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What could be as sweet as romance? Delicious desserts! The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum will present both, plus a visit from Abraham and Mary, at "It's a Sweet Affair" on Thursday, July 16.

Guests will be able to chat with the Lincolns (portrayed by Fritz Klein and Pam Brown) and other historic interpreters before heading to the museum's Union Theater. There, Abraham, Mary and other characters will discuss romance and relationships in Springfield of the 1840s and '50s. They'll read from letters that tell stories of love and happiness but also scandal and divorce.

"It's a Sweet Affair" features desserts from Secret Recipes, music by the Blackwater String Ensemble and a display of letters and artifacts connected to the Lincolns. There's also a photo booth where visitors - especially couples - can get a picture of their romantic evening at the museum.

The event begins at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 16. The price is $35 or $31.50 for museum members. For tickets, visit www.PresidentLincoln.Illinois.gov and click the "Sweet Affair" button or call (217) 558-8934.

If they want, guests can get into the spirit of the evening by wearing period clothing. "It's a Sweet Affair" is presented in conjunction with the Springfield Art Association and hosted by their curator of collections, Erika Holst.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum holds an unparalleled collection of Lincoln documents, photographs, artifacts and art. It also has some 12 million items pertaining to all aspects of Illinois history, making the library one of the nation's leading institutions for genealogy and history research.

The museum is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. For information on all our events, visit www.TenYearsLincoln.com.