Thursday talk to focus on dedication in 1853 of Canton’s Christian University

QUINCY — The Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum will hold its second entry in the History of Happy Hour program series at 5:15 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15 at the museum, 128 N. Fifth.

The talk, titled “Slavery and Freedom in the Tri-States: A Case Study of The September 1853 Dedication of Canton’s Christian University,” will be led by Scott Giltner, a history professor at Culver-Stockton College and museum advisory board chairperson. A mini reception will be held at 5 p.m. with a brief question-and-answer session following the presentation.

In a press release, Giltner said, “We are delighted to continue the History Happy Hour series. These special events provide an opportunity to enhance understanding of the societal conditions during the Lincoln era. Further, these events allow us to showcase our newly renovated exhibit hall with all-new interactive video exhibits surrounding Lincoln’s rise to the presidency and Quincy’s role in shaping American history.”

The dedication of the Christian Church’s new university on the hilltop in Canton, one of the greatest celebrations in the history of northeast Missouri, occurred 170 years ago on Sept. 14, 1853. Thousands were in attendance to celebrate the achievement, including numerous notable personages from Canton, Quincy, Hannibal and surrounding areas.

The public is welcome, and there is no cost to attend. Donations to the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum will be accepted. For more information, visit the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum website at www.lincolndouglasdebatemuseum.com

The purpose of Quincy’s Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum is to celebrate and educate the public about the Lincoln-Douglas debate, arguably the most important event of national significance in the city’s history. Founded in 2010 with extensive remodeling and a relaunch in 2023, the museum is located at 128 N. Fifth across from the debate site in Washington Park.

There is no admission cost to visit the museum, which is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed Sundays and most major holidays.