The Lincolns host their final reception in their Springfield home as they prepare for their move to Washington. President-elect Lincoln expresses ambivalence about leaving his home and reflects on the daunting challenges that lay ahead.
Category: Politics
Building Greater Permanency
A convention opens in Montgomery as delegates from the seceded states start work on forming a new nation independent of the United States.
The National Peace Conference
The National Peace Conference opens in Washington with delegates from 11 states. The conference is led by ex-U.S. President John Tyler, but few believed that anything would come of it.
Inflexible on the Territorial Question
Abraham Lincoln expresses willingness to accept certain southern demands, but he reiterates that he will not accept any compromise with the South that might spread slavery into the territories.
Eyes Turn to the Upper South
The states of the upper South and the border with the North continue to contemplate joining the Deep South in seceding. Some, like Delaware and Maryland, resist secession while others, such as Missouri and Tennessee, show division and caution.
Lincoln Briefly Sidesteps Business
President-elect Abraham Lincoln leaves Springfield for a quick visit with his stepmother and family in Coles County, Illinois.