a New Salem Preservation Commission to oversee restoration efforts. Current conditions at the site are concerning. Two roofs have collapsed, and the main grist mill where Lincoln first arrived is closed and unsafe. Community members worry about the safety of children visiting the site. They also point out that access has become challenging, especially after essential walkways and stairs were blocked off. Gina Gillmore-Wolter, president of the New Salem Lincoln League, remembers when the site was lively, showcasing period reenactments and activities. Local officials emphasize that restoring the site is not only important for history but also vital for the local economy, as it attracts many visitors to the area. Support for restoration is growing amongst lawmakers, including bipartisan backing in the legislature. Community leaders hope to revive the site, preserving it as a crucial part of Lincoln's legacy and enriching the town of Petersburg.