Despite the passage of time, Abraham Lincoln’s legacy continues to have an undeniable influence on our current times. Lincoln left an indelible mark on history as he preserved the Union, upheld principles of democracy, and played an indispensable role in the abolishment of slavery in the United States. In addition, he was a man of remarkable character, known for his humility, dedication, integrity, courage, and empathy. Indeed, there is great inspiration to be found in studying the life of this extraordinary man, who came from very ordinary Beginnings.
Yet, many may be surprised to learn the simplicity of his educational background. Unlike many prominent figures, Lincoln didn’t attend prestigious universities like Harvard or Yale. Instead, he received most of his education at home, supported by his mother. This home education experience speaks volumes about his determination and intellectual curiosity.
Truly, Lincoln’s educational journey was a testament to the power of self-directed learning. He identified his passions and pursued them with unwavering dedication, mastering complex subjects like geometry, literature, politics, and law. His achievements are a testament to the limitless potential of personalized education, demonstrating that formal schooling isn’t the only path to success.
Introducing the Rolland Center for Lincoln Research
Like Abraham Lincoln, home educators are deeply committed to the pursuit of learning. As home educators, you’ve chosen a path that requires sacrifice, dedication, and a relentless drive for excellence. We at the Rolland Center for Lincoln Research admire your commitment and would be honored to serve you as you continue to nurture the next generation of leaders.
The Rolland Center for Lincoln Research is dedicated to telling the stories of Lincoln and his contemporaries. Our extensive collection of primary sources, including fascinating letters, enlightening diary entries, and iconic photographs, offers a window into the past. Through interactive kiosks, meticulously curated displays, and an immersive projection room, we’re making these historical treasures accessible to everyone. A plethora of items are available for viewing, revealing the humanity behind the Civil War and the Lincoln family.
How Can We Serve You?
At the Rolland Center for Lincoln Research, we’re dedicated to supporting home educators and their families. Whether you’re looking for curriculum resources, field trip opportunities, or personalized support, we have something to offer, and all of our resources are available completely free of charge. Our goal is to provide you with the tools and resources you need to create a meaningful and enriching learning experience for your children. Explore our latest offerings below.
Resource Library
Our resource library is growing! We’re building a comprehensive collection of educational materials that seamlessly blend reading and social studies. These resources are flexible and low-prep, giving you the freedom to make customizations that work for your family. To date, we are focusing on resources for fourth and fifth graders with plans to expand this library in the future.
- Lincoln Loop Series
Step back in time to the Civil War era with our series of articles about Abraham Lincoln. These compelling pieces offer a glimpse into the lesser-known aspects of his life and times, accompanied by stunning images from the Lincoln Financial Foundation Collection.
- Unit Plans
Our unit plans build upon the engaging articles in the Lincoln Loop series. These adaptable plans are designed to facilitate multiple domains of learning, including reading comprehension, vocabulary development, creative expression, and historical understanding. With a variety of activities, you can create a dynamic and engaging learning experience that will inspire your children to dive further into the Civil War era.
- Digital Lessons
Our digital lessons, created using the free and user-friendly platform Nearpod, offer a convenient and engaging way to explore the life and times of Abraham Lincoln. These interactive lessons, which also integrate the Lincoln Loop series, are designed to reinforce reading skills while providing valuable historical context. With appealing activities and a plug-and-play format, our Nearpod lessons offer a fun and effective way to learn about Abraham Lincoln and develop essential reading skills.
Experiential Learning
Immerse your students in history with our engaging field trip experiences. Visit the Rolland Center in person to explore our vast collection of Lincoln artifacts and interact with our hands-on exhibits. Can’t make it in person? Our virtual field trips bring the Rolland Center directly to you!. Looking for more options? We also offer co-op visits within Allen County, where our experts can come to your co-op group and teach a fascinating lesson based on our historical sources. With our diverse range of field trip options, we’re committed to providing you and your family with unforgettable and educational experiences.
Customized Support
At the Rolland Center, we understand that every home education family has unique needs and interests. That’s why we offer customized support to help you create a personalized learning experience for your children. Need a specific resource or activity? We’re happy to work with you to create something tailored to your family’s needs.
Contact Us
Ready to embark on your own journey of discovery with Abraham Lincoln? Explore our treasure trove of resources on our Education Page. From captivating articles to interactive lessons, we have everything you need to bring history to life for your learners. Need more information or personalized support? Don’t hesitate to contact our Educational Outreach Coordinator, Sarah Schoolman, at sschoolman@acpl.lib.in.us. She’s happy to answer your questions and guide you through our resources! You can also join our mailing list to stay in the loop about new offerings and exciting programs. We’re here to support you and your family every step of the way!