Ever since I toured the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, I have an enormous respect for the man. In fact, if you ever find yourself near Springfield, Missouri, I highly recommend it. When we read history books, I think we get the false idea that Abraham Lincoln was a hero that was beloved by all (except Booth). The museum has two wings, one dedicated to his life before presidency, and the other dedicated to his election, the civil war, and his assassination. The latter, does an especially good job of portraying how controversial he was during election and presidency. What I find admirable, is that even though he was doubted, disputed, and criticized, he remained strong to what was right, accomplishing great things. It also brings the realities of the civil war to life, and really gives you a renewed appreciation for those who fought and sacrificed for the future.
Below is a letter written by Lincoln. As of 1929, it hung on a wall in Oxford University, England as a model of purest English:
Executive MansionWashington, Nov. 21, 1864To Mrs. Bixby, Boston, Mass,Dear Madam,I have been shown in the files of the War Department a statement of the Adjutant General of Massachusetts that you are the mother of five sons who have died gloriously on the field of battle. I feel how weak and fruitless must be any word of mine which should attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. But I cannot refrain from tendering you the consolation that may be found in the thanks of the republic they died to save. I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.Yours very sincerely and respectfully,A. Lincoln
**Design Friday will be back next week**
wow, neat letter. i loved the museum too and realizing all the opposition he basically had to ignore.
ReplyDelete