On This Day Archives
2009 Postings
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JANUARY 1, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to General George McClellan regarding the general’s “uneasiness” about “the doings” of Congress’s Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War. Lincoln explains, “You may be entirely rlieved…The gentlemen of the Committee were with me an hour and a half last night; and I found them in a perfectly good mood.”
JANUARY 1, 1863 -- President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation free-ing “all persons held as slaves” residing in the states that “are this day in rebellion against the United States.”
JANUARY 2, 1865 -- At noon, President and Mrs. Lincoln hold a “New Year reception” at the White House where they greet cabinet members, foreign dignitaries, and the general public. A newspaper reports, “The President received all with the greatest cordiality, and took each individual by the hand…In order to prevent the handsome carpets…from being soiled by the mud and dirt…canvas was spread over them…Many pressed so determinedly to gain admittance that several ladies and children were nearly suffocated, and in some instances ladies and children were raised above the crowd…to shield them from the pressure.”
JANUARY 3, 1861 -- From Springfield, Illinois, President-elect Lincoln writes to U.S. Senator William Seward, of New York. Seward warned, “A plot is forming to seize the Capitol on or before” the March 4 inaugural. Lincoln expresses more concern about February 13, the day that the electoral college will meet to certify the election. He writes, “If the two Houses refuse to meet…or meet without a quorum of each, where shall we be? I do not think that this counting is constitutionally essential to the election; but how are we to proceed in absence of it?”
JANUARY 4, 1855 -- In the evening, Lincoln is at the state house, where he speaks to a group that seeks to encourage Illinois’s black residents to relocate to Liberia, in Africa. A newspaper reports, “Mr. Lincoln was emphatically non-committal, and no man could have handled the subject with more…tact. He stated that it was a subject entered into by men of all parties and shades of thought, and that if it could be accomplished without trouble…he would be in favor of the project…No one can object to this position.”
JANUARY 5, 1858 --Lincoln writes to Robert Kinzie, of Chicago, regarding the U.S. Circuit Court case of Johnston v. Jones and Marsh. Plaintiff William Johnston is suing William Jones and Sylvester Marsh in a dispute over property rights involving Chicago’s lakeshore. The federal govern-ment cut a channel across the litigants’ lots, an action which resulted in sand washing up along the shoreline and over time creating new land nearly 1,200 feet wide. Lincoln represents Jones and seeks information from Kinzie, who once owned the disputed property and who “laid out the addition” now in question.
JANUARY 6, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes a second letter to Mrs. Abraham (Jane) Hoge, of Chicago, Illinois, regarding her request to obtain a “staff officer” appointment for her son. Previously, Lincoln outlined the “conditions” that would allow him to proceed with the appointment. He reiterates, “A Major-General must be found who has not already the full complement of Staff-officers…and who is willing to take your son as one of them. Without these I should violate both law, and an indispensable courtesy, to thrust your son, or any one else, upon any Major General’s staff.”
JANUARY 7, 1861 -- President-elect Lincoln writes to U.S. Senator Lyman Trumbull, of Illinois, regarding the question of whether or not Lincoln should appoint the controversial U.S. Senator Simon Cameron, of Pennsylvania, to a cabinet post. Chase warned, “Our truest friends in the Senate” do not support Cameron for Treasury Secretary. Lincoln writes, “What I would most like…would be to retain his place in the Senate…I may mention before closing that besides the very fierce opposition to [Cameron] he is more amply recommended for a place in the cabinet, than any other man.”
JANUARY 8, 1856 -- In a case on appeal in the Illinois Supreme Court, Lincoln’s clients are suing the inventor of a self-rocking baby cradle. In 1853, Alexander Edmunds obtained letters patent on the cradle’s ornamental design. He sold his right, title, and interest in the cradle to Lincoln’s clients, George Mayers and John Mayers. The Mayerses sued for fraud after they learned that they had only purchased the rights to the design and not to the machinery. On this day, Lincoln asks the Court to rehear the case, and the Court considers the request.
JANUARY 9, 1852 -- In the evening, at Springfield’s courthouse, Lincoln delivers a “committee…report” regarding Hungary’s struggle for independence. The resolution committee pays tribute to Louis Kossuth, who escaped Hungary after Austria and Russia quashed the independence movement. Kossuth is in America to gather support for the Hungarian cause. The committee proclaims, “Kossuth… [is] the most worthy and distinguished representative of the cause of civil and religious liberty on the continent of Europe.” Meeting attendees differ over the degree to which the U.S. should intervene on Hungary’s behalf.
JANUARY 10, 1846 -- In the Illinois Supreme Court case of Wren v. Moss et al., Abraham Lincoln and Stephen T. Logan “resist” a defense motion to continue the suit. Lincoln and Logan represent Clarissa Wren, who is suing William Moss, who is the executor of her deceased ex-husband’s estate. In 1844, the Peoria County Circuit court granted Aquilla Wren a divorce from Clarissa. Aquilla died before Clarissa could obtain an alimony hearing. She is appealing to the Supreme Court to revise the divorce decree.
JANUARY 11, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes two letters to Secretary of War Simon Cameron regarding a new role for Cameron within the administration. In the “official” letter, Lincoln notes, “As you have, more than once, expressed a desire for a change of position, I can now gratify you.” Lincoln plans to nominate Cameron for “Minister to Russia.” Lincoln labels a second letter, “Private,” and in it he confides that the new position will allow Cameron “to render services to your country, not less important than those you could render at home.”
JANUARY 12, 1864 -- In the evening, President Lincoln and First Lady Mary Lincoln host a reception at the White House. Cabinet members, military personnel, foreign dignitaries, and a “brilliant gathering of ladies” are in attendance. A newspaper reports that Mary Lincoln hosted “with usual grace and courtesy.” The paper notes, “The President seemed in excellent spirits, and gave a cordial welcome to all comers, humble or distinguished.”
JANUARY 13, 1858 -- Lincoln writes to Charleston, Illinois, attorneys Usher Linder and Henry Bromwell regarding a U.S. Circuit Court case. In preparation for the suit, Linder and Bromwell sent Lincoln a document that they wished him to look over, to amend if needed, and to file with the court. Lincoln informs them that he “made some little corrections in the declaration and commenced the suit.” He includes with his letter additional documents that the court requires with instructions on how to complete them.
JANUARY 14, 1855 -- Lincoln writes to Illinois Congressman Richard Yates regarding the upcoming U.S. Senate election. At the time, the state legislature elected U.S. senators. Whig-candidate Lincoln is running against incumbent Senator James Shields, a Democrat. Lincoln reports, “At the meeting of the Legislature we had 57 to their 43…we understand they claim to have 48 votes. If they have that number, it is only that they have already got some men whom we have all along suspected they would get; and we hope they have reached the bottom of the rotten material.”
JANUARY 15, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General Henry Halleck and introduces former lieutenant-governor of Illinois Gustave Koerner. With Halleck’s consent, Lincoln would like “to make [Koerner] a brigadier-general” under Halleck’s command. Lincoln assures Halleck that Koerner will help to ease the tensions among the German-American Union soldiers who are upset over the “want of pay.” Lincoln refers to Koerner as a “personal friend” and adds, “He will simply be an efficient, zealous, and unselfish assistant to you.”
JANUARY 16, 1844 -- Lincoln writes and signs a memorandum of agreement in which he contracts to purchase a house from Reverend Charles Dresser in return for $1,200, and “a clear title” to a lot and “building [located] in Springfield, on the block immediately West of the Public square.” According to a deed, Dresser’s home is located “‘in Block number Ten in E. Iles addition…city of Springfield’” (now Eighth and Jackson). The parties agree that Lincoln will take “possession of said premises, on or before the first day of April next.”
JANUARY 17, 1863 -- President Lincoln signs a resolution that Congress passed concerning military pay. The resolution allows the treasury secretary “to make an additional issue of one hundred millions of dollars…for the payment of the army and navy.” Lincoln seeks a “prompt discharge of all arrears of pay due to our soldiers and our sailors.” He takes the opportunity to address the over-issuance of government and bank notes. Lincoln explains, “A judicious measure to prevent the deterioration of this currency, by a reasonable taxation of bank circulation or otherwise is needed.”
JANUARY 18, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes a note to “Whom it may concern” regarding John Thornton, a member of Company E of the 61st New York volunteers. Lincoln explains, “Thornton … comes to me voluntarily under apprehension that he may be arrested, convicted, and punished as a deserter … I hereby direct him to report forthwith to his regiment for duty, and upon condition that he does this, and faithfully serves out his term, or until he shall be honorably discharged for any cause, he is fully pardoned for any supposed desertion heretofor committed.”
JANUARY 19, 1865 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General Edward Ord regarding Frank Judd, who currently assumes an alias. Judd is the son of Norman Judd, who managed Lincoln’s 1860 presidential campaign and who now serves as Minister to Prussia. Lincoln explains, “You have a man in arrest for desertion passing by the name of Stanley—William Stanley I think—but whose real name is different. He is the son of so close a friend of mine that I must not let him be executed. Please let me know what is his present and prospective condition.”
JANUARY 20, 1840 -- State Representative Lincoln writes to his law partner, John T. Stuart, who is serving in Congress. Lincoln discusses local and national issues and he reports that in December, he “made a big speech” concerning the banking system. He adds, “[The speech] is in progress of printing in pamphlet form. To enlighten you and the rest of the world, I shall send you a copy when it is finished.”
JANUARY 21, 1856 -- Lincoln and forty-eight others sign a petition requesting that Illinois Governor Joel Matteson pardon James H. Lee, of Springfield. At the November 1855 term of the Sangamon County Circuit Court, Lee pleaded guilty to grand larceny for the theft of $26. The court sentenced Lee to one year in the state penitentiary. The petitioners note, “Although…Lee may have been guilty…we believe that it was the first time he was ever guilty of a crime & we sincerly think he…will be an honest & upright man in future.”
JANUARY 22, 1861 -- From Springfield, Illinois, President-elect Lincoln writes to Isaac Fenno in acknowledgement of Fenno’s recent letter and gift of “a very substantial and handsome overcoat.” “Multifarious demands upon my time and attention” prevented Lincoln from responding “sooner.” He adds, “Permit me now to thank you sincerely for your elegant and valuable New Year’s Gift, and the many kind expressions of personal confidence and regard contained in your letter.”
JANUARY 23, 1862 -- In the evening, President Lincoln and his wife, Mary, attend the Washington Theater to watch the New York Academy of Music perform selections from two Italian operas—Giuseppe Verdi’s “Il Trovatore” and Vincenzo Bellini’s “I Puritani.” A newspaper reports, “The President and Mrs. Lincoln were present, and on his appearance in one of the private boxes he was greeted with hearty applause.”
JANUARY 24, 1865 -- President Lincoln writes to Vice President-elect Andrew Johnson regarding the necessity of Johnson’s presence in Washington, D. C. for the March 4 inaugural. Johnson, who is the Military Governor of Tennessee, wishes to remain in Tennessee until April 3, when the state will formally re-enter the Union. Lincoln replies that he has consulted with “several members of the Cabinet,” and “it is our unanamous conclusion that it is unsafe for you to not be here on the fourth of March. Be sure to reach here by that time.”
JANUARY 25, 1865 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton regarding a Jewish officer, Leopold Blumenberg, of Maryland. Lincoln seeks some consideration for Blumenberg, who “was removed” from service. Lincoln writes, “I think he should have a hearing. He has suffered for us & served us well—had the rope around his neck for being our friend—raised troops—fought, and been wounded. He should not be dismissed in a way that disgraces and ruins him without a hearing.”
JANUARY 26, 1861 -- From Springfield, Illinois, President-elect Lincoln writes to Major David Hunter regarding arrange-ments to travel to Washington, D. C. for the March 3 inaugural. Lincoln explains, “I have determined to leave here for Washington on February 11th, subject to be changed for any extraordinary cause. I find the journey will have to be a circuitous, and rather tedious one. I expect the pleasure of your company.”
JANUARY 27, 1849 -- From Washington, D. C., Cong-ressman Lincoln writes to John Murray seeks a federal position and asks Lincoln to intervene on his behalf. Lincoln answers, “I entertain the strongest personal friendship for you; but I have more than one application … before yours, appealing to my feelings in the same way. I know not what control of this matter may fall into my hands; and I can only say … that … when the time comes, give your claim, among others, that consideration, which is due to impartiality, fairness, and friendship.”
JANUARY 28, 1862 -- In the evening, President Lincoln and his wife, Mary, host a reception at the White House. A newspaper reports, “Mr. Lincoln took his position in the Blue Room, and shook hands with those who passed him for two hours. At the expiration of this time he took the arm of Mrs. Senator [Zachariah] Chandler, and proceeded to the great East Room, and promenaded but a short time, and then withdrew from the scene. Mrs. Lincoln was never more elegantly attired, and of course was the centre of attraction.”
JANUARY 29, 1848 -- From Washington, D. C., Congressman Lincoln writes to a treasury department official, John McCalla, regarding a deceased soldier, Andrew Hodge, who “died somewhere on the Rio Grande in the fall of 1846.” Lincoln explains, “His father…wishes to draw the arrearage of his pay, and also to get his land warrant.” Hodge’s father “sent the papers to [McCalla’s] office last summer, and received a note … acknowledging the receipt of them, since when, he has heard nothing … Will you please inform me what, if any thing, I can do to advance the matter?”
JANUARY 30, 1847 -- In an appeal case before the Illinois Supreme Court, Lincoln argues for the plaintiff Thomas Cowls. Previously, the Edwards County Circuit Court granted Ann Cowls a divorce from Thomas. Later, and again in the Edwards County Circuit Court, Ann sued Thomas to gain custody of the children and to obtain an increase in alimony for the children’s maintenance. The court granted Ann custody and maintenance of $60 per year for five years. In the appeal, Thomas Cowls argues that the circuit court refused to allow him to take depositions.
JANUARY 31, 1859 -- Springfield attorneys Lincoln, Milton Hay, and Benjamin Edwards examine Henry Atkins prior to finding him “qualified to practice law.” Afterward, in a letter to his brother, Howard Atkins, of Jacksonville, Illinois, Henry writes, “I passed a thorough examination this afternoon before three of the best lawyers in Illinois.” Atkins boasts that he “only missed one question & that was a trivial mistake. The committee complimented me very highly, and said it had been along time since a student had passed so good an examination before them.”
FEBRUARY 2, 1850 -- The day after Abraham and Mary Lincoln’s three-year-old son Edward Baker Lincoln dies, a newspaper reports, “The Funeral will take place this morning at 11 o’clock from the residence of Mr. Lincoln.”
FEBRUARY 2, 1861 -- From Springfield, Illinois, President-elect Lincoln writes to the Louisville (Kentucky) Journal editor, George Prentice, who asked Lincoln to provide an advance copy of the inaugural address. Lincoln responds that due to “the now rapidly shifting scenes, I shall have to hold it subject to revision up to near the time of delivery.”
FEBRUARY 3, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General George McClellan regarding their “different plans for a movement of the Army of the Potomac.” Lincoln queries, “Does not your plan involve a greatly larger expenditure of time, and money than mine?...Wherein is a victory more certain by your plan than mine?...In case of disaster, would not a safe retreat be more difficult by your plan than by mine?” Lincoln pledges, “If you will give me satisfactory answers…I shall gladly yield my plan to yours.”
FEBRUARY 4, 1861 -- From Springfield, Illinois, President-elect Lincoln writes to newspaper editor and political insider Thurlow Weed, of Albany, New York. Lincoln seeks to dispel the notion that he endorses a candidate to fill secretary of state nominee William Seward’s U.S. Senate seat. Lincoln admits that he discussed the matter with a New York state legislator, “but always with an express protest that my name must not be used in the Senatorial election, in favor of, or against any one. Any other representation of me, is a misrepresentation.”
FEBRUARY 5, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes a comment on a letter addressed to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton from Richard Edwards, who seeks clarification regarding a United States “oath of office requir[ement].” Edwards, of Tennessee, wishes to lead a Union regiment, but previously, he was “forced…to take an oath ‘to support the confederate constitution.’” Lincoln writes, “On principle I dislike an oath which requires a man to swear he has not done wrong. It rejects the Christian principle of forgiveness on terms of repentance. I think it is enough if the man does no wrong hereafter.”
FEBRUARY 6, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General Nathaniel Banks concerning an assignment for Gustavus Scroggs, of Buffalo, New York. Lincoln explains, “Scroggs…has been appointed colonel of a colored regiment, and is to report…to you at New Orleans.” Lincoln proposes that Banks order Scroggs’s regiment “to Texas, charged to collect and organize the colored men of that State, it being believed that such a nucleus as this regiment, and such an experienced organizer of troops as Col. Scroggs…will prove highly successful.”
FEBRUARY 7, 1846 -- Lincoln writes to John Hardin, of Jacksonville, Illinois, in response to Hardin’s criticism of Lincoln’s interest in becoming a candidate for congress. Hardin’s con-gressional term ended nearly a year earlier and Edward Baker now holds the seat. Lincoln writes, “It is certain that struggles between candidates, do not strengthen a party; but who are most responsible for these struggles, those who are willing to live and let live, or those who are resolved, at all hazzards, to take care of ‘number one’?”
FEBRUARY 8, 1842 -- In the evening, Lincoln is in Springfield, Illinois, where he delivers a eulogy for Benjamin Ferguson before a meeting of the Washington Temperance Society. Lincoln remarks, “In his intercourse with his fellow men, he possessed that rare uprightness of character, which was evidenced by his having no disputes or bickerings of his own, while he was ever the chosen arbiter to settle those of his neighbors. In very truth he was, the noblest work of God—an honest man.”
FEBRUARY 9, 1855 -- The day after he lost a bid for a U.S. senate seat, Lincoln writes to Congressman Elihu Washburne, of Galena, Illinois. At the time, the state legislature elected U.S. senators, and ultimately, it chose Lyman Trumbull. Lincoln attributes his loss to Governor Joel Matteson. Lincoln writes, “He has been secretly a candidate…I regret my defeat moderately, but I am not nervous about it. I could have headed off every combination and been elected, had it not been for Matteson’s double game—and his defeat now gives me more pleasure than my own gives me pain.”
