On November 21st, the Betty Grinnan Friends of the Library Program for American History hosted an event for the members to meet the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln! Upon entering the library, I was personally greeted by the man himself. Much to my excitement, after introducing myself, Lincoln said, “what a crackerjack name!” I just became friends with Abraham Lincoln! Mr. Lincoln talked to members as everyone gathered, engaging in cordial conversation and answering questions about his life.
After their bellies were full of the dinner that the Friends provided, guests gathered to listen to Mr. Lincoln begin his speech. He told the story of his life from his humbled farm birth, through his tribulations in politics, and finishing with the details of Lincolns very last date night with the First Lady. The audience collectively reacted in moments of sadness and delight, filling the room with sighs and laughter.
The sublime storytelling was presented by Dennis Boggs. Mr. Boggs has a long history in theater and after first playing Abraham Lincoln in a stage production in his hometown, Tennessee, he discovered a new passion. Boggs continued to research Mr. Lincoln and his admiration for the 16th President grew in the process. Since then, for the past 20 years Boggs has traveled the States with an average of 250 performances as Lincoln every year. He has performed as Lincoln in many Civil War reenactments and has even had the honor of performing as Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
In addition to his enthralling performance for the Friends of the Boca Raton Library, Boggs joined the local homeschoolers while presenting as Abraham Lincoln. President Lincoln interacted with the kids in such a way that everyone was excited to be learning about American history. A little boy walked to the stage to meet President Lincoln and told him that he wanted to be the President of the United States. The room emanated a sense of inspiration as Lincoln encouraged that little boy to follow his dreams. Anyone can be president.
If you would like to learn more about Dennis Boggs, check out his website!