Ed. note: We’re excited to welcome Kristin Lynch as a new contributor here at ErieBlogs.com. She’s got a wealth of web development, writing experience, and a blog. We’re excited to have her blog here occasionally. Please welcome her in the comments.

There’s no doubt that Abraham Lincoln is still revered by most historians as our nation’s finest president. Interest in our 16th president has never wavered, but has been revitalized even further over the past several months by Barack Obama’s campaign and inauguration, and by the 200th anniversary of his birthday today, February 12. A new book by Doris Kearns Goodwin, ‘Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln’ examines Lincoln’s unique ability to make friends and colleagues out of former adversaries. Several new programs about the ‘Great Emancipator’ are appearing on WQLN and the History Channel this month as well, to quench what appears to be an insatiable thirst for more about this fascinating leader.

The Erie County Historical Society is following suit but offering a weekend of celebration February 14th and 15th. At noon on Saturday, February 14, a ceremony and reception will be held to rededicate one of the Civil War’s first monuments to honor fallen soldiers. The monument is located in downtown Girard and will be the scene of the rededication. President and Mrs. Lincoln, Dan Rice, and members of the Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry will take part in the ceremony. Children from Girard Elementary School will read their winning essays on Lincoln. A reception will be held at Grace Methodist Church immediately following the ceremony.

Saturday night, the Erie County Historical Society will celebrate Lincoln’s birthday with a Victorian Ball at the Watson-Curtze Mansion. The ball, hosted by the President and Mrs. Lincoln, will include period costumes, ballroom dancing, parlor games and refreshments. Live music will be provided by the Conneaut Creek String Band.

A brunch will be held Sunday at the Watson-Curtze Mansion, hosted by the President and Mrs. Lincoln and their special guest Frederick Douglass.

Visit the Erie County Historical Society’s web site http://www.eriecountyhistory.org for more details.