Dedication Outside of Old Main
Material Significance- The Debates
The site of Old Main holds immense historical significance as a major landmark in the history of abolitionism and anti-slavery sentiments. As the location of the fifth debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas and the only material site of the seven debates still standing, it serves as an integral part of the history of Knox College. The plaques outside of the building and the displays inside commemorate Lincoln's establishment in the city of Galesburg and his fight against slavery. As pictured on the left, Douglas argued for states' individuality whereas Lincoln argued against the immorality of slavery. Lincoln is praised for his overall anti-slavery sentiments but what is not discussed is his outlook on the value of African Americans in society.
The Mythic Significance of Lincoln's perspective
According to NPR, Lincoln was not an abolitionist at the time of the seven debates, in fact, although he believed that slaves should be free, he believed that they were not equal to white people and that they should go back to Africa after being freed. Upon visiting Knox for the first time, one of the first things that those visiting the school are told upon arrival is the historical significance of the building of Old Main as the location of the debates between Lincoln and Douglas. The truth surrounding Lincoln's opinion on abolitionism does not align with the founders of Galesburg or Knox and therefore represents a hypocritical viewpoint that does not reflect the sentiments of racial equality that the College holds as such an important value.
