By Megan Pankow
News Correspondent

     Last Saturday afternoon at the South Dayton Village Square, President Abraham Lincoln (portrayed by Jeff Bloomquist) visited the town.

     Bloomquist, of Jamestown, has been portraying President Lincoln for 20 years. His decision to do this was based on his love of history. He also said his interest was due to having members of his family in the military.

     As a child,Bloomquist was sick at home at one point,which then allowed his curiosity of history to bloom, reading while ill.

     This year is a busy year for Lincoln portrayers. This is the bicentennial celebration of Lincoln’s birth in 1809.

     An interesting relation Lincoln has to this area is that at the time Lincoln was running for government, he visited a little girl named Grace Bedell from Westfield, while on his way to Washington, D.C. in 1861. She wrote to him prior to his visit to encourage him to grow facial hair. She was convinced if he did he would get more votes and win. He took this little girl’s advice and felt he owed Grace a visit, and so he did.

     As time goes on, Bloomquist keeps finding unique information on Lincoln. He says, “That’s the fun of it.” He encourages everyone to read and learn as much fun and unique information as possible to keep things interesting.

     Along with Bloomquist’s/Lincoln’s appearance, the village had a “historic” setting. Early American furniture from South Dayton’s Mayor Karen Strickland was set up, a display of some of her great-grandmother’s belongings.

     A short informational speech on the history of Cattaraugus County, compiled by Louise and Adolf Zollinger, was presented by Laural Killock of South Dayton. It wasn’t until 1890 that the name South Dayton was used. Prior to that, it was known as Pine Valley.

     Adding to the historic feel of the day, the Town of Dayton Historical Society had a Civil War display. Ruth Bennett, town historian/town clerk/town registrar had a display featuring a couple: Barzilla Merrill and his wife, Roba. This couple died within one day of each other during the reign of President Lincoln. A letter, from husband to wife, was on display that was written just the day before the husband was killed on the battlefield. He was buried there at the battlefield and his wife was buried in Cottage. For many years there was a regular service at the grave site.

     Town of Leon Historical Society was also keeping up with the theme based on the time of Lincoln. Pat Bromley, Leon historian, and Sandy Prior, a member of the Society, were dressed in vintage clothing. They offered a listing of upcoming events for the Leon Historical Society, including a flea market and quilt display on Saturday, Sept. 12. Every other Saturday until October, a flea market will be held.

     Also, on Oct. 3, there is an “Extreme Cowboy Family Event.” Riders will rein their horses through a course and complete tasks throughout. There are beginner, intermediate, and open divisions. It is $15 per horse/rider combo. All riders will receive a prize regardless of how they place. Food and other activities are scheduled for Leon’s Fall Festival the same day. More information is to come.

     Those who attended last Saturday’s event seemed very interested in getting to know more about President Lincoln and his time. In fact, Lincoln’s favorite cake was baked and all had the opportunity to try a piece. Of course, “Lincoln” truly enjoyed a piece of his birthday cake, especially since he wasn’t expected to blow out 200 candles!