ABRAHAM LINCOLN–RELATED MANUSCRIPTS
IN THE WILLIAM HENRY SMITH MEMORIAL LIBRARY,
INDIANA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
The Indiana Historical Society received a grant from the Lilly Endowment in January 2003 that enabled it to acquire the Jack Smith Lincoln Graphics Collection (P 0406), the Daniel R. Weinberg Lincoln Conspirators Collection (P 0409), and a well-known Alexander Gardner glass plate negative of Lincoln dating from November 1863 (P 0420). These acquisitions provided the impetus for the Society to create a finding aid describing individual Lincoln-related manuscripts already in the collections of the William Henry Smith Memorial Library. This guide, researched and drafted by University of Indianapolis intern Molly K. Fausset, with later additions by collections staff member Carol Street Potter, is the result of that effort.
In contrast to standard collection guides that describe on a general level all the materials in a specific collection, this finding aid describes in detail Lincoln-related items from a variety of collections. “Lincoln-related” is defined as:
Within these categories, items are arranged by date. For each item, the collection, box, and folder where the item is located is given.
These materials are available for researchers to use in the William Henry Smith Memorial Library.
Glenn
L. McMullen
Director, Manuscript and Visual Collections
Indiana Historical Society
450 West Ohio Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202-3269
September 2004
BY LINCOLN
CA. 1824–26
Leaf from Lincoln’s sum book, undated, possibly from 1824–26. After Lincoln’s assassination, William Henry Herndon, Lincoln’s law partner and biographer, met with Lincoln’s stepmother, Sarah, in Coles County, Illinois. She mentioned that there were possibly two copybooks of Lincoln’s left—one for mathematics and the other for literary works. The sum book was located, and Herndon took the book and distributed its remaining pages. It is believed that the sum book once held fifty 9” by 12” leaves that were sewn with string. This leaf is one of possibly ten leaves surviving in the United States today, and was possibly the second or fourth leaf in the sum book. n.d., ca. 1824–26. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 1.
1840
Legal document in Lincoln’s hand discussing the Trotter v. Thomas case, dating from 1840. The document speaks of the case involving an Illinois circuit court’s orator, George Trotter. Jesse B. Thomas Jr. is the defendant to the bill of clemency who had two promissory notes in writing. The first note was made for the sum of $700 and the second for $94.08, at 12 percent interest. Thomas executed a mortgage deed on 12 October 1838 to secure the payment of the note. Lincoln writes that Trotter says that the notes remain unpaid. Lincoln requests that Trotter grant Thomas relief for the payment. The case was filed on 1 July 1840. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 2.
1849
Letter from Lincoln, Springfield, Illinois, to Thomas Ewing, secretary of the interior. Lincoln received a sealed package and could not find letters from R. W. Thompson or Elisha Embree, members of Congress from the Wabash districts in Indiana. Lincoln wants these letters from Ewing because they spoke of his “character and standing” at home. A note on the bottom of the letter states that it was answered on 18 July 1849. 9 July 1849. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 3.
1860
Letter from Lincoln, Springfield, Illinois, to Schulyer Colfax, dated 31 May 1860. The letter reads: “My Dear Sir: Yours of the 26th is received, and so far from reading it as presumptuous, I should be right glad to have one from you every mail—Bear this in mind, and act accordingly—You will readily understand and appreciate why I write only very short letters. Yours very truly, A. Lincoln.” 31 May 1860. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 4.
1861
Letter from Lincoln, Washington, D.C., to Secretary of War [Simon Cameron]. Lincoln mentions raising troops in Indiana between the Ohio and Wabash rivers, including the area surrounding his boyhood home. 17 June 1861. Arthur G. Mitten Collection (M 0211), Box 3, Folder 24.
1863
Letter from Lincoln, in Washington, D.C., to Major General Robert H. Milroy. Lincoln gives reasons for not placing Milroy in command again. Lincoln refers to the case in Winchester as another reason for not appointing Milroy. 29 June 1863. Lorenz Schumm Collection (SC 1317), Folder 2.
Letter to Robert Dale Owen from Lincoln, written from Washington, D.C. Lincoln introduces Owen to Mr. McKay, who is highly recommended by General Ulysses Grant and by Supreme Court Justice Noah Swayne. 22 July 1863. New Harmony Collection, 1814–1884 (M 0219), Box 1, Folder 14.
1864
Short note from Lincoln in Washington, D.C., to Lew Wallace. Lincoln writes: “Will Major General Lewis Wallace please join some other General officers to a dinner at the Executive Mansion at 6:45 o’clock this evening March 12, 1864.” 12 March 1864. Lew Wallace Papers (M 0292), Box 1, Folder 16.
Letter from Lincoln in Washington, D.C., to Edwin M. Stanton. Lincoln writes that General Lew Wallace is getting along very well and has been trying to get “Gov. B. and Hon. H. W. D. together.” Lincoln told Wallace to be fair but give him the benefit of all doubt. He asks Stanton to confer with Wallace and to add any suggestions he may have. 31 March 1864. Lew Wallace Papers (M 0292), Box 1, Folder 16.
