This article originally appeared in the Southern Illinoisan.

CARBONDALE – A 19th century set of undergarments hangs in the window of the former Victoria’s Secret store in the University Mall, now bearing the banner “Victorian Secrets.”

The historical humor aims to draw visitors into the former store space, where two exhibits from Gen. John A. Logan Museum in Murphysboro remain on display through the holiday season.

The displays are “Across Five Aprils,” which details the evolving relationship between Logan, President Abraham Lincoln and Gen. Ulysses S. Grant during the Civil War, and “Egypt, Lincoln and the Civil War,” examining Southern Illinois during the 1860s in terms of relations with African Americans, Lincoln and the war itself.

“It came out nice,” museum director Mike Jones said of the exhibit. “I’m very proud of the way it turned out.”

Both displays were supported by the Illinois Humanities Council, which also helped the museum host a series of regional events and presentations this fall focusing on the history of Southern Illinois during the Civil War.

Jones said he appreciates the support of the statewide organization and that it has allowed the museum new outlets and opportunities that may otherwise have been unavailable.

“The Humanities Council has helped us a small museum to produce very professional exhibits,” he said.