Historian Kevin Wood brings Lincoln to life in Thanksgiving program

Standing over 6 feet tall and wearing a wide-brimmed stovetop  hat, Kevin Wood cuts a striking figure as Abraham Lincoln. The historian from Adrian, Michigan, began portraying the 16th U.S. president—who served from 1861 until his assassination in 1865—due to their uncanny physical similarities.

Wood and Lincoln even share the same height. As Lincoln once described himself, he was “six feet, four inches nearly” (but actually 6’ 3”).

“I first portrayed Mr. Lincoln in 2000,” Wood said. “What was initially a hobby turned into a side job and eventually into a full-time career about 10 years ago. I’ve always had an interest in history and went to a high school at Metamora Township High School in Metamora, Woodford County, Illinois. Which is the same town that holds the courthouse Lincoln used to visit while riding the judicial circuit.”

Now performing under the title “Abraham Lincoln by Kevin Wood,” he has captivated audiences for over two decades. His repertoire has taken him to prestigious venues, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Lincoln Heritage Museum, and the Chicago History Museum.

Most recently, Wood brought his program, Lincoln and Thanksgiving, to the Palos Park Public Library, 12330 Forest Glen Boulevard, Palos Park, on Saturday, Nov. 23. During the event, Wood—speaking as Lincoln—narrated the origins of Thanksgiving as a national holiday, established during Lincoln’s presidency.

“It was a reminder that despite whatever difficulties we might be experiencing, we can still find reasons to be thankful,” said Emily Hampston, the library’s adult services and outreach manager.

Hampston expressed appreciation for Wood’s return to the library.

“Funnily enough, we thought to book Mr. Wood when he walked through the library doors as Abraham Lincoln,” she said. “Whenever Mr. Wood is in the area for a program, he usually drops by neighboring libraries to check in and catch up. During his last visit, we discussed a fall program highlighting Thanksgiving.

“He (Kevin) truly looks like Abraham Lincoln and is extremely knowledgeable about Lincoln and America’s history. When he walks into the building, it’s as if a celebrity has entered. People love Lincoln. Children, history buffs, and patrons alike all get to learn more about our state and nation’s history. It was a great opportunity to reflect on history and lessons from the past.”

Wood’s presentation detailed Lincoln’s 1863 proclamation, issued on Oct. 3, which declared the last Thursday of November as a day of thanksgiving and prayer. Lincoln’s goal was to foster unity amid the Civil War, establishing what is now the modern Thanksgiving tradition.

“My hope is that everyone who attended now has a better understanding and appreciation of our nation’s history, particularly the history of the Thanksgiving holiday,” Wood said.

The audience of more than 40 attendees listened intently, with many impressed by Wood’s performance. Susan Sims, a Palos Park resident, was particularly captivated.

“I’m a history buff, so this drew my attention right away,” Sims said. “I like to come out to all of the library’s programming. It’s always very educational.”

Through programs like Lincoln and Thanksgiving, Wood  continues to bring history to life, reminding attendees of the enduring legacy of one of the nation’s most transformative leaders.