The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum announced on Friday that their new exhibit, which lets visitors explore history using their eyes, ears, and hands, opened that very same day. The institution noted that the exhibit transforms images from Lincoln’s life into three-dimensional objects that visitors can touch while listening to audio presentations explaining his accomplishments and enduring legacy.
“Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch” runs through Aug. 24.
The museum stated:
“Everyone can enjoy its unique features, but they offer an especially powerful experience for visitors with impaired vision. This traveling exhibit was created by Tactile Images in cooperation with the National Federation of the Blind.”
The ALPLM said that it was supplementing the exhibit with touchable facsimiles of artifacts – such as Lincoln’s briefcase, a life mask, and Tad Lincoln’s model cannon. They also confirmed that authentic Lincoln artifacts from the ALPLM collection would also be on display, including many commercial items with Lincoln’s image.
The museum has also worked with Tactile Images to create a brand-new piece that focuses on Lincoln and the Gettysburg Address. It will remain at the presidential museum after the exhibit closes, giving the ALPLM a new feature to offer blind and visually impaired visitors on special occasions.
It was noted in the release that a major theme of the exhibit is the way Lincoln’s image has been used to sell products from cars to cigarettes to war bonds. Visitors will find an array of ads and posters that have been transformed into three-dimensional objects studded with sensors. It also includes touchable models of a sculpture from the Lincoln Memorial, Lincoln’s face and hands, and a Lincoln medal. Touching the sensors will turn on audio descriptions of the object. Buttons on each panel let visitors hear explanations of the history and significance of each item.
Christina Shutt, executive director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, also made her own remarks on the innovation:
“We firmly believe in the idea of ‘Abe for all’ – that everyone should have a chance to learn about Lincoln’s achievements and how they affect America today. This exhibit delivers on that by offering a fun, informative experience that everyone can enjoy, even if they cannot see it. We’re especially happy that part of it will remain at the ALPLM for years to come.”
“Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch” is included with regular admission to the museum as part of the ALPLM’s celebration of its 20th anniversary.
The ALPLM notes that there is no additional charge.
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