Illinois e-News Release

Illinois Conservation Foundation

Jenny Vaughn

217-785-2003

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Conservation Foundation is proud to announce the release of its 2025 collectible Illinois state park holiday ornament, featuring the iconic bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln reading on horseback at Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site in Menard County. A beloved symbol of Illinois history, the statue greets visitors at the entrance to the park, capturing a moment that reflects Lincoln’s early life as well as his love of learning.

Now in its third year, ICF’s Illinois state park ornament series celebrates the natural and cultural history of Illinois. The 2025 edition is a three-inch die-cast enamel ornament that highlights the spirit of Lincoln’s New Salem and honors one of the state’s most visited historic sites.

Ornaments are available exclusively at ilconservation.org for $15.99, including shipping and handling. Proceeds benefit ICF’s conservation and public lands programs statewide.

“Lincoln’s New Salem reminds us that conservation isn’t just about protecting land, it’s about preserving the stories that shape our state,” said Jenny Vaughn, executive director of the Illinois Conservation Foundation. “We’re proud to honor that legacy in this year’s ornament and continue building a collection that celebrates all corners of Illinois.”

ICF encourages supporters to collect the full series. Limited quantities of the 2023 and 2024 ornaments featuring Starved Rock and Giant City state parks are still available while supplies last.

The Illinois Conservation Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to protecting Illinois’ natural and historic treasures. Through strategic partnerships and fundraising initiatives, ICF supports conservation education, park improvement projects, and outdoor access programs that connect people to the land and legacy of Illinois.