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Lincoln Memorial Shrine is a unique historical museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln. Located in Redlands, California, the shrine houses an extensive collection of Civil War artifacts, documents, photographs, and personal memorabilia connected to Lincoln’s era.

The beautifully designed memorial building offers an immersive educational experience through curated exhibits and interpretive displays. Visitors can gain deeper insight into Lincoln’s leadership. The challenges of the Civil War, and the broader story of American history.

Open to the public and free to visit, the Lincoln Memorial Shrine. Stands as both a cultural landmark and a place of reflection in Redlands.

Central Setting

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine sits at 125 W. Vine Street in Redlands. This historic site occupies a prime location within the beautiful Smiley Park complex. It stands directly adjacent to the A.K. Smiley Public Library for easy visitor access. The park setting provides a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. This central location anchors the cultural heart of the city.

Locate the shrine within the Smiley Park complex.
Walk from the library to the memorial entrance.
Enjoy the quiet surroundings of the park grounds.
Access the site easily from downtown Redlands.
Experience a contemplative space befitting a national memorial.

The Vision of Robert Watchorn

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine exists because of Robert Watchorn’s profound admiration for Abraham Lincoln. This successful businessman and philanthropist emigrated from England as a young boy. He rose to prominence as the U.S. Commissioner of Immigration at Ellis Island. Watchorn eventually served as the president of the Union Oil Company of California. He commissioned the shrine in 1932 to honor the ideals of his personal hero.

Watchorn considered Abraham Lincoln a model for leadership.
He admired Lincoln’s unwavering commitment to human freedom.
The businessman funded the entire construction project himself.
He dedicated the memorial to the ideal of patriotic service.
The shrine stands in the city Watchorn called home.

Architectural Significance | Art Deco Masterpiece

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine stands as a stunning example of Art Deco design. This architectural style features bold geometric patterns and stylized forms popular in the 1930s. Pure white Georgia marble constructs the exterior and gleams brilliantly in the California sun. The overall effect creates an atmosphere of dignity, reverence, and timeless beauty. Every detail of the architecture honors the great president it commemorates.

Admire the central bronze bust of Abraham Lincoln on the facade.
Recognize the work of George Stanley, who also designed the “Oscar” statuette.
Step inside to see walls lined with polished marble.
View the elegant bronze grilles and decorative lighting fixtures.
Experience a space designed for quiet reflection and historical study.

The Interior | A Treasury of Lincolniana

The shrine’s interior houses an extraordinary collection of over 12,000 items. This assembly ranks among the most significant Civil War archives west of the Mississippi. Visitors view original letters written by Lincoln and see his signature on official papers. First-edition books and campaign memorabilia line the historic shelves. The collection continues to grow through ongoing donations and strategic acquisitions.

Scholars from around the world study in the extensive research library.
Civil War artifacts include authentic uniforms and soldier’s letters.
Period weapons and medals honor the era’s military history.
Political cartoons and engravings illustrate Lincoln’s presidential runs.
Personal photographs offer a rare glimpse into Lincoln’s private life.

The Central Bronze Bust

The magnificent bronze bust of Abraham Lincoln serves as the focal point of the interior. Sculptor George Stanley created this masterpiece specifically for the shrine. The work captures Lincoln’s characteristic thoughtfulness and inner strength. It sits upon a marble pedestal inscribed with words from his famous speeches. Visitors naturally gravitate toward this powerful image for quiet contemplation.

George Stanley sculpted the central bronze masterpiece.
The bust invites visitors to reflect on Lincoln’s legacy.
Inscribed marble supports the base of the sculpture.
The artwork connects the viewer directly to the president.
Its placement creates a sense of reverence in the room.

Murals Depicting Lincoln’s Life

Dean Cornwell painted the stunning murals that decorate the shrine’s interior. These large-scale works depict key moments from Abraham Lincoln’s life and career. The artist used a heroic, realistic style to add narrative depth to the marble walls. His murals help visitors understand Lincoln’s journey from humble beginnings to a world leader. They bring vibrant color and history to the quiet memorial space.

One mural shows Lincoln as a young rail-splitter.
A second painting portrays him as the Great Emancipator.
The third work depicts his tragic assassination at Ford’s Theatre.
The artwork illustrates the president’s rise to national prominence.
These murals provide a visual timeline for every museum visitor.

The Research Library & Archives

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine houses a serious research facility beyond its public memorial space. This institution maintains one of the finest Lincoln libraries in the western United States. Scholars, historians, and students utilize these extensive resources for original research. The knowledgeable staff assists with complex inquiries and historical searches. The shrine also publishes its own scholarly journal and hosts regular academic lectures.

Researchers access rare books and scholarly journals on-site.
Microfilm archives preserve fragile historical documents.
The library holds the Complete Works of Abraham Lincoln.
Students find essential texts for high-level academic study.
The facility serves as a hub for Lincoln scholars nationwide.

