History was made again as two elementary schools Hardinsburg Elementary and Irvington Elementary were the first in the county to explore the past at the historic Judge Joseph Holt home on April 12, 2016, the anniversary of the beginning of the Civil War.

Mrs. Beth Bennett, Guidance Counselor at H.E.S. understanding the importance of education opening the mind and expanding it planned the educational field trip for the fifth grade students to inspire and motivate pupils to observe and learn from President Abraham Lincoln’s (Larry Elliott’s) presentation portraying the life of the 16th President at the historic home of Lincoln’s top legal advisor for the U.S. Army, Brigadier General Joseph Holt who was Lincoln’s Judge Advocate General.

The students arrived hearing the “Battle Hymn of the Republic”. An introduction welcoming students was given by Breckinridge County Judge Executive Maurice Lucas. Judge Lucas spoke about the national importance of the Holt home, how they would learn about Lincoln’s life, and enjoy a tour learning the history of Judge Holt’s legacy, and home.

Lincoln’s portrayal began with his birth, and humble beginnings, his desire for an education, the stories and events in his Kentucky years, moving to Indiana, how he mastered the desire to become a lawyer, and to lead our nation and unite our country saving out democracy and freeing the slaves. Numerous visual aids were used to tell the story of our most beloved President. Students were attentive as they experienced History Alive and were involved with a fun filled day.

Mrs. Susan Dyer, Author of “Lincoln’s Advocate” and President of the Friends of the Holt Home, Inc. shared the important history of the Holt home and how the legacy of Joseph Holt was connected to President Abraham Lincoln and the United States and how Holt’s dedication and deserving legacy makes the historic Holt home hold a special place in the JAG Corps’ history.