Scrap note signed by Lincoln: “Let this man take the oath of Dec. 8, 1863, and be discharged. A. Lincoln Oct. 12, 1864.” 12 October 1864. Arthur G. Mitten Collection (M 0211), Box 3, Folder 24.
TO LINCOLN
1861
Letter written in Wabash, Indiana, to Lincoln from members of the bar at Wabash, Wabash County, Indiana. The members recommend Samuel B. Gookins of Chicago as an applicant to fill the vacancy on the bench of the Supreme Court because of the death of the Hon. John McLean of Ohio. Letter signed by Calvin Cowgill, John M. Pottil, M. H. Kidd, L. H. Goodwin, John M. Washburn, John L. Knight, and W. W. Peck. 26 April 1861. Samuel B. Gookins Collection (SC 0636), Folder 1.
Letter from O. P. Morton, Indianapolis, to Lincoln. Morton informs Lincoln that Indiana will soon have 37,000 men in the field—infantry, cavalry, and artillery. The last 10,000 soldiers Morton desires to organize into a complete army corps and command them himself, to be the most complete volunteer army in the nation and continent. 9 August 1861. Oliver P. Morton Papers, 1861–1875 (SC 1117), Folder 2.
1862
Letter to Lincoln from members of the bar practicing in Covington and Attica in Fountain County, Indiana. The members ask for Lincoln to consider Samuel B. Gookins for the position of district judge in their district. The letter is signed by M. M. Mieford, P. Poole, Alex A. Rice, James Buchanan, Charles Tyler, J. N. Evans, H. H. Stilwell, William H. Mallory, R. W. Carrison, Jonathan Brick, and Thomas F. Davidson. February 1862. Samuel B. Gookins Collection (SC 0636), Folder 1.
Letter written by O. P. Morton, 20 November 1862, from Indianapolis, to Lincoln. Morton recommends John W. Ray, Esq. of Jeffersonville, late colonel of the 49th Regiment Indiana Volunteers. Morton describes Ray as having high character and being thoroughly loyal. 20 November 1862. Oliver P. Morton Papers, 1861–1875 (SC 1117), Folder 2.
Letter to Lincoln from Charles P. McIlvaine, Cincinnati, Ohio. McIlvaine recommends that Reverend J. E. Purdy of New Albany, Indiana, an Episcopalian, be appointed chaplain. McIlvaine writes that Purdy had to leave Arkansas “on account of his Union sentiments.” McIlvaine claims to be well informed that Purdy is worthy and capable of the position. 20 November 1862. Charles P. McIlvaine Collection (SC 1025), Folder 1.
1865
Letter from Oliver P. Morton to Lincoln, written from Indianapolis. Morton writes that the promotion of Brigadier General Solomon Meredith to the rank of major general is desired by many. 1 February 1865. Oliver P. Morton Papers, 1861–1875 (SC 1117), Folder 2.
CERTIFICATES AND ENDORSEMENTS
1861
Letter written by O. P. Morton, governor of Indiana, from Indianapolis, to Lincoln. Morton recommends Will Cumback as paymaster to the War Department. Morton highly recommends Cumback because of his devoted friends and high moral courage. On 30 April 1861, Lincoln responds, appointing Cumback as paymaster, without violation of previous agreements or committals. 23 April 1861. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 5.
Appointment of James Wilson of Indiana as Consul of the United States at Ecuador. Certificate signed by Lincoln and William Seward. 23 October 1861. Arthur G. Mitten Collection (M 0211). OMB 0080, Box 2, Folder 4.
Letter from Jno. J. Speed to Josh[ua] [Speed]. Letter written from Louisville, Kentucky, states that General Lew Wallace heard that the brigadier general may not be able to appoint his staff. Speed turns the job of confirming appointments over to Josh. Lincoln writes on 4 December 1861: “Respectfully submitted to the War Department.” A note on the back of the letter states that John J. Speed is appreciative of General Wallace for the appointments of staff. 19 November 1861. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 6.
1862
Certificate for appointment of Lew Wallace to position of brigadier general, signed by Lincoln and Stanton. 6 February 1862. Lew Wallace Papers (M 0292). OMB 0023, Box 1, Folder 8.
Lew Wallace certificate for appointment of major general of volunteers. Certificate is endorsed by Lincoln and Stanton. 22 March 1862. Lew Wallace Papers (M 0292). OMB 0023, Box 1, Folder 8.
Letter from Nathan Kimball to Lincoln, written from Head Quarters Kimball’s Brigade in Harper’s Ferry, Virginia. Kimball writes to Lincoln on behalf of himself, Governor Richard Yates, and others who recommend that Colonel William Harrow of the 14th Regiment Indiana Volunteers be promoted. On 16 October 1862, Lincoln submits the request to the secretary of war. 13 October 1862. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 7.
1863
James Davis commission certificate. Davis was appointed commissary of subsistence of Columbus with the rank of captain. Certificate was signed by Edwin M. Stanton and Lincoln. 10 March 1863. James Davis Papers, 1863 (OM 0277), Folder 1.
