Lincoln Homestead State Park
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Historical Marker #2297 in Washington County recognizes Lincoln Homestead State Park. The Lincoln family moved to this site after the death of Lincoln's grandfather-also named Abraham Lincoln-in 1789. His widow, Bersheba, and her five children, Mordecai, Josiah, Thomas, Mary and Nancy, settled on or near the 120 acres that now comprise the park.
The site features an original home of Lincoln's mother, Nancy Hanks, as well as replicas of the 1782 cabin and blacksmith shop where his father, Thomas, was raised and learned his trade. Thomas met his future wife, Nancy Hanks, near here, and the two were married in 1806.
The park also features the home of Mordecai Lincoln, the president's favorite uncle, and showcases reproductions of traditional pioneer split-rail fence and pioneer furniture.
Lincoln Homestead State Park is one of the stops on Kentucky's Lincoln Heritage Trail.
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The Berry House
Interior of the Richard Berry House in which Nancy Hanks is reputed to have resided in. Her wedding to Thomas Lincoln may also have been carried out in this house. Image Courtesy of the Kentucky Department of Parks
Mordecai Lincoln House
This remodeled house belonged to Abraham Lincoln's uncle, Mordecai Lincoln. It stands at the Lincoln Homestead State Park near Springfield, Ky. Image Courtesy of the Kentucky Department of Parks
Abraham Lincoln
In addition to being the birthplace of Lincoln, Kentucky was home to Lincoln's wife, best friend, law partners, and business associates. Although he left the bluegrass state as a young boy, these relationships with Kentuckians played a major role in forging his personal and political life. Lincoln's connections to Kentucky and his appreciation for the importance of the commonwealth to the Union cause further strengthened Lincoln's bonds to the history of this state. Image Courtesy of the Kentucky Historical Society