What does being “self made” mean?  To most it is the Horatio Alger story of going from rags to riches.  However, in Lincoln’s time, being self made also meant to improve oneself through good morals, character, lifelong learning so that he/she could be a better citizen. In doing so a person might bring wealth to him/herself and family, but also might contribute social, intellectual and material improvements to the community and society in general.

Some of the individuals featured are:

Otis Bullard: Panorama Artist

Orson S. Fowler: Phrenologist and Octagon House Advocate

Cordelia A. Greene: Woman Physician

Robert G. Ingersoll: Secular Humanist

William Muldoon: Professional Boxer and Health Advocate

Ely S. Parker: Native American Engineer, Presidential Military Secretary in Civil War.