When you think of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, you might picture charming streets, welcoming locals, and that classic Southern pace of life. However, this town has a deeper historical connection, especially for anyone fascinated by Abraham Lincoln’s legacy. Elizabethtown holds a unique place in Lincoln's family history, and if you're looking for a meaningful dive into the life of Honest Abe, this is the perfect spot to start. Let me walk you through some must-see sites celebrating the Lincoln family’s roots in Elizabethtown.
A Glimpse Into The Lincoln Family Heritage
Abraham Lincoln’s father, Thomas Lincoln, was born and raised right here in Elizabethtown. And Abraham was born nearby in what was then, Hardin County. Not only did Thomas Lincoln have deep roots in Elizabethtown, but it was also where his love story unfolded. After the passing of his first wife, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, Thomas returned to his hometown and proposed to his childhood sweetheart, Sarah Bush Johnston. The couple married in Elizabethtown, and you can even visit the very spot where Thomas and Sarah said their vows as you take a stroll through historic downtown.
One of the most significant sites to visit is the Lincoln Heritage House located at Freeman Lake. This historic gem was built by Abraham Lincoln’s father, Thomas, and offers a glimpse into the past and the Lincoln family’s connection to the area. Walking through this cabin, you can almost picture young Abe growing up in the simple rugged environment that would shape his life as he journeyed from humble beginnings to one of America’s most revered presidents.
Lincoln Family Ties: The Legacy Of Sarah Bush Johnston
Sarah Bush Johnston was an essential part of young Abe’s upbringing. The Sarah Bush Johnston Cabin, also located at Freeman Lake, is a carefully designed replica of the home where Abe’s stepmother lived. This cabin lets you experience a piece of the past and relive a little bit of the pioneer life, just like Abe and his family might have.
Walking Through Lincoln History In Elizabethtown
Beyond Thomas Lincoln’s hometown, Elizabethtown offers a few other key landmarks to explore. Once one of the most important stops along the Louisville-Nashville Railroad, Elizabethtown became a hub for key figures during the Civil War. Confederate general John Hunt Morgan stationed artillery at the top of Cemetery Hill against Union troops in an effort to destroy the railroad’s main artery during the war. Cannon fire was targeted at the downtown area where both sides lost many brave soldiers. The cemetery is on the National Register of Historic Places, and if you are a history buff like me, it’s a must-see stop for remembrance and honoring the past.
The town is steeped in history, and walking around its historic district will bring you closer to the past. You can visit memorials and plaques that tell the Lincoln family’s story, offering insights into the man's life behind the legend. As you walk through these sites, take a moment to appreciate the fact that Elizabethtown is more than just a charming town. It’s a place where Abraham Lincoln’s roots run deep, a town that witnessed pivotal moments in the lives of the Lincoln family.
