Lake Washington Technical College (LWTC) is hosting an authentic replica of President Abraham Lincoln’s casket through Wednesday, Dec. 9.

The casket is on display in the college library (Room T215), located on the second floor of the Technology Building. Visitors should try to park in the West Parking Lot.

“We are very pleased to host this exhibit,” said Maria Macedo, Dean of Instruction for LWTC’s Allied Health & Fitness Programs. “It is a replica of a unique piece of American history and showcases our new Funeral Services program.”

LWTC’s Funeral Services program is a two-year associate of science degree program, which prepares students for employment as either a funeral service director or professional embalmer. The program gives students the skills needed to start a flexible, well-paying career in the growing field of funeral services.

The Lincoln replica casket is identical to the original, with two exceptions. The solid walnut replica does not have a lead-lining or the formal silver nameplate, inscribed with Lincoln’s birth and death dates, on the top. The length measures 6-foot, 6-inches and it is completely covered in black broadcloth with a white satin interior. The outside features silver colored handles and silver tacks (pearls) extending the entire length. The casket is one of five constructed by the Batesville Casket Company of Batesville, Ind. One is part of the permanent collection at the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum in Springfield, Ill., while the others are shipped throughout the nation for display. The caskets were created using the only known surviving photograph of Lincoln lying in state in 1865. There is a waiting list for the replicas that extends into 2011.

For more information on the Funeral Service program, or any of Lake Washington Technical College’s 38 programs, which includes more than 100 degree and certificate options, visit www.lwtc.edu.