The Lincoln Forum’s 2005 The Richard Nelson Current Award of Achievement was presented to John McClarey and Frank J. Williams. John McClarey is the sculptor who created the statuette for the award, titled “Freedom River.” Frank Williams is the author of Judging Lincoln, published by Southern Illinois University Press. Mr. Holzer, writer of the forward to Mr. Williams book, presented the awards.

Jay Winik gave the keynote address. He explained the origin of the Civil War and compared it to other wars in history. Mr. Winik is the author of April 1865: The Month That Saved America, published by HarperCollins. Following his remarks, he responded to questions and comments from members of the audience.