President Lincoln visits Colfax library

COLFAX- Friends of the library and Colfax Chamber of Commerce welcomed Keith Deaton as President Lincoln Thursday, Nov. 17 at the Center.

Whitman County Library Executive Director Cody Allen, stated that the impersonator looks remarkably like Abraham Lincoln, "He is in character and knows his life in intimate detail," Allen said, noting that the impersonator was available for people to talk with.

There was a reception with drinks for the 16 President of the United States at 5:30 p.m for adults. Attendees were able to meet President Lincoln and enjoy a historical account of his life. There was an event for children at 3:30 p.m., Deaton was the presenter for the library's regular third Thursday program.

During the children's program Deaton, "Lincoln," impressed upon the children the importance of appreciating what they have in today's world. "You have a library," he said, noting that they did not have such a big chance to educate themselves in his day. "You're very privileged, and I want you to remember that as you grow up, and possibly have kids of your own," he added. Further stating that it's important to be able to share knowledge with the next generation.

"We thought it would be a fun post election event for everyone," Allen said, "And a fun fundraiser," he added, noting that there will be drinks for everyone, "it's a good chance to bring people together to support the library."

Keith Deaton, 79, was born and raised in Eastern Washington, and has been impersonating Abraham Lincoln for over 30 years. Deaton is part of the Washington State Civil War association, which does reenactments.

"I was an educator for 25 years, and an elementary teacher and principal," Deaton said, noting that he has done a lot in the education field.

Deaton explained that he has a BA in Education with a major in U.S. history from Central Washington State College, and a Master's degree, Elementary Principal's Credential from WSU.

Since he is thin, tall, and very tall Deaton explained one of his colleagues said he looked like Lincoln, he explained. They told him he should dress up like Lincoln to talk to their fifth grade class. Then another teacher wanted him to do it for their class too, "It went on from there. I have done national, state, and local," he said, noting he couldn't count the amount of times he's performed.

Deaton further explained that what he talks about in his presentations has to do with the audience he is performing for "I like to show the humorous side of Lincoln," Deaton said, noting that he also shows Lincoln's serious side in his portrayal. "I love when the audience asks questions."

Judge Gary Libey dressed up like the Superior Justice of Lincoln's time, and "Lincoln'' recited the Gettysburg Address at the adult presentation. Deaton stated that he normally doesn't recite it at his presentations, but the anniversary of the Gettysburg Address was two days later, having happened on Nov. 19, 1946, "This is a special case," he said.

Allen further stated that Judge Gary Libey funded the program, and got in touch with the library to get the program started, "we really appreciate his support for this program, and just for his support of the library overall," Allen said.