1864
Letter from O. P. Morton, written from Indianapolis. Morton brings to Lincoln’s attention Colonel John J. Wilder and Colonel Silas Calgrove, both of the 17th Indiana Regiment. Morton also recommends that William Grose from the 36th Indiana Regiment and Benjamin F. Scribner from the 38th Indiana Regiment be promoted. On 22 January 1864, Lincoln forwards his nominations to the secretary of war [Edwin M. Stanton]. 17 January 1864. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 8.
Letter written from Jeffersonville, Indiana, from Thomas S. Crowe on behalf of ministers with the Presbyterian Church. The other ministers include John L. McKee from Louisville, Robert J. L. Matthews, chaplain of the state prison, J. P. ___ from New Albany, and A. H. Lackey. The ministers recommend the appointment of Reverend S. S. Potter of New Albany, Indiana, to the office of chaplain for the United States. Lincoln writes that Potter will be appointed chaplain on 8 July. 8 July 1864. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 9.
Appointment of John Remick to the rank of first lieutenant. Certificate is signed by Lincoln and Stanton. 1 August 1864. John Remick, Lieutenant’s Appointment, 1864 (OM 0194), Folder 1.
Commission appointing George Wagner to the position of first lieutenant in the Veteran Reserve Corps. Certificate is signed by Lincoln and Stanton. 1 August 1864. George Wagner Commission, 1864 (OM 0097), Folder 1.
Certificate of Honorable Service given to Thomas Jones, 138th Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry. The certificate is of thanks and of honorable service for having honorably served as a volunteer for one hundred days. Certificate is signed by Lincoln and Edwin M. Stanton. 15 December 1864. Thomas Jones, Certificate 1864 (OM 0195), Folder 1.
President’s thanks and certificate of honorable service signed by Lincoln and Stanton, presented to Edwin R. Allen. 15 December 1864. Edwin R. Allen Papers (SC 0010), Folder 4.
1865
Letter from Alfred Blake to Lincoln. Blake writes to Lincoln requesting his release from a military prison. Blake was born in Harrison County, Indiana, and was conscripted on 27 February 1863 and placed in Company E, 18th Arkansas Infantry Regiment. Blake was captured on 12 January 1864 and was sent to a military prison in Indiana. Blake wishes to take the oath of allegiance for his release. O. P. Morton writes on 13 January 1865 from Indianapolis that he was satisfied with Blake’s request. Holding that Blake will take the oath, Lincoln discharges Blake on 19 January 1865. January 1865. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 11.
Letter from O. P. Morton, Indianapolis, to Lincoln. Morton introduces Mrs. Susan M. Brown to Lincoln. Brown desires an interview with Lincoln to release her brother from a prisoner camp. Lincoln responds on letter: “Let the man take the oath of December 8, 1863 and he [is] discharged. A. Lincoln January 12, 1865.” 7 January 1865. McLaughlin-Jordan Family Papers (SC 1030), Folder 6.
ABOUT LINCOLN
1860
Letter from Thomas T. Hunt, Dublin, Wayne County, to Abigail H. Stanley, Plainfield, Indiana. Hunt writes that the neighbors he thought were Democrats now vote for Lincoln. He looks for Lincoln and Hamlin to win the election. 16 July 1860. Thomas T. Hunt Collection (SC 0803), Folder 1.
Letter to James Crandall from Robert Crandall, New Castle, Indiana. Crandall tells James to “go to the election in November and put in a ticket for honest Abe.” 30 September 1860. John W. Hamilton Papers, 1851–1864 (SC 0676), Folder 3.
Letter from James and Sarah Ireland, Brownstown, Indiana, to their children. Ireland writes that the Republicans are happy about Old Abe’s election, but they are going to give them a run for their money later. 28 October 1860. James Ireland Family Papers (M 0169), Box 1, Folder 6.
Letter by Abner H. Hyde, Indianapolis. He writes that the elections were disastrous for Douglas and the democracy. He hopes that Lincoln will lash out on southern discontents and show them that treason is a punishable offense. Despite that, Hyde feels that Lincoln has little political experience. 9 November 1860. Abner H. Hyde Collection (SC 0810), Folder 1.
1861
Diary entry of Perry Hall. Hall writes that in the afternoon he witnessed a reception for Lincoln, the president-elect. Hall says that he had a “fair view of him while Governor Morton addressed him and he replied.” Later that evening, Hall writes, he shook Lincoln by the hand. 11 February 1861. Perry Hall Papers and Diary, 1861 (SC 0670), Folder 2.
Letter from Catharine Merrill, Stuttgart, Germany, to Jane Ketcham. Merrill is glad to hear that Lincoln is doing something. She writes that “the papers here call him weak and unfit for the position.” 30 April 1861. John Lewis Ketcham Collection (M 0173), Box 2, Folder 1.
Letter from Charles Pierce, written in Memphis, to his aunt living in the North. Pierce defends his fighting with the South. He feels that Lincoln’s cause is wrong and his support of abolition is solely political. 26 May 1861. Charles Pierce Family Civil War Papers, 1834–1867 (SC 2300), Folder 3.
