PLAN YOUR EXPERIENCE    HISTORY & HERITAGE

The year 2009 marks the bicentennial anniversary of the birth of President Abraham Lincoln, and the Asa Waters Mansion in Millbury, Massachusetts is in the midst of preparing New England's most extensive event honoring our nation's beloved 16th President. Save the weekend of May 16 and 17 of 2009 to attend this two-day event, officially endorsed by the U.S. Lincoln Bicentennial Commission, packed with Lincoln-era historical events including a Civil War Encampment, a Civil War era band concert, historical readings, 19th century interpreters, and more. The festivities will take place rain or shine with a large tented pavilion on the grounds of the Mansion, and all events are free and open to the public. The Asa Waters Mansion's  "Lincoln Bicentennial Weekend" will feature two prominent historians for this very special event. Mr. James Getty of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the country's quintessential interpreter of Abraham Lincoln, will be returning for his third appearance at the Mansion where he always draws a vast audience. Additionally, Mr. Harold Holzer (Co-Chairman of the United States Lincoln Bicentennial Commission and a renowned Lincoln biographer) will be joining the celebration on Sunday. At 4:00 on Sunday afternoon "President Lincoln"? and Mr. Holzer will present a program entitled "Lincoln: Seen and Heard"? which Mr. Holzer previously performed at the White House. Plans for the weekend include a Civil War Encampment honoring Worcester's actual Civil War "Camp Lincoln," along with a band concert featuring the Providence Brigade Band. Wells Fargo will be sending one of their magnificent stagecoaches and team of horses. Families will be invited to bring picnic lunches or purchase refreshments from special vendors, and allowed to bring chairs or blankets to sit on while enjoying the festivities each day. Guests adorning 19th century clothing will have the opportunity to win a special prize. Family activities will include children’s "Camp Lincoln enlistments" with "camping and drilling,"? rides on an authentic Wells Fargo Stagecoach that will convey the president to the Mansion on Sunday, May 17th, a Presidential Birthday Cake contest, and many other birthday surprises. Schedule of key events: Saturday 11:00 Civil War Encampment on the grounds of the Mansion 4:00 "Presidential Address"? 4:30 Civil War Era Band Concert featuring the Providence Brigade Band Sunday: 11:00 Encampment reopens Wells Fargo Stage Coach Arrives 2:00 Presidential Birthday Cake Contest 4:00 Lincoln: Seen and Heard (Featuring "President Lincoln" and Lincoln Biographer Harold Holzer, Co-chair of the US Lincoln Bicentennial Commission)