FEBRUARY 10, 1864 -- In the evening, a fire destroys President Lincoln’s “private stables.” A newspaper reports, “[Mr.] Cooper, the President’s private coachman, left the stable to get his supper about 8 o’clock, and he was first notified of the fire by the President himself, who discovered the smoke … The building … contained … six horses, all of which were burned to death…One of these ponies was all the more highly prized, in consequence of having once been the property of Willie, the deceased son of Mr. and Mrs. President Lincoln.”
FEBRUARY 11, 1859 -- In the evening, Lincoln delivers a “Discoveries, Inventions, and Improve-ments” lecture in Jacksonville, Illinois, where he is a guest of the Phi Alpha Society. Lincoln argues, “In the world’s history, certain inventions and discoveries occurred, of peculiar value, on account of their great efficiency in facilitating all other inventions and discoveries. Of these were the arts of writing and of printing—the discovery of America, and the introduction of Patent-laws.”
FEBRUARY 12, 1809 -- Abraham Lincoln is born near Hodgenville, Hardin County, (now LaRue County), Kentucky. He is the second child of Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks Lincoln. FEBRUARY 12, 1849 Congressman Lincoln writes to David Davis, of Bloomington, Illinois, regarding the numerous individuals who seek patronage positions, specifically that of General Land Office Commissioner. Lincoln writes, “I could take the Land office” but doing so “would be a final surrender of the law, and…every man in the state, who wants it himself, would be snarling at me about it.”
FEBRUARY 13, 1861 -- In Columbus, President-elect Lincoln speaks to Ohio’s General Assembly. Lincoln acknowledges that he has revealed little about “the policy of the new administration.” He explains, “In the varying and repeatedly shifting scenes of the present, and without a precedent which could enable me to judge by the past, it has seemed fitting that before speaking upon the difficulties of the country, I should have gained a view of the whole field…being at liberty to modify and change the course of policy, as future events may make a change necessary.”
FEBRUARY 14, 1860 -- Lincoln writes to Oliver Hall, Jacob Fullinwider, and William Correll. The Sangamon County residents seek a clarification of Lincoln’s 1858 “House Divided” speech. Lincoln cites “the whole paragraph” in question, and he writes, “Look over it carefully, and conclude I meant all I said and did not mean anything I did not say…[Stephen] Douglas attacked me upon this, saying it was a declaration of war between the slave and the free states. You will perceive I said no such thing, and I assure you I thought of no such thing.”
FEBRUARY 15, 1855 --In Springfield, Lincoln hosts members of the Illinois legislature. A newspaper reports, “Members of the Legislature met…and partook of a dinner provided by the liberality of Mr. Lincoln, at which there was besides good eating, good speeches made, and excellent sentiments offered. The affair passed off very pleasantly.”
FEBRUARY 16, 1861 -- En route to Washington, D. C., President-elect Lincoln’s train stops at Westfield, New York, where “a large crowd” greets him. Lincoln notes that Westfield is the home of twelve-year-old Grace Bedell, who “advised me to let my whiskers grow.” Lincoln adds, “Acting partly upon her suggestion, I have done so; and now, if she is here, I would like to see her.” Before he departs, Lincoln locates the “beautiful girl, with black eyes” and gives her “several hearty kisses…amid the yells of delight from the excited crowd.”
FEBRUARY 17, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General William Rosecrans and reveals a strategy to offset Confederate “raids of rapidly moving small bodies of troops [that are]…harrassing, and discouraging loyal residents, supplying themselves with provisions, clothing, horses,…surprising and capturing small detachments of our forces, and breaking our communications.” Lincoln concludes, “I think we should organize proper forces, and make counter-raids.” He asks, “What think you of trying to get up such a corps in your army?”
FEBRUARY 18, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Massachusetts Governor John Andrew, who complained that “freemen and refugees from slavery, desiring to pass northward…seeking to better their fortunes…are forcibly and against their will detained.” Lincoln suspects that Andrew’s overriding objective is “to raise colored troops.” Lincoln responds, “If … it be really true that Massachusetts wishes to afford a permanent home … for … colored persons … I shall be only too glad to know it … I would not for a moment hinder from going, any person who is free by the terms of the proclamation or any of the acts of Congress.”
FEBRUARY 19, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Superintendent in the Office of U.S. Army Nurses Dorothea Dix. Earlier in the day, Dix wrote to Lincoln, presumably to offer her assistance in caring for the Lincolns’ eleven-year-old son, Willie, who is seriously ill. Lincoln writes, “The President’s & Mrs L’s thanks to Miss Dix for her kind inquiry by note of this morning. They do not, just now, need the nurse, but will preserve Miss Dix note, and call on her if occasion hereafter shall require.”
FEBRUARY 20, 1849 -- From Washington, D.C., Congressman Lincoln writes to Springfield attorney Charles Welles regarding some money that Welles asked Lincoln to deliver during a stopover in St. Louis. Lincoln explains, “To make it more secure than it would be in my hat, where I carry most all my packages, I put it in my trunk. I had a great many jobs to do in St. Louis; and by the very extra care I had taken of yours, overlooked it.”
FEBRUARY 20, 1862 -- Eleven-year-old William “Willie” Lincoln, the third child of President and Mary Lincoln, dies.
FEBRUARY 21, 1861 -- En route to Washington, D.C., President-elect Lincoln stops in Trenton, New Jersey, and addresses the state senate. Lincoln remarks, “You give me this reception … without distinction of party … This body is composed of a majority of gentlemen who, in the exercise of their best judgment in the choice of a Chief Magistrate, did not think I was the man…Nevertheless…they came forward here to greet me as the constitutional President of the United States…the representative man of the nation, united by a purpose to perpetuate the Union and liberties of the people.”
FEBRUARY 22, 1850 -- Lincoln writes to his client, Abraham Bale, of Petersburg, Illinois, regarding a Menard County Circuit Court case. Bale is suing Virgil Hickox and Asa Wright to collect $1,000, from a wheat sale. Lincoln writes, “I understand Mr. Hickox will go…to Petersburg tomorrow, for the purpose of meeting you to settle the difficulty…I sincerely hope you will settle it…If you settle, I will charge nothing for what I have done, and thank you to boot. By settling, you will most likely get your money sooner; and with much less trouble & expense.”
FEBRUARY 23, 1862 -- The Lincoln family mourns the death of Abraham and Mary’s eleven-year-old son Willie, who died on February 20. A newspaper reports, “The…body of little Willie Lincoln was visited to-day by a number of the friends of the family. The body was laid out in a plain suit of brown clothes, with a blossom of mignonette [flowers] on his left breast…The funeral will take place at two o’clock to-morrow afternoon. [Tad], the youngest son of President Lincoln is considerably better to-day.”
FEBRUARY 24, 1865 -- President Lincoln telegraphs Lieutenant General Ulysses Grant regarding Confederate prisoner-of-war Roger Pryor. Several individuals encouraged Lincoln to approve a prisoner exchange involving Pryor, who is incarcerated at New York City’s Fort Lafayette prison. Lincoln explains, “But…I have seen a despatch of yours showing that you specially object to his exchange. Meantime he has reached here & reported to me. It is an ungracious thing for me to send him back to prison, and yet inadmissible for him to remain here long. Can not you help me out with it?”
FEBRUARY 25, 1858 -- Lincoln responds to Mark Carley, who apparently asked Lincoln to speak to Illinois Governor William Bissell about installing Carley as a county judge. In November 1857, Carley ran for the office amid questions about whether or not he met the minimum residency requirements. Lincoln writes that he spoke to Governor Bissell “to day.” Lincoln explains, “He thinks you had no legal residence in the precinct when you were elected; clearly you were not entitled to vote in the precinct, and therefore he thinks you could not be lawfully voted for in it.”
FEBRUARY 26, 1864 -- President Lincoln issues an order concerning deserters. “The President directs that the sentences of all deserters, who have been condemned by Court Martial to death, and that have not been otherwise acted upon by him, be mitigated to imprisonment during the war, at the Dry Tortugas, Florida…The Commanding Generals, who have power to act on proceedings of Courts Martial in such cases, are authorized in special cases to restore to duty deserters under sentence, when in their judgment the service will be thereby benefited.”
FEBRUARY 27, 1861 -- Washington, D. C. Mayor James Berret extends an official welcome to President-elect Lincoln, who resides at the Willard’s Hotel. Mayor Berret expresses hope that Lincoln will “restore peace and harmony to our now distracted country.” Lincoln acknowledges “the ill feeling that has existed and still exists between the people of the section from whence I came and the people here.” He declares, “I have not now any purpose to withhold from you any of the benefits of the constitution … that I would not feel myself constrained to withhold from my own neighbors.”
FEBRUARY 28, 1857 -- In Chicago’s Metropolitan Hall, Lincoln speaks to Republicans, who gather to endorse a slate of “municipal officers.” Lincoln’s speech notes indicate that he stresses party unity. Lincoln writes, “We were without party history, party pride, or party idols. We were a collection of individuals, but recently in political hostility, one to another; and thus subject to all that distrust, and suspicion, and jealousy could do. . . .Let minor differences, and personal preferences, if there be such; go to the winds.”
MARCH 1, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton and intercedes on behalf of “a poor widow, by the name of Baird.” Lincoln explains, “[She] has a son in the Army, that…has been sentenced to serve a long time without pay, or…with very little pay. I do not like this punishment of withholding pay—it falls so very hard upon poor families…At the tearful appeal of the poor Mother, I made a direction that he be allowed to enlist for a new term…She…says she can not get it acted upon. Please do it.”
MARCH 2, 1860 -- Lincoln is in Dover, New Hampshire, where he delivers a political speech. He argues, “Wrong as we believe slavery to be, we should let [it] alone in the States where it exists…but we should not…allow it to spread over the National Territories and over-run us in the Free States. Neither should we…grop[e] for some middle ground between the right and the wrong…but having faith that right makes might, let us to the end, dare to do our duty.”
MARCH 3, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to the Union Army’s General-in-Chief Henry Halleck regarding Colonel Thomas L. Alexander. Alexander is the Deputy Governor of the Soldiers’ Home, Lincoln’s retreat located outside of Washington, D.C. Lincoln writes, “The relations between Col. T. L. Alexander and myself…have been very agreeable, and I feel great kindness for him and his family. I therefore shall be personally obliged, if you can, consistently with the public service, assign him some duty at Louisville, Ky., suitable to a retired officer.”
MARCH 4, 1865 -- In his second inaugural address, President Lincoln reflects on the ongoing civil war. Lincoln states, “Fondly do we hope—fervently do we pray—that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue, until all the wealth piled by the bond-man’s two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash, shall be paid by another drawn with the sword…it must be said ‘the judgments of the Lord, are true and righteous altogether.’”
MARCH 5, 1863 -- President Lincoln forwards $868, to U.S. Treasurer Francis Spinner. Lincoln received the money together with a letter from an anonymous writer, of Brooklyn, New York. The writer explained, “I came by [the money] in a dishonest manner…Being tempted, in an unguarded moment I con-sented to take it being very much in want of money but thanks be to my Saviour I was led by the influences of the Holy Spirit to see my great sin and to return it to you as the representative of the United States.”
MARCH 6, 1865 -- Sometime after 10 p.m., President Lincoln and his wife, Mary, arrive at the Patent Office, where they attend the inaugural ball. A newspaper reports, “Mrs. Lincoln…wore a white silk skirt and boddice, an elaborately-worked white lace dress over the silk skirt…The President was dressed in black, with white kid gloves…Shortly after midnight the Presidential party were escorted to the supper room.” After dinner, “President Lincoln and party withdrew about one o’clock…It is estimated that not less than four thousand persons were present at this ball.”
MARCH 7, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Congressman John Creswell, of Maryland, regarding a move to end slavery in that state. Lincoln writes, “I am very anxious for emancipation to be effected…I think it probable that my expressions of a preference for gradual over immediate emancipation, are misunderstood…My wish is that all who are for emancipation in any form, shall co-operate, all treating all respectfully…What I have dreaded is the danger that by jealousies, rivalries, and consequent ill-blood…the friends of emancipation them-selves may divide, and lose the measure altogether.”
MARCH 8, 1864 -- In the evening, at a White House reception, President Lincoln meets General Ulysses S. Grant, who is in Washington to accept a Lieutenant-General commission. The two men had not previously met face-to-face. A newspaper reports, “The President…approached and shook him by the hand. The meeting was mutually cordial.” The report adds, “There has never been such a coat-tearing, button-bursting jam in the White House as this soldier has occasioned. The cheering and waving of handkerchiefs was in the customary fury of Americans ever popular favorites.”
MARCH 9, 1849 -- Former congressman Lincoln writes to U.S. Treasury Secretary William Meredith regarding “appointments” that may be available to Illinoisans. Lincoln and newly-elected Illinois Congressman Edward Baker seek input “when a citizen of Illinois is to be appointed in your Department to an office either in or out of the state.” Lincoln adds, “[Baker and I] do not know you personally; and our efforts to see you have, so far, been unavailing.”
MARCH 10, 1849 -- Lincoln submits an application to the U.S. Patent Office. He states, “I…have invented a new and improved manner of combining adjustable buoyant air chambers with a steamboat or other vessel for the purpose of enabling their draught of water to be readily lessened to enable them to pass over bars, or through shallow water, without discharging their cargoes.” Lincoln provides a detailed description and “drawings” of the device.
MARCH 11, 1865 -- President Lincoln issues a proclamation in which he commands “all deserters to return to their proper posts.” Lincoln stipulates, “All deserters, who shall…on or before the tenth day of May 1865, return to service or report themselves to a Provost Marshal, shall be pardoned, on condition that they return to their regiments and companies, or to such other organizations as they may be assigned to, and serve the remainder of their original terms of enlistment, and, in addition thereto, a period equal to the time lost by desertion.”
MARCH 12, 1849 -- Lincoln writes to U.S. Secretary of State John M. Clayton and recommends John C. Richardson, of Booneville, Missouri, for that state’s U.S. Marshal position. Lincoln explains, “He is a family relative of mine.” He adds, “That being an office not in my own state, I feel I have no right to interfere, farther than to say he is a most worthy and competent man…and that, if without injustice to those whom it particularly concerns, he can receive it, I shall be gratified.”
MARCH 13, 1862 -- President Lincoln receives a “party of Massachusetts gentlemen,” who come to the White House to present Lincoln with an “elegant whip.” Lincoln remarks, “It is evidently expected that a good deal of whipping is to be done. But…let us not think only of whipping rebels, or of those who…think only of whipping negroes, but of those pleasant days which it is to be hoped are in store for us, when, seated behind a good pair of horses, we can crack our whips and drive through a peaceful, happy and prosperous land.”
MARCH 14, 1860 -- Lincoln writes to photographers William Beers and Sereno Mansfield, of New Haven, Connecticut. Beers and Mansfield asked “to take a…likeness” of Lincoln while he was on a two-week speaking tour of New England. Lincoln explains, “I could not call upon you before leaving. I would have written sooner, but the matter passed out of my mind; and is now recalled by the sight of your note. I beg you will believe me guilty of no intentional disrespect.”
MARCH 15, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes an opinion on a letter he received from Elijah Guion, Thomas Sloo, and John Morison, who represent St. Paul’s Church, of New Orleans, Louisiana. The men object to the military’s effort to take the “Church keys and property.” Lincoln writes, “The U.S. should not…in any way take charge of any church as such. If the building is needed for military purposes, take it; if it is not…let its church people have it, dealing with any disloyal people among them, as you deal with other disloyal people.”
MARCH 16, 1860 -- Lincoln writes to fellow-Republican Mark Delahay, of Leavenworth, Kansas. Delahay pondered Lincoln’s chances of becoming the Republican Party’s presidential nominee. Lincoln writes, “I can not enter the ring on the money basis—first, because, in the main, it is wrong; and secondly, I have not, and can not get, the money. I say, in the main, the use of money is wrong; but for certain objects, in a political contest, the use of some, is both right, and indispensable.”
MARCH 17, 1863 -- President Lincoln and his wife, Mary, tour the Patent Office. A newspaper reports, “This temple of American genius has lately received additions…Mrs. Lincoln, with characteristic unselfishness, has sent from the White House a splendid variety of the presents of the Kings of Siam and the Tycoon of Japan. Among the most noticeable is a suit of Japanese armor…for which the Knight of La Mancha would have given his boots…The President and Mrs. Lincoln seemed to enjoy greatly this respite from the cares of State among so many interesting objects.”
MARCH 18, 1863 -- Lincoln writes to Congressman Henry Davis, of Maryland. Davis seeks Lincoln’s “opinion” regarding the “organization of the House—on the election of Speaker.” Lincoln writes, “The supporters of the war should send no man to congress who will not go into caucus with the unconditional supporters of the war, and abide the action of such caucus, and support in the House, the person therein nominated for Speaker. Let the friends of the government first save the government, and then administer it to their own liking.”
MARCH 19, 1855 -- Lincoln writes to fellow attorney Henry Dummer, of Beardstown, Illinois, re-garding Lincoln’s former law partner. Lincoln writes, “[Stephen] Logan is willing to take the vacant seat on the [Illinois] Supreme Bench; but he is very anxious to not be beaten, if he is put on the track as a candidate…I am quite anxious for Logan’s election, first, because he will make the best Judge, & second because it would hurt his feelings to be beaten worse than it would almost any one else.”
MARCH 20, 1865 -- President Lincoln telegraphs Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant, who invited Lincoln to visit him “for a day or two” at City Point, Virginia. Grant explained, “I would like very much to see you and I think the rest would do you good.” Lincoln responds, “Had already thought of going immediately after the next rain. Will go sooner if any reason for it. Mrs. L. and a few others will probably accompany me. Will notify you of exact time, once it shall be fixed upon.”
MARCH 21, 1854 -- In the Morgan County Circuit Court, located in Jacksonville, Illinois, Lincoln represents defendant James Dunlap in the case of Selby v. Dunlap. Newspaper publisher Paul Selby is suing Dunlap for assault and battery. Dunlap allegedly beat Selby after the publisher accused Dunlap of political and financial misdeeds. Selby seeks $10,000, in damages. On this day, the jury “hear[s] the testimony…and part of the arguments of Counsel” before recessing until the next morning. Lincoln spends the night at the Mansion House hotel, located on Jacksonville’s square.
MARCH 22, 1858 -- Lincoln writes to Illinois Governor William Bissell to seek clemency for Samuel Jones and James Jones. A Logan County Circuit Court jury “found [them] guilty of stealing five…small hogs.” Lincoln explains, “I was not concerned in the trial…I have been appealed to, to say something in favor of their being pardoned. They are father and son… [Samuel Jones] is an old citizen…and his neighbors appear more anxious that he and his son should be pardoned, than I have known in any other case.”
