Community Corner
What Lincoln Was Doing 150 Years Ago
Watching over two sick sons and dealing with the Civil War, it was not the happiest of birthdays.
Today is the official observation of President Abraham Lincoln's birthday. However, he was actually born on Feb. 12, 1809—203 years ago.
How did he spend his 53rd birthday? According to TheLincolnLog.org, 150 years ago, Lincoln transmitted to Congress a treaty with the King of Hanover for the abolition of "Stade Dues" (tolls levied on vessels ascending the Elbe and passing the mouth of the Schwinge River).
But he spent much of his time that day with his gravely ill son, Willie.
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A few days earlier, the White House's usual Saturday reception was cancelled because of Willie's condition. By Monday, Feb. 10, Willie was reported much better, but son, Tad, was thought to have contracted the same illness. The president did not attend much of his public business schedule that day.
The country was one year into the Civil War.
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A happy birthday it was not.
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