What Lincoln Was Doing 150 Years Ago

We celebrate Presidents Day today, Monday, as the official observation of George Washington's birthday, with a nod to other great presidents. However, President Abraham Lincoln's birthday was last week. He was born on Feb. 12, 1809, 203 years ago.

How did he spend his 53rd birthday, 150 years ago? According to thelincolnlog.org, Lincoln transmitted to Congress the treaty with King of Hanover for abolition of "Stade Dues" (tolls levied on vessels ascending the Elbe and passing the mouth of the Schwinge River). Abraham Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives

But he spent much of his time that day with his gravely ill son, Willie.

A few days earlier, the White House's usual Saturday reception was cancelled because of Willie's condition. By Monday, Feb. 10, Willie was reported much better but son, Tad, was thought to have contracted the same illness. The president did not attend to much of his public business schedule that day.

The country was one year into the Civil War.

A happy birthday it was not.