MARCH 23, 1852 -- In the Sangamon County Circuit Court, a jury decides in favor of Lincoln’s client Joel Johnson in the case of Johnson v. McMullen. Johnson is suing John McMullen for “deposit[ing]…large quantities of Stable dung” near Johnson’s property. Johnson charges that the waste produces “offensive…smells, vapors and stenches,” and results in making the nearby homes “uncomfortable, unwholesome, and unfit for habitation.” Johnson seeks $200, in damages; the jury awards him $6.
MARCH 24, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to New York Tribune editor Horace Greeley regarding Lincoln’s recent call to Congress for a resolution to encourage the “abolishment of slavery.” Lincoln’s proposes that the government “compensate for the inconveniences public and private, produced by such change of system.” Lincoln favors “gradual” emancipation subject to the “vote of the people.” He adds, “I am a little uneasy about the abolishment of slavery in this District, not but I would be glad to see it abolished, but as to the time and manner of doing it.”
MARCH 25, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Commissioner of Public Buildings Benjamin French regarding a bill in Congress that removes French’s position “from the control of the Department of the Interior, and…enlarg[es] the powers and patronage of your office.” Lincoln continues, “The proposed change may be right for aught I know.” But, Lincoln adds, “If the change is made, I do not think I can allow you to retain the office; because that would be encouraging officers to be constantly intriguing, to the detriment of the public interest, in order to profit themselves.
MARCH 26, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Tennessee’s military governor, Andrew Johnson, and urges him to “rais[e] a negro military force.” The move would inspire Unionists because, Lincoln explains, “[You are] an eminent citizen of a slave-state, and himself a slave-holder.” Lincoln adds, “The colored population is the great available and yet unavailed of, force for restoring the Union. The bare sight of fifty thousand armed, and drilled black soldiers on the banks of the Mississippi, would end the rebellion at once.”
MARCH 27, 1842 -- Lincoln writes to his friend, Joshua Speed, of Louisville, Kentucky. Lincoln reveals his discontent since he ended the relationship with Mary Todd over a year ago. He writes, “Since then, it seems to me, I should have been entirely happy, but for the never-absent idea, that there is one still unhappy whom I have contributed to make so. That still kills my soul. I can not but reproach myself, for even wishing to be happy while she is otherwise.”
MARCH 28, 1865 -- President Lincoln writes to Great Britain’s Queen Victoria and acknowledges that foreign minister Lord Lyons resigned due to the “state of his health.” Lincoln writes, “[Lyons] has, I do not doubt…assured your Majesty, of the invariable friendship of the United States, and of their cordial good wishes for the prosperity and happiness of your Majesty’s Realm. I derive much satisfaction from the assurance contained in your letter, of the interest your Majesty takes in all that concerns the welfare and prosperity of the United States.”
MARCH 29, 1849 -- En route to Springfield, upon completing a term in Congress, Lincoln writes from Carrollton, Illinois, to Secretary of the Navy William Preston. Lincoln seeks Minnesota’s Land Office Register position for Dr. Anson Henry. Lincoln already recommended Henry to Secretary of the Interior Thomas Ewing. In fact, Lincoln “urged the appointment upon [Ewing] so pressingly, that I believe he will gratify me…if he does not for-get my anxiety about it.” Lincoln adds, “If you will, at some convenient moment, tell [Ewing] to remember Lincoln’s man for Register.”
MARCH 30, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Illinois State Auditor Jesse Dubois, who is “sorely disappointed” that Lincoln did not name J. P. Luse to head Minnesota’s Indian Affairs office. Lincoln explains, “I was…sorry…at not being able to give Mr. Luce the appointment…I could have done it; but it would have been against the united, earnest, and…angry protest of the republican delegation of Minnesota…So far as I understand, it is unprecedented, [to] send an officer into a state against the wishes of the members of congress of the State, and of the same party.”
MARCH 31, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General George McClellan regarding a recent military decision. Lincoln writes, “This morning I felt constrained to order [General Louis] Blenker’s Division to [Major General John] Fremont; and I write this to assure you that I did so with great pain, understanding that you would wish it otherwise. If you could know the full pressure of the case, I am confident you would justify it—even beyond a mere acknowledgment that the Commander-in-chief, may order what he pleases.”
APRIL 1, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General David Hunter regarding Hunter’s deployment of black soldiers at Jacksonville, Florida. Lincoln writes, “It is important to the enemy that such a force shall not take shape, and grow, and thrive, in the South; and in precisely the same proportion, it is important to us that it shall. Hence the utmost caution and vigilance is necessary on our part. The enemy will make extra efforts to destroy them; and we should do the same to preserve and increase them.”
APRIL 2, 1848 -- Congressman Abraham Lincoln writes to David Lincoln, of Virginia, regarding their shared family roots. David provided information that prompts Abraham to assert, “There is no longer any doubt that your uncle Abraham, and my grandfather was the same man.” Abraham shares information about various uncles and he asks, “What was your grandfather’s christian name? Was he or not, a Quaker?...Do you know any thing of your family (or rather I may now say, our family) farther back than your grandfather?...I shall be much pleased to hear from you again.”
APRIL 3, 1863 -- President Lincoln telegraphs Commander of the Army of the Potomac Major General Joseph Hooker, concerning Lincoln’s upcoming visit to Hooker’s headquarters. Lincoln and others will depart the next evening “on the boat; go over from Acquia-creek to your camp Sunday morning; remain with you till Tuesday morning, and then return. Our party will probably not exceed six persons of all sorts.” Lincoln’s traveling com-panions include his wife Mary, his son Tad, Attorney General Edward Bates, and journalist Noah Brooks.
APRIL 4, 1853 -- Abraham and Mary Lincoln’s fourth child Thomas “Tad” Lincoln is born in Springfield, Illinois.
APRIL 4, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to newspaper publisher Albert Hodges, of Frankfort, Kentucky, regarding slavery and presidential powers. Lincoln explains, “I am naturally anti-slavery. If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong…I felt that measures, otherwise unconstitutional, might become lawful, by becoming indispensable to the preservation of the constitution, through the preservation of the nation. Right or wrong, I assumed this ground, and now avow it.”
APRIL 5, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Mrs. Horace (Mary) Mann, of Concord, Massachusetts. He acknowledges receipt of a petition signed by 195 “persons under eighteen, praying that I would free all slave children.” Lincoln writes, “Please tell these little people I am very glad their young hearts are so full of just and generous sympathy, and that, while I have not the power to grant all they ask, I trust they will remember that God has, and that, as it seems, He wills to do it.”
APRIL 6, 1863 -- President Lincoln, his wife Mary, their son Tad, Attorney General Edward Bates, and others visit the Army of the Potomac’s headquarters, located near Falmouth, Virginia. A newspaper reports, “The visit…has served to relieve the monotony of camp life…It is pleasant also to see a lady in camp; and Mrs. Lincoln probably had a new experience in sleeping for the first time in her life in a tent.” Bates recalled that the presidential party “attended the review of Cavalry—in grand style…over 10.000 cavalry—the grandest sight I ever saw.”
APRIL 7, 1860 -- Lincoln writes to F. C. Herbruger, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and declines an invitation to “Lecture for the Harrison Literary Institute.” Lincoln explains, “I am not a professional lecturer—have never got up but one lecture; and that, I think, rather a poor one. Besides, what time I can spare from my own business this season, I shall be compelled to give to politics.”
APRIL 8, 1863 -- During a visit to the Army of the Potomac’s headquarters, near Falmouth, Virginia, President Lincoln “reviews…some sixty thousand men,” representing four infantry corps. Journalist Noah Brooks accompanied Lincoln’s party, and recalled, “It was a splendid sight to witness their grand martial array as they wound over hills and rolling ground, coming from miles around…The President [was]…delighted with the appearance of the soldiery…It was noticeable that the President merely touched his hat in return salute to the officers, but uncovered to the men in the ranks.”
APRIL 9, 1865 -- President Lincoln, his wife Mary, their son Tad, and others are on board the boat, “River Queen,” en route to Washington, D. C. from General Ulysses S. Grant’s headquarters in City Point, Virginia. In the afternoon, in Appomattox Court House, Virginia, Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia surrenders to Grant. Around 6 p.m., the Lincoln party arrives in Washington. A newspaper reports, “The President’s brief relaxation from the wearing duties of his position has had a beneficial effect, and he returns…in excellent health and spirits.”
APRIL 10, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Illinois Governor Richard Yates and State Treasurer William Butler regarding Illinoisan Major General John Pope, who is with the volunteer army. On the heels of Pope’s successful military campaigns, Yates and Butler ask Lincoln to “transfer…Pope to the regular army with his present rank as a token of gratitude to Illinois.” Lincoln responds, “I fully appreciate Gen. Pope’s splendid achievements with their invaluable results; but you must know that Major Generalships in the Regular Army, are not as plenty as blackberries.”
APRIL 11, 1863 -- In the evening, President Lincoln attends the Washington Theater to watch British burlesque actress Matilda Vining Wood portray “Pocahontas.” A newspaper reports, “President Lincoln was present and laughed some.” A critic once wrote, “Mrs. Wood is one of the few artists to whom it is impossible to be indifferent. The moment her voice is heard from the wing, the ear is attent, and when her saucy face appears, all eyes are…watchful lest they miss the comical, or impudent, or ludicrous, or mock-heroic byplay, which radiates over her features.”
APRIL 12, 1858 -- Lincoln endorses a petition addressed to Illinois Governor William Bissell regarding David Thompson. Two years earlier, a Woodford County Circuit Court jury found Thompson guilty of manslaughter and sentenced him to the Alton Penitentiary for eight years. Lincoln writes, “I was appointed by the court to defend…Thompson. I thought at the time his conviction was wrong, and I am now clearly of opinion he ought to be pardoned. I have recently been at Woodford; and the universal sentiment there seems to be in favor of his pardon.”
APRIL 13, 1865 -- President Lincoln writes to his friend and U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Davis regarding a conflict between Davis and U.S. Attorney General James Speed. Davis is upset over a matter involving Speed and Judge Samuel Parks, who serves on the Idaho Territory’s Supreme Court. Lincoln writes, “Seeing your letter was about our friend Sam. Parks, I handed it to…Speed without reading into it far enough to discover that you were a little sharp on him…It will never do for you and…Speed to be on other than good understanding.”
APRIL 14, 1865 -- In the evening, President Lincoln and his wife Mary attend Ford’s Theater to watch the play, “Our American Cousin.” Major Henry Rathbone and Clara Harris accompany the Lincolns. At approximately 10:15, John Wilkes Booth “enter[s]” Lincoln’s “private box,” and shoots the President. Several soldiers carry the wounded President to a nearby home. A newspaper reports, “The pistol ball entered the back of the President’s head… [and he] has been insensible ever since…It is not probable that the President will live through the night.”
APRIL 15, 1865 -- At 7:22 a.m., President Lincoln dies. The previous evening, John Wilkes Booth shot the President at Ford’s Theater. A newspaper eulogizes, “No man as known to history whose personal character was just such a ‘household word’…It was not a remote and dazzling character, admired…like that of a Napoleon…but it was rather that of an honest neighbor or relative… His distinguishing mental trait was that of eminent common sense. To this he added wonderful individuality and great astuteness and shrewdness in reconciling or overcoming mere political intrigues.”
APRIL 16, 1859 -- Lincoln writes to Rock Island Register editor Thomas Pickett, who invited Lincoln to speak in that city. Pickett also seeks to promote Lincoln’s candidacy for the “Presidency.” Lincoln replies that due to previous “engagements,” he must decline Pickett’s invitation. Lincoln adds, “As to the other matter…I do not think myself fit for the Presidency. I certainly am flattered, and gratified, that some partial friends think of me in that connection; but I really think it best for our cause that no concerted effort…be made.”
APRIL 17, 1848 -- Congressman Lincoln votes with the majority in favor of a House resolution to eliminate “all duties now levied” on French imports if France agrees to eliminate “duties” it imposes on American imports. The resolution represents a compromise from the original resolution that prompted Congressman Charles Hudson, of Massachusetts, to argue, “[The initial resolution] proposed to give to the gewgaws of French manufacture more consideration than the iron of Pennsylvania.”
APRIL 18, 1864 -- In the evening, President Lincoln is in Baltimore, Maryland, where he speaks at the Sanitary Commission Fair. Lincoln reflects, “When the war began, three years ago, neither party, nor any man, expected it would last till now…But we can see the past…and…we feel more hopeful…for the future.” Lincoln comments on the “rumor…of the massacre…at Fort Pillow…Tennessee…of some three hundred colored soldiers and white officers.” He vows, “It will be matter of grave consideration in what exact course to apply the retribution; but in the supposed case, it must come.”
APRIL 19, 1864 -- At the White House, President Lincoln and his wife, Mary, host the “last public reception of the season.” The large crowd waiting to enter overwhelms “all the repressive efforts of the military and police.” A newspaper reports, “Many of those who were caught in the jam lost portions of their clothing, torn away.” In the Oval Room, the Lincolns “received the guests with habitual kindness and cordiality.” The Lincolns proceed to the East Room and “after making a circuit or two…retired.”
APRIL 20, 1863 -- President Lincoln gives a “full and unconditional pardon” to John Cunningham, who is serving eight years in prison after a Washington, D. C. court “convicted [him] on two indictments for assault with intent to kill.” Lincoln notes that Cunningham “was but eighteen” when he committed the crime, and “his widowed mother is in distress for want of his supporting care.” Further, “the inspectors of the penitentiary, the Mayor of Washington, and other citizens have petitioned me in his behalf.”
APRIL 21, 1842 -- Lincoln writes to attorney Frederick Thomas regarding their client, Jonathan Flanders, of Lawrence County, Illinois. In the case to be heard in the U.S. District Court, in Springfield, Flanders seeks “to be declared a bankrupt and to be discharged from his debts.” Lincoln advises, “The personal attendance here of…Flanders is not absolutely necessary…One thing bear constantly in mind; that is, that unless I am furnished with money to pay cost as the case progresses, I can not move an inch…The whole cost, exclusive of lawyer’s fees, will be…about $20.”
APRIL 22, 1861 -- Around 11 a.m., approximately “twenty…highly respectable citizens of Baltimore,” arrive at the White House to meet with President Lincoln. The group requests that Lincoln “not…bring troops through Maryland at this time.” Lincoln responds that his goal is to “secure this Capitol to the Government, and protect the lives of its citizens.” A newspaper reports that Lincoln wishes to “to prevent bloodshed in Maryland,” but he will not hesitate to use “forc[e]” to maintain the line of “communication” between Washington and the “troops coming to its relief.”
APRIL 23, 1857 -- The case of Browning v. Springfield, Illinois, is back in the Sangamon County Circuit court, where the court hears “the argument of counsel” after which the court takes “time to consider” the matter. While walking in Springfield, plaintiff Oliver Browning fell and broke his leg. He retained Abraham Lincoln and William Herndon and sued the city for neglecting to keep its streets in repair. The jury found for the city, and Browning appealed to the Illinois Supreme Court, which reversed and remanded the judgment back to the circuit court.
APRIL 24, 1858 -- Lincoln is in Urbana, Illinois, where he serves as judge in the Champaign County Circuit Court case of Chaddon v. Beasley, et al., a dispute involving an unpaid promissory note. Lincoln, representing the Court, denies the defendants’ request “to plead to the merits” because they make their request “now at 8 colk P.M. of the last day of term,” which, Lincoln deems, “comes too late.” The Court clerk assesses the damages at $409.60, and the Court orders the defendants to pay plaintiff Lyman Chaddon the damages and the court costs.
APRIL 25, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to mental health authority Dr. John Gray, of Utica, New York, regarding Pvt. Lorenzo Stewart, whom a “military court, tried for murder and sentenced to death, his execution awaiting the order of the President.” Lincoln seeks to determine “Stewart’s sanity…at the time of the homocide.” Lincoln directs Gray to go to Elmira, New York, where Stewart is imprisoned in order to gather information and then to “report…to me…your own conclusions.”
APRIL 26, 1861 -- In the White House, President Lincoln addresses the “Frontier Guard, under the command of Senator [James] Lane of Kansas.” The Frontier Guard’s soldiers assist in defending “the neighborhood of the Executive Mansion.” Lincoln remarks, “I have desired as sincerely as any man…that or present difficulties might be settled without the shedding of blood…But if the alternative is presented, whether the Union is to be broken in fragments and the liberties of the people lost…you will probably make the choice, with which I shall not be dissatisfied.”
APRIL 27, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to eleven-year-old Luella “Lulu” Waldron, who is the daughter of Provost Marshal George Waldron, of the Dakota Territory. Lulu Waldron sent Lincoln some shirt “studs” made from a clay-based stone. Lincoln writes, “My Dear Young Friend Allow me to express to you my very sincere thanks for your kindness in sending me those elegant studs of Pipestone.”
APRIL 28, 1863 -- President Lincoln annotates a letter from Francis Capen, who claims to be a “Certified Practical Meteorologist—& Expert in Computing the Changes of the Weather.” Capen assures that his weatherforecasting talent will benefit the War Department. Lincoln writes, “It seems…Mr. Capen knows nothing about the weather, in advance. He told me three days ago that it would not rain again till the 30th. of April or 1st. of May. It is raining now & has been for ten hours. I can not spare any more time to Mr. Capen.”
APRIL 29, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to the commanding officer at Fort Randall, Dakota Territory, and requests consideration for John B. S. Todd, who is related to Lincoln’s wife, Mary. After recently completing a term as delegate in Congress, Todd prepares to return to the Dakota Territory. Lincoln directs, “Give him & his family such protection as you properly can in the event it becomes necessary. You will also afford them such facilities for crossing & recrossing the river there as are usually employed.”
APRIL 30, 1864 -- President Lincoln “pardon[s]” and frees twenty-five “Indian prisoners now in confinement at Camp McClellan near Davenport Iowa.” The men represent a portion of the Indians who have been confined since November 1862, as a result of the August 1862 Dakota uprising. Missionary Thomas Williamson and Special Commissioner to the Indians George Day wrote to Lincoln and urged him to release the prisoners. Day wrote, “In the name of humanity [I] beg that you will…order them released and sent to take care of their…families now perishing for want of food.”
