To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln issuing the Emancipation Proclamation, Cornell University Library will publicly display its unique manuscript copy of this historic document signed by Lincoln along with a variety of associated materials, including several printed versions of the proclamation, related Civil War era engravings, and contemporary issues of Harper’s Weekly and Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper. The exhibit will be on view in the Division of Rare and Manuscript Collections in the 2B Level of Kroch Library from February 1 through April 30.

However, in order to protect this fragile document, the original artifact will only be on public display in this exhibit from Monday, February 11 to Monday, February 18, and on Saturday, April 27. A facsimile copy will be on display for the remainder of the exhibit.

On February 12—Lincoln’s birthday, February 18—Presidents’ Day, and April 27, the Division of Rare and Manuscript Collections will host a variety of open house events, including guided tours and curator talks. During the spring semester, the exhibit is open for viewing Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; and closed on Sundays.