Watch Scott Schroeder Discuss Lincoln's Life in Indiana

By: Kelsey S. Johnston

April 30, 2025

Baltimore, Maryland

Lincoln Group board member and resident Hoosier Scott Schroeder recently discussed the story of Abraham Lincoln’s life in Indiana with LGDC member and his program is now available on the Lincoln Groups You Tube channel..

While often claimed as a resident of Kentucky and Illinois, Lincoln’s 14 formative years in Indiana are often overlooked. Schroeder explained Lincoln’s formative years in Indiana and how he grew into the man, politician, and leader while he was there.  As he grew older, Lincoln increased in his skills with the plow and, especially, the axe. In fact, in later life, he described how he “…was almost constantly handling that most useful instrument" to combat the “trees and bogs and grubs” of the “unbroken wilderness” that was Indiana in the early 19th century.

The demands of life on the frontier left little time for young Abraham to attend school. As he later recalled, his education was acquired “by littles” and the total…did not amount to one year.” But despite the limitations, his parents encouraged him in every way possible. Soon, his eyes were opened to the joy of books and he became a voracious reader.

Schroeder is a professional health care provider working in clinical practice in the Bloomington, Indiana area. He is also an independent historian and researcher, focusing on Lincoln and the Civil War. He has been involved in research and manuscript preparation for several articles and book projects and has led tours of Lincoln-related sites. Along with project collaborator Dave Wiegers, he co-developed an online map showcasing examples of Lincoln sculptures worldwide.

In addition to his role on the Lincoln Group board of directors, Scott serves on the boards of the Abraham Lincoln Association and the Abraham Lincoln Institute. He also serves on the board of advisors for the Lincoln Forum. He is a member of the Society of Civil War Historians and is president of the Monroe County Civil War Roundtable in Bloomington. 

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