MAY 1, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Gustavus Fox, who led an operation to supply Ft. Sumter, near Charleston, South Carolina. Before Fox could carry out the plan, Confederate forces fired upon the fort and later took control of it. Lincoln consoles, “For a daring and dangerous enterprize, of a similar character, you would, to-day, be the man, of all my acquaintances, whom I would select. You and I both anticipated that the cause of the country would be advanced by making the attempt…even if it should fail.”
MAY 2, 1854 -- In Pekin, Illinois, Lincoln files a plea for defendant Henry Hainline in the Tazewell County Circuit Court case of Keener v. Hainline. Hainline’s dog attacked plaintiff Henry Keener and “did…greatly lacerate, hurt and wound one of” Keener’s legs. The injuries caused Keener to become “sick, sore, lame, and disordered.” Keener is suing Hainline for $1,000 in damages. Hainline pleads “not guilty,” and the court empanels a jury. The jury “fail[s] to render a Verdict.” The court releases the jury and continues the case.
MAY 3, 1864 -- During a cabinet meeting, President Lincoln asks each member to “prepare, and give me in writing your opinion as to what course, the government should take” regarding the Confederates’ “recent capture” of Ft. Pillow, located in Tennessee. Preliminary reports indicate that “a large number of our colored soldiers, with their white officers, were…massacred after they had surrendered.” Lincoln awaits the report of a congressional committee that is investigating the April 12 incident.
MAY 4, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Dorothea Dix, who supervises the corps of U.S. Army nurses. Lincoln consults Dix regarding Nurse Rebecca Pomeroy, who assisted the Lincolns following the recent death of their son, Willie. Lincoln explains, “Mrs. [Elizabeth] Edwards (Mrs. L’s sister) was suddenly called home to-day by sickness in her own family. Mrs. Pomeroy is now at the White-House, and Miss Dix’ permission for her to remain two weeks, or any shorter time, if so long is not possible, would greatly oblige Mrs. L. and the President.”
MAY 5, 1834 -- In William Berry’s New Salem, Illinois, home, Abraham Lincoln and Mentor Graham serve as clerks in an election to pick a sheriff. Lincoln and Graham attest to the results certified by election judges Bowling Green, Hugh Armstrong, and David Whray. Lincoln casts his vote for David Dickinson, who receives 77 votes. The winner, Garrett Elkin, receives 84 votes, and Zechariah Peter places third with four votes."
MAY 6, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of the Treasury Salmon Chase and introduces James Gordon Bennett, Jr., whose father, Bennett, Sr., publishes the New York Herald newspaper. Lincoln encourages Chase to meet with Bennett, who offers “a fine Yacht of 160 tons burthen…[and] some other vessels of the same class” that may be of use in the government’s war effort. The Treasury Department employs ships to pursue vessels delivering war-related supplies to the South."
MAY 7, 1837 -- Lincoln writes to a romantic interest, Mary Owens, of Kentucky, about whether or not they should marry. He writes, “I…wish you would think seriously before you decide…My opinion is that you had better not do it. You have not been accustomed to hardship, and it may be more severe than you now immagine.” Lincoln adds, “Whatever woman may cast her lot with mine…it is my intention to do all in my power to make her happy and contented…there is nothing…that would make me more unhappy than to fail in the effort.”
MAY 8, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Commander of the Army of the Potomac Major General Joseph Hooker, regarding the General’s recent defeat at Chancellorsville, Virginia. Earlier in the day, Lincoln met with Brigadier General August Willich, whom the Confederates released from Richmond, Virginia’s Libby Prison. Lincoln explains, “[Willich] was there when our cavalry cut the roads in that vicinity. He says there was not a sound pair [of] legs in Richmond, and that our men, had they known it, could have safely gone in and burnt every thing & brought us Jeff. Davis.”
MAY 9, 1861 -- In the evening President Lincoln and his wife, Mary, host a reception for “commissioned officers, and their families.” Major Robert Anderson, whose forces strove to repel the Confederate attack on Ft. Sumter, arrives unnoticed. A newspaper reports, “The President…hastened in quest of the Major, and leading him forward placed him by his side.” Lincoln’s sons Willie and Tad “especially” admire Anderson, “and it was mentioned of one of them that in sitting for his photograph lately he insisted upon having…a picture of Major A. in his hand."
MAY 10, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Rhode Island Governor William Sprague and explains why he will not appoint Sprague’s choice to a postmaster position. Lincoln writes, “A different man…is recommended by both the Senators, and both the old Representatives of the State, and also by one of the new Representatives. In these cases the Executive is obliged to be greatly dependent upon members of Congress…I therefore beg you to be assured that if I follow the rule in this case…it will be with pain and not with pleasure, that you are not obliged.”
MAY 11, 1861 -- President Lincoln attracts attention as he and Minister to Spain Carl Schurz watch the Marine Band performing on the White House lawn. A newspaper reports, “A few soldiers went up and shook hands with Mr. Lincoln, and then a little girl who had followed them put up her lips, upon which the President saluted her with paternal dignity. Thereupon every little girl in the grounds, and some larger ones, rushed… towards the place, and for fifteen minutes the President had as much on his hands as one man might desire.”
MAY 12, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to U.S. Senator Samuel Pomeroy, of Kansas, regarding Pomeroy’s conflict with fellow Kansan and U.S. Senator James Lane. The two senators back different candidates seeking to fill a vacancy in the “Office of Assessor for the District of Kansas.” Lincoln writes, “I wish you and Lane would make a sincere effort to get out of the mood you are in. I[t] does neither of you any good—it gives you the means of tormenting my life out of me, and nothing else.”
MAY 13, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Abraham Hart, who is a member of Temple Mikveh Israel, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Hart sent Lincoln a copy of the prayer offered up by Mikveh Israel’s Rabbi Sabato Morais in response to Lincoln’s April 10 proclamation, in which he asked all the country’s religious congregations to pray for the “restoration of peace, harmony, and unity.” Rabbi Morais prayed, “Bless the President of the United States…for his sterling honesty, [and]…for his firmness and moderation.” Lincoln thanks Hart “for your expressions of kindness and confidence.”
MAY 14, 1855 -- Lincoln writes to Wilbur Boggs, of Kingston, Missouri, regarding Clandey Barnette, who served with Lincoln in the Black Hawk War of 1832. Boggs wrote to Lincoln on behalf of Barnette, who seeks proof of a “discharge” so that he may make a “Claim for Bounty Land.” Lincoln does not have access to the “old…papers of my company.” He writes, “I do…remember…that…Barnett, a small man, with a scar on his face...did serve…near forty [days]…in the company of which I had the command as Captain…and that he was entitled to an honorable discharge.”
MAY 15, 1858 -- Lincoln writes to newspaper publisher Jediah Alexander, of Greenville, Illinois, with regrets that he will be unable to speak at an upcoming Republican convention. Alexander hoped Lincoln’s presence might persuade former Whigs to side with the Republicans. He noted Lincoln’s “well-known … reputation here.” Lincoln explains, “It is too early, considering that when I once begin making political speeches I shall have no respite till November. The labor of that I might endure, but I really can not spare the time from my business.”
MAY 16, 1849 -- Lincoln writes to Secretary of the Navy William Preston and objects to the impending appointment of Justin Butterfield, of Chicago, to the Commissioner of the General Land Office post. Lincoln seeks the office for himself and he notes Butterfield’s minimal efforts to help elect President Zachary Taylor. Lincoln writes, “When you and I were almost sweating blood to have Genl. Taylor nominated, this same man was ridiculing the idea…If [Butterfield] went out of the city of Chicago to aid in [Taylor’s] election, it is more than I ever heard, or believe.”
MAY 17, 1852 -- In Paris, Illinois, Lincoln represents defendant John Duck in the Edgar County Circuit Court case of Noblitt v. Duck. In 1850, Francis Noblitt agreed to give Duck $50 in cash and one yoke of oxen worth $75 to mine gold in California for one year. Duck agreed to pay Noblitt one-third of the profits. According to Noblitt, Duck earned $1,000 in profits but refused to pay him. Noblitt is suing Duck for breach of contract and requests $300 in damages. On this day, the Court orders Duck “to plead by” May 19.
MAY 18, 1843 -- Lincoln writes to his friend, Joshua Speed, of Kentucky, and lates details about domestic matters, including the upcoming birth of Abraham and Mary Lincoln’s first child. Lincoln writes, “We are not keeping house; but boarding at the Globe tavern…Our room…and boarding only costs four dollars a week…I reckon it will scarcely be in our power to visit Kentucky this year. Besides poverty, and the necessity of attending to business, those ‘coming events’ I suspect would be some what in the way.”
MAY 19, 1860 -- Lincoln receives a delegation that traveled from Chicago to Springfield to inform him that the Republican Convention nominated him to be the party’s candidate for President of the United States. Lincoln remarks, “[I am] deeply, and even painfully sensible of the great responsibility which is inseparable from this high honor—a responsibility which I could almost wish had fallen upon some one of the far more eminent men and experienced statesmen whose distinguished names were before the Convention."
MAY 19, 1860 -- Lincoln receives a delegation that traveled from Chicago to Springfield to inform him that the Republican Convention nominated him to be the party’s candidate for President of the United States. Lincoln remarks, “[I am] deeply, and even painfully sensible of the great responsibility which is inseparable from this high honor—a responsibility which I could almost wish had fallen upon some one of the far more eminent men and experienced statesmen whose distinguished names were before the Convention."
MAY 20, 1853 -- In Clinton, Illinois, Lincoln represents the defendants in the De Witt County Circuit Court case of McCarrell v. Campbell et al. Plaintiff Andrew McCarrell claims that on May 9, 1852, defendants Charles Campbell, Greenberry Campbell, William Campbell, and Robert Crawford, “with great force and violence” beat and kicked McCarrell leaving him “greatly hurt, bruised and wounded.” McCarrell’s injuries “hindered and prevented [him] from performing and transacting his necessary affairs.” McCarrell seeks $3,000, in damages. A jury finds the defendants guilty and awards McCarrell $50.
MAY 21, 1861 -- At Washington, D. C.’s Navy yard, President Lincoln attends the funeral of Colonel Abram Vosburgh, of New York’s 71st Regiment. Vosburgh died after a brief illness, and a newspaper reports, “He leaves a wife and two children, both boys, one four years and the other eight months old… [Vosburgh] was exceedingly popular with his regiment.” After the services, Lincoln and members of the cabinet ride in a procession to the railroad depot, where
Vosburgh’s remains will be transported back to his home state.
MAY 22, 1861 -- Around noon, President Lincoln participates in a flag-raising ceremony at Washington, D. C.’s General Post Office building. A newspaper reports, “The ropes…were… placed in the hands of the President, when, amid the most deafening applause from the crowd below, the flag was raised to its prominent position… [The flag] remained for a moment or two motionless, when suddenly, a gentle wind rising from the north, its ample folds were extended…in a most graceful and beautiful manner, eliciting one universal outburst of applause from the assembled multitude.”
MAY 23, 1860 -- Lincoln writes to George Ashmun, who presided over the Republican National Convention, and accepts the party’s nomination for President of the United States. Lincoln writes, “Imploring the assistance of Divine Providence, and with due regard to…the rights of all the states, and territories, and people of the nation; to the inviolability of the constitution, and the perpetual union, harmony, and prosperity of all, I am most happy to co-operate for the practical success of the principles declared by the convention.”
MAY 24, 1863 -- President Lincoln and Republican U.S. Senator James Doolittle, of Wisconsin, visit three Washington, D. C. hospitals. A newspaper reports, “The President expressed his gratification at the excellent condition of the hospitals and the comfortable condition of the patients. He shook hands with over one thousand soldiers, nearly all of whom were able to stand up. The soldiers seemed highly delighted as the President grasped them by the hand.”
MAY 25, 1842 -- In the Coles County Circuit Court, located in Charleston, Illinois, Lincoln represents defendant Young Winkler in the case of Patterson v. Winkler. On March 26, 1841, Anne Patterson, who is unmarried, gave birth to a baby, Eliza Jane. Patterson is suing Winkler for child maintenance. Winkler admits to fathering the child and he signs a bond in which he agrees to “pay the sum of fifty dollars yearly for seven years for the support, maintenance and education of said child.”
MAY 26, 1860 -- Republican presidential nominee Lincoln writes to U.S. Representative Schuyler Colfax, of Indiana. Colfax wrote to congratulate Lincoln and to explain that he could not be considered one of Lincoln’s “original friends” because he formerly supported Edward Bates, of Missouri. Colfax added, “But next to him, I have had no doubt that your name was the most hopeful, around which to rally in the doubtful battle ground States.” Lincoln responds, “You distinguish between yourself and my original friends—a distinction which, by your leave, I propose to forget.”
MAY 27, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to General John Schofield, whom he named commander of the Department of the Missouri, replacing General Samuel Curtis. Lincoln cites Missouri’s “factional quarrel,” that pits Curtis against Missouri Governor Hamilton Gamble. Lincoln explains, “After months of labor to reconcile the difficulty, it seemed to grow worse…until I felt it my duty to break it up some how; and as I could not remove Gov. Gamble, I had to remove Gen. Curtis.” Lincoln advises Schofield to balance “military measures” with “the public interest.”
MAY 28, 1861 -- In the White House, President Lincoln and his wife, Mary, host a reception for various “civil and military dignitaries.” A newspaper reports, “President Lincoln looked in good health and spirits, and welcomed his friends with that genuine expression of pleasure which makes all feel perfectly at ease in his presence. Mrs. Lincoln also looked exceedingly well, and did the honors of the White House with easy grace.”
MAY 29, 1856 -- Lincoln is in Bloomington, Illinois, where he speaks at a Republican Party convention. A newspaper reports, “Abraham Lincoln, of Sangamon, came upon the platform amid deafening applause…He was here ready to fuse with any one who would unite with him to oppose slave power…It was to be remembered that the Union must be preserved in the purity of its principles as well as in the integrity of its territorial parts. It must be ‘Liberty and Union, now and forever, one and inseparable.’”
MAY 30, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to John Bryant, of Princeton, Illinois, and regrets that he is unable to attend a meeting to discuss plans for a monument to honor fellow Illinoisan and U.S. Representative, Owen Lovejoy, who recently died. Lovejoy was a staunch abolitionist and Lincoln’s “most generous friend.” He notes, “[Lovejoy] bravely endured the obscurity which the unpopularity of his principles imposed…Let him have the marble monument, along with the well-assured and more enduring one in the hearts of those who love liberty, unselfishly, for all men.”
MAY 31, 1858 -- Lincoln writes to John M. Clark, of Vincennes, Iowa, regarding Lincoln’s attempts to collect a debt owed to Clark by a gentleman with the surname of Whitten. Lincoln admits that he “did not think it could be collected,” and he “mislaid the note for a while.” Lincoln advises, “Have found it again, and will take it to Chicago the first time I go—in July perhaps—and try to get the money of Whitten. He has employment there now.”
JUNE 1, 1858 -- Lincoln writes to Charles Wilson, who publishes the Chicago Evening Journal newspaper. Wilson wrote to Lincoln and suggested that some Republicans in the East might be inclined to support Lincoln’s Democratic opponent, Stephen Douglas, in the U.S. Senate election. Lincoln agrees that New York Tribune editor Horace Greeley probably prefers Douglas. Lincoln writes, “[Greeley] denies that he directly is taking part in favor of Douglas…Still his feeling constantly manifests itself in his paper, which, being so extensively read in Illinois, is…a drag upon us.”
JUNE 2, 1861 -- At 6 p.m., at Washington D. C.’s Navy yard, President Lincoln and Secretary of State William Seward board the “Freeborn.” The day before, the Freeborn received fire from enemy guns. A newspaper reports, “The President shook the hands of the gunners with great cordiality, and complimented them for their bravery. The enemy’s…cannon shot were handed him for examination at his request…One [man] of the Seventy-first [Regiment], through his eagerness to watch the movements of the President…fell over board, but being an excellent swimmer, soon reached terra firma.”
JUNE 3, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Commanding General of the U.S. Army Winfield Scott, and relays some military intelligence. Lincoln writes, “I have accounts from different sources, tending to some expectation of an attack being made upon our forces across the Potomac [River] to-morrow morning. I think it prudent to say this to you, although it is highly probable you are better informed than I am.”
JUNE 4, 1856 -- In the Macon County Circuit Court, located in Decatur, Illinois, Lincoln writes, and he and fourteen other attorneys sign a petition requesting that the state’s attorney cease prosecution of Lincoln’s client, David Longnecker, for the murder of Jacob Ater. On April 19 1854, after an altercation in Monticello, Illinois, Longnecker stabbed Ater. A change of venue moved the case from Piatt County to Macon County, where two juries failed to reach a verdict.
JUNE 5, 1850 -- Lincoln writes a letter to the editors of Springfield’s Illinois Journal newspaper and clarifies a “mis-understanding.” Lincoln writes, “I neither seek, expect, or desire a nomination for a seat in the next Congress…I prefer my name should not be brought forward in that connection … In my opinion, the whigs of the district have several other men, any one of whom they can elect, and that too quite as easily as they could elect me.”
JUNE 6, 1862 -- In the White House, President Lincoln meets with Maryland Governor Augustus Bradford and Colonel John Kenly, whose Union forces were defeated at Front Royal, Virginia, on May 23. The Confederates captured and imprisoned Kenly and many other members of Maryland’s First Regiment. The Confederates paroled Kenly so that he could negotiate “an exchange for himself and those of his command.” A newspaper reports, “President Lincoln received the gallant officer very kindly, and inquired with much interest into the details of the battle.”
JUNE 7, 1860 -- Republican presidential nom-inee Lincoln writes to William Dickson, who is married to Mary Lincoln’s cousin. Lincoln asks Dickson, of Cincinnati, Ohio, to investigate a bill he received from the proprietors of Cincinnati’s Burnet House, where Lincoln stayed in September 1859, as a guest of Ohio Republicans. Lincoln explains, “I…was…told the bill ‘was settled’…I can and will pay it if it is right; but I do not wish to be ‘diddled!’…Please do what you do quietly, having no fuss about it.”
JUNE 8, 1863 President Lincoln writes to Major General Samuel Curtis following Lincoln’s removal of Curtis as commander of the Department of the Missouri. Curtis repeatedly clashed with Missouri Governor Hamilton Gamble. Lincoln writes, “It became almost a matter of personal self-defence to somehow break up the state of things in Missouri. I did not mean to cast any censure upon you, nor to indorse any of the charges made against you by others. With me the pre-sumption is still in your favor that you are honest, capable, faithful, and patriotic.”
