• The First Lincoln Memorial

    Abraham Lincoln Birthplace

    National Historical Park Kentucky

The First Lincoln Memorial

For over a century people from around the world have come to rural Central Kentucky to honor the humble beginnings of our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln.  His early life on Kentucky's frontier shaped his character and prepared him to lead the nation through Civil War.  The country's first memorial to Lincoln, built with donations from young and old, enshrines the symbolic birthplace cabin. 

Features

  • Restored cabin at Knob Creek

    Lincoln's Boyhood Home at Knob Creek

    The Lincoln family lived at Knob Creek for five years, furnishing Abraham his "earliest memories" before moving to Spencer County, Indiana in 1816.

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  • Collage of Trading Cards

    Trading Cards for Kids

    Discover more than 500 stories about America's journey from the Civil War to Civil Rights. View online or visit this park to collect your own copies.

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  • Kids can become a Junior Ranger by participating in the Junior Ranger Program

    Junior Ranger Program

    Gain knowledge about the Lincoln family in Kentucky by completing the Junior Ranger Booklet while at the park and receive a Junior Ranger Badge.

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  • Knob Creek Valley from the Overlook Trail

    Hiking Trails

    Historic surroundings and magnificent views await hikers along the trails of the park giving an insight into early pioneer life in Central Kentucky.

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  • Picnicking facilities are available at both units of the park.

    Picnicking

    Planning a family picnic? Designated picnic areas at both units of the park offer historic surroundings in which to enjoy a family outing.

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Did You Know?

A picture of a portion of the Lincoln Marriage Bond

Thomas Lincoln paid 50 pounds to the governor of Kentucky for a marriage license for him and Nancy Hanks.