Personal and Religious Life of Abraham Lincoln

John Stewart is from Plymouth and has had the opportunity to work with the largest collection of Abraham Lincoln papers in Michigan. They are housed at the Plymouth Historical Museum. He shared some of his findings.

Abraham was very introverted, while his wife, Mary Todd, was very social. In fact, Mary planned a huge wedding with everybody in the social elite invited. Abraham didn't show up for the wedding. Two years later, they were married in the parlor of the Pastor who performed the ceremony. This difference in personalities was also evident in the famous Lincoln/Douglas debates. Lincoln was tall and quiet, while Douglas was short and energetic.

Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln had 4 children, only one of whom survived past 18 years old. Abraham read his bible and accepted it as inspired; he prayed regularly, but never joined a church. He felt that prayer was a way to understand God's purpose for him. He was known for his moral principles, his listening skills, his humility, and his ability to forge compromises. He believed that the highest calling was to serve others.

Lincoln failed to be elected to office multiple times. He only served one term as a representative. He was re-elected, but resigned in order to run for President. In a letter to a friend, he mentioned that there were 26 churches in the District of Columbia, and 23 of the pastors openly supported slavery.