Local paranormal researcher Chad Lewis

Old Abe Remembered
Eau Claire Weekly Telegram | March 24, 1904

The eagle which is the property of Eagle Post No. 52 G.A.R. was beautifully decorated with a wreath and flowers surrounded with the stars and stripes by Eagle Corps No. 20, W.R. Corps, Wednesday afternoon in honor of Old Abe, the war eagle, and the history of Old Abe was read, with a beautiful description of his war record. Remarks were made touching on his life and referring to the fire in the capitol building at Madison, on which unfortunate occasion the taxidermized remains of the noble bird were destroyed.

Chad’s Take: Old Abe, Supernatural Bird

If you live in the Chippewa Valley you probably know at least a little bit about Old Abe – due to the various remnants of his story that are still scattered throughout our community. However, one important part of Old Abe’s history that is unfamiliar to many is the supernatural reputation that was placed upon him during the Civil War. Shortly after joining the war with Wisconsin’s troops, Old Abe began to rouse stories of his protective power due to the fact that his handlers always managed to escape harm. Word starting spreading that anyone carrying the popular bird would be protected from all harm. Sure enough, it appears the legends were true because throughout the war, not one person was wounded or killed while carrying Old Abe. Of course disbelievers quickly attributed this seemingly good fortune to nothing more than blind chance. Yet other, more superstitious folks, actively sought out the opportunity to handle Old Abe with the hopes that the legends surrounding would prove true. Even though Old Abe is long gone, I still make an effort to occasionally visit his plaque, and also I make sure I root for Memorial High School (even though I am a North High alum) with the off chance that his protective powers may just continue beyond the grave. 

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