Diary entry by Perry Hall. He writes: “This is the day appointed by the Proclamation of the President to be observed as a National humiliation, fasting, and prayer. It has been greatly observed.” 26 September 1861. Perry Hall Papers and Diary, 1861 (SC 0670), Folder 2.
1862
Letter written to Amanda in Attica, Indiana, from E. Miller in Crawfordsville, Indiana. Miller writes that Mrs. Lincoln is made fun of by everyone and that she is “decidedly a snob.” Miller also says that he is “sorry we have a president with so little mind, and a presidentess with so little of the lady.” 2 March 1862. Robert B. Hanna Family Papers, 1859–1927 (M 0129), Box 1, Folder 2.
Letter from Robert J. Price at Fort Henry to his father. Price writes that the soldiers received word of the abolishment of slavery in Washington, D.C., passed by Congress under the sanction of Lincoln. He describes the soldiers as being in “supreme contempt.” He claims that Congress is adding fuel to the fire and that because of the abolishment the Rebel leaders will be able to gain more volunteers to fight. Price writes that the soldiers “curse President Lincoln loud, long and deep for not vetoing the bill.” 21 April 1862. Robert J. Price Collection (SC 1221), Folder 4.
Diary entry from George W. Lambert. Lambert writes that on that evening there was a grand review by Uncle Abraham and Secretary Stanton in person. Lincoln came through asking each colonel what regiment they represented. Lincoln was mounted on a white horse so he was easily distinguishable. Lambert describes Lincoln as wearing a hat and being better looking than he had expected, based on descriptions and photographs. 23 May 1862. George W. Lambert Diaries (M 0178), Box 2, Folder 3.
Letter from Major General Robert H. Milroy, Buckhannon, Virginia, to Schuyler Colfax. Milroy discusses their “cowardly retreat across” Bull Run. General Schenck told Milroy to see Lincoln to tell him of the infamous affair. Milroy writes that he told Lincoln what he saw in “very rough Hoosier style” of the disgraceful and unnecessary retreat. 27 October 1862. Robert H. Milroy Collection (SC 1092), Folder 1.
1863
Letter of Captain Orville T. Chamberlain, 74th Regiment, near Lavergne, Tennessee. Chamberlain describes the soldiers as being discontented about their pay and are “almost all down” on Lincoln’s New Year’s Proclamation. 29 January–6 February 1863. Joseph W. and Orville T. Chamberlain Papers (M 0044), Box 1, Folder 10.
Letter from Stephen A. Miller, Louisville, to Nancy Brown. Miller is discouraged with the Union’s war policy. He is opposed to freeing slaves, and disagrees with “Old Abe’s Mancipation Proclamation.” 31 January 1863. Stephen A. Miller Collection (SC 1073), Folder 4.
Letter from Marion Elwell in Washington Junction, Virginia, to Mollie Fowler in Lawrenceburgh, Indiana. Elwell mentions that he saw Stanton and Lincoln at Fredericksburg. 27 May 1863. Marion Elwell Letter (SC 2671), Folder 1.
1864
Letter from Captain James W. Hamilton, Co. H, 83rd Regiment, Bellefont, Alabama, to James and Agnes Crandall. Hamilton writes that he stands “square on the platform of Old Abe.” 4 January 1864. John W. Hamilton Papers, 1851–1864 (SC 0676), Folder 2.
Autobiography and journal of David McDonald started on 20 July 1860. Relevant discussions taken from 1864–65. On page 90-A, written 5–10 November 1864, McDonald mentions that he was trying to get a judgeship position for the U.S. District Court in Indiana. He met with Lincoln on Wednesday, the 7th, and notes that he does “not see how Lincoln can refuse it.” November 1864. Autobiography and Journal of David McDonald (M 0193), Box 1, Folder 2.
Unconditional Union Ticket. The ticket encourages citizens to vote for Lincoln for president and Andrew Johnson for vice president. It also mentions the electors, David S. Gooding from Hancock County and Richard W. Thompson from Vigo County. The ticket mentions the state electors that are running: James C. Denney, 1st District; Cyrus T. Nixon, 2nd District; Henry R. Pritchard, 3rd District; Leonidas Sexton, 4th District; Benjamin F. Claypool, 5th District; J. J. Wright, 6th District; John Osborn, 7th District; R. P. Davidson, 8th District; James B. Belford, 9th District; Timothy R. Dickinson, 10th District; John M. Wallace, 11th District. 1864. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 10.
1865: January
Letter from George Washington Lambert from a camp near Stephensburg, Virginia. Lambert writes that the president’s message is a stupendous document, and he feels that the proclamation of amnesty is right. He believes that Lincoln will get a chance to “run the machine of the State” again. 16 January 1865. George W. Lambert Papers (M 0178), Box 1, Folder 4.