JUNE 9, 1859 -- Lincoln writes to Ohio Governor Salmon Chase regarding the Ohio Republican party’s recent convention, where delegates called for a “repeal of the atrocious Fugitive Slave Law.” Lincoln notes, “I have no doubt that if that plank be even introduced into the next Republican National con-vention, it will explode it…Its supporters and its opponents will quarrel irreconcilably…I enter upon no argument one way or the other; but I assure you the cause of Republicanism is hopeless in Illinois, if it be in any way made responsible for that plank.”
JUNE 10, 1848 -- Congressman Lincoln is in Wilmington, Delaware, where he campaigns for Whig party presidential candidate Zachary Taylor. In the evening, Lincoln delivers a speech criticizing the policies of the current Democratic President, James Polk. A newspaper reports, “[Lincoln] referred to the history of…Polk’s administra-tion—the abuse of power which characterized it—the high-handed and despotic exercise of the veto power, and the utter disregard of the will of the people.” Additionally, Lincoln submits that Polk initiated the war with Mexico in order “to catch votes.”
JUNE 11, 1845 -- Lincoln is in Petersburg, Illinois, where a jury finds his client, James Dorman, not guilty of manslaughter. The case originated in Sangamon County, but the court granted Dorman a change of venue to the Menard County Circuit Court. On February 25, Dorman attempted to break into Ellen Cox’s home. Cox, who was pregnant at the time, exerted “great physical efforts to prevent” Dorman’s entry. The break-in attempt distressed Cox, she became ill, and “did languish” until she died on March 2.
JUNE 12, 1860 -- In Springfield’s capitol building, Republican presidential nomniee Lincoln sits for portraiture artist Thomas Hicks. Orville Browning, of Quincy, visits with Lincoln during the session. Later, Browning records, “Hicks says he greatly prefers to have some friend present whilst he is at work. The picture promises to be a very fine one. Lincoln bears his honors meekly. As soon as other company … retired … I went in [and] he fell into his old habit of telling amusing stories, and we had a free and easy talk of an hour or two.”
JUNE 13, 1836 -- State Representative Lincoln, of New Salem, Illinois, writes to the editor of Springfield’s Sangamo Journal newspaper to announce his bid for re-election. He writes, “I go for admitting all whites to the right of suffrage, who pay taxes or bear arms, (by no means excluding females.)…I shall be governed by [the] will [of my constituents], on all subjects upon which I have the means of knowing what their will is; and upon all others, I shall do what my own judgment teaches me will best advance their interests.”
JUNE 14, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to commander of the Army of the Potomac General Joseph Hooker regarding defensive strategies on Virginia battlefields. Lincoln writes, “So far as we can make out here, the enemy have [General Robert] Milroy surrounded at Winchester, and [General Robert] Tyler at Martinsburg … If the head of [Confederate General Robert E.] Lee’s army is at Martinsburg and the tail of it on the Plank road between Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, the animal must be very slim somewhere. Could you not break him?”
JUNE 15, 1859 -- Lincoln writes to Chicago attorney Henry Clark regarding two U.S. Circuit Court cases involving land titles. Lincoln writes, “I have never had any definite arrangement with any one about a fee on these cases; and the consequence is I am bothered with them every court, without understanding any thing about them. I blame no one for this; but it would be better all round for me to either get out of the cases, or get in deep enough to understand and prepare them.”
JUNE 16, 1861 -- President Lincoln and Secretary of State William Seward visit New York regiments’ camps, north of Washington. A newspaper reports, “The President shook hands with each member of the Cayuga Regiment. I have seen nearly all of our great men…go through the ‘pump-handle movement,’ but there certainly never was a man who could do it with the…abandon of President Lincoln. He goes it with both hands, and hand over hand, very much as a sailor would climb a rope...He gives a good honest, hearty shake, as if he meant it.”
JUNE 17, 1859 -- In the U.S. Circuit Court case of Lee, Murphy, & Avery v. Adams, Lincoln files a declaration for the plaintiffs, of New York. Illinois resident Joseph Adams purchased $3,461.32, worth of goods, including fur hats, gloves, and capes from the plaintiffs. The plaintiffs are suing Adams, who “although often requested so to do…has not as yet paid the said sum of money, or any part thereof, [and who] has hitherto wholly neglected and refused, and still does neglect and refuse [to pay].” The plaintiffs seek $5,000, in damages.
JUNE 18, 1853 -- In the Sangamon County Circuit Court, Lincoln and his partner William Herndon represent plaintiff Caroline Beerup, who seeks a divorce from Stephen Beerup. Caroline Beerup claims that her husband “treated [her] with extreme cruelty and torture.” Additionally, in 1850, Stephen Beerup moved to California leaving Caroline and the couple’s six children with “no means of support.” Stephen Beerup fails to appear in court and the court declares him in default. The court grants the divorce and gives Caroline custody of the children.
JUNE 19, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Ninian Edwards, who is married to Elizabeth Todd, Mary Lincoln’s sister. Edwards, of Springfield, Illinois, wrote to Lincoln seeking a government position. Lincoln explains, “I thought I would inquire into the thing and write you, but the extraordinary pressure upon me diverted me from it, and soon it passed out of my mind…I am unwilling…that you should be deprived of a chance to make something, if it can be done without injustice to the Government, or to any individual.”
JUNE 20, 1848 -- In the House chambers, Congressman Lincoln argues for federal government involvement in relation to “internal improvements.” Lincoln remarks, “The true rule, in determining to embrace, or reject any thing, is not whether it have any evil in it; but whether it have more of evil, than of good. There are few things wholly evil, or wholly good. Almost every thing, especially of governmental policy, is an inseparable compound of the two; so that our best judgment of the preponderance between them is continually demanded.”
JUNE 21, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General George McClellan, who commands the Army of the Potomac, regarding McClellan’s offer to provide Lincoln with an assessment of the “present state of Military affairs throughout the whole country.” Lincoln expresses interest unless doing so “would…divert too much of your time, and attention from the Army under your immediate command.” Lincoln adds, “I would be very glad to talk with you, but you can not leave your camp, and I can not well leave here.”
JUNE 22, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Department of the Missouri commander General John Schofield, who seeks clarification regarding the military’s role in Missouri’s emancipation policy. Lincoln writes, “I have very earnestly urged the slave-states to adopt emancipation; and it ought to be, and is an object with me not to overthrow, or thwart what any of them may in good faith do, to that end. You are therefore authorized to act…in conjunction with what may appear to be the military necessities of your Department.”
JUNE 23, 1858 -- Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln writes to Chicago newspaper editor John Scripps regarding Lincoln’s recent “House Divided” speech. Scripps commends the speech but he cautions, “Some of my Kentucky friends who want to be Republicans … are afraid we are not sufficiently conservative … specifically relative to the … question of federal interference with slavery.” Lincoln writes, “I have declared a thousand times … that, in my opinion, neither the General Government, nor any other power outside of the slave states, can constitutionally or rightfully interfere with slaves or slavery where it already exists.”
JUNE 24, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of the Treasury Salmon Chase regarding a job promotion for William Danenhower. Lincoln writes, “He now has a small clerkship, upon which, with his family, he can not live. He now wishes some place with better pay, leaving the place he now has to some man without a family, or with a smaller one. I sincerely join him in this wish.”
JUNE 25, 1858 -- Lincoln writes to Urbana, Illinois attorney James Somers, who wrote to Lincoln concerning a U.S. Circuit Court case. Somers, a fellow Republican, also asked Lincoln to comment on issues affecting the Territories. Lincoln writes, “It may well puzzle older heads than yours to understand how, as the Dred Scott decision holds, congress can authorize a territorial Legislature to do every thing else, and can not authorize them to prohibit slavery. That is one of the things the court can decide but can never give an intelligible reason for.”
JUNE 26, 1861 -- Secretary of State William Seward and British foreign minister Lord Lyons visit President Lincoln and present a “Royal letter, announcing the death of…Queen [Victoria’s] mother, the Duchess of Kent.” Later, Lincoln writes to Queen Victoria and expresses “my sincere condolence, with that of the whole American people, in this great bereavement.” Lincoln asks “God to have Your Majesty and your whole Royal Family constantly under his gracious protection and care.”
JUNE 27, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to William Dennison, who chaired the Republican Party’s national convention, where delegates nominated Lincoln for a second term. Dennison explained, “The Union men of the country…have seen you throughout this tremendous contest patient, sagacious, faithful, just; leaning upon the heart of the great mass of the people.” Lincoln “gratefully accept[s]” the nomination and he commends the convention for recognizing the military. He writes, “They forever must and will be remembered by the grateful country for whose salvation they devote their lives.”
JUNE 28, 1860 -- Republican presidential nominee Lincoln writes to New York newspaper editor William Bryant, who congratulated Lincoln upon his nomination. Bryant advised, “Make no speeches write no letters as a candidate, enter into no pledges, make no promises, nor even give any of those kind words which men are apt to interpret into promises. Several of our Presidents have had a great deal of trouble from this cause.” Lincoln writes, “I appreciate the danger against which you would guard me…I thank you for the additional strength your words give me.”
JUNE 29, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant regarding Dr. J. Rutherford Worster, of Washington, D. C. Worster wrote to Lincoln to promote footwear known as “Harmon’s Sandal Sock.” Worster wrote, “If you will please endorse me to Genl. Grant…with your views of the utility of the sandal, for the preservation of the feet, on long marches, of infantry…I will put a pair on the Genl. as I am going out to the front this evening.” Lincoln asks Grant, “Shall I give him a pass for that object?”
JUNE 30, 1858 -- Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln writes to members of the German 7th Ward Club, of Chicago, and declines an invitation to attend a July 5 Independence Day celebration. Lincoln explains, “My engagements are such that I cannot be with you.” He offers a “sentiment: Our German Fellow-Citizens: Ever true to Liberty, the Union, and the Constitution—true to Liberty, not selfishly, but upon principle—not for special classes of men, but for all men.”
JULY 1, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General George McClellan, who, the day prior, wrote to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton and requested “very large reinforcements.” Lincoln responds, “It is impossible to re-inforce you for your present emergency. If we had a million of men we could not get them to you in time...If you are not strong enough to face the enemy you must find a place of security, and wait, rest, and repair. Maintain your ground if you can; but save the Army at all events.”
JULY 2, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to U.S. Supreme Court justice and friend David Davis and to federal judge Samuel Treat, of Springfield, Illinois, seeking each man’s “summary of the evidence, with your impression, on the Coles County [Illinois] riot cases.” On March 28, in Charleston, members of the 54th Illinois Infantry clashed with area Democrats and a riot ensued. Nine people died, including six soldiers and three citizens. Twelve people were wounded.
JULY 3, 1863 -- President Lincoln telegraphs his son Robert, who attends Harvard University, regarding Robert’s mother, Mary. Lincoln advises, “Dont be uneasy. Your mother very slightly hurt by her fall.” The day prior, Mary Lincoln suffered injuries in a carriage accident. A newspaper reports, “Her horses took fright and ran away as she was riding from the Soldier’s Home to the city. Seeing her imminent danger she leaped from the carriage, and was stunned and severely bruised, but no bones were broken…She soon recovered sufficiently to be taken to the White House.”
JULY 4, 1859 -- In the morning, Lincoln attends the July 4 festivities held at Turner’s Grove, located one mile outside of Atlanta, Illinois. Following music, an opening prayer, and a “reading of the Declaration of Independence,” Lincoln’s friend and fellow Springfield resident, James Matheny, delivers a speech. Afterward, Sylvester Strong presents Lincoln with a custommade cane. In the evening, Lincoln attends an ice cream social at the Congregational Church. A newspaper reports, “Speeches…were made by Gen. Matheny and Hon. A. Lincoln. Matheny quoted the poets and
Lincoln talked about eating.”
JULY 5, 1863 -- In the afternoon, President Lincoln and his son, Tad, visit General Daniel Sickles, who is recovering in Washington. On July 2, at Gettysburg, Sickles suffered a severe injury prompting surgeons to remove his right leg to a point “five inches above the knee.” A newspaper reports “[Lincoln, Tad] and a mounted escort, rode on horseback to Gen. Sickles’ door.” Lincoln “congratulated him on his ability and courage, and expressed the greatest regret that [Sickles’s] … wound … rendered amputation necessary.”
JULY 6, 1847 -- Congressman-elect Lincoln makes a speech at the Northwestern River and Harbor Convention, in Chicago. Delegates discuss the constitutionality of federal government funding of infrastructure projects. Lincoln remarks, “All agree that something in the way of internal improvement must be done. The difficulty is to discriminate, when to begin and where to stop. There is a great danger in going too far. Members of Congress will be influenced by sectional interests and sectional feelings…Is there any way to make improvements, except some persons are benefitted more than others?”
JULY 7, 1858 -- Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln writes to influential U.S. Senator John Crittenden, of Kentucky, regarding Crittenden’s supposed support of Lincoln’s opponent, Stephen Douglas. Lincoln writes, “I do not believe the story, but still it gives me some uneasiness…You have no warmer friends than here in Illinois…Please drop me a line; and if your purposes are as I hope they are not, please let me know. The confirmation would pain me much, but I should still continue your friend and admirer.”
JULY 8, 1857 -- Lincoln is in Chicago, Illinois, for the U.S. Circuit Court session. In the evening, Lincoln and attorneys Orville Browning and Nehemiah Bushnell watch William Burton perform the part of “Timothy” in the play, “Toodles,” playing at North’s National Theatre. A critic writes, “[Burton] as good as played it alone—his supporters being of more injury than assistance. In consequence of their utter failure…he was obliged to cut short much of this rich comedy…Would it not be better to…let [Burton] play it alone?”
JULY 9, 1861 -- In the evening, President Lincoln and his wife, Mary, host a White House reception. A newspaper reports, “The military display was very brilliant, and the ladies never made a finer appearance. Mrs. Lincoln attracted universal attention by her graceful bearing and high social qualities…Generals and colonels were as thick as blackberries.”
JULY 10, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes a memo to Simon Buckner, whom Kentucky Governor Beriah Magoffin sent to meet with Lincoln regarding the “condition of public sentiment” in Kentucky. Lincoln writes, “It is my duty…to suppress an insurrection existing within the United States. I wish to do this with the least possible disturbance…So far I have not sent an armed force into Kentucky…I sincerely desire that no necessity for it may be presented; but I mean to say nothing which shall hereafter embarrass me in the performance of…my duty.”
JULY 11, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to New York Governor Horatio Seymour regarding the court martial of Captain John Riedenbach, of the 158th New York Volunteers. Lincoln writes, “The evidence shows a good deal of boisterous misconduct, during a single case of intoxication; and I incline to think he does not habitually get in that condition. But I have not the legal power…to restore him to his office, nor would I do it…without a better knowledge of his character.” Lincoln advises that he will not protest if Seymour reinstates Riedenbach.
JULY 12, 1856 -- Lincoln writes to Iowa Governor James Grimes, who asked Lincoln to campaign there on behalf of Republican candidates. Lincoln resists, and explains, “First I can hardly spare the time. Secondly…I have scarcely known a party, preceding an election, to call in help from the neighboring states, but they lost the state…It seems to stir up more enemies than friends. Have the enemy called in any foreign help. If they have a foreign champion there, I…have no objection to drive a nail in his track.”
JULY 13, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General John Wool regarding the welfare of some soldiers. Lincoln explains, “Two ladies are here now representing that there are four hundred sick soldiers in Baltimore, without shelter or any accommodations. Please have this looked into by the proper officers, and the evil corrected, if it really exists. At the same time, if it is within your authority, I would be glad all the well soldiers should be gathered up and sent to their Regiments forthwith.”
JULY 14, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton regarding a letter Stanton forwarded from U.S. Army Chief of Staff Henry Halleck. Halleck suggested that Lincoln remove Postmaster General Montgomery Blair, whom Halleck claimed made disparaging remarks about members of the military. Lincoln offers that Blair, whose home the Confederate troops burned, spoke “in a moment of vexation.” Lincoln writes, “Whether the remarks were really made I do not know…I propose continuing to…judge as to when a member of the Cabinet shall be dismissed.”
JULY 15, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Leonard Swett, whom he “authorized…to take possession of” the New Almaden Quicksilver Mine after the U.S. Supreme Court voided Andres Castillero’s ownership claim. Lincoln rethinks the order and writes, “Many persons are telegraphing me from California, begging me, for the peace, of the State, to suspend the military enforcement of the writ of possession…while you are the single one who urges the contrary. You know I would like to oblige you, but it seems to me my duty…is the other way.”
JULY 16, 1858 -- In the evening, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln is in Bloomington, Illinois, where he appears at a rally for his opponent, Stephen Douglas. A newspaper reports, “As soon as Judge Douglas retired, loud calls were made for…Lincoln. Mr. L. held back for a little while, but the crowd finally succeeded in inducing him to come upon the stand.” Lincoln remarks, ‘“This meeting…was called by the friends of Judge Douglas, and it would be improper for me to address it.’ Mr. L. then retired, amid loud cheering.”
JULY 17, 1845 -- In the Sangamon County Circuit Court case of Logan & Lincoln v. Smith, Lincoln files a declaration. Lincoln and his partner, Stephen Logan, are suing James Smith, who is the executor of William Trailor’s estate. In 1841, Logan & Lincoln defended Trailor in a murder case. Trailor promised to pay Logan and Lincoln $100 for their services, but Trailor died before paying the debt. The attorneys declare, “Trailor in his life-time, and the…defendant…since the death of …Trailor…wholly neglected and refused and still do neglect and refuse” to pay.
JULY 18, 1846 -- Whig Party congressional candidate Lincoln campaigns in Lacon, Illinois, where he speaks about the tariff issue, “the Mexican war, [and the] annexation of Texas.” A newspaper reports, “Mr. Lincoln is one of the strongest men of our State—possessing a well disciplined, clear and comprehensive mind—a mind able to grasp any subject within the range of the statesman. Of his election we have no doubt; in the event of which his constituents of all parties may safely repose confidence in his ability, and fidelity to their interests.”
JULY 19, 1844 -- Lincoln is in Vandalia, Illinois, where supporters of Whig presidential candidate Henry Clay gather for a “mass convention.” A newspaper reports that approximately 6,000 people attend, including “1000 ladies.” The report adds, “A procession was formed at 11 o’clock, and marched to the Grove out the West end of the town, where they partook of a plentiful Barbecue.” After lunch, attendees return to town and listen to Lincoln and several others deliver “strong arguments in support of whig doctrines; and with thrilling eloquence.”
