Lincoln's Profession

“…what would Lincoln have seen when he practiced the law?” (ix)

The Book

Abraham Lincoln is known for his honesty, debates with Stephen Douglas, and presidency. Many people know that Lincoln was a lawyer, but few know the details behind the profession he spent the most time in. Brian Dirck attempts to rectify that in his book, Lincoln the Lawyer. 

Not much is known about Lincoln’s law practice; detailed records where not kept and, according to Dirck, many embellished their accounts after Lincoln’s death. Lincoln studied for four years prior to taking the bar exam and was a junior partner in two different law firms from 1837-1844. In 1844, he asked William Henry Herndon to be his junior partner. Dirck uses the words of Lincoln, his partners, and clerks to help paint a picture of Lincoln the lawyer.

Dirck comes to the conclusion that practicing law had a great impact on Lincoln’s politics. In my opinion, this final chapter is the best part of the book. Dirck shows the reader that law built Lincoln’s networking and general people skills and shaped his language and arguments. Dirck traces connections between Lincoln’s writings and thought-processes as president with legal concepts. The law practice ultimately taught Lincoln the value of grease (in a figurative sense) to allow things to function.

The book is well-written and provides new insight into our 16^th President. However, it is geared more towards the academic reader than the average history buff. The chapters are broken down by topic, which makes it easy to pick up after a break from reading. The majority of the book explains the time period, how men became lawyers, and the various types of cases. It is important for the reader to have this background information, but it often feels like a history of antebellum law, rather than a Lincoln biography.

The Place

Lincoln's Law Office is located across the square from the Old State Capitol Building in Springfield. The whole square has a historic feel, as if the visitor has stepped back in time. If you close your eyes, you can imagine Lincoln walking to his office.

At the time of this writing, Lincoln’s Law Office is closed for renovations. Unfortunately, due to the budget crisis in Illinois, it is unclear when the site will be re-opened. While you may not be able to enter Lincoln’s Law Office, it is still worth it to walk past the place where an influential president spent his days practicing law. 

More Than a Train Terminal

“The dome towers above you and behind you, and the long concourse extends almost as far as you see” (46).

The Book

Cincinnati Union Terminal: The Design and Construction of an Art Deco Masterpiece tells the story of one of the most impressive structures in America. Authors, Linda C. Rose, Patrick Rose, and Gibson Yungblut introduce the reader to the Cincinnati Union Terminal and the process of its construction.

The desire for a unified train terminal in Cincinnati began in the 1890s. Seven railroads traveled through Cincinnati and they each had their own terminal. In 1928 the preliminary work began and at this time, there were on average 17,000-20,000 railroad passengers daily in Cincinnati. The Terminal was designed with function and aesthetics in mind; the design permeated every aspect and detail (including the creation of a unique font). One aspect of the design is particularly interesting: when a traveler arrived from the east, they cannot see any train tracks. Walking up to the main concourse, the traveler is struck by the size and beauty of a building whose main function is hidden.

Cincinnati Union Terminal is easy to read and the perfect format for a coffee table book: the chapters are short and the pages are full of photos. The authors provide a detailed description of the design and functions of the Terminal. The book is a compilation of booklets published in 1933 to commemorate the grand opening of the Terminal. Because of this format, it can feel like a listing of facts. These facts do help the reader visualize the construction, but for the average reader they might want to read in small dosages. No matter the reader’s interest, he or she will walk away with a greater appreciation for the work that went into the design and construction. 

The Place

Today, the Cincinnati Union Terminal’s main function is no longer the accommodation of hundreds of thousands of train passengers. There is an Amtrak station and freight trains still use the tracks. Instead, the Terminal was converted into the Cincinnati Museum Center. The Center houses the Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science, Duke Energy Children’s Museum, and an Omnimax Theater.

