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Story Subject Category: Charleston
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In 1995, Tim and I got word that there was going to be a national convention of Lincoln Presenters in Charleston. We knew this was going to be a great story, but we had no idea what were in for … it is a surreal feeling to be surrounded by men who are all dressed like Abraham Lincoln. The story was so great that all the media outlets including a crew for CBS’s Sunday Morning were on hand to catch the Lincolns in action. Charleston was a great location for the event since it is the home to Lincoln’s parents’ home and the home of well known Lincoln presenter, B. F. McClerren.
The Lincolns were a humorous bunch, constantly telling us to not take any “head shots” when we approached with the camera. But when it came to talking about the President they were dead serious ... no pun intended. The stories they exchanged that day taught me new things about our 16th president and gave me a new respect for these men that truly keep his spirit alive.
Segment duration: 07:43
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Producer: Alison Davis Woods
This segment is filed in these categories: History • Illinois Culture/History • Charleston
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Prairie Fire features a profile of 90-year-old Hazel Watson of Charleston, a longtime Republican Party activist. Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar grew up on her block, and she tells stories about him as a child, as well as about her long involvement in politics.
Segment duration: 06:30
Producer: Alison Davis
This segment is filed in these categories: History • Illinois Culture/History • Politics • Charleston
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The weekly auction in still thriving in small central Illinois towns such as Homer, Casey and Fairmount, where people gather to greet friends and discuss grain prices while looking for a deal on farm equipment or a cast-iron skillet. Producer Alison Davis introduces viewers to two veteran auctioneers. Charlie Blagg sells antiques and collectibles in a barn south of Charleston. Raymond Hayes sells everything from cars to humidifiers at his auction in Bement. Each of them has helped keep the action business alive in central Illinois.
Segment duration: 05:55
Producer: Alison Davis Wood
This segment is filed in these categories: Antiques/Collectibles • Business • Bement • Charleston • Homer
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