JULY 20, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to New Jersey Governor Joel Parker, who wrote to Lincoln with concerns about the new Enrollment Act. Parker wrote, “No man can predict the results which might follow the enforcement of the draft…There is a deep rooted hostility with many of the people of this state to…the conscription act.” Lincoln answers, “It is a very delicate matter to postpone the draft in one State, because of the argument it furnishes others to have postponements also…I wish to avoid the difficulties you dread, as much as yourself.”
JULY 21, 1841 -- In Springfield, the Illinois Supreme Court appoints attorneys Abraham Lincoln and Albert Bledsoe to serve as “examiners” for Benjamin F. James, who wishes to practice law in Illinois. The Court notes that James, of Tazewell County, “presented … satis-factory evidence of his good moral character.” James passes Lincoln and Bledsoe’s examination, and the Court deems that James possesses the “fitness and capacity” to gain admission into the Illinois bar.
JULY 22, 1860 -- Lincoln writes to his son Robert’s friend, George Latham, whom Harvard University denied admission. Lincoln writes, “I know not how to aid you, save in the assurance of one of mature age, and much severe experience, that you can not fail, if you resolutely determine, that you will not…In your temporary failure there is no evidence that you may not yet be a better scholar, and a more successful man in the great struggle of life, than many others, who have entered college more easily.”
JULY 23, 1863 -- President Lincoln replies to a “very ‘cross’” letter from Missouri Governor Hamilton Gamble. Lincoln admits that he did not read Gamble’s letter because “I am trying to preserve my own temper, by avoiding irritants, so far as practicable.” Gamble took offense at comments Lincoln made in a letter to General John Schofield concerning the contentious relationship between Gamble and Schofield’s predecessor, General Samuel Curtis. Lincoln writes, “I was totally unconscious of any malice, or disrespect towards you, or of using any expression which should offend you, if seen by you.”
JULY 24, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Postmaster General Montgomery Blair regarding job openings. Lincoln writes, “Yesterday … indorsements of mine went to you in two cases of Post-Masterships sought for widows whose husbands have fallen in … battles … These cases occurring on the same day, brought me to reflect more attentively…as to what is fairly due from us here, in the dispensing of patronage…My conclusion is that, other claims and qualifications being equal, [the soldiers] have the better right; and this is especially applicable to the disabled soldier, and the deceased soldier’s family.”
JULY 25, 1837 -- In Springfield, at 2 p.m., State Representative Lincoln, several other legislators, and “other distinguished men” dine at George Spotswood’s Rural Hotel. A group of citizens organized the meal to honor the legislators “for a faithful performance of their official duties.” In February, the General Assembly voted to relocate the state capitol from Vandalia to Springfield. Lincoln toasts, “All our friends.—They are too numerous to be now named individually, while there is no one of them who is not too dear to be forgotten or neglected.”
JULY 26, 1843 -- Lincoln writes to his friend, Joshua Speed, of Louisville, Kentucky, and relates news concerning business matters. Lincoln closes with a personal note and writes, “We shall look with impatience for your visit this fall.” Lincoln reveals that his wife, Mary, or as he refers to her, “Molly,” is “anxious” to see Speed’s wife, Fanny. Lincoln references Mary’s pregnancy, and adds, “Dont fail to come. We are but two, as yet.” Mary Lincoln will deliver the couple’s first child, Robert, on August 1.
JULY 27, 1858 -- In the evening, on the courthouse grounds in Clinton, Illinois, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln rebuts the remarks that his opponent, Stephen Douglas, made earlier in the day. Lincoln states, “I…ask…all who are eager for the truth, that when they hear me represented as saying … anything strange, they will turn to my own words and examine for themselves. I do not wish Douglas to put words into my mouth ... I do wish the people to read and judge for themselves.”
JULY 28, 1849 -- Lincoln writes to Secretary of State John Clayton and offers advice regarding President Zachary Taylor’s policy of granting the various Cabinet heads the power to fill department positions. Lincoln writes, “I am disappointed with the effect of it on the public mind. It is fixing for the President the unjust and ruinous character of being a mere man of straw. This must be arrested, or it will damn us all inevitably … The public must … understand, that they are the President’s appointments. He must occasionally say…‘I take the responsibility.’”
JULY 29, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Anne Williamson, of Edinburgh, Scotland, and thanks her for sending him a woolen wrap. The eighty-one-year-old Williamson wrote, “As one deeply interested in your present struggle, I trust the Lord will bless all your endeavors for the peace of your country and the freedom of the slave.” Lincoln writes, “I thank you for that pretty and useful present, but still more for those good wishes to myself and our country which prompted you to present it.”
JULY 30, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of the Treasury Salmon Chase on behalf of Samuel Williams. Lincoln explains, “The bearer of this, son of our cook, is a good barber, and a good boy generally, I believe. He had a position during the session of Congress, in which he gave entire satisfaction as I understand, but which came to an end by the adjournment. Please see him a moment, & do something for him if you can.”
JULY 31, 1858 -- Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln writes to Quincy, Illinois, resident Henry Asbury, who wants Lincoln to demand answers from incumbent U.S. Senator Stephen Douglas. Lincoln writes, “You shall have hard work to get him directly to the point whether a teritorial Legislature has or has not the power to exclude slavery...If you succeed in bringing him to it…he will…say it possesses no such power; he will…take ground that slavery can not…exist in the teritories, unless the people desire it, and so give it protective teritorial legislation.”
AUGUST 1, 1843 -- Abraham and Mary Lincoln’s first child Robert Todd Lincoln is born in Springfield, Illinois.
AUGUST 1, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to economist John Cairnes, of Galway, Ireland, and thanks him for sending a copy of Cairnes’s book, The Slave Lincoln writes, “The intelligent sagacity with which your views are conceived, is not less admirable than the generous candor with which they are expressed.”
AUGUST 2, 1859 -- In a pre-trial hearing at the Sangamon County courthouse, Lincoln and several other attorneys represent Peachy Harrison, whom the state’s attorney indicted for the murder of Greek Crafton. On July 16, in Pleasant Plains, Harrison and Crafton fought; Harrison pulled a knife and stabbed Crafton. Crafton died two days later. On this day, the attorneys for both sides question “quite a number of witnesses.” A newspaper reports, “The case excited unusual interest…The defence urge the plea that Harrison acted wholly in self defence.”
AUGUST 3, 1861 -- President Lincoln and his wife, Mary, host a state dinner for Prince Napoleon, who is the nephew of the former French emperor. A newspaper reports, “Prince Napoleon was seated at the right of Mrs. Lincoln and opposite General [Winfield] Scott, who was at the President’s left. Gen. [George] McClellan was at the right of [the] Prince…The affair was unusually sociable and enjoyable…a fact much due to the tact of Mrs. Lincoln in so grouping the guests as to bring parties together likely to enjoy each other’s society and conversation.”
AUGUST 4, 1860 -- Republican presidential candidate Lincoln writes to former Springfield resident Simeon Francis, now of Portland, Oregon. Lincoln likes the Republican Party’s chances, and he hopes to capture the states that Republican presidential candidate John Fremont won in 1856. Lincoln writes, “Add to these, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and New-Jersey, and the thing is done…The democracy are so divided between [Stephen] Douglas and [John] Breckenridge in Penn. & N. J. that they are scarcely less sure [than Minnesota]. Our friends are also confident in Indiana and Illinois.”
AUGUST 5, 1857 -- Lincoln writes to Dr. Benjamin Lundy, of Magnolia, Illinois, and offers advice for Republicans who wish to win control of the legislature. Lincoln suggests organizing “alphabetical lists of all the voters in each precinct,” deleting the names of those who “may have died or removed, and adding such as will be entitled to vote at the next election. This will not be a heavy job, and you see how, like a map, it lays the whole field before you. You know, at once, how, and with whom to work.”
AUGUST 6, 1845 -- In the Sangamon County Circuit Court case of Beatty et ux. v. Miller et ux., a jury finds Lincoln’s clients Jonathan Miller and Miller’s wife, Susan, guilty of slander. William Beatty and Beatty’s wife, Martha, charged that Susan Miller slandered Martha Beatty by repeating details about an alleged extra-marital affair between Martha Beatty and a Dr. Sullivan. The Millers disclaimed any intention of affirming the truth of the supposed slanderous words. The jury awards the Beattys $45 in damages.
AUGUST 7, 1860 -- In Springfield, a reporter with the New York Herald newspaper visits with Republican presidential candidate Lincoln, and writes, “I find that there is not a man in this region who says a word against [his] honesty…They like his sociability and his familiarity…His features may appear rugged to the casual observer, but when engaged in earnest and entertaining conversation they assume an aspect at once pleasing and engaging…Lincoln…looks the man, acts the gentleman, and mirrors…the keenness of the astute statesman.”
AUGUST 8, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of the Treasury Salmon P. Chase and requests “respectful consideration” for Elias Leonard. Lincoln explains, “It is said that…Leonard lost his situation as a clerk in a Mercantile House by serving a term in the District [of Columbia] volunteers for us; and his young wife calls to ask a clerkship for him in your Dept.” Lincoln marks the envelope, “From the President asking interview for Mrs. Leonard.”
AUGUST 9, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to General Ulysses S. Grant and lobbies for the recruitment of black soldiers. Lincoln writes, “Gen. [Lorenzo] Thomas has gone again to the Mississippi Valley, with the view of raising colored troops. I have no reason to doubt that you are doing what you reasonably can upon the same subject. I believe it is a resource which, if vigorously applied now, will soon close the contest. It works doubly, weakening the enemy and strengthening us.”
AUGUST 10, 1833 -- Lincoln writes to fellow veteran Eli Blankenship, who seeks information concerning David Rankin, who served under Lincoln in the Black Hawk War. Lincoln explains, “[Isaac] Galishen being an acquaintance of mine and belonging to the company in which Rankin wished to go wished to leave it and join mine…It was agreed that they should exchange places and answer to each others names—as it was expected we all would be discharged in very few days…The above embraces all the facts now in my recollection.”
AUGUST 11, 1858 -- In the Sangamon County Circuit Court, Lincoln’s client, George Caldwell, requests a dismissal of the divorce proceedings. The court approves Caldwell’s request. Caldwell filed for divorce from Laura Caldwell claiming that their marriage “became…uneasy…unpleasant and annoying on account of the irratable fire & powder disposition of…Laura. Every thing was hot & full of nettles where she was…It is a ‘manifest destiny’ that … [the couple] cannot live together as husband & wife.”
AUGUST 12, 1857 -- In the Sangamon County Circuit Court case of People v. Bantzhouse, Lincoln writes and files an affidavit for a change of venue. Lincoln defends John Bantzhouse, who allegedly shot and killed Walter Clark during a struggle that took place at Bantzhouse’s New Berlin home. Lincoln requests the change of venue because Bantzhouse “fears he will not receive a fair and impartial trial in … Sangamon [County].” The court grants a change of venue to Macoupin County.
AUGUST 13, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Judge Advocate General Joseph Holt regarding Major Alexander Montgomery’s dismissal from the Army. Montgomery allegedly remarked that “President Lincoln ought to have his dam’d black heart cut out for issuing his proclamation of Emancipation.” Lincoln writes, “As the principal charge, can be given the appearance at least of being merely personally offensive to me, and as [Montgomery] denies it, I think he should have a Court-Martial, rather than to abide my arbitrary dismissal. Please give him the Court-Martial if he desires it.”
AUGUST 14, 1838 -- In the Sangamon County Circuit Court, Lincoln files a bill for divorce for his client, Samuel Rogers. In October 1835, Samuel Rogers married Polly Offill. In June or July 1836, Polly moved out and “has ever since wholly refused to live with [Samuel],” whom Lincoln describes as a “tender and affectionate husband.” Samuel asks the court to subpoena Polly to appear at a “final hearing” of the divorce proceedings.
AUGUST 15, 1860 -- Presidential candidate Lincoln writes to fellow Republican William Kelley, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, regarding the whereabouts of a newspaper that Kelley sent to Lincoln. Lincoln explains, “It reached me…when my house was full of friends, some of whom over-hauled my news-paper mail before I did…Please send me another copy…inclosed in a letter envelope, so that it may not, by any means be over-looked in a mass of common news-papers.”
AUGUST 16, 1837 -- Lincoln writes to romantic interest Mary Owens and seeks to clarify the status of their relationship. He writes, “I want in all cases to do right, and most particularly so, in all cases with women…Our further acquaintance shall depend upon yourself…If it suits you best to not answer this—farewell—a long life and a merry one attend you. But if you conclude to write back, speak as plainly as I do. There can be neither harm nor danger, in saying, to me, any thing you think.”
AUGUST 17, 1849 -- In the Sangamon County Circuit Court, Lincoln files a declaration for his client, Robert Wilbourn, Sr., who accuses defendants William Crenshaw Sr., William Crenshaw Jr., and Edward Crenshaw of shooting and killing at least one of Wilbourn’s horses. Wilbourn’s horse apparently damaged William Crenshaw Sr.’s fence. Wilbourn values the horse at $100, and seeks that amount in damages.
AUGUST 18, 1859 -- Lincoln writes to David Powers, of Madison, Wisconsin, regarding Powers’s invitation to speak on September 30, at the Wisconsin Agricultural Fair in Milwaukee. Lincoln explains, “Two difficulties were in the way—first, I could not well spare the time, from the courts; and secondly, I had no address of the sort prepared…I was waiting, before answering you, to determine whether these difficulties could be surmounted. I will write you definitely on the 1st. day of September, if you can safely delay so long.”
AUGUST 19, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton regarding 18-year-old Confederate prisoner-of-war Singleton Wilson, who is housed at Camp Morton, Indianapolis, Indiana. Wilson’s step-father, James Colt, petitions Lincoln on Wilson’s behalf, and explains, “Wilson … was seduced into the Rebel service ... Wilson never intended to become a Rebel to his Govermt, but has drifted along incited by circumstances … He is now … in bad health.” Lincoln writes, “[Wilson] now wants to take the oath of allegiance, and go home with … Judge [Colt] … May it not be safely done?”
AUGUST 20, 1864 -- President Lincoln telegraphs Brigadier General John Miller, and “suspend[s]… [the] death sentence” of fifteen-year-old Private Patrick Jones, of the 12th Tennessee Cavalry. Tennessee’s Military Governor Andrew Johnson telegraphed Lincoln and recommended a commutation to a life sentence. Johnson notes that at the time of the assault, Jones “was drunk.” Johnson argues, “The moral influence would be much greater if we could hang some of the larger fish…There is no trouble in…hanging the little helpless minnows which makes & leaves no impression upon the public mind.”
AUGUST 21, 1863 -- President Lincoln meets with a twelve-member committee representing the American Baptist Missionary Convention. Leonard Grimes, of Boston, Massachusetts, chairs the black delegation that seeks Lincoln’s assurances for their safety as they venture “within…military lines [to] minister to their brethren there.” Lincoln addresses a letter “To whom in may concern” and presents it to Grimes. Lincoln writes, “[The Convention’s] object is a worthy one, and I shall be glad for all facilities to be afforded them which may not be inconsistent with or a hindrance to our military operations.”
AUGUST 22, 1858 -- From Ottawa, Illinois, on the day after the first debate with Stephen Douglas, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln writes to Joseph Cunningham, of Urbana. Cunningham inquired about when Lincoln might speak in Urbana. Lincoln writes, “I am…pressed by invitations from almost all quarters; and while I hope to be at Urbana sometime…I cannot yet say when…Douglas and I, for the first time this canvass, crossed swords here yesterday; the fire flew some, and I am glad to know I am yet alive.”
AUGUST 23, 1850 -- In the Christian County Circuit Court, located in Taylorville, Illinois, Lincoln files a not-guilty plea for defendants Christopher Ketchum, Josephus Ketchum, and William Brown in the case of Woods v. Ketchum et al. Plaintiff Thomas Woods claims that the defendants used “force … arms … and … dogs” to drive away seventy-five of his cattle. Woods claimed that he spent $300 finding the cattle, of which he never found five. Woods seeks $1,000 in damages.
AUGUST 24, 1864 -- President Lincoln drafts a letter to New York Times editor Henry Raymond, who forecasts big electoral losses for the Republicans. Raymond predicts that a peace summit will “turn the tide of public sentiment.” Lincoln instructs, “You will propose, on behalf [of] this government, that upon the restoration of the Union and the national authority, the war shall cease at once, all remaining questions to be left for adjustment by peaceful modes.” Ultimately, Lincoln and the Cabinet reject the peace conference suggestion.
AUGUST 25, 1861 -- Outside of Washington, President Lincoln, Secretary of State William Seward, and Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles join the Second New Hampshire Regiment for Sunday services. Afterward, Lincoln inspects the rest of General Joseph Hooker’s Brigade. Later, Lincoln reviews the Seventy-first Pennsylvania Regiment, also known as the California Regiment, under the command of Lincoln’s long-time friend and U.S. Senator from Oregon, Colonel Edward Baker.
AUGUST 26, 1854 -- In Winchester, Illinois, Lincoln addresses a Whig Party convention. A newspaper reports, “His subject was the one which is uppermost in the minds of the people—the Nebraska-Kansas bill; and the ingenious, logical, and at the same time fair and candid manner, in which he exhibited the great wrong and injustice of the repeal of the Missouri Compromise, and the extension of slavery into free territory … His … masterly effort … was replete with unanswerable arguments, which must and will effectually tell at the coming election.”AUGUST 27, 1861 -- From the White House balcony, President Lincoln, presidential aide William Stoddard, and U.S. Senator Preston King, of New York, listen to a band performance by New York’s Second German Regiment, also known as the “Cameron Rifles.” The band honors Lincoln with “Hail to the Chief,” and then “The Star Spangled Banner.” A newspaper reports, “His Excellency bowed his thanks and retired.”
AUGUST 28, 1854 -- In Carrollton, Illinois, Lincoln delivers a campaign speech on behalf of Whig Party candidate Richard Yates. Yates and his opponent, Democrat Thomas Harris, vie for the sixth congressional district seat. A Democratic newspaper reports, “[Lincoln] was for the restoration [of] the Missouri compromise, which did not please near all the [Henry] Clay whigs; and he was against the repeal of the fugitive slave law, which was very unsatisfactory to the abolitionists.”
