Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, ALPLM

Schoolchildren visiting the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Civil rights advocate and U.S. Rep. James Clyburn will speak at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum as part of America's 250th birthday celebration. 

ALPLM said that the event will begin at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 7. 

Clyburn will discuss his new book, "The First Eight: A Personal History of the Pioneering Black Congressmen Who Shaped a Nation."

There will also be a performance of ALPLM's short play, "Small Beginnings," about Robert Smalls, who is featured in the book. A discussion will follow. 

According to ALPLM, Clyburn is in his 17th term in Congress, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom and led the Congressional Black Caucus. 

This is a free event, but seats must be reserved in advance. 

Additional information is available online. 

Copyright 2026. WAND TV. All rights reserved.