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.

May 1, 2025 is Illinois History Day! Illinois was discovered in 1673 by explorer Louis Jolliet and Jesuit Father Jacques Marquette when they floated down the great Mississippi, returning up the Illinois River and crossed the portage to Lake Michigan where Chicago now stands.

Cahokia, Illinois' first permanent European settlement, was established in 1699 along the Mississippi River across from what is now St. Louis. The French and Indian War, or Seven Years' War, came to an end in 1763 with a victory for Britain, which gains control over the Illinois country. With the end of the American Revolution in 1783, Illinois became territory of the United States − technically part of the state of Virginia. Illinois would later join the Union on Dec. 3, 1818 – becoming the 21^st state.

On April 25, communities throughout Illinois celebrate an American tradition dating back to 1887: Arbor Day.

Arbor Day is a holiday that encourages people to plant trees. Planting a tree represents the belief that the tree will provide our community with cleaner air, a habitat for wildlife, and natural beauty. Illinois’ first Arbor Day was held in 1887, but not until 1949 did the state legislature legally declare the last Friday in April as “Arbor and Bird Day.” The purpose of the legislation was to plant trees, shrubs and vines about homes, along the highways and on public grounds to show the value of trees and birds and the necessity of their protection, thus contributing to the comforts and attractions of the state of Illinois.

Tuesday, March 18^th is National Agriculture Day! While every state across the country will celebrate, this day holds special significance in the State of Illinois. With over 70,000 farms across the state, Illinois has a rich and long agricultural history.

Illinois and its prairie attracted many immigrants from its opening in the early 1800s to the mid- and late-nineteenth century. The immigrants came from other parts of the United States and from several countries in Europe. These farmers who started on the ground floor, worked and grew their farms over the years, slowly turning Illinois into a state on the rise in the 1800s. This includes farms like Walker Farms, the oldest farm on record in Illinois. Settled in 1786 in Crawford County, Walker Farms is still running strong. Today, several acres of Walker Farms are irrigated. They raise corn, soybeans and wheat. During the last half of the nineteenth century, the farms that were settled in southern and western Illinois developed more fully and the northern part of the state rapidly developed. Mechanization started to appear on larger farms and among groups who shared the cost of machinery.

Every year on Feb. 12, Illinoisans and Americans celebrate Abraham Lincoln's life and legacy. Born in 1809 in Kentucky, Lincoln's journey brought him to Illinois, where he built the foundation of his career and developed his character and commitment to democracy. Known as the "Land of Lincoln," Illinois played a crucial role in shaping the leader who would later guide the nation through its most challenging times.

Lincoln's deep Illinois roots shine. Although not born in Illinois, Abraham Lincoln credited the state with shaping his identity. As a young man, he moved to New Salem, where he worked as a surveyor and postmaster before pursuing law in Springfield, his future home.

In Illinois, Lincoln refined his anti-slavery stance, which would define his presidency. His debates with Stephen A. Douglas in the 1858 Senate race highlighted his eloquence and conviction. Although he lost the race, the debates thrust him into the national spotlight, leading to his election as the 16th president of the United States in 1860.

Lincoln's enduring legacy and presidency confronted extraordinary challenges as he led the nation through the Civil War and issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which moved the country closer to abolishing slavery. His leadership preserved the Union but ultimately cost him his life in April 1865.

Today, his legacy is prominent in Illinois, with sites such as the Lincoln Home in Springfield and the statue in Grant Park, Chicago. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum draws many visitors. Lastly, we cannot forget where it started with the historic New Salem State Park in Petersburg.

On Feb. 12, we honor Abraham Lincoln and the values he embodied: integrity, perseverance and equality. Whether visiting a historic site or reflecting on his contributions, celebrating his birthday reminds us of his significant impact on our nation and his proud Illinois roots.

 Happy birthday, Abe!