Abraham Lincoln's First Inaugural Address March 4, 1861

The people began arriving at the U.S. Capitol grounds in Washington City before dawn on March 4, 1861, 150 years ago today. They gathered in front of the East Portico of the Capitol, where in only a few hours, Abraham Lincoln would at long last be sworn in as the 16th President Of The United States Of America. The image above was taken 150 years ago today during Lincoln's First Inauguration ceremony.

In those days (and until 1933 when the 20th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified), presidential inaugurations were held on March 4th. It had been nearly four months since Lincoln had won the 1860 presidential election over three other opponents, garnering only 39% of the popular vote. Since his election, seven southern states had seceded from the Union.

Lincoln had remained publicly silent about the secession crisis while he was President-Elect. Even during his Inauguration Journey when he gave over 100 speeches over the course of 13 days from Springfield to Washington, he had said barely anything of substance about the turmoil rocking the nation. He had claimed that the crisis was "artificial" and that the south had nothing to really "complain" about, but he had not given many hints about what his policies would be toward the rebellious states. As winter turned into spring, Lincoln's long public silence was about to end. The crowd, estimated at 30,000, waited along with the nation, north and south, to hear Mr. Lincoln's Inaugural Address.

The crafting of the Address had begun back in Springfield, where Lincoln had been working on it since his election. An initial version of it had been set in type by the Springfield newspaper Illinois State Journal at Lincoln's request. Lincoln shared this first draft with various friends and leaders, seeking their opinion as to how it should read. Upon his arrival in Washington, Lincoln asked his designated Secretary of State, William H. Seward (his main rival for the GOP nomination the year before in Chicago), for his own inputs. As Lincoln scholars such as Harold Holzer have pointed out, the speech which had been strong in tone in Lincoln's first draft, became progressively more conciliatory to the southern states as others suggested corrections.

Outgoing president James Buchanan accompanied Lincoln on the ride from The Willard Hotel (where the Lincoln family had been staying since its arrival in Washington on February 23rd), riding in an open carriage. They were surrounded by soldiers on horseback, who would hopefully keep Mr. Lincoln alive long enough to take the oath of office. There were numerous death threats already against Lincoln, including some which had arrived in Washington City just days before. Supposedly during the carriage ride, President Buchanan said something along the lines to Lincoln "If you are as happy entering office as I am to leave it, then you are the happiest man in the world." Buchanan's presidency had been an abject failure as he sat and did nothing as the nation tore itself apart.

Lincoln might have been personally gratified at winning the election, but one cannot imagine that he was "happy" to be entering office during this national crisis. In fact, he was rather apprehensive about it, having been up before dawn that day. Along his recent Inauguration Journey, he had admitted many times that he felt a greater burden upon becoming president than any of his predecessors, including the burden which faced Washington to help establish a new nation. Lincoln's burden, of course, was to try to save that nation.

The usual dignitaries were waiting Lincoln's arrival at the Capitol. On the platform near to him were Senators and Congressmen, other high ranking government officials, and the Chief Justice Of The United States, Roger Taney. Seated very close to Lincoln was Stephen A. Douglas, the northern Democrat Lincoln had defeated four months before. As Lincoln rose to speak, he looked for a place to rest his hat. When he could find none, Douglas graciously took the hat from Lincoln and held it for him, saying that if he couldn't be President, he could as least hold the President's hat.

Security was extraordinarily tight as Lincoln was on the platform waiting to speak. Sharpshooters had been stationed on the top of the Capitol and every soldier who could be spared in Washington had been. Police ringed the grounds of the Capitol, eyes constantly scanning the crowd. The U.S. Secret Service was not yet in existence this day and everyone feared Lincoln would be killed before he became President. Fortunately on that day, at least, Mr. Lincoln would survive.

Lincoln opened his Address with pleasantries to those gathered before him, then immediately began discussing the national crisis. He began by quoting himself from a former speech, again stating that "I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the institution of slavery in the States where it exists. I believe I have no lawful right to do so, and I have no inclination to do so." He stated that his stance had not changed.

The Fugitive Slave Law, by which escaped slaves were required to be returned to their owners was also addressed by Lincoln. He stated that he and the Congress would continue to enforce that law; fugitive slaves would continue to be returned to their masters. He told the crowd, but really speaking to the Southerners, that it was the law of the land. This section of Lincoln's First Inaugural Address is perhaps the most surprising to modern eyes when people first read it.

Lincoln went on to address the concept of secession. He said "I hold that in contemplation of universal law and of the Constitution the Union of these States is perpetual. Perpetuity is implied, if not expressed, in the fundamental law of all national governments." In Lincoln's view, the Union which had been entered into by all of the states could not be destroyed by only some or one of those states.

After a few more paragraphs, Lincoln next addressed the issue of potential war. Lincoln said that there would be no violence against the rebellious states, unless it was "forced upon the national authority." He said clearly that under his administration, the Federal government would "hold, occupy, and possess" its property and places and would continue to collect the duties. But at the same time, he said that there would be no "invasion" beyond this pledge to hold onto property.

Then Lincoln got to what was really at the heart of the national crisis, (contrary to claims of neo-Confederates and the Sons Of The Confederacy): the extension of slavery. Lincoln stated: "One section of our country believes slavery is right and ought to be extended, while the other believes it is wrong and ought not to be extended. This is the only substantial dispute." Lincoln explained how in his opinion, how disunion would weaken the Fugitive Slave Law and would revive the then-abolished foreign slave trade.

A few more paragraphs of the Address consisted of Lincoln encouraging patience of the people, explaining how the people gave the duties to the President, and even pledging to support the notion of a new amendment to the Constitution, protecting slavery for all time where it already existed. Another surprise for people who think Lincoln tried to eradicate slavery at the beginning.