AUGUST 29, 1842 -- Lincoln and other members of the “Clay Club” Executive Committee write to Henry Clay, of Kentucky, and invite the prominent statesman to “visit…the prairie-land.” The members remind Clay that he has “never visited Illinois, or at least this portion of it; and should you now yield to our request, we promise you such a reception as shall be worthy of the man on whom are now turned the fondest hopes of a great and suffering nation.”
AUGUST 30, 1854 -- In the Sangamon County Circuit Court, Lincoln files a bill for divorce for his client, Mary Sinclair. Mary Sinclair seeks a divorce from John Sinclair, who, she asserts, is “guilty of extreme and repeated cruelty…by beating and kicking [Mary], and threatening and menacing her life.” Mary Sinclair declares that she entered the marriage with “a considerable amount of money and other personal property.” Mary Sinclair asks the court to grant her “a proper allowance of alimony.”
AUGUST 31, 1864 -- At the White House, President Lincoln addresses the homeward-bound soldiers of Ohio’s 148th Regiment. Lincoln reminds them that they are fighting “to maintain the government and institutions of our fathers, to…transmit them to our children and our children’s children forever … This government must be preserved … It is worthy your every effort. Nowhere in the world is presented a government of so much liberty and equality. To the humblest and poorest amongst us are held out the highest privileges and positions.”
SEPTEMBER 1, 1855 -- Lincoln writes to defendant John Manny, whom Cyrus McCormick is suing in the U.S. Circuit Court case of McCormick v. Talcott et al., a suit concerning a patent infringement on a reaper. Lincoln expresses frustration with one of the other defense attorneys, Peter Watson. Lincoln writes, “I have heard nothing concerning the Reaper suit. I addressed a letter to Mr. Watson…requesting him to forward me the evidence…but I have received no answer…Is it still the understanding that the case is to be heard at Cincinnati on the 20th?”
SEPTEMBER 2, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to the Western Department’s Commanding General, John Fremont, concerning Fremont’s recent “Proclamation.” Fremont authorized extreme measures in an effort to “repress the daily … outrages which are driving off the inhabitants and ruining the State [of Missouri].” Lincoln advises, “Allow no man to be shot, under the proclamation, without first having my…consent…Secondly …the liberating [of] slaves of traiterous owners, will alarm our Southern Union friends, and turn them against us…This letter is written in a spirit of caution and not of censure.”
SEPTEMBER 3, 1864 -- President Lincoln annotates a letter from his former law partner, William Herndon, of Springfield, Illinois, regarding John Plunkett. Herndon wrote to Lincoln on behalf of Robert Plunkett, who “wishes to get his boy out of the army.” John Plunkett suffers from “sun stroke,” and, as a result, “is physically unable to do military duty.” Herndon added, “[Plunkett]…joined the army without his father’s consent.” Lincoln notes, “Being satisfied that a Surgeons certificate showing that…Plunkett…is unfit for further service, he is hereby discharged.”
SEPTEMBER 4, 1861 -- President Lincoln annotates a letter from Isaac Busey and George Gompf, who represent the workers at the Harper’s Ferry federal armory, which the rebels “destroyed.” Busey and Gompf petition Lincoln for pay owed to the workers and for new jobs. They note that the workers “have resisted all the…offers of high wages by the Confederates…to manufacture arms.” Lincoln forwards the letter to Secretary of War Simon Cameron, and asks, “Will [you] please put them in the way of getting it adjusted & paid?”
SEPTEMBER 5, 1849 -- In the Sangamon County Circuit Court case of Nelson v. Busher & Nelson, Lincoln represents Joseph Nelson, who asserts that defendants John Busher and Elizabeth Nelson “unlawfully detained” Joseph Nelson’s personal property, including “one bed stead…one stew kettle, two quilts…and one package addressed to said plaintiff, and taken by said defendants from the Post-office.” Joseph Nelson dismisses the case against Elizabeth Nelson. Busher withdraws all pleas except one. The Court rules for Busher and orders Joseph Nelson to pay the court costs.
SEPTEMBER 6, 1846 -- Lincoln writes to Quincy, Illinois, attorney Andrew Johnston, with whom he shares an appreciation of poetry. Lincoln wrote some verses inspired by the memory of a boyhood friend, Matthew Gentry. Lincoln explains, “He was rather a bright lad, and the son of the rich man of our very poor neighbourhood. At the age of nineteen he unaccountably became furiously mad, from which condition he gradually settled down into harmless insanity…In my poetizing mood I could not forget the impressions his case made upon me.”
SEPTEMBER 7, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of State William Seward regarding possible candidates to fill the Utah Territory Governor’s post. Lincoln writes, “For a time I thought of [Broughton] Harris, of Vermont; but he is not needy. Then I thought of [Daniel] Somes, of Maine, but both his Senators protest against him. Now I am willing that Thomas Shankland be appointed, if you find his vouchers on file, respectable, as I remember them to be very good.” Ultimately, Lincoln chose John Dawson, who served less than one month.
SEPTEMBER 8, 1858 -- From Paris, Illinois, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln travels by train, on the Terre Haute & Alton Railroad, to Hillsboro. En route, the train stops at the Shelbyville station, where some spectators recognize Lincoln and give him “three cheers.” In the evening, he arrives in Hillsboro and proceeds to local merchant and justice of the peace Joseph T. Eccles’s home.
SEPTEMBER 9, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to General David Hunter and solicits Hunter’s help with the situation in Missouri. Lincoln explains, “[General John Fremont] is losing the confidence of men near him…His cardinal mistake is that he isolates himself, & allows nobody to see him…He needs to have, by his side, a man of large experience…Your rank is one grade too high to be ordered to it; but will you not serve the country, and oblige me, by taking it voluntarily?”
SEPTEMBER 10, 1861 -- Outside of Washington, President Lincoln attends a flag presentation ceremony. A newspaper reports, “President Lincoln and Secretary [of War Simon] Cameron then entered [Pennsylvania] Gov. [Andrew] Curtin’s carriage, and remained seated there while the regiments…passed in review.” After dining at General George McCall’s headquarters, Lincoln, Cameron, Curtin, General George McClellan, “and suite, passed over the Chain Bridge, reviewing the troops and fortifications on the Virginia side, returning to the city at 7 o’clock in the evening.”
SEPTEMBER 11, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Tennessee’s military Governor Andrew Johnson and counsels him on re-establishing “a loyal State government.” Lincoln writes, “All Tennessee is now clear of armed insurrectionists … Let the reconstruction be the work of such men only as can be trusted for the Union. Exclude all others … Remember that it can not be known who is next to occupy the position I now hold, nor what he will do…Get emancipation into your new…Constitution—and there will be no such word as fail for your case.”
SEPTEMBER 12, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Pennsylvania Governor Andrew Curtin regarding Curtin’s request for “eighty thousand disciplined forces.” Curtin feared that “the whole of the Rebel Army has been moved from Frederick [Maryland] and their destination is Harrisburg and Philadelphia.” Lincoln writes, “We have not to exceed eighty thousand disciplined troops…this side of the mountains, and most of them…are now close in the rear of the enemy supposed to be invading Pennsylvania…The best possible security for Pennsylvania is putting the strongest force possible into the enemies rear.”
SEPTEMBER 13, 1862 -- In the morning, President Lincoln suffers an injury while commuting from the Soldier’s Home to the White House. A newspaper reports, “His steed, a spirited and powerful beast, ran off with him, and came very near throwing him in the race, in which Mr. Lincoln lost his hat, but succeeded in checking the animal’s career at the cost of a sprained wrist in so doing.”
SEPTEMBER 14, 1855 -- Lincoln writes to Illinois Central Railroad attorney James Joy regarding payment for some legal work. Lincoln explains, “I have to day drawn on you in favor of the McLean County Bank…for one hundred and fifty dollars. This is intended as a fee for all services done by me for the…Railroad, since last September…I have assisted…in at least fifteen cases…and I have concluded to lump them off at ten dollars a case. With this explanation, I shall be obliged if you will honor the draft.”
SEPTEMBER 15, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton regarding a constituent’s request. Lincoln explains, “The bearer of this, Mrs. Craddock, tells me she has a nephew—Edwin Selvage—who was in the rebel service, made a prisoner, and is now at Fort-Delaware; that he has two brothers in the Union Army, is yet under twenty one years of age; and wishes to take the oath of allegiance and be discharged. Upon reasonable proof of all this, let him take the oath and be discharged.”
SEPTEMBER 16, 1858 -- From Centralia, Illinois, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln writes to Edwardsville attorney Joseph Gillespie. The day before, in Jonesboro, Lincoln and incumbent Senator Stephen Douglas participated in a third debate. Lincoln writes, “The meeting…was not large; but, in other matters, altogether respectable. I will venture to say that our friends were a little better satisfied with the result than our adversaries. You will see particulars in the papers.”
SEPTEMBER 17, 1842 -- Lincoln writes to Illinois Auditor James Shields, who accused Lincoln of authoring newspaper editorials that Shields finds “personally abusive.” Lincoln responds, “Without stopping to enquire whether I really am the author, or to point out what is offensive in them, you demand an unqualified retraction of all that is offensive; and then proceed to hint at consequences…There is…so much assumption of facts, and so much of menace as to consequences, that I cannot submit to answer…any farther than I have.”
SEPTEMBER 18, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes an order concerning Lewis Cox, who left his regiment, assumed an alias, and joined a different regiment. Lincoln pardons Cox and explains, “Without being arrested, or detected, [Cox] confessed his fault, and expressed his wish to atone for it…Thinking it was better to have this young man for three years, than to shoot him, or even to have him for the remaining one year in the old regiment, I gave his father the paper, of which the within is a copy.”
SEPTEMBER 19, 1859 -- Lincoln speaks for two hours at the Masonic Hall, located in Indianapolis, Indiana. He challenges statements made by fellow Illinoisan U.S. Senator Stephen Douglas regarding equality. Lincoln states, “Douglas had got his entire party, almost without exception, to join in saying that the negro has no share in the Declaration [of Independence] … That debauchery in public sentiment is to bring the public mind to the conclusion that when white men are spoken of, the negro is not meant, and when negroes are spoken of, brutes alone are contemplated.”
SEPTEMBER 20, 1849 -- In the Tazewell County Circuit Court, located in Pekin, Illinois, Lincoln files a plea for defendant Oliver Stafford. Stafford and plaintiff Given Boyle agreed that Boyle would give Stafford a horse worth $65 and Stafford would give Boyle a horse and $20. Boyle claimed that Stafford said that the horse was in good health, but soon after Boyle received the horse, it died due to “Yellow Water” disease. A jury considers the testimony and attorneys’ arguments and finds in favor of Stafford.
SEPTEMBER 21, 1859 -- Lincoln writes to Chairman of the Iowa State Republican Committee John Kasson, of Des Moines. Lincoln declines Kasson’s invitation to speak on September 28, at the State Fair in Oskaloosa. Lincoln explains, “I am compelled this autumn, to give my time mainly to my private business. I have just lost a week by going to Ohio; and my word is out to attend the Wisconsin State Fair, which will spoil another week. I hope therefore, you will excuse me.”
SEPTEMBER 22, 1862 -- President Lincoln issues the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, in which he declares that effective January 1, 1863, “all persons held as slaves within any state…the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free; and the executive government …including the military and naval authority…will recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons, and will do no act or acts to repress such persons…in any efforts they may make for their actual freedom.”
SEPTEMBER 23, 1862 -- President Lincoln and Secretary of State William Seward sign a testimonial concerning Dr. Isachar Zacharie. Lincoln and Seward attest, “From personal experience we approve the very great success of Dr. I. Zacharie in operating upon corns, bunions, and other troubles of the feet by which instantaneous relief is afforded, and we desire that the soldiers of our brave Army may have the benefit of the doctor’s surpassing skill.”
SEPTEMBER 24, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Treasury Secretary Salmon Chase on behalf of some soldiers’ father. Lincoln explains, “The bearer of this, Mr. George W. Bryan, whom I do not know, says he resides in Ohio; that he now has five sons in our war service; and that he is needy, and wants employment. He will probably show you testimonials rendering the truth of the above statement reasonably certain; and if so, I shall be very glad if you can find him some employment suitable to him.”
SEPTEMBER 25, 1860 -- Republican presidential candidate Lincoln writes to John Brockman, who wrote to Lincoln seeking advice about “the best mode of obtaining a thorough knowledge of the law.” Lincoln advises, “The mode is very simple, though laborious, and tedious. It is only to get the books, and read, and study them carefully. Begin with Blackstone’s Commentaries, and after reading it carefully through, say twice, take up Chitty’s Pleading, Greenleaf’s Evidence, & Story’s Equity &c. in succession. Work, work, work, is the main thing.”
SEPTEMBER 26, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General William Rosecrans, who commands the Department of the Missouri, and seeks to dispel a rumor that “you incline to deny the soldiers the right of attending the election in Missouri, on the assumed ground that they will get drunk and make disturbance.” Lincoln restates the administration’s policy that he spelled out to Rosecrans’s predecessor, John Schofield. Lincoln writes, “This I thought right then, and think right now…Wherever the law allows soldiers to vote, their officers must also allow it.”
SEPTEMBER 27, 1856 -- Lincoln writes to Illinois College President Julian Sturtevant, who urged Lincoln to run for public office. Lincoln responds, “I thank you for your good opinion of me…It pains me a little that you…point out…how I may be compensated for throwing myself in the breach now. This assumes that I am merely calculating the chances of personal advancement…I decline to be a candidate for congress, on my clear conviction, that my running would hurt, & not help the cause.”
SEPTEMBER 28, 1860 -- In the statehouse office of Illinois Governor John Wood, a correspondent with the New York Herald newspaper interviews Republican presidential candidate Lincoln. The paper reports, “[Lincoln] received me very kindly, giving me a cordial shake of the hand…He has been obliged to abandon his practice in the courts, and gives little attention to anything else than the reception of his friends, the reading of the principal political papers of the country and the stack of letters that reach him daily.”
SEPTEMBER 29, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Indiana Governor Oliver Morton, who suggested that Lincoln is too far removed from the battlefield to fully appreciate Indiana and Kentucky’s vulnerability. Lincoln responds, “I am, if not in range, at least in hearing of cannon-shot, from an army of enemies more than a hundred thousand strong. I do not expect them to capture this city; but I know they would, if I were to send…men and arms…to defend Louisville, of which there is not a single hostile armed soldier within forty miles.”
SEPTEMBER 30, 1856 -- In Lacon, Illinois, Lincoln and congressional candidate Owen Lovejoy, of Alton, speak at a Republican gathering. Lincoln and Lovejoy campaign in support of presidential candidate John Fremont and his running mate, William Dayton. A newspaper reports that a five-hundred-member delegation from Henry County traveled to Lacon “in a train of sixty-four wagons, with banners and streamers flying, headed by the Henry Brass Band.” The paper estimates that a total of between 2,000 and 2,500 people attend the event.
OCTOBER 1, 1846 -- In the De Witt County Circuit Court, located in Clinton, Illinois, Lincoln represents Elisha Bushnell’s heirs, who ask the Court to subpoena defendant Moses Knapp, of Cook County. In 1836, Knapp owned some land and a saw mill in De Witt County. He contracted with Bushnell to move from New York and to make improvements to the property in return for half ownership. Bushnell made the improvements, but Knapp failed to convey a deed for Bushnell’s share. Bushnell sued but died before the suit’s conclusion.
OCTOBER 3, 1863 -- President Lincoln issues a proclamation “invit[ing] my fellow citizens…to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.” Lincoln asks Americans to remember “all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged.” Lincoln seeks divine intervention “to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it…to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.”
OCTOBER 4, 1861 -- At General William Franklin’s headquarters, President Lincoln “and others” attend a flag presentation ceremony. While there Lincoln observes aeronaut John La Mountain’s ascent in the hot-air balloon, “Saratoga.” A newspaper reports, “The rope broke, and the balloon sailed off. It landed safely…in Maryland, about six miles from Beltsville, which is twelve miles from Washington, on the Baltimore and Washington Railroad.”
OCTOBER 5, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton and intervenes on behalf of a female constituent. Lincoln explains, “The bearer, Mrs. Kate Sharp, is the daughter of a brother lawyer, whom I knew many years. She wishes to go South to get testimony for an important law-suit, and I am sure she means nothing wrong and will do nothing wrong. Please let her have a pass, unless you know some special reason to the contrary.”
OCTOBER 6, 1858 -- In the evening, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln travels by train from Peoria to Galesburg, where, on the following day, he will debate the Democratic incumbent, Senator Stephen A. Douglas. A fellow passenger later recalls that Lincoln totes a “carpetbag” and wears “a big gray shawl, and a somewhat rusty stovepipe hat.”
OCTOBER 7, 1859 -- Lincoln is in Clinton, Illinois, where a jury hears the arguments in the De Witt County Circuit Court case of Campbell v. Cole & Wall. The jury considers a verdict. Nelson Campbell asserts that the firm of Cole & Wall did not pay him for completing the wood work on ditching machines that Cole & Wall built. Lincoln represents John Cole and A Little One Wall, who claim that they paid Campbell after arbitrators awarded him $121.50. Campbell seeks $800 in damages.
OCTOBER 8, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Kentuckian Thomas Clay, who asked Lincoln to assign General George Morgan’s division to Kentucky. Clay argued that the division endured “so much” that it deserved “this favor.” Lincoln responds, “There are scarcely any old troops East or West of the [Appalachian] mountains that have not done as hard service. I sincerely wish war was an easier and pleasanter business than it is; but it does not admit of holy-days.”
OCTOBER 9, 1857 -- In the Woodford County Circuit Court, located in Metamora, Illinois, a jury finds for Lincoln’s client, Jacob Lahr. Lahr claimed that defendant John Swarens beat Lahr with various objects including a “steel rasp…[and an] iron rod.” Lahr declared that the beating left him “permanently and incurable disordered.” Lahr seeks $500 in damages. Swarens claimed he acted in “self defence” after Lahr attacked him “with a large pair of iron tongs…an iron bar and with a club.” The jury awards Lahr $20 in damages.
OCTOBER 10, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to Henry Hoffman, who chairs a committee seeking ratification of a new Maryland constitution. Hoffman invited Lincoln to attend a rally in Baltimore or to write a letter of support. Lincoln notes that a “provision” to eliminate slavery may elicit “serious controversy.” He writes, “I wish success to this provision…I wish all men to be free…I wish to see, in process of disappearing, that only thing which ever could bring this nation to civil war.”
