Laughing Lincoln Statue To Be Dedicated In Naperville

NAPERVILLE, IL — A famous politician will soon be coming to Naperville's Central Park, and he'll be sticking around for a while. A life-sized statue of young Abraham Lincoln caught mid-laugh will be unveiled at the park during a special event on Dec. 2 to celebrate the city's Illinois Bicentennial Birthday Bash.

The statue pays homage to Lincoln, but also honors the history of DuPage County. According to the event's website, Lincoln worked alongside Naperville's founder, Joe Naper, and was instrumental to DuPage County branching off from Cook County.

The laughing Lincoln sculpture will stand on a base of limestone that symbolizes the original DuPage County Courthouse.

The festivities will include a concert, fundraiser and reception with abstract performance art, a silent auction, hors d'oeuvres and light refreshments. Proceeds will benefit the Naperville Century Walk's support of public art throughout the city.

Here's the schedule:

• 12:45 p.m.: Naperville Municipal Band Christmas Concert at Wentz Concert Hall
• 2 p.m.: Laughing Lincoln Sculpture Dedication in Central Park
• 3 p.m.: Illinois Bicentennial Birthday Bash Reception (tickets required)

Image via YouTube