Even at this early day the settlers in New Salem were infected with the general desire to join in the march toward intellectual improvement.

To aid in this object, they had established a club entitled the New Salem Literary Society.

Before this association, the studious Lincoln was invited to speak.

Mr.R.B.
Rutledge, the brother of Anne Rutledge, says of the event: "About the year 1832 or 1833, Mr.Lincoln made his first effort at public speaking.
A debating club, of which James Rutledge was president, was organized and held regular meetings.

As Lincoln arose to speak, his tall form towered above the little assembly.