Museum Guide News
A leading institution for the study of Lincoln and the Civil War on the west coast
Did you know that the only museum and research center dedicated to Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War west of the Mississippi River is located in Redlands, California? The Lincoln Memorial Shrine was made possible by the philanthropy of Robert and Alma Watchorn in 1932.
Since its inception, the Shrine has become a leading institution for the study of Lincoln and the Civil War on the west coast. Thousands of letters and diaries written by those involved in the national crisis have been collected, as well as artwork and artifacts. In addition to the over five dozen documents written or signed by Abraham Lincoln and a variety of artifacts that help tell the story of the Civil War, a Carrara marble bust of Lincoln by sculptor George Gray Barnard is the centerpiece of the museum.
Numerous events are held at the Shrine each year. From presentations by noted historians to Civil War Christmas Carols, the largest event is the annual Open House, which will take place on Saturday, February 3, 2024, 11am-3pm at the Lincoln Shrine. The Open House features exhibitions, live music, artillery and cavalry demonstrations, and an appearance by President Lincoln himself! For more information and additional events, visit www.lincolnshrine.org.
The Lincoln Memorial Shrine is open Tuesday-Sunday, 1-5pm and closed major holidays, but is always open on February 12th, Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. For more information, Lincoln Dinner reservations, or to schedule group tours, please contact the Shrine at (909) 798-7632 or email heritage@akspl.org.