We're celebrating the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States with a look back at the inauguration of Abraham Lincoln. Enjoy two free downloads that offer a glimpse of what the 1861 inauguration was really like.
Taken from Images of the American Civil War is the photo seen here of Mary Todd Lincoln in her inaugural gown. With so much speculation as to what Michele Obama will be wearing today, you can compare the attire of each First Lady.
We've all heard of the similarities between Barack Obama and Lincoln, but even the preparations for their inauguration ceremonies have an eerie resemblance. The March, 1861 diary entry from Margaret Sumner McLean describes predictions that the Lincoln inauguration would not take place, the enhanced security surrounding Lincoln's arrival at the Capitol, and the preparations for a crisis. McLean also mentions how stunning Mrs. Lincoln looked in her ball gown, but notes that it was "the most unhappy day of her life." McLean's diary entry can be found in The American Civil War: Letters and Diaries.
Both of these items are available for free download at http://alexanderstreet.com/resources/featureditems.htm.
Recent Comments