1865: April
Letter to Charles Buckley in Delphi, Indiana, from his brother in Indianapolis. His brother went to the statehouse with other mourners after word of Lincoln’s assassination. He notes that businesses were closed, and black crepe hung from doorknobs and windows. He mentions that Governor Morton was to speak, but was too choked up to say much. Buckley mentions the possibility that Seward might be dead, and if so, the nation would have lost “two of the greatest men that ever lived.” 15 April 1865. Buckley Family letters, 1854–1909 (M 0769), Box 2, Folder 4.
Autobiography and journal of David McDonald. On Saturday, 15 April 1865, McDonald mentions a crowd had gathered at Statehouse Square. McDonald proceeds to give a tribute to Lincoln. On Wednesday, 19 April 1865, McDonald discusses Lincoln’s funeral. On 29 and 30 April 1865, McDonald mentions meeting Lincoln’s funeral train and a 1:30 p.m. procession to the Governor’s Circle. April 1865. Autobiography and Journal of David McDonald (M 0193), Box 1, Folder 2.
Letter from Maggie E. Robinson. Robinson describes the “excitement” over Lincoln’s death involving some Irish residents who expressed happiness over it and Dr. Beck, who was disturbed at this. One of the Irishmen was accused of being a traitor. Robinson concludes by asking for a framed portrait of Lincoln. 16 April 1865. Buckley Family letters, 1854–1909 (M 0769), Box 2, Folder 4.
Letter from Henley C. Lybrook, Dowagiac, Michigan, to Mary Lybrook, St. Mary’s Academy, Notre Dame, Indiana. Lybrook speaks of Lincoln’s assassination by John Wilkes Booth. Lybrook believes that Lincoln’s death came at a time when “things were taking a direction to a humane honorable and speedy peace.” 17 April 1865. Henley C. Lybrook Papers (SC 2708), Folder 1.
Letter from J. W. J. Culton, Chicago, to William Starr, Richmond, Indiana. Culton is sure Starr, “as all loyal men are,” is shocked over Lincoln’s assassination. Culton writes that the assassination seems more like a “horrid dream than reality.” He continues saying, “In this awful affair, the slave power and its friends have stricken down their best friend, one that by his large heartedness and humanity had saved many a just retribution on their guilty heads.” 18 April 1865. William C. Starr Papers (SC 1400), Folder 6.
Letter written from Raleigh, North Carolina, by Augustus Van Dyke to his father. Van Dyke writes that he heard about Lincoln’s assassination and Seward’s stabbing on the 17th, and was very overwhelmed. 18 April 1865. Augustus Mortimer Van Dyke Letters, 1865 (M 0284), Box 1, Folder 8.
Letter from Isaac Barker written from Stephens Station, Virginia, to Josephine Barker. Barker was in the army and was rejoicing over the prospect of coming home when his regiment received word of Lincoln’s assassination. Barker writes that the military was to meet for the funeral, all would fire salutes, and flags would be at half-mast. 19 April 1865. Isaac Barker Civil War letters, 1865 (SC 0057), Folder 1.
Letter from Charles Pierce from prisoner-of-war camp on Johnson’s Island, Ohio, near Sandusky. Pierce writes that Lincoln’s assassination has caused a great excitement in the prison. Pierce is anxious for the assassin to be captured because he believes the Confederate government would not have done anything of the sort, and wishes for their name to be cleared. 19 April 1865. Charles Pierce Family Civil War Papers, 1834–1867 (SC 2300), Folder 4.
J. E. Williams writes from Washington, D.C., to his parents. Williams met with President Johnson and concludes that Lincoln’s assassination was the worst thing that could have happened to the Confederacy. 21 April 1865. Williams Family correspondence, 1864–69 (M 0302), Box 3, Folder 1.
Letter from Orville Chamberlain in Raleigh, North Carolina, to Richard. Chamberlain had received Sherman’s announcement of Lincoln’s assassination. He says that the soldiers had feelings of “mingled rage and sorrow.” Chamberlain concludes that “if the perpetrator of the damnable deed were here, he would be torn into a thousand tatters.” He wished that Lincoln could have seen the “fruits of his labors” and also so that he could be honored for his wisdom and honesty. 21 April 1865. Joseph and Orville Chamberlain Papers, 1865 (M 0044), Box 2, Folder 3.
Letter signed by H. R. Strong and Z. Strong, College Hill, Ohio. Strong writes: “Booth, the Murderer of the President has not as yet been caught but I think he will be. One hundred thousand dollars now offered for his apprehension. The whole country is in tears for our good departed President Abraham, the greatest man in America.” 23 April 1865. Henry R. Strong Collection (SC 1423), Folder 2.
Letter from Barr in Eastport to Charlie. Barr’s letter tells of Lincoln’s assassination and its shock. Barr believes that Johnson will not pardon the rebels as quickly as Lincoln would have. 24 April 1865. Buckley Family letters, 1854–1909 (M 0769), Box 2, Folder 4.
Levi R. Hiffner letter to Mary and Aunt Millington, written in Indianapolis. Hiffner writes of seeing the body of President Lincoln. He believes that more than 100,000 people were present to see the president’s body in state. Hiffner mentions how rainy the day was and also gives a brief description of Indianapolis on that day. 30 April 1865. Levi R. Hiffner Letter, 1865 (SC 1867), Folder 1.
