Abraham Lincoln Museum
Historic Project for Furniture Doctor
The recent unveiling of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield [Illinois] has drawn thousands of viewers wanting to catch a glimpse of the newest Lincoln heritage under-taking. Bob and Renae Ernst consider themselves fortunate to have played an intracate role in the project.
The couple own and operate The Furniture Doctor and Renae's Window Fashions & Upholstery in Girard, specializing in furniture restoration and custom window treatments and upholstery. They initially met with the museum officials and the Nasal Company in early January, working on window drapery treatments, flags and bunting throughout the new museum structure, which features 26 scenes depicting two journeys within two theaters, of the life of Lincoln.
The first journey begins in a long cabin and continues through the campaign and election of Abraham Lincoln. It includes scenes of slave trading, New Salem store, the Lincoln-Douglas debates and election of Lincoln to the presidency.
The second journey initiates from the White House until Lincoln's death and return to Springfield. Scenes include replicas of the White House, Lincoln's bedroom where Willie died, the White House Kitchen and Lincoln's cabinet room. Originality of environment was attempted in each room. The Nasal Company of Florida was subcontracted to build the scenes down to the fireplace. The Ernst's worked with Nasal employees to duplicate draiperies, bedding, and even the leather folders which held copies of the Emancipation Proclamation given to the cabinet members. Nine years of research by the company went into the historical accuracy of the reproductions.
Bob and Renae also worked along side art directors from BRC and California for authenticity. In order to duplicate the Lincoln bedroom, a photo was provided from the time period. For the scene in which Lincoln laid in state in the Old State Capital, an artitst's sketch from the time period was used, reproducing everything from the rosettes and fabric and swags on the casket. For the Ford's Theater scene in which Licoln was shot, an early photograph was used for the drapery and flag duplication.
A complete set of blueprints was provided to the Ernsts for authenticity of the building, and in the process of working on the project, recounting and reprodicing the events of Illinois history, the couple say they made several friends from around the U.S. from California to Florida, friends who still maintain contact.
Bob and Renae basically completed their work in March, but continued making final perfection touch-ups through April 18 of this year [2005], the day prior to President Bush's visit to the city.
Several area residents have been associated with the project, including former Girard native Tim Patrick, on the architectural/engineering end of the project; Mike Higginson of Girard who provided some painting services; Art and Mary Ehrat of Virden and Helen Young of Springfield, formerly of Girard, who were trained to serve as tour guides.
-Gold Nugget
September 14, 2005
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