Guests still enter from the east and encounter the same awe as travelers’ years ago. Once inside the largest half-dome in the western hemisphere, you are struck by the design and the two massive murals depicting the history of transportation in the United States and the history of Cincinnati. It might be wise to plan several days for a visit to the Museum Center or you can pick and choose which museums to visit. In addition to the museums, visitors can simply take in the half-dome or explore Tower A, the original control tower. Tickets are required for entry and there is a fee for parking. 

Author and Protector of Independence

“[…] directly down the lawn and across the Ellipse from the White House are those ordered, classic lines of the Jefferson Memorial and the eyes of the 19 foot statue that gaze directly into the White House…” (503).

The Book

Author Jon Meacham takes the larger-than-life Thomas Jefferson and places him in a biography that captures Jefferson’s life, thoughts, and interactions. Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power is split into sections that represent the “acts” of Jefferson’s life: early life, American Revolution, Governor, Congressional Representative, Diplomat, Secretary of War, Vice President, President, and last days. Most of Jefferson’s political life hinged on his defining vision, “the survival and success of popular government in America” (xx).

Thomas Jefferson is a familiar figure to Americans. What sets this biography apart is the inclusion of Jefferson’s own words. The reader is able to read what Jefferson thought about the Declaration of Independence or the difficulties of being the president. Each chapter weaves Jefferson’s words and the words of his relatives with the author’s words. By relying on Jefferson’s words, Meacham provides the means for the reader to visualize and understand Jefferson.

Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power does not shy away from the controversies in Jefferson’s life or the clashes he had with other significant Americans. Jefferson was a strong personality who held strong beliefs, which he sometimes contradicted in practice. The biography is well-researched and well-written. Readers familiar with Jefferson will be introduced to new stories and the words of Jefferson. Readers unfamiliar with Jefferson will find this biography easy to read and come to realize the significance of America’s third president.

The Place

The Jefferson Memorial in located on the National Mall in Washington, DC. As a part of the National Park Service, the Memorial is free and always open for visitors. Inside the Memorial is a 19 foot statue of Thomas Jefferson and inscribed, on the walls, are various quotes by Jefferson.

It is impressive for any visitor to walk into the Rotunda and gaze up at one of the Founding Fathers. The quotes on liberty and government remind the visitor of Jefferson’s insight. Outside the Rotunda, visitors to can walk down the steps to the edge of the Tidal Basin. The Jefferson Memorial also offers one of the best views of the Cherry Blossom trees. They are usually in bloom in March and April.

Military Drill for Independence

“[Baron von Steuben’s] name was linked inextricably to the rebirth of the army, a rebirth that had taken place in the snows of Valley Forge” (166).

The Book

The Drillmaster of Valley Forge by Paul Lockhart is an insightful look into Baron von Steuben; the man credited with training the Continental Army at Valley Forge in 1778. However, Steuben’s story is much broader than his months at Valley Forge.

Steuben was born into the military society of Prussia and joined the Prussian infantry at the age of 16, in 1746. The Prussian army was considered one of the premier militaries of that time and Steuben learned valuable lessons to be used later in his life. After being dismissed from the Prussian army in 1763, Steuben moved from job to job. In 1777, he was recruited by an American agent and soon left for America. Steuben arrived in Valley Forge (February 1778) where he spent time observing the army and providing advice to Washington. In March, Steuben was given his first assignment: train the army. It was impossible to do it all by himself, so Steuben trained a select few who returned to their regiments to train others. The army made quick progress, which was noticed and appreciated by many.

For many Americans, this is where Steuben’s story ends. Lockhart’s biography details the rest of Steuben’s major contributions. He acted as a scout, using his Prussian training to predict British movements, and served as a commander of troops during battles. Outside of training the army at Valley Forge, Steuben had three lasting impacts. He composed a book of military regulations, which drew from Prussian and French regulations and was adapted to the American mindset. The “Blue Book” was the official regulation through the War of 1812. Steuben also proposed a military academy (eventually West Point) and his high regard for discipline is still evident in the army.

