Lincoln in Logan County, Illinois — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Judge Davis and Lincoln at Deskins Inn
Postville was the first county seat of Logan County when the county came into existence in 1839, largely through the efforts of a young Springfield legislator, Abraham Lincoln. David Davis was the judge in many of the cases tried by Lincoln and later served as his "campaign manager" at the 1860 Chicago convention that nominated him for president.
Lincoln frequently told a story of an incident that was to have occurred at the Deskins Inn. While Lincoln was staying there one evening, a fellow came to the door and asked where he might purchase some whiskey. After several attempts to secure a drink from innkeeper Deskins, who was insisting that he had none, the man was to have said, "Great heavens, give me an ear of corn and tin cup and I'll make it myself."
The existing well on this property dates from early 1830s and was used by Abraham Lincoln and other's during the time court was being held at the Postville Courthouse.
Erected by Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County, Illinois Bicentennial Commission & Main Street Lincoln.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Government & Politics • Industry & Commerce. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #16 Abraham Lincoln series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1839.
Location. 40° 8.809′ N, 89° 22.843′ W. Marker is in Lincoln, Illinois, in Logan County. Marker is at the intersection of 5th Street (Business Interstate 55) and South Jefferson Street, on the right when traveling east on 5th Street. Marker is in front of the Veterans of Foreign Wars building, which is across the street from the old Postville courthouse. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 915 5th Street, Lincoln IL 62656, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Deskins Tavern (a few steps from this marker); Abraham Lincoln at Postville (within shouting distance of this marker); Postville Courthouse State Historic Site (within shouting distance of this marker); In Memory of Abraham Lincoln (within shouting distance of this marker); Postville Court House Site (within shouting distance of this marker); Postville Park (about 800 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Mill on 66 (approx. ¼ mile away); Roadside Attractions (approx. 0.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Lincoln.
Credits. This page was last revised on November 7, 2020. It was originally submitted on November 7, 2020, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois. This page has been viewed 111 times since then and 15 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on November 7, 2020, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois.