Lincoln Depot Museum facts for kids
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| Former name | Peekskill Freight Depot |
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| Location | 41 South Water Street Peekskill, New York |
| Type | non-profit |
| Owner | Lincoln Depot Foundation 50 Hudson Avenue Peekskill, New York |
The Lincoln Depot Museum is located at 41 South Water Street in Peekskill, New York. It's inside an old building called the Peekskill Freight Depot. This museum helps us remember the special connection between Abraham Lincoln and Peekskill. It first opened its doors to visitors on October 18, 2014.
Abraham Lincoln's Historic Stop
On February 19, 1861, Abraham Lincoln was traveling to become the President of the United States. His special train, called the inaugural train, made a stop in Peekskill. He stopped at the Peekskill Freight Depot and gave a short speech.
About 1,000 people came to see him. This was about one-third of everyone living in Peekskill at that time! People believe Lincoln stopped here because his friend, Congressman William Nelson, asked him to. Nelson was from Westchester County, New York.
In his speech, Lincoln asked for support. The country was facing a big problem: four states had already left the Union. This was the only time Lincoln was recorded speaking in Westchester County. Newspapers at the time wrote a lot about his visit.
Years later, after President Lincoln was assassinated in 1865, his funeral train followed the same path. It also stopped in Peekskill on its way back to Springfield.
Remembering Lincoln in Peekskill
Peekskill is very proud of Lincoln's visit. They have kept his memory alive for many years. In 1925, a special stone memorial was built. It's called the Lincoln Exedra and it overlooks the old depot.
People have celebrated Lincoln's speech many times. On its 50th anniversary in 1911, and again on its centennial in 1961, there were big events. In 1961, actors even dressed up as Lincoln and Nelson to re-enact the speech! The Lincoln Society of Peekskill also helps keep his memory alive with different activities.
Building the Museum
In April 2005, the Governor of New York State, George Pataki, helped get the first money for the museum. This was $600,000 to start the project. It was part of a bigger grant for projects along the waterfront in Westchester County.
By the time they started construction on February 9, 2011, the Lincoln Depot Foundation had raised about $3 million. WASA/Studio A, a company from New York City, was chosen to design the building. They helped turn the old freight depot into a museum. C&G Partners created the ideas for the museum's exhibits.