Throughout the book, Lockhart writes in a way that is easily accessible for most readers, intertwining Steuben’s story with the fight for independence. It is a military biography, so there is an emphasis on military maneuvers, training, and terminology. But, the book would not be complete without this military emphasis. The reader feels like she can visualize the chaos and uncertainty of the time period, and fully understand Baron von Steuben’s imprint on America.

The Place

Valley Forge is located about 3o miles northwest of Philadelphia. The park grounds have separate operating hours than the Visitor Center, Washington’s Headquarters, Train Station, Washington Memorial Chapel, and Varnum’s Quarters. It is important to check the hours before visiting the park. Because Valley Forge is a part of the National Park Service, entrance is free.

I would recommend beginning your visit at the Visitor Center. It provides an overview of Valley Forge and numerous artifacts from the winter encampment. After the Visitor Center, you are ready to roam Valley Forge. Both driving self-guided and trolley guided tours are available. The tours will take you past replica cabins that soldiers would have stayed in, the home Washington used as his headquarters, and the plain where Steuben trained and drilled the army. Valley Forge is a significant place to visit and serves as a reminder of the work and sacrifice for American independence. 

The Eagle has Landed

“I think we are going to the moon because it’s in the nature of the human being to face challenges. It’s by the nature of his deep inner soul. We’re required to do these things just as salmon swim upstream” (Neil Armstrong, p. 206).

The Book

Neil Armstrong: A Life of Flight by Jay Barbree is a unique take on the biography of the first man on the moon. Barbree focuses on Armstrong’s time as a test pilot and astronaut, times which have come to define Armstrong. The biography does touch a bit on Armstrong’s family, but the focus is on Armstrong’s life of flight.

The biography begins as Armstrong is flying with the Pacific Fleet during the Korean War and continues through his time as a research test pilot and astronaut. Many readers will be familiar with Armstrong’s time in NASA. Yet, Barbree writes in a way that the information is new and exciting. The history of NASA is intertwined with Armstrong’s contribution and new details are revealed. The best chapters of the book are those that focus on the preparation, take-off, mission, and return of Apollo 11. The reader actually feels like she is experiencing the moon landing with Armstrong. The reader also comes to appreciate all that went into the NASA space program: the research, training and science. Some of the facts are mind-blowing. The book closes with Armstrong’s strong disappointment with the end of the space shuttle program and downsize of NASA.

Neil Armstrong: A Life of Flight is a well-written and easily accessible book. Barbree writes in an engaging way and makes sure to explain concepts unfamiliar to most readers. The book could easily fall into a scientific biography, but Barbree keeps it simple. The interviews add a personal touch that helps the reader understand who Armstrong was. Even though he was the first man on the moon, Armstrong was humble and the reader walks away admiring that trait. 

Barbree was the NBC News Space Correspondent and close friends with Armstrong. His biography has an authenticity that others might not, due to his access to conversations, interviews, reporter’s notes, and transcripts. Armstrong didn’t consider himself special and was a private person. This is an apt biography because it mainly focuses on Armstrong’s public life.

The Place

The Armstrong Air and Space Museum is a unique place to visit. It is located in the hometown of Neil Armstrong and was first proposed by the governor of Ohio shortly after Armstrong landed on the moon. Although named for Armstrong, the museum honors Ohio’s contribution to space exploration (astronauts and training locations). Once at the museum, visitors will notice the unique design: a futuristic moon base.

The museum is not large and is mostly on one floor. As you walk through the museum, you see Armstrong’s life and the Space Race unfold through each exhibit. Artifacts include the Gemini 8 capsule Armstrong flew in space and his Apollo spacesuit. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the simulators and interactive exhibits. There is an entry fee, but it is worth the chance to walk through history. 

Out of Many Ideas, One National Mall

“Much of the Mall’s visual strength lies in its scale. From the Capitol to Fourteenth Street, the broad, linear space creates a sense of expansiveness commensurate with the bold visions that shaped it, a space that may be said to be emblematic of the vast reaches of the country itself” (14).

