LINCOLN DIARY

[cpatrick]

Here is an interesting diary from a civilian living in New York State during the American Civil War. Personal accounts from this period in American history, let it be in written form, or in a newspaper, are notorious for being inaccurate. This diary is a great example of this era, illustrating how facts were often mixed up with truth in moments of national tragedy. Regardless of a few error's on part of the author, the entries are a fascinating glimpse into a dark time in American history, some 163 years ago.

 

April 7, 1865 - "We got news of the capture of R. E. Lee and the Rebel Army. Bells ring all day."

 

(This is a bit of a puzzle to me. Robert E. Lee did not surrender until April 9th. My guess is that because surrender was very likely, rumors were circulating days before the actual surrender.)

 

Saturday, April 15, 1865: "We got news of the assasination of President Abraham Lincoln & Secretary of State William H. Seward - committed on the 13th Inst."

 

(In actuality, though Seward was viciously attacked, he did not die of his wounds inflicted by co-conspirator Paine)

 

Sunday, April 16, 1865

 

"Cool & Rainy

 

A.M. at home

P.M. at Church

 

Mourning and Lamentation for the deaths by assasination of President Lincoln & Sec. Seward."

 

April 19, 1865

 

"The funeral of Abraham Lincoln is observed throughout the United States."

[cpatrick]

...

[Brian Keith]

Yes, very interesting. I have done some contract work for the Lincoln Museum in Ft. Wayne, IN. It is quite an experience to hold a true Lincoln artifact in your hands (with gloves on of course!).

BKW

[cpatrick]

Unfortunately, the only Lincoln item that I own is a letter that was written by his eldest son, Robert Todd, when he was Secretary of War. I posted that on the forum not that long ago.

 

Chris