Lincoln birth

Abraham Lincoln, what, the 16th president of the USA, was born in a log cabin. Forever it was believed that it was this one here. The history chanel, the guide told us, did the research which proved in 2004 that it was not this one. This is used now described as a surrogate one, so much like the original as to be believable. In the early 20th century it was housed in this Greek temple, a shocking contrast of architecture.

I would have build a larger log cabin to protect the humble "original." One door. One window. A chimney--what else could be part of the design.

Scholars do believe that the site is correct. Abe lived here--or suckled here--for two years, his first two. His father, Thomas, had bought the 300 acre farm on which this was located, for $200. Kentucky had just ceded from Virginia and land deeds were frequently contested and Tom lost the land for nothing and had to move on.

Close to the house is a magnificent spring which emerges from a natural tunnel and drops down three feet or so into a small pool. A white oak stump is the only remaining element (they told us)from the year of his birth and it is mostly rotted away.

Real birth hero

Here's Dorcas, r., and one of Dr. Rutt's nurses. When it comes to birth, there's no hero but the mother. There are some attendants. In our case including the father. But Mother's Day doesn't come often enough to show the life leadership of mothers themselves.

family doctor retires

First you go to Gordonville. Then you wait in line. Then you finally chat with Dr. Rutt, left. At right are his two totally successful births, Sarah and Joel. Back to camera is Dorcas, who really did the heavy lifting in 1981 and 1984. Center is Steph, soaking in the family history.

Dr. Rutt had a solo practice close to Gordonville, specializing in births in the birthing room in his office. With both births, Dorcas and I were able to drive to the office in the wee hours when no one else was there--except for Dr. Rutt, who had given up a night's sleep to usher in the blessed events.