The Book

The Mall in Washington, 1791-1991 is a collection of articles that explore the history of the National Mall. The authors write of Pierre L’Enfant’s original plan for America’s new capitol city, various figures who impacted the developments, the landscape, and specific additions to the National Mall.

The National Mall we know now took a long time to develop. In March 1797, 227 acres were set aside for the “health and ornament of the city” (46). Buildings were developed slowly and in 1854, a railroad ran across the National Mall. By the end of the 1800s, it was fragmented into seven separate parks and gardens. The McMillian Plan (1901-1902) attempted to unify the National Mall and work towards what L’Enfant originally envisioned. In 1926, the National Capitol Park and Planning Commission was created to help unify the work on the National Mall. According to Charles Moore, “In the monuments of the National Capitol you shall read the history of America” (144). The buildings, sculptures, landscape, and space attempt to convey meanings to the visitor.

The Mall in Washington, 1791-1991 contains detailed research that delves into the history of a familiar space. It’s not just the history of the National Mall; it also includes the history of Washington, DC and American government, society, and design. At times the average reader might feel bogged down by the academic research, but overall this book is very accessible. The articles are supplemented with hundreds of original drawing plans, photos of scale models, and photos at the various stages of development. These articles help the reader appreciate the careful thought and detailed work that went into the design of the National Mall, landscape, and buildings.

The Place

It is impossible to see everything on the National Mall in one day; there are simply too many museums and memorials. If it is a nice day, a picnic lunch is a great option on the vast open land at any point on the National Mall. If the weather is not great, consider exploring one of the many Smithsonian Museums; they literally have something for everyone. The World War I, World War II, Korean, and Vietnam War Memorials are poignant reminders of the sacrifices of many. My recommendation would be to plan several days to explore the National Mall.

Simply standing at any point on the National Mall can leave you with a sense of awe. Despite the number and size of the buildings, people still seem to dominate the space. When I lived in Washington, DC one of my favorite things to do was to walk the Mall. There is no other place in America like this vast park memorializing great leaders and our nation’s history. 

A Garden for Enjoyment and Education

Henry Shaw “wanted clarity, not mystery, order, not irregular incident, and plants for study, not repose” (vii).

The Book

Henry Shaw’s Victorian Landscapes: The Missouri Botanical Garden and Tower Grove Park by Carol Grove invites the reader to go behind the scenes of one of America’s oldest botanical garden. The book is both a biography of Henry Shaw and two of his greatest achievements: the Missouri Botanical Garden and Tower Grove Park.

Henry Shaw immigrated to America from England in 1818 and quickly adopted St. Louis as his new home. After years of success in various business ventures, Shaw decided to incorporate his interest in gardening with philanthropy. He purchased the land the garden and park sits on in 1842. The garden opened in 1859 and the park opened in 1872. In Shaw’s opinion, the garden was a way to elevate citizens and an instrument of reform that would cultivate taste. The park would serve the same function as libraries and museums.

Henry Shaw’s Victorian Landscapes is well-written and caters to a wide variety of interests. Grove helps the audience visualize the city of St. Louis during the late 1800s and the development of the garden. There is just enough outside informative to be interesting, but not distract from the main story. Grove does include some detailed information regarding gardening, but it is written in a way that appeals to most knowledge levels. It is easy for a reader to come away with a greater appreciation for the Missouri Botanical Garden and the science behind gardening.

The Place

The Missouri Botanical Garden and Tower Grove Park are southwest of downtown St. Louis. Visitors will need to purchase tickets for the garden, but the park is a municipal park. Since the garden and park are mostly outdoors, the best time to visit would be when the weather is nice.

Once inside the garden, a visitor will quickly appreciate the hard work of Shaw and his successors. The garden includes plants from America and around the world, interactive fountains, and unique architecture. One of my favorite areas was the Bakewell Ottoman Garden and my favorite plant was the chocolate flower (which really does smell like chocolate). It is easy to get lost wandering the trials of the garden and park, learning about different plants, and stopping to investigate a new smell.