Monday 18th May. Abraham Lincoln

Up early for breakfast as we wanted to tour Springfield and visit Abraham Lincoln's Museum and tomb. We set off just after 9 am and walked a few blocks to the old train station. It was converted to a museum a few years ago and featured some of the costumes from the film. We coldness 't get in, so walked around the town. It was really quaint, they have tried to preserve some of how the town looked when he was alive. 

We went into a gift shop and was greeted by a Labradoodle called Winston. He was so excited to see us, his tail was waging 19 to the dozen. His owner put him behind the counter and he immediately left up onto the counter and laid down, surveying all around. He was a really lovely looking dog, a puppy really.

We eventually went a booked tickets for the Abraham Lincoln museum, we were greeted by some really nice volunteers, very welcoming and so pleased that we were visiting their town.

The Abraham Musem was a fascinating place. It covered all his life, had displays of where he grew up, his first house when married, and a replica of his time in White House. I don't think people outside of America appreciate what he did for civilisation and mankind in general. He was vehemently opposed by people on both sides of the argument but stuck by his principles.

It was such a pity that 1.3million people died fighting both for and against his ideals.

The exhibits were really interesting, especially the recreation of his tomb, creepy really. What amazed me was the fact that more people saw hm when he was dead than when he was alive!

We then went to his tomb, very impressive. The Americans really know how to show respect to ther ex presidents.

We then set off on the trip to St Louis!

Following the guide we travelled down old R66 all the way.

We met a guy with a replica Model A Ford that was painted in Pepsi Cola logo. He was also towing a trailer and doing R66. Am sure we will see him again on our travels.

Whilst we stopped to fill up with gas, I managed to spray Pat with petrol on his new shorts, so he had  to change them.

We followed the Interstate nearly all the way to Missouri. Nearly went wrong on the Interstae close to the border but managed to go to the visitors centre. Met a really nice guy called Dave who gave us maps, directions, ideas and good wishes for our journey. We set off and arrived at our hotel, checked in with no isssues.

Hotel was really great, very old decor. Bed is massive, lots of space in the room. Breakfast is included as is 3 free drinks per night between 5.30 and food  aaaaaat that time as well. 

We were all hungry, so grabbed a salad as we didn't t to eat too much. When the salads arrived they were massive!!!!! Managed to get through them but we were all stuffed.

Showered and went out, but struggled to find anywhere to eat and drink. Ended up watching baseball next to the St Louis Cardinals stadium on wa 35 ft TV!

Had a few beers and came home.