Caterpillar Inc. Donates $1 Million to Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan and First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today accepted a $1 million donation from Caterpillar Inc. for the construction and operation of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

"Caterpillar has been a wonderful corporate citizen in Illinois and we are grateful for this significant contribution to the Lincoln Library Foundation," Governor Ryan said. "During these difficult times in our nation, it's essential that we preserve and spread the legacy of President Abraham Lincoln, and Caterpillar is helping us do just that."

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a $115 million project that is a partnership of the State of Illinois, the City of Springfield and the federal government. The complex will house the world's largest collection of Lincoln artifacts and documents, as well as state-of-the-art exhibits that bring Lincoln's legacy to life.

Jerry Flaherty, Caterpillar Group President presented the governor and Mrs. Ryan with a check for $1 million. "Caterpillar is proud to honor the life and ideals of one of America's greatest leaders through our contribution to the library. Abraham Lincoln's story of honesty, integrity and innovative thinking is one that deserves to be told, and we're glad this library will facilitate learning for thousands each year.

"President Lincoln and Caterpillar are icons in central Illinois, so this partnership is a natural one."

The Library and Museum complex will be located in downtown Springfield, a few blocks from several important historic sites: Illinois' Old State Capitol, where Lincoln served in the General Assembly, his former law offices, the only home he ever owned and the railroad depot where he made his famous farewell speech to his hometown.

"This library will be a place where people from all over the world can come together to learn about President Lincoln's outstanding leadership," said Mrs. Ryan. "I'd like to thank Caterpillar Inc. for the generous donation. These funds will help us make this library an international destination for students and scholars alike."

A live camera shot connected to the Internet currently shows a broad view of the construction area in downtown Springfield. To watch the Lincoln Library's construction, visit the LincolnCam. Several views will zoom in on the library, the next-door site of the museum and nearby Union Station, an historic train depot that will be converted into a "gateway" building for the library and museum complex.

Caterpillar Inc. is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. Headquartered in Peoria, Illinois, the company posted 2000 sales and revenues of $20.18 billion.