Lincoln then moved to his closing statements. He told the South that "In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow-countrymen, and not in mine, is the momentous issue of civil war. The Government will not assail you. You can have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors. You have no oath registered in heaven to destroy the Government, while I shall have the most solemn one to "preserve, protect, and defend it."

Finally came some of the most beautiful writing Abraham Lincoln ever committed to paper, his closing paragraph. The idea and suggested phrasing had come from William H. Seward, his designated Secretary of State. But Lincoln recast Seward's stilted language into the famous words: "I am loath to close. We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature." The image below is of this closing paragraph in Lincoln's handwriting:



(If you have never read the complete text of Abraham Lincoln's First Inaugural Address, you may find it here. It's worthwhile to take a few minutes to do so.)

With Lincoln's First Inaugural Address completed, Chief Justice Taney arose to give the oath of office to Abraham Lincoln. It was one of the most ironic moments in U.S. history, for Justice Taney and his fellow justices had ruled in the 1857 Dred Scott decision that slaves had no rights as persons, and weren't even persons in the eyes of the law. Further, his court also ruled that Congress had no jurisdiction under the Constitution to interfere with slavery anywhere in the U.S. or its territories. It was, of course, a decision which helped to further tear the nation apart.

The Bible used that day by Abraham Lincoln to pledge to defend and protect the U.S. Constitution was not the Lincoln family Bible. That was still in the Lincolns' possessions which had yet to arrive from Springfield. Instead, a Bible from the Supreme Court was provided. After the ceremony that day, the Clerk of the Supreme Court wrote in the back about what it had been used for and later sealed it. It is the same Bible which President Obama used two years ago at his own inauguration. Below is an image of the Bible, which is held by the Library of Congress.


After completing the oath of office, Abraham Lincoln surprised many in the crowd by bending to kiss the Bible. He was not known to be particularly religious and had never before joined a church. The crowd erupted into a roar after Lincoln turned to face the crowd as the newly created 16th President Of The United States.

It was a brilliantly sunny day in Washington City 150 years ago today. But there were ominous clouds far off on the horizon, bringing with them the threat of Civil War.

Desert Design District March Design Walk March 4

Don't forget this evening's Desert Design District's Walk, featuring the best in the Desert's Interior Design, which runs from Noon-8Pm. Participants are eligible for a $1000 shopping spree with participating vendors. Simply get this form signed or stamped at each retailer, and you'll be entered to win!

Palm Springs Modernism Show

Interior design fans in Palm Springs probably know about the Modernism Show that takes place in February- it's one of my favorite events the whole year, and it takes place around Valentines's Day every year at the Convention Center in Palm Springs. The show highlights midcentury modern artwork, accessories, and furnishings as well as some great vintage jewelry, clothing and fabric...have fun looking at my snapshots of some great home interior items!

Braniff Airlines Pucci Display in Palm Springs

During Modernism week a fantastic collection of Pucci and Halston Braniff Airines stewardess uniforms was on display at the Riviera Hotel in Palm Springs. Though not entirely interior design related, Braniff Airlines wanted to create an visually uniform experience for its customers, a revolutionary approach to airlines which is now common practice in business.

The collection is available on ebay with an opening bid of $250K.

A little background on Braniff Airlines from Wikipedia:

To overhaul the Braniff image Lawrence hired Jack Tinker Associates, who assigned advertising executive Mary Wells as account leader. First on the agenda was to overhaul Braniff's public image — including the red, white, and blue livery which they perceived as "staid" (although, "The El Dorado Super Jet" Braniff livery from 1959 had won design awards). New Mexico architect Alexander Girard, Italian fashion designer Emilio Pucci, and shoe designer Beth Levine were called in, and with this new creative talent, Braniff began the "End of the Plain Plane" campaign.

At Girard's recommendation, the old livery was dropped in flavor of planes painted in a single color, selected from a wide palette of bright hues. Girard wanted the planes painted from tail to nose in colors like "Chocolate Brown" and "Metallic Purple." He also favored a small "BI" distinctive logo and small titles. Braniff engineering and Braniff's advertising department modified Girard's colors, enlarged the "BI" logo, and added white wings and tails. This, ironically, was based on the 1930s Braniff "Vega" Schemes, which also carried colorful aircraft paint with white wings and tails. The new "jelly bean" fleet consisted of such bold colors as beige, ochre, orange, turquoise, baby blue, medium blue, lemon yellow, and lavender (lavender was dropped after one month, as lavender and black were considered bad luck in Mexico). Girard also outfitted the interiors with 57 different variations of Herman Miller fabrics. 15 colors were used by Braniff for plane exteriors during the 1960s (Harper & George modified Girard's original seven colors in 1968). Many of the color schemes were applied to aircraft interiors, gate lounges, ticket offices, and even the corporate headquarters. Art to complement the color schemes was flown in from Mexico, Latin America, and South America.

Pucci used a series of nautical themes in overhauling the crew's uniforms. For the stewardesses, Pucci used "space age" themes, including plastic bubbles (resembling Captain Video helmets) which the stewardesses could wear between the terminal and the plane to prevent hairstyles from being disturbed. However, the "space bubble" was dropped after about a month because the helmets cracked easily, there was no place to store them on the aircraft, and jetways at many airports made them unnecessary. For the footwear, Beth Levine created plastic boots and designed two-tone calfskin boots and shoes. Stewardesses were called "hostesses" at Braniff and were attired with uniforms and accessories composed of interchangeable parts which could be removed and added as needed. In 1969, Pucci designed "Pucci IV", for the intro