OCTOBER 11, 1860 -- In Springfield, Illinois, a group of young Republicans, known as the “Wide Awakes,” march to Republican presidential candidate Lincoln’s home. The men celebrate their party’s local and state election victories in Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. A newspaper reports, “The Lincoln Wide Awakes…made the whole neighborhood resound…with their repeated cheers for Mr. Lincoln…[who] surrounded by a large number of personal friends, stood upon the door-steps and bowed in silent acknowledgment.”
OCTOBER 12, 1850 -- In the De Witt County Circuit Court, located in Clinton, Illinois, Lincoln writes an answer to plaintiff James Allsup’s petition. Allsup claims that Lincoln’s client, Alexander Argo, failed to pay for work that Allsup completed on a house, and that Argo refused to continue to board Allsup. Lincoln explains that Allsup did not complete the work. Lincoln admits that Argo “did refuse to board [Allsup] any longer” but only after Allsup failed to complete the work by the agreed deadline.
OCTOBER 13, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Major General George McClellan and encourages a more aggressive course of action. Lincoln reasons, “You remember my speaking to you of what I called your over-cautiousness. Are you not over-cautious when you assume that you can not do what the enemy is constantly doing? Should you not claim to be at least his equal in prowess, and act upon the claim?”
OCTOBER 14, 1859 -- At the Clinton, Illinois, courthouse, Lincoln speaks at a Republican gathering. A newspaper reports, “He…traced the beginning of the…party in 1854 to its present altitude of power and greatness....‘Our position,’ says Mr. L., ‘is right—our principles are good and just, but I would desire to impress on every Republican present to have patience and steadiness…whether defeated or successful…I do hope that as there is a just and righteous God in Heaven, our principles will and shall prevail sooner or later.’”
OCTOBER 15, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton on behalf of Abigail Berea, who, Lincoln explains, “had a husband and three sons in the war, and has been a nurse herself, without pay, during nearly the whole war. Her husband was killed at Gettysburg, and one of her sons also has died in the service. One other son she is willing to leave in the service…but the youngest, James H. Benjamin,…who is in poor health, she asks to have discharged. Let it be done.”
OCTOBER 16, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to U.S. Senator Henry Rice, of Minnesota, regarding the recent clash between the Dakota Indians and white settlers and soldiers. Hundreds died as a result of the hostilities. Lincoln seeks to re-establish “peace and…order” in the state. Lincoln writes, “Your long experience in that country will enable you to judge for the best…I expect much good to result from your action in the premises, and sincerely hope that the mission…may be accomplished.”
OCTOBER 17, 1862 -- At the White House, President Lincoln receives promoter P. T. Barnum and the three-foot-tall entertainer, Commodore Nutt, whose actual name is George Washington Morrison Nutt. A newspaper reports, “All the members of the Cabinet were present, and relished the extraordinary exhibition, while the manly little Commodore was in the best of spirits, and at the request of his distinguished audience sang ‘Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean.’”
OCTOBER 18, 1839 -- In the Macon County Circuit Court case of Adkin v. Meisenhelder, the parties agree to dismiss the slander suit. David Adkin accused Lincoln’s client, Levi Meisenhelder, of calling Adkin “a damned rascally thief [who]…has stolen hogs.” Adkin complained that Meisenhelder’s words “greatly injured [Adkin’s] good name fame & credit and brought [Adkin] into public scandal infamy and disgrace.” Adkin sought $1,000 in damages. Meisenhelder did not deny speaking the words and claimed that he could “verify” the accusations.
OCTOBER 19, 1864 -- In the evening, President Lincoln speaks from the White House balcony to a contingent of Maryland supporters. Lincoln addresses a rumor that he aims to “ruin the government.” Lincoln remarks, “I am struggling to maintain government, not to overthrow it…I therefore say, that if I shall live, I shall remain President until the fourth of next March; and…whoever shall be constitutionally elected…in November, shall be duly installed as President…In the interval I shall do my utmost…to hold the helm for the next voyage.”
OCTOBER 20, 1858 -- In Rushville, Illinois, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Lincoln speaks to between 2,000 to 3,000 people who gather in the public square. Lincoln defends his “House Divided” speech against his opponent, Stephen Douglas’s criticism. During his speech, some “foolish boys” as well as “several females” heckle Lincoln to the point that he “is compelled to stop in the midst of his speech and request them to be still.” In spite of the disturbance, a newspaper reports that “the day passed off very pleasantly and successfully.”
OCTOBER 21, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to Commander of the Middle Department General Robert Schenck regarding some Maryland planters’ concerns. Lincoln explains, “A delegation is here saying that our armed colored troops are at many…landings on the Patuxent river, and by their presence, with arms in their hands, are frightening quiet people, and producing great confusion.” Schenck responds that he ordered the troops to the area. He adds, “The [planters]…have grossly misrepresented matters… [The troops] are under special instructions, good discipline and have harmed no one.”
OCTOBER 22, 1846 -- Lincoln writes to his friend Joshua Speed, of Kentucky, and mentions the Lincoln boys, Robert and Edward. Lincoln writes, “We have another boy…He is very much such a child as Bob was at his age— rather of a longer order… [Robert] has a great deal of…mischief…Since I began this letter a messenger came to tell me, Bob was lost; but by the time I reached the house, his mother had found him, and had him whip[p]ed—and, by now, very likely he is run away again.”
OCTOBER 23, 1860 -- Republican presidential candidate Lincoln writes to David Turnham, who farms in Spencer County, Indiana, where Lincoln spent his early years. Lincoln writes, “I am indeed very glad to learn you are still living and well...I suppose you are a grandfather; and I, though married much later in life, have a son nearly grown. I would much like to visit the old home, and old friends of my boyhood, but I fear the chance for doing so soon, is not very good.”
OCTOBER 24, 1863 -- In Washington, D.C., President Lincoln tours the Government Printing Office. A newspaper reports that “a large number of…young ladies” serenade Lincoln with “the soul-stirring ‘Battle-cry of Freedom.’” Lincoln responds, “I did not expect to make a speech. All I have to say is, I hope that you will all have health and happiness to stand…by the flag for the purpose of perpetuating the sacred cause of Liberty and Union.”
OCTOBER 25, 1842 -- In the Coles County Circuit Court, located in Charleston, Illinois, State’s Attorney Aaron Shaw asks the Court to remove from “the Docket” the case of People v. Patterson. A grand jury indicted Lincoln’s client, Allen Patterson, for assault with intent to murder. Patterson allegedly used an axe to “make an assault … towards and against … John Patterson.” Lincoln argued that at the time of the incident Allen Patterson “was laboring under a degree of mental alienation, which would be likely to affect him greatly when excited in any way.”
OCTOBER 26, 1860 -- Republican presidential candidate Lincoln writes to confidante Major David Hunter regarding a disturbing letter Lincoln received. The writer claimed that some Army officers stationed at Fort Kearney, Nebraska, plan to take up arms against the government if Lincoln wins the election. Lincoln offers, “While I think there are many chances to one that this is a hum-bug, it occurs to me that any real movement of this sort…would leak out and become known to you…I shall be much obliged if you will apprize me of it.”
OCTOBER 27, 1860 -- Republican presidential candidate Lincoln writes to George Davis, of New York. Through an intermediary, Davis warned Lincoln that various groups conspire to initiate a financial “panic…after [Lincoln’s] election.” Davis suggested that a letter from Lincoln would help to “crush” the plan. Lincoln writes, “What is it I could say which would quiet alarm? Is it that no interference by the government, with…slavery…is intended? I have said this so often…that a repetition of it is…mockery, bearing an appearance of weakness…which perhaps should be avoided.”
OCTOBER 28, 1861 -- In Washington, D.C., President Lincoln attends a military equipment demonstration. A newspaper reports, “An exhibition of the qualities of an instrument, known as the Union gun, was made at the arsenal this afternoon in the presence of the President, Gen. [George] McClellan … and a crowd of distinguished scientific and military gentle-men. The gun fired with great precision and power, and has been adopted by the government.”
OCTOBER 29, 1853 -- In the Vermilion County Circuit Court, located in Danville, Illinois, the parties agree to dismiss the case of Hunt v. Thompson. John Hunt sued Lincoln’s client, John Thompson, for $500 worth of damages caused by Thompson’s dog. Hunt charged that the dog attacked Hunt’s flock of 4,000 sheep, killing 300, and causing 2,000 ewes to abort, or “slunk,” their lambs. The parties agree that Hunt will pay all costs up to October 22, and Thompson will pay all subsequent costs.
OCTOBER 30, 1863 -- In the evening, President Lincoln attends Ford’s Theater, where he watches Maggie Mitchell star in the play, “Fanchon, the Cricket.” A newspaper reports, “The private boxes containing the presidential party were elegantly and tastefully decorated with American flags, flowers, &c…Miss Mitchell acted with her usual grace and vivacity, and was called before the curtain at the end of each act to receive the plaudits and floral tributes of the overflowing audience assembled.”
OCTOBER 31, 1855 -- In the Vermilion County Circuit Court, located in Danville, Illinois, the Court grants a divorce to Lincoln’s client, Eliza Search. Defendant Anthony Search fails to appear and the Court determines that he “willfully deserted & absented himself from his said wife without any reasonable cause for more than two years.” The Court grants Eliza Search custody of the couple’s “minor children” and it determines that she shall “retain as her separate property” a one-quarter-acre lot located in Danville.
NOVEMBER 1, 1859 -- Lincoln writes to fellow Republican William Frazer, of Cookstown, Pennsylvania. Frazer floated U.S. Senator Simon Cameron’s name as the party’s presidential candidate. Lincoln chooses to withhold an endorsement of any candidate, including Cameron, of Pennsylvania, until after the Republican national convention. Lincoln hints, “I have enlisted for the permanent success of the Republican cause; and, for this object, I shall labor faithfully in the ranks, unless, as I think not probable, the judgment of the party shall assign me a different position.”
NOVEMBER 2, 1839 -- Lincoln writes to William Doughty, of Tremont, Illinois, where Lincoln recently attended court. Lincoln writes, “I understand my coat was left in your possession. Will you please get a yard or so of coarse domestic (for which I will pay you the first time I see you) and fold the coat in it and tie the card herein enclosed upon it, and hand the bundle to the Stage driver on his trip towards Springfield? You will verry much oblige me by doing so.”
NOVEMBER 3, 1845 -- In the Menard County Circuit Court case of People v. Pond, a jury finds Lincoln’s client, Marvin Pond, not guilty of harboring a fugitive slave. The Court orders that Pond “be discharged, and that he go hence without delay.” State’s Attorney David Campbell charged that on June 10, 1845, Pond “did unlawfully harbor a negro slave called John Hauley…owing service and labor to one William Hauley in the State of Kentucky.”
NOVEMBER 4, 1851 -- Lincoln writes to his step-brother, John Johnston, who resides in Coles County, Illinois, and expresses frustration with Johnston’s desire to relocate to Missouri. Lincoln writes, “What you really want is to sell the land, get the money and spend it…I do not write…in any unkindness. I write…to get you to face the truth…you are destitute because you have idled away all your time. Your thousand pretences for not getting along better, are all non-sense…Go to work is the only cure for your case.”
NOVEMBER 5, 1862 -- President Lincoln writes to Colonel William Morrison, of the 49th Illinois Volunteers. Morrison, a Democrat, suggests that Lincoln, a Republican, grants military promotions to politically-connected men over better qualified candidates. Lincoln writes, “I can not even conjecture what juniors of yours, you suppose I contemplate promoting over you. True, seniority has not been my rule, in this connection; but in considering military merit, it seems to me the world has abundant evidence that I discard politics.”
NOVEMBER 6, 1852 -- In the Shelby County Circuit Court, located in Shelbyville, Illinois, a jury hears the evidence and finds in favor of Lincoln’s client Mary Jane Stewardson, who seeks a divorce from William Stewardson. The Court orders William to pay $50 per year alimony. Mary Jane claimed that William “abandoned” her and left her dependent “upon the hospitality and kindness of strangers.” William asserted that he left Mary Jane because “she was petulant, fretful…abusive… violent…quarrelsome… [and she] complain[ed] almost from morning until night.”
NOVEMBER 7, 1861 -- President Lincoln writes to Adjutant General Lorenzo Thomas regarding Captain Gurden Chapin, who seeks reinstatement into the Army. Chapin contemplated joining the Confederate Army, but he reconsidered. Lincoln, who favors Chapin’s reappointment, explains, “We need all the educated military talent we can get…Officers…who have been dismissed…and who still cling to us, protest their loyalty and refuse to take service under the enemy, as a general rule may safely be trusted.”
NOVEMBER 8, 1858 -- Lincoln writes to New York Tribune editor Horace Greeley on behalf of John Nicolay. Lincoln explains, “This will introduce our mutual friend John G. Nicolay, who resides [in Springfield, Illinois]. He wishes an arrangement to correspond for your paper. He is entirely trust-worthy; and, so far as I am capable of judging, altogether competent for such a situation. I hope you will conceive it your interest to engage him.”
NOVEMBER 9, 1863 -- President Lincoln writes to his former law partner, Stephen Logan, of Springfield, Illinois, and he invites Logan to attend the November 19 dedication of the Gettysburg, Pennsylvania battlefield cemetery. Lincoln suggests that Logan and Logan’s daughter, Sarah Lamon, travel together. Sarah is married to Lincoln’s close friend, U.S. Marshal Ward Lamon, who will accompany Lincoln from Washington to Gettysburg. Lincoln writes, “It will be an interesting ceremony, and I shall be very glad to see you.”
NOVEMBER 10, 1864 -- In the evening, President Lincoln speaks to supporters who gather in front of the White House, where they celebrate Lincoln’s recent re-election. Lincoln remarks, “If the rebellion could force us to forego, or postpone a national election, it might fairly claim to have already conquered and ruined us…The election…has demonstrated that a people’s government can sustain a national election, in the midst of a great civil war. Until now it has not been known to the world that this was a possibility.”
NOVEMBER 11, 1854 -- In the De Witt County Circuit Court, located in Clinton, Illinois, a jury finds in favor of plaintiff Abial Cushman, who is suing Lincoln’s client, the Illinois Central Railroad, for breaching a right-of-way agreement. Cushman charged that the railroad failed to build fences and allowed its construction crews and livestock to enter his land and destroy his crops and fences. Cushman seeks $500 in damages. The jury assesses $89.50, in damages.
NOVEMBER 12, 1863 -- In the evening, President Lincoln attends the wedding of Katherine “Kate” Chase, whose father, Salmon Chase, serves as Lincoln’s Treasury Secretary. Kate Chase and William Sprague exchange vows in Salmon Chase’s Washington, D. C. residence, where approx-imately 500 guests gather. A newspaper reports, “Miss Chase was dressed in white velvet, with full train…and wore upon her head a magnificent tiara studded with diamonds … Dancing … commenced to the inspiring music of the Marine Band, and the festivities were kept up until after midnight.”
NOVEMBER 13, 1863 -- At the White House, President Lincoln meets with U.S. Senator John Conness, of California. Conness presents Lincoln with a cane once owned by Conness’s predecessor, the late David Broderick. A newspaper reports, “The President…accepted the cane, and, with much emotion, replied that he never personally knew…Mr. Broderick, but he had always heard him spoken of as one sincerely devoted to the cause of human rights.” Lincoln confides that his “proudest ambition… [is] to do something for the elevation of the condition of his fellow-man.”
NOVEMBER 14, 1864 -- President Lincoln writes to commander of the Department of the Gulf, General Stephen Hurlbut, and expresses displeasure concerning the apparent friction that exists between the Louisiana government officials and the occupying U.S. military forces. Lincoln writes, “Every Unionist ought to wish the new government to succeed…The military must not be thwarted by the civil authority…[But] the commanding general [who]…transcend[s] all military necessity, in order to crush out the civil government, will not be overlooked.”
NOVEMBER 15, 1861 -- In the afternoon, President Lincoln, Secretary of State William Seward, Secretary of War Simon Cameron, Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles, and others board the steamer, “Mount Washington,” and travel to Alexandria, Virginia, where the “steam sloop-of-war,” “Pensacola,” awaits completion. A newspaper reports, “[The President and his party] made a thorough inspection of the machinery and formidable battery of the Pensacola, and after partaking of a [light meal] provided in her cabin, returned to Washington.”
NOVEMBER 16, 1852 -- In the Christian County Circuit Court, located in Taylorville, Illinois, Lincoln annotates a plea that the defendant’s attorney files. Lincoln represents plaintiff James Masterson, who seeks $350 in damages from defendant Andrew Northcutt. Northcutt’s minor son, under his father’s instructions, herded a cow past the enclosure where Masterson penned 400 hogs. Northcutt’s cow knocked down part of the fence, and Masterson’s hogs escaped. Masterson lost 70 hogs and he claimed that Northcutt was liable for the son’s negligence.
NOVEMBER 17, 1858 -- Lincoln writes to the Missouri- based firm of S. C. Davis & Co. and expresses aggravation with the partners’ impatience. Lincoln represents the company in numerous U.S. Circuit Court debt cases. Lincoln explains that the process of settling the matter is tedious and time consuming. He concludes, “My mind is made up. I will have no more to do with this class of business…I believe we have had, of legal fees…one hundred dollars. I would not go through the same labor and vexation again for five hundred.”
NOVEMBER 18, 1859 -- In Mt. Vernon, Illinois, Lincoln represents the railroad in the Illinois Supreme Court case of People v. Illinois Central RR. The State of Illinois is suing the railroad to collect taxes for 1857. The parties disagree on the valuation of the railroad’s property. State Auditor Jesse Dubois bases the tax upon an appraisal of $19,711,559.59, and the railroad assesses a value of $4,942,000. On this day, Lincoln questions at least eleven witnesses. The Court agrees with the railroad’s valuation of the property.
NOVEMBER 19, 1858 -- Lincoln writes to his longtime friend, Anson Henry, regarding the U.S. Senate election that Lincoln lost to Stephen Douglas. Lincoln writes, “I am glad I made the late race. It gave me a hearing on the great and durable question of the age, which I could have had in no other way; and though I now sink out of view, and shall be forgotten, I believe I have made some marks which will tell for the cause of civil liberty long after I am gone.”