Account of Smith Griffith’s trip to Indianapolis on 30 April to see Lincoln’s body in state. Griffith describes the muddy streets in Indianapolis and the decorations at the statehouse. Griffith describes Lincoln as having “no expression of pain, almost a smile seemed to belie the story of his death.” Griffith calls Lincoln the “Great Liberator.” 30 April 1865. Smith Griffith Collection (SC 1648), Folder 1.
Letter from Jane M. Ketcham, Indianapolis, to William Ketcham, North Carolina. Ketcham writes the words to hymns sung in the Fourth Presbyterian Church on 20 April, the “day of sorrow for the loss [of the] President.” April 1865. John Lewis Ketcham Collection (M 0173), Box 2, Folder 4.
1865: May
Diary entry by Martin Luther Hursh, dated 1 May, written in Montgomery, Alabama. Hursh has received dispatches confirming the assassination of Lincoln and the secretary of state. He describes the event as “surprising as a clap of thunder from a cloudless sky.” Hearing of the assassination was the “most solemn scene” he ever witnessed. 1 May 1865. Martin Luther Hursh Diaries (SC 0808), Folder 4.
Unsigned letter of Charles A. McCutchan, Sergeant, Co. K, 11th Regiment, at Fort McHenry, to Mattie. McCutchan writes of the national calamity: “Our Chief was sacrificed upon the altar of our country. Peace when restored will be the salvation.” 14 May 1865. Charles A. McCutchan Collection (SC 1017), Folder 1.
1865: June
Letter from Joseph Hewitt, Cincinnati, to his father in Ireland. Hewitt informs his father that Lincoln has been assassinated and Booth shot. 1 June 1865. Joseph Hewitt Collection (SC 0745), Folder 2.
Pencil sketches of Dr. Samuel Mudd, Lewis [Payne] Powell, Michael O’Laughlin, Edman Spangler, David E. Herold, Samuel Arnold, and George A. Atzerodt as drawn by General Lew Wallace. The image of Arnold shows him shackled, while the other images are busts of the individuals. The sketch of Atzerodt is dated 7 June 1865. Lew Wallace Papers (M 0292). OVB Graphics, Box 1, Folders 1–3.
1865: Undated
Sketch of Samuel Arnold by General Lew Wallace. Wallace was one of the judges at the Lincoln conspirators’ trial. The image shows a padded hood in use. Ca. 1865. Lew Wallace Papers (M 0292). OVA Graphics, Box 1, Folder 4.
1866
Memorial card printed shortly after Lincoln’s death. The picture features George Washington embracing Lincoln in heaven. The card states that it was entered by an Act of Congress, 1865, by J. A. Arthur in the clerk’s office of the Eastern District Pennsylvania District Court, published by Phil. Pho. Co. 1866. Abraham Lincoln Papers, 1840–1866 (M 0567), Box 1, Folder 12.
1869
Letter from William Henry Herndon from Springfield, Illinois, to Mr. Hanks. Herndon believes that the Lincoln family came from Pennsylvania around 1680. He states that Lincoln’s grandfather came to Kentucky around 1780. He notes that Lincoln’s father came to Indiana in 1819 and moved to Illinois in 1830. Herndon notes that Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks, was from Virginia and was of southern blood; she died in 1819. 27 March 1869. William Henry Herndon Letter, 1869 (SC 2068), Folder 1.
CA. 1880
Letter to the editor written by Mrs. S. Clay Brown (Susan Louise McLaughlin). Brown describes her experience petitioning O. P. Morton to write a letter to Lincoln for her brother’s release from a prisoner of war camp. Morton wrote the letter (described above under CERTIFICATES AND ENDORSEMENTS, 1865) and Brown went to Washington, D.C., to meet with Lincoln. Lincoln asked her on what grounds she asks for her brother’s release, and upon approval he gave her very explicit instructions to find the commissioner of exchange and to give him the letter. n.d. [ca. 1880?]. McLaughlin-Jordan Family Papers (SC 1030), Folder 6.
1881
Notes taken from sources with knowledge of the Lincoln family. Notes give a description of Thomas and Nancy Hanks Lincoln, as well as Abraham Lincoln. Sources cite that at age eight, Lincoln was regarded as a “prime reader” and “honest but not industrious.” Mrs. Josiah Crawford recalls that Lincoln once said: “Well, I can tell you I intend to be President before I die.” 1881. William Fortune Collection (M 0462), Box 4, Folder 4.
Interview with Mrs. Josiah Crawford. Crawford speaks of the time Lincoln spent in their house. She describes Lincoln as a “smart, honest, and mighty good boy,” not quarrelsome, and pleasing. Crawford tells that the Bible was the only book Lincoln owned, so her husband often lent him books. Autumn 1881. William Fortune Collection (M 0462), Box 4, Folder 5.
1915
Affidavit of Captain William Jones, Spencer City. Jones’s father, Colonel William Jones, and Lincoln were friends and Whigs. Lincoln worked for Colonel Jones in Jonesboro, and Colonel Jones made speeches on Lincoln’s behalf. Captain Jones also tells of the Lincoln family moving to Illinois. 16 April 1915. William Fortune Collection (M 0462), Box 4, Folder 7.
