The Hays Public Library will host Dr. Damon Talbott of the University of Kansas as he presents “Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Ball” at 6 p.m. Thursday in the Schmidt Gallery.

The presentation is set within a historical context and brings a vivid experience of how Americans were cooking, eating, and celebrating in the nineteenth century. Talbott will present original documents such as the menu and newspaper accounts of the party as well as explain the history of agriculture and cuisine of the nineteenth century to explain why certain foods were on the menu.

Desserts that were featured at the ball will be provided for all who attend after the presentation.

The National Constitution Center and the American Library Association Public Programs Office organized the traveling exhibition, which was made possible by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The traveling exhibition is based on an exhibition of the same name developed by the National Constitution Center.