A planned educational and artistic landmark at the site of President-elect Abraham Lincoln’s 1861 stop in Bristol Borough has received a $60,000 state grant.
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State Rep. Tina Davis and State Sen. Steve Santarsiero, both Democrats, presented the check to Bristol Borough: Raising the Bar, the nonprofit group spearheading the effort, at a Thursday afternoon ceremony. They were joined by borough, school district, and Bucks County Redevelopment Authority officials.
The funding will support the creation of a permanent, multi-dimensional display at the preserved location, which marks Lincoln’s only stop in Bucks County during his inaugural train journey from Springfield, Illinois, to Washington D.C.
The site is planned in front of the Snyder-Girotti School in the 300 block of Pond Street, where 75 feet of track have been preserved in the approximate location of Lincoln’s brief visit on Feb. 21, 1861.
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“During a time of great turmoil in our nation’s history, President-elect Abraham Lincoln briefly stepped foot in Bristol Borough on his journey to serve in Washington, D.C., spreading a message of unity,” Santarsiero said. “That quick stop to refuel the train carrying Lincoln left a lasting mark on the borough that prevails more than a century later.”
The commemorative installation will include a covered train platform, steel silhouette figures depicting Lincoln and the crowd that greeted him, heritage signage, lighting, landscaping, and a digital storytelling component featuring QR codes linking to Lincoln’s speeches.
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“This project will not only preserve a significant moment in our national and local history, but it will also draw visitors and residents alike to experience Bristol’s rich cultural heritage,” Davis said. “I’m proud to help support a community-driven initiative that highlights our town’s role in one of the most consequential chapters in American history.”
Bill Pezza, president of Bristol Borough: Raising the Bar, said the project aims to attract visitors and remind locals of Lincoln’s stop and its lasting impact on the country.
Bristol Borough: Raising the Bar is seeking community support and additional sponsorships to complete the project. “We are accepting donations to help with this,” Pezza said.
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The site is located on both Bristol Borough School District and Bristol Borough property, and Pezza noted that both entities are collaborating with the nonprofit on the project.
The historical significance of the visit is already recognized by a Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission plaque.
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Once completed, a dedication ceremony is planned featuring a Lincoln reenactor and individuals in Civil War-era attire.
Those looking to contribute to the project can send checks to Raising the Bar at 805 Radcliffe Street or Venmo @raisingthebar1681.
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