Mrs. Lincoln: The First “First Lady”

The Western Illinois Museum is pleased to host re-enactor Laura F. Keyes for a program about Mary Todd Lincoln.  The program, set in 1865, takes a point of view that is not often explored and illustrates a significant year in the life of the first lady, as well as an important time in our nation’s history. The program will be held on Saturday, March 28 at 1:00 pm, at the museum.  There is a suggested $5 donation at the door.

Laura F. Keyes brings together her skills as a librarian and talents as an actress to craft an entertaining and educational program.  Each program is extensively researched, which informs details such as her choice of period clothing and language.  Drawing on her acting experience, Ms. Keyes creates a believable portrayal of the complexities her character faces in significant historic events. For the program at the museum, she will take the role of Mary Todd Lincoln whose life was filled with triumphs and tragedies, although few people know her story. The program set on April 14, 1865, will focus on the life and losses of Mrs. Lincoln. The program promises to reveal how Mary Lincoln influenced monumental events in her lifetime and why her story is still relevant today.

Laura Keyes has been portraying Mary Todd Lincoln since 2008 and is active in community theatre in Illinois and Wisconsin, serving on the Board of Directors for Pec Playhouse Theatre.  She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Madison, with a Master’s Degree in Library Studies, and is currently working in the field.  For more information about Ms. Keyes’ work as a re-enactor, visit www.LauraFKeyes.com or https://www.facebook.com/HistoricVoices.

This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency through federal funds provided by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Two Rivers Arts Council. The program is sponsored by the Macomb Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.  Photograph of Laura F. Keyes courtesy of Andreoli.

The Western Illinois Museum is located at 201 South Lafayette Street, one block south of Macomb’s Courthouse Square.  For more information, contact the museum at 309.837.2750 or info@westernillinoismuseum.org.