Existing comment:
Reconstructing New Salem:
All but one of the 23 major log buildings standing today in Lincoln's New Salem are hypothetical recreations. The only original building is the Onstot Cooper Shop, which has been altered over the years.
The site of New Salem, thought to be threatened by commercial development, was purchased in 1906 by William Randolph Hearst and placed in the care of the Old Salem Cumberland Presbyterian State Chautauqua Association. In 1917, the newly formed Old Salem Lincoln League began marking streets and building locations, and in 1918 erected four structures on original sites. A year later, the property was deeded to the State of Illinois and designated a state park.
The work of "rebuilding" New Salem began in 1932. The state raised twelve buildings between November 1932 and October 1933. In 1936-37, the state also "reconstructed" the Rutledge Tavern. |