Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society

Lincoln Statue Dedication!

On July 18, 2006, a full-size statue of Abraham Lincoln will be dedicated on the site where he visited Sterling and addressed the citizens of Whiteside County on July 18, 1856.  At the site now know as Propheter Park, Mr. Lincoln spoke for two hours in support of John C. Fremont, the first Republican candidate for president.

At the time of his speech in Sterling, Abraham Lincoln was rapidly becoming well known in all parts of Illinois and outside the state as well.  Four years after his visit to Sterling, he was elected President of the United States.  This honor came to him because of the tremendous impression made on all who heard him as he traveled state and country supporting the new Republican Party and giving his views on slavery.

Four ceremonies have previously been held to honor Abraham Lincoln's visit to Sterling. On October 10, 1903, a boulder which identifies the spot of Mr. Lincoln's speech was dedicated.  Similar dedications were held marking the 50th and 100th anniversary of his visit.  On June 1, 1967, a state marker was dedicated at 607 East Third Street, Sterling (referred to as the Manahan home), where Mr. Lincoln stayed the night before giving his speech in Sterling.  Please plan on attending the unveiling of the Lincoln statue which honors the 150th anniversary of his visit.

Event Schedule

5:00 P.M. Food Tent Crafts for Children Music Wood Carvers

6:00 P.M. Statue Unveiling Dedication Program Closing Ceremony Balloon Launch

Sponsorship Opportunities!

The Lincoln Statue Committee has secured the needed funds to commission local artist Don Morris to create the life-size statue.  However, additional funds are now being sought to construct an elegant and dignified area within Propheter Park, a place where the statue can be enjoyed in comfort and serenity for many years to come.  (See proposed landscape below.)

Listed below are several ways which you, too, can become personally involved in this wonderful project.  Can we count on your support?

• One-Quarter Size, 18-inch, Lincoln Bronze*
  Limited Edition.  Identical in every respect except scale when compared to the full-size bronze to be unveiled July 18 at Propheter Park.
  Each high quality bronze casting is numbered and signed by artist Don Morris.
  A maximum of 47 bronzes will be produced (Lincoln was 47 years of age when he visited Sterling and gave his speech).  $2,500.00
• One-Quarter Size, 18-inch, Lincoln Resin Replica*
  Each high quality replica made of resin will look identical to the real bronze statue in color and texture; it is cast from same mold and finished to a high degree.  A reasonably priced piece also signed by artist Don Morris.  $700.00
• Lincoln Head Walking Stick* - 54-inch: $70.00
• Lincoln Bust Sans Beard* - 6-inch Resin: $70.00

• Statue & Flag Pole Lighting** - $2,500.00
• Educational Signage** - $3,500.00 each
• Flagpole** - $1,500.00 each
• Benches** (4 required) - $800.00 each
• Free Will Donation** - Any Amount