Interesting papers relating to the death and funeral obsequies of President Lincoln have been inserted, as also the more important papers and proceedings connected with the impeachment of President Johnson.

Much time and labor have been expended in the compilation of this volume—­more than on any one of the preceding—­to the end that all papers of importance that could be found should be published; and I feel sure that no other collection of Presidential papers is so thorough and complete.

The perusal of these papers should kindle within the heart of every citizen of the American Republic, whether he fought on the one side or the other in that unparalleled struggle, or whether he has come upon the scene since its closing, a greater love of country, a greater devotion to the cause of true liberty, and an undying resolve that all the blessings of a free government and the fullest liberty of the individual shall be perpetuated.

James D. Richardson.

November 25, 1897.

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Abraham Lincoln

March 4, 1861, to April 15, 1865

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Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was born in Hardin County, Ky., February 12, 1809.  His earliest ancestor in America was Samuel Lincoln, of Norwich, England, who settled in Hingham, Mass., where he died, leaving a son, Mordecai, whose son of the same name removed to Monmouth, N.J., and thence to Berks County, Pa., where he died in 1735.  One of his sons, John, removed to Buckingham County, Va., and died there, leaving five sons, one of whom, named Abraham, emigrated to Kentucky about 1780.  About 1784 he was killed by Indians, leaving three sons, Mordecai, Josiah, and Thomas, and two daughters.  Their mother then located in Washington County, Ky., and there brought up her family.  The youngest son, Thomas, learned the trade of a carpenter, and in 1806 married Nancy Hanks, a niece of the man with whom he learned his trade.  They had three children, the second being Abraham, the future President of the United States.  In 1816 Thomas Lincoln removed to Indiana, and settled on Little Pigeon Creek, not far distant from the Ohio River, where Abraham grew to manhood.  He made the best use of his limited opportunities to acquire an education and at the same time prepare himself for business.  At the age of 19 years he was intrusted with a cargo of farm products, which he took to New Orleans and sold.  In 1830 his father again emigrated, and located in Macon County, Ill.  Abraham by this time had attained the unusual stature of 6 feet 4 inches, and was of great muscular strength; joined with his father in building his cabin, clearing the field, and splitting the rails for fencing the farm.  It was not long, however, before his father again changed his home, locating this time in Coles County,