Typed unsigned copy of the above. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Sworn statement of Jacob Clark, Warrick City, son of Masterson Clark. The Clark family was acquainted with Lincoln. Clark writes that Lincoln borrowed a book, which then was damaged by rain. Lincoln wanted to work to pay it off. Clark also notes that the road by his father’s house was the road the Lincoln family used to travel to Illinois. 29 April 1915. William Fortune Collection (M 0462), Box 4, Folder 7.
James W. Phillips, Spencer County, Indiana. Phillips had been well acquainted with his father’s cousin, Edmund Phillips, who had known the Lincoln family through the Pigeon Baptist and Little Zion churches. Edmund Phillips had frequently told James Phillips that the Lincolns spent a night at his family’s home on their way to Illinois. 16 April 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Mary E. Floyd, Warrick County, Indiana. Floyd’s mother, Susan (Langford or Lankford) Mundy, claimed to be well acquainted with the Lincoln family through connections made in church. Floyd remembered stories her mother told her that Thomas Lincoln would hunt game with the men in her family, and how the Lincolns left stock bells on their horses, so she would hear them approaching their farm whenever they came to visit. The Lincolns stayed overnight with Mundy’s father during their move to Illinois. 20 April 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
George W. Roberts Sr., Warrick County, Indiana. Roberts’ uncle, George Carey, had seen the Lincolns as they moved through Boonville, Indiana. He discusses the route that elder members of the community claim the Lincolns took on their move to Illinois. 29 April 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Jacob Clark, Warrick County, Indiana. Clark writes that his father, Masterson Clark, had been well acquainted with Lincoln as a young man and greatly admired him. One event that impressed Masterson Clark, and a story he often told, was that Lincoln had accidentally damaged a borrowed book and wanted to work to pay the owner for the damage done to the book. Clark also told his son that logs from the Lincoln home had been used for a Lincoln glee club wagon during Lincoln’s 1860 presidential election. 29 April 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Elizabeth A. Goad, Warrick County, Indiana. Goad mentions her father’s recollections of which roads the Lincolns used on their journey to Illinois, and local farms where they spent nights along the way. 30 April 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Francis M. Carlisle, Warrick County, Indiana. Carlisle writes that he had been well acquainted with William Phillips, who had known the Lincolns. Phillips had told him stories of the Lincolns and had said that Abe Lincoln was “quite entertaining,” as he proudly explained how he had built a wagon without iron. Carlisle, a former Union soldier, also remembers where his unit was stationed on the night of Lincoln’s assassination. 30 April 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Sarah Gray, Warrick County, Indiana. Gray’s father, Henry Hart, had been a longtime preacher at Pigeon Baptist Church in Warrick County. He knew the Lincolns well since they were members of his church and Thomas Lincoln had been a deacon there. Hart often told his children the story of the time he had been preaching inside the church, and Abraham Lincoln made a speech on a tree stump outside “until he had as large a crowd as there was at the church.” 30 April 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
James Blackford, Warrick County, Indiana. Blackford writes that his father often discussed the route of Lincoln’s family on their move to Illinois, and that the Lincolns had spent the night at Edmund Phillips’ farm during the trip. 8 May 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
L. B. Barker, Boonville, Indiana. Barker was related, through marriage, to the Phillips family and had lived on part of the Edmund Phillips farm where Lincoln had stayed on their journey to Illinois. Barker had been present when part of the Lincoln home was torn down for souvenirs and had also helped carry bricks for the first monument to Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks. 10 May 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Jacob Oskins. Transcribed statement from the Boonville Standard. Oskins relates a story he heard of the Lincolns trading John Romine their eighty acres of land for a young horse in anticipation of their move to Illinois. Joseph Gentry had told Oskins that Lincoln, as a young man, had made a political speech on a stump outside the Pigeon Baptist Church. The speech was, according to Gentry, “as good a speech as he ever heard.” 14 May 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Bartley Inco. Transcribed statement from the Boonville Standard. Inco heard many stories from his father-in-law, James Grigsby Sr., who had been a brother-in-law to Lincoln’s sister, Sarah Ann Lincoln. Grigsby recalled the burial of Nancy Hanks Lincoln and how they had hauled her body on a sled from the Lincoln home to the burial place. Thomas Lincoln, a cabinetmaker and carpenter, had helped build the local Baptist church. On the morning of Lincoln’s departure for Illinois, “quite a number of neighbors met at the Jones’ store” to bid them farewell. Grigsby and others saw them safely across various creeks in the area. Inco testifies to his lengthy friendship with Colonel William Jones, the owner of the Jones store, who also said the Lincolns had stopped there on the day of their departure. Colonel Jones led the 53rd Regiment Indiana Volunteers during the Civil War, and Inco, who was in the regiment, witnessed his death at the battle of Atlanta. 