Abraham Lincoln left a legacy for Americans, but few know these facts about him.
- President Lincoln created the secret service on April 14, 1865. He authorized legislation that would allow an organization to form, which would eventually become known as the Secret Service. However, at that time it was authorized with the purpose to stop counterfeit money. According to TIME, what makes it ironic is that President Lincoln signed the legislation the same day he was assassinated in Ford’s Theatre.
- He originally planned to become a blacksmith, but pursued law instead. He previously taught himself grammar and mathematics, and decided to do the same with law. Teaching oneself law was a common practice in the 19th century due to the few law schools that existed during that time period. In 1836 he passed the bar and began a successful career as a prairie lawyer in Springfield, Illinois.
- By holding a patent, President Lincoln continues to be the only president to do so. He invented a device that would lift vessels over shoals and obstructions in a river. The device consisted of waterproof fabric bladders that could be inflated when a vessel is stuck. This idea came from personal experience when a boat he was on was obstructed during travel.
- The black tall stovepipe hat is symbolic of Lincoln and was used to keep notes and important documents he wanted to deliver. The hat typically ranges from 7 to 8 inches in height which significantly added to Lincoln’s 6.4 ft stature. As a lawyer, he would save letters and notes under his hat. He was known to be disorganized and his hat would offer a place for safekeeping.
- The president is featured in the Wrestling Hall of Fame. He wrestled from the age of 9 until he was 21; he participated in over 300 matches. His wrestling reputation preceded him since it was brought up by supporters during his political career. In the 1858 debates his wrestling legacy resurfaced as well as in the 1860 presidential campaign newspaper.
- Tom Hanks is related to Abraham Lincoln according to Ancestry.com . Nancy Hanks, married Thomas Lincoln in Kentucky. President Lincoln has no direct living descendants due to tragedies and unmarried descendants. Tom Hanks mentioned how, “the members of my branch of the family are either cousins or in-laws or poor relations”, in explaining their ancestral linkage.
- The Lincoln Bedroom is one of the most famous rooms in the White House, but Lincoln did not sleep there. In fact, he used it as his office at that time and for cabinet meetings. The room is part of a guest suite on the second floor.
