Ford's Theatre opens center to study Abraham Lincoln

WASHINGTON (AP) – The theater where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated is preparing to open a new museum and education center in downtown Washington to explore the 16th president's life and lasting legacy.

The Ford's Theatre Center for Education and Leadership has been constructed in a building across from the famous theater and next door to the row house where Lincoln died. The new museum is part of a $60 million project to create a destination for learning about Lincoln.

Exhibits will address the aftermath of Lincoln's death and the evolution of his legacy. There is also workshop space for teachers and students, and a distance-learning lab.

The center opens to the public on Lincoln's birthday, Feb. 12. It hosts another free open house on President's Day before beginning normal tours Feb. 21.

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AP-WF-02-08-12 1406GMT