20 August 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Louella Ashley. Transcribed statement from the Boonville Standard. Ashley writes that she discovered a paper signed “A. Lincoln, Agent” in a log cabin that had been torn down on their farm. The daughter of the farm’s previous owner told Ashley that her parents had bought small items such as pocketbooks and tableware from the Lincolns when they passed by the farm on their way to Illinois. 14 May 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Joseph L. Phillips. Transcribed statement from the Boonville Standard. Phillips states that as a young man, his father, Joseph Phillips, knew Abraham Lincoln and the Lincoln family through attendance at both the Pigeon Baptist and Little Zion Baptist churches in the area. Joseph Phillips (the father) and his brother, Edmund Phillips, often related the story when their father noticed the Lincolns preparing to camp on a nearby road, he sent young Edmund to invite them to stay at their house. The Lincolns accepted the invitation to spend the night and continued on their journey the next day. 14 May 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Isaac G. Cissna, Boonville, Indiana. Transcribed statement from the Boonville Standard. Cissna writes that one night, due to the misadventures of his runaway horse, he stayed overnight with his friend, John Chinn, who was at the time living in the Lincoln family home after the Lincolns had moved away. The principal topics of discussion that night among Mr. Chinn and his neighbors were Lincoln and his family, particularly which roads the Lincolns traveled on their move to Illinois. 28 May 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
James E. Stephens, Boonville, Indiana. Transcribed statement from the Boonville Standard. Stephens writes that his brother-in-law’s family (Oskins) had been neighbors of the Lincolns. He remembers hearing stories of the Lincolns; one in particular involved the trade of a young horse for eighty acres of land. Mr. Stephens mentions that he has visited the Lincoln home and has seen visitors take pieces of the log house as mementos. 11 June 1915. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Sworn statement of Robert M. Gentry, Rockport, Indiana. Gentry writes that his father, James Gentry Jr. (of Gentryville, Indiana) and Lincoln were playmates. He states that Lincoln worked for James Gentry Sr. Gentry also notes that the Gentry family had a deep bond with the Lincoln family, and even though they were Democrats, always voted for Lincoln. Gentry also relates the story his grandfather told of the day the Lincoln family moved to Illinois. 28 July 1915. William Fortune Collection (M 0462), Box 4, Folder 3.
Typed unsigned copy of the above, with strikethroughs and comments. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
Sworn statement of Allen Gentry, Rockport, son of James Gentry and grandson of James Gentry Sr. Gentry states that the Gentry family were friends with the Lincolns. He also mentions that his father often said that Lincoln was the “best educated young man” in the community. 28 July 1915. William Fortune Collection (M 0462), Box 4, Folder 3.
Typed unsigned copy of the above, with strikethroughs and comments. John E. Iglehart Collection (M 0153), Box 8, Folder 8.
CA. 1920
Typescript biographical sketch of Lincoln by Richard Dobson, Marion, Indiana. In this twenty-three-page legal-size typescript, Dobson discusses Lincoln’s life before and after his mother’s death. He attributes Lincoln’s success to the kindness and spirit of his stepmother. Dobson describes where Lincoln received the nickname “Honest Abe” and earned his reputation as a storyteller. Dobson’s papers discuss Lincoln’s life in politics, the government, and his assassination. n.d. [ca. 1920?]. Richard Dobson Papers (SC 2066), Folder 1.
1933
Letter of Fannie Foster to John Boos (author of Abraham Lincoln: “Farewell to Neighbors,” ca. 1942) discussing the times when she saw Lincoln. Foster writes that she saw Lincoln in Indianapolis in 1861, with O. P. Morton riding with him. Foster notes that she saw Lincoln speak at the Old Bates Hotel, now the Capital Hotel. She was able to see Lincoln again in 1865 when his body lay in the old statehouse in Indianapolis. 18 January 1933. Fannie Foster Papers (SC 2713), Folder 1.
Three documents: There are two letters from C. C. DuBois of Kokomo, Indiana, to John E. Boos (author of Abraham Lincoln: “Farewell to Neighbors,” ca. 1942), and there is one letter most likely written by John E. Boos. The first letter dates from 18 January 1933. DuBois writes that he had made the trip to Indianapolis in April 1865 to see Lincoln’s body in the old statehouse. He mentions that he got on a train that traveled from Noblesville to Indianapolis. At the end of the letter, DuBois says that he had four brothers in the Union army during the Civil War. The second letter is similar in content to the first. The third letter, possibly written by Boos, is written as an interview of DuBois about his encounters with Lincoln. 18 January 1933. C. C. DuBois Papers (SC 2712), Folder 1.
1938
Oral history tape of William Rathvon. Rathvon speaks of seeing and hearing Lincoln deliver the Gettysburg Address at the dedication of the National Cemetery. On the morning of 19 November 1863, a procession gathered in the center of Gettysburg. Rathvon saw Lincoln riding a gray horse of medium size that accentuated his height. He says that there were at least 20,000 people in attendance. Rathvon was able to stand in front of the stage, about fifteen feet from Lincoln, where he was able to see the seriousness and sadness in Lincoln’s eyes. 1938. William Rathvon Speech, 1938 (CT 1494).