Lincoln Library expands poets collection with Masters papers

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum has expanded its collection on Illinois poets with a trove of documents, manuscripts and photographs related to Edgar Lee Masters.

The museum announced Tuesday that the Edgar Lee Masters Home and Museum in Petersburg has given it hundreds of items, including an 1834 letter by Masters' grandfather and family photos.

Masters Home and Museum President Kathy Olesen says the presidential library can ensure the documents are preserved and shared with more people.

Lincoln Library Director Alan Lowe says the museum is best known for its collection on the 16th president, but also has millions of items documenting 200 years of Illinois history and is "honored" to have the Masters papers.

Masters is best known for his 1915 book "Spoon River Anthology."