The life of Abraham Lincoln spanned a period of great change and growth in the state of Illinois. From his days as a flat-boater, through his time at New Salem, his years as a circuit lawyer and on up through his presidency, Lincoln’s life is a microcosm of the development of Illinois during that period.

Award-winning folksinger Chris Vallillo uses historic narratives, contemporary folk music, and period folk songs Lincoln may well have known and sung to bring Illinois’ favorite son and his times to life.

Recorded Sunday, February 25, 2007 at Arlington Heights Historical Museum.