Finding the middle ground: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Foundation and presidential library and museum

Posted on June 9, 2019
A new bill calls for an understanding between the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Foundation and the presidential library and museum. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – The group that bought a hat – which may or may not have been Abraham Lincoln’s – from one of its own members for millions is in for some oversight.

A bill now on the governor’s desk calls for a memorandum of understanding between the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Foundation and the presidential library and museum.

“The main component of the bill, in my opinion, is the establishment of a working group which is comprised of three members of the board of the library and museum and three members of the foundation,” said State Rep. Ann Williams (D-Chicago). “That working group is charged with an array of responsibilities that will put the museum in a space where it can move forward and thrive and grow and maximize its potential.”

State Rep. Tim Butler (R-Springfield) suggested members of the General Assembly serve as ex officio foundation board members.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected].

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