Abilene Prepares to Honor Its Hometown Leader in a BIG Way
The “I Like Ike” campaign slogan, one of the most iconic in American history, is about to be celebrated in a big way in Abilene. The Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is proud to announce the launch of its latest project, the World’s Largest I Like Ike Button. Following the success of Abilene’s World’s Largest Belt Buckle, the new campaign aims to enrich visitors’ experiences with an additional Eisenhower-themed “Ike Sites” attraction in downtown Abilene. The button, crafted by local artist Jason Lahr of Fluters Creek Metals Works, the same artist behind the belt buckle, will be prominently placed north of Little Ike Park. This installation will provide a unique photo opportunity and draw visitors from the belt buckle and the nearby Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. According to the Smithsonian Museum’s National Museum of American History, the “I Like Ike” campaign was based on the nickname of Dwight Eisenhower, a five-star general who became famous not only for his military leadership but also for his presidency. Eisenhower’s role as the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces in Europe during World War II made him an attractive candidate for both Republicans and Democrats in the post-war era. The campaign gained momentum with the catchy slogan, and Eisenhower won the presidency in 1952 and 1956.