Chautauqua to feature "Abraham Lincoln" on 200th birthday

MOUNT VERNON – Cornell College Professor of History M. Philip Lucas will present “Abraham Lincoln” as the February Chautauqua lecture series in celebration of the 200th birthday of the 16th president.

Lucas will discuss “a life that experienced many disappointments and the ultimate political success. It was an American success story and an American tragedy. It was a life full of mystery.”

The four-week lecture series begins Monday, Feb. 2, in Hedges Conference Room on the Cornell College campus. To register for the program, visit cornellcollege.edu/Chautauqua.

The lecture series will examine questions about Lincoln’s rise to the presidential nomination, the first 50 years of his life, and why many historians rank him as one of the best presidents, if not the best.

The Cornell College Chautauqua Program is open to anyone seeking enrichment through lectures, films, music, and other means of enlightenment. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with others who share common interests.

A new subject is introduced every term, with sessions meeting on Mondays from 9 a.m. to noon in Hedges Conference Room in The Commons. The cost for each four-week program is $30, and registrations must be received the Wednesday prior to the beginning of each course. Lunch is available in student dining for $5.25 per person. Free parking is available on campus property if you obtain a special parking permit from the Office of Academic Affairs.