Free Admission & Public Access

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine maintains a strong commitment to public access. Admission remains completely free for every visitor. This policy reflects Robert Watchorn’s original desire to create a memorial for everyone. The shrine welcomes all guests regardless of their ability to pay. This open-door philosophy ensures the site serves the entire community.

The shrine opens to the public on a regular weekly schedule.
Visitors typically explore the exhibits Tuesday through Sunday afternoons.
Guests enjoy the freedom to browse at their own pace.
Knowledgeable docents often stand by to share historical insights.
Volunteers answer questions about the expansive Lincoln collection.

Educational Programs & Lectures

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine serves as an active center for learning through its public programs. It hosts a regular schedule of events that engage history enthusiasts and community members. Renowned Lincoln and Civil War scholars present their latest research during annual highlight lectures. These presentations draw large audiences from throughout Southern California. The shrine also provides specialized curriculum materials for local teachers and students.

Renowned scholars present at the annual Watchorn Lincoln Memorial Lecture.
School groups visit regularly for interactive educational tours.
Students learn about the Civil War and the meaning of freedom.
Exhibit openings feature new acquisitions and special historical themes.
Public programs bring together a diverse community of history lovers.

Special Exhibitions & Events

Beyond its permanent collection, the Lincoln Memorial Shrine hosts dynamic temporary exhibitions. These special displays explore unique themes like Lincoln’s relationship with the press. Other exhibits examine California’s specific role during the Civil War era. These rotating showcases keep the experience fresh for repeat visitors. The shrine also partners in citywide events like the annual Redlands Heritage Days.

The shrine hosts special programming every February 12.
Civil War reenactors sometimes appear on the park grounds.
Historical displays examine new facets of the Lincoln era.
The museum celebrates Presidents’ Day weekend with unique events.
Temporary exhibits highlight rare items from the private archives.

The Relationship with A.K. Smiley Public Library

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine operates in a close partnership with the adjacent A.K. Smiley Public Library. These two institutions share vital resources and collaborate on various public programs. This alliance creates a powerful center for historical study in the heart of Redlands. Visitors easily combine a trip to both landmarks during a single afternoon. Researchers frequently utilize both facilities to access a wider range of archival materials.

The library’s Heritage Room houses additional local history collections.
Scholars access both facilities during a single research visit.
Joint programs benefit the entire Redlands community.
The adjacent buildings simplify travel for out-of-town guests.
Shared resources strengthen the city’s historical preservation efforts.

A Place of Inspiration

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine serves as a powerful place of inspiration and reflection. It honors the leader who guided our nation through its darkest hour. The site preserves the memory of Lincoln’s words and deeds for every future generation. Standing before the bronze bust, visitors feel a direct connection to American history. This experience reminds every guest of the ongoing work required to preserve freedom.

Visitors remember Lincoln’s immense courage and wisdom.
The shrine honors the president’s deep humanity.
Guests reflect on the survival of modern democracy.
The memorial connects the past to our present lives.
Every exhibit inspires a new appreciation for liberty.

“The Unique Lincoln Memorial Shrine in Redlands”

A Unique Tribute to an American Giant

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine stands as a true treasure of Redlands and the American West. No other memorial west of the Mississippi rivals its profound focus on Abraham Lincoln. Robert Watchorn’s gift to his adopted city continues to educate and inspire every visitor. Generations walk through these marble halls to touch a monumental legacy. Guests leave with a deeper understanding of the man and his turbulent times.

Visit the Lincoln Memorial Shrine in downtown Redlands.
Stand before the magnificent and powerful bronze bust.
Study the vibrant murals depicting Lincoln’s historic journey.
Explore authentic artifacts from a nation divided and reunited.
See Lincoln’s own handwriting on original historical documents.

Visiting Lincoln Memorial Shrine

Check Hours Before You Go. The shrine is not open every day. Verify current hours on the official website.
Allow 30 to 60 Minutes. This is sufficient time to view the exhibits and absorb the atmosphere.
Admission is Free. No tickets are required. Donations are gratefully accepted to support the shrine’s programs and preservation efforts.
Combine with the Library. Plan to visit the A.K. Smiley Public Library on the same trip. The historic library building is worth seeing in its own right.
Visit Smiley Park. The surrounding park is beautiful. Consider bringing a picnic or simply strolling the grounds after your visit.
Ask Questions. Docents and staff are passionate and knowledgeable.
Photography is Permitted. Visitors may take photographs for personal use.

Discover why this shrine remains a place of pilgrimage for Lincoln lovers everywhere. History comes alive within these marble walls. The Great Emancipator is honored here as nowhere else in the West.

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Phone: (909) 798-7636
Website: www.lincolnshrine.org
Address: Lincoln Memorial Shrine, 125 W Vine St, Redlands, CA 92373
Location Map: