FRANKLIN GROVE — The Historic H.I. Lincoln Building in Franklin Grove is starting a new lease on life. Originally built in 1860 as a dry goods store by a cousin of Abraham Lincoln, the building served many uses over the next 135 years.
Very seriously deteriorated by 1995, a group of community minded historians began a five year restoration project. When the building reached a usable state in the year 2000 a relationship with the Lincoln Highway Association, that continues to this day, began.
While the building is currently closed for installation of new windows, interior cleaning and repainting, a new boardwalk and many other upgrades, the refurbishment will work around a Nov. 23 two show concert date by the internationally renowned musical duo of Marty McCormick and Brian Fitzgerald known as Switchback.

Upon re-opening when renovations are complete, the building will be known as the Lincoln Highway Interpretive Center. New management for both the interpretive center/souvenir sales and the ongoing music shows will be named before re-opening at a date to be determined.
Souvenir selection will be upgraded and significantly expanded in Lincoln Highway items plus a wide selection from other area tourism attractions.
Progress can be monitored on Facebook by going to H.I. Lincoln Building.