The Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society is considering purchase and restoration of the Manahan home located at 603 East Third Street in Sterling. The home is where the future President, Abraham Lincoln slept when he visited Sterling in 1856. Lincoln, then 47 years of age, arrived in Sterling to speak on behalf of John C. Fremont, the Republican Party's first presidential candidate. William Manahan was then Whiteside County Sheriff.
THE RENNAISANCE OF THE MANAHAN HOME
SRFHS Vice President Tim Keller comments on Manahan home
Article Two of the Bylaws of the Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society states, "To restore to a useful purpose." Preservation for preservation's sake does not work in the long run. If the Manaham home were to just sit there without being used would defeat the purpose of acquiring it.
The main purpose or usefulness of the restored home will be directed towards school children and anyone wanting to know more about Lincoln. Walking tours could be scheduled to highlight Lincoln. At other times, workshops or conferences on Lincoln will be planned in cooperation with Springfield and other historical groups. A Lincoln learning center can focus on the life of Lincoln and his influences that have carried through to the current time. Emphasis should include not only Civil Rights Laws but other forgotten legislation such as the Land Grants Act of 1863.
A careful study will need to be done before restoration proceeds. Old photos show the original appearance of the house. A front porch addition has been the most notable structural change. In the past 40 years, the Manahan home has been used as a rental property. Most recently, it was used as a bridal shop.
However, above and beyond the physical building, we need to commemorate the role of a single man who became President of the United States. The concept of the United States as a collection of states changed to the concept of one nation, the United States of America. Lincoln's visits to Sterling help remind us of his effect in bringing about this important change. As a result of the Civil War, we went from these United States "are," to the United States "is."