Honoring Illinois' Fallen Heroes: Abraham Lincoln and Camp Butler National Cemeteries

As Memorial Day approaches, we take a moment to reflect on the courage and sacrifices of those who served our nation. Illinois has two significant national cemeteries: the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery and the Camp Butler National Cemetery.

Located in Elwood, the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery was dedicated in 1999 to honor the legacy of President Lincoln, who established the national cemetery system during the Civil War. This serene space covers nearly 1,000 acres and provides veterans, along with their families, a peaceful final resting place. Its memorial walkway features monuments that recognize veterans from various conflicts and organizations, including the first federally approved monument honoring LGBTQ veterans, which was dedicated in 2015.

The Camp Butler National Cemetery, located near Springfield, carries considerable historical significance. Established in 1861 as a Union Army training camp, it later served as a Confederate prisoner-of-war camp. Today, over 25,000 veterans and their family members rest here, including soldiers from both sides of the Civil War. Notable interments include Medal of Honor recipient Seaman John H. Catherwood and Colonel Otis B. Duncan, the highest-ranking African American officer during World War I.

Both cemeteries are solemn and powerful reminders of Illinois' commitment to honoring those who sacrificed for our freedom.

Chicago Jazz Classic: Benny Goodman

• Chicago
• Music

Did you know the “King of Swing” Benny Goodman was from Chicago? A master clarinetist and bandleader, Goodman led one of the first racially integrated bands in the U.S. and earned immense popularity.

A son to poor, Jewish immigrants, Goodman grew up in the Maxwell Street neighborhood and was enrolled in free clarinet lessons at the Kehelah Jacob Synagogue. He was tutored by Chicago Symphony Orchestra member Franz Schoepp. He played several venues with a litany of bands, and made his professional debut in 1921 at Central Park Theater.

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National Pick Strawberries Day

National Pick Strawberries Day falls on May 20. Strawberries are a summer fruit that are loved and cherished by many for the nostalgia of sunny days they bring. A fun activity in itself, strawberry picking allows for quality time to be spent with nature and loved ones.

To celebrate this day, here is a list of strawberry picking fields in Illinois:

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Bringing Awareness to Illinois Endangered Species

Did you know that every third Friday of May, May 16 this year, is observed as Endangered Species Day? The day was designated by Congress in 2006. In Illinois alone, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has listed over 400 such species, ranging from birds, mammals, reptiles, insects and more! Wildlife refuges, gardens, schools, libraries, museums, community groups, nonprofits, and individuals will hold special programs or events on this day.

Each species plays an important role in Illinois’ ecosystem. By bringing awareness to these species, both threatened and endangered, the day reminds the public of the importance in supporting conservation organizations, encouraging action to protect wildlife and advocating for policy changes to ensure that the state’s ecosystem is environmentally stable.

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