Historical Society To Present Program On Abraham Lincoln

The Newtown Historical Society will present “Portrait of Lincoln,” on the eve of the Emancipator’s birthday, Sunday, February 13, at 3 pm, in the community room of the Booth Library, 25 Main Street.

The original drama will be presented by Lewis Dube, a graduate of the Yale University Summer Drama Program and an experienced actor in both community and professional theater. Mr Dube has appeared at the Southbury Theater, Long Wharf, and in New York City, as well as numerous local theaters in Connecticut.

The program will begin by Lincoln introducing himself with his famous homespun humor. Soon, however, Lincoln must deal with the beginning of war with the firing upon Fort Sumter. Father Abraham agonizes over the human tragedy of war, and tries to explain the cause to Mrs Bixby, a mother who has lost five sons to the preservation of the Union; the letter will become one of the most famous in US history.

The victory at Gettysburg will bring the President to commemorate the dead, and the great Address will be delivered not softly as is so often assumed, but with a passion that carries to the farthest reaches of the vast audience. Draft riots erupt in New York and other places, with free blacks often the brunt of violence. After three and a half years of war news and casualties, and often incompetent military leadership, Lincoln begins to despair of re-election, but the campaign is saved as Sherman reaches Atlanta. Soon after setting the tone for reconciliation in his Second Inaugural, Lincoln will “belong to the ages,” falling to the bullet of John Wilkes Booth.

Lewis Dube not only plays the part of Lincoln, he looks the part. Critics have described him as Lincoln’s “reincarnation,” and having the “bearing of Abraham Lincoln’s twin.”

The performance day and time has been changed from the usual Historical Society meeting to encourage family participation in this stirring performance. Refreshments will be served at the conclusion. Call 426-5937 for further information.