LINCOLN - The way Abraham Lincoln historian Paul Gleason figures it, Aug. 27, 1853, probably wasn't too much different than August 27, 2008.

It was probably a sunny day with temperatures in the middle 80s and not too much humidity.

On that date in 1853, Illinois Central Railroad lawyer Abraham Lincoln poured watermelon juice from a tin cup onto the ground, christening the town that still bears his name. The event began the sale of lots for the new community.

On Wednesday, five actors re-created that scene as part of a series of events leading up to the 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birthday in February. It took place in a park at Broadway and Chicago streets near the actual christening site while about 50 people, including about 30 schoolchildren, watched.

"It was probably a beautiful summer day," Gleason said. "Of course those outfits they wore at the time made it hot no matter what the temperature was."

Portraying Lincoln for the ceremony Wednesday was Lincoln interpreter Greg Bergschneider of Jacksonville. Members of the Logan Railsplitting Association played other key figures.

"I enjoy portraying a young Abe Lincoln," Bergschneider said. "He was a guy involved in so many things and so many great speeches and moments. I learn something every time."

According to the story, Lincoln, was reluctant to name the city Lincoln because "anything named Lincoln never amounted to much."

The city in Illinois is the only Lincoln named for him before his presidency and christened by him personally.

The event was sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County and the Lincoln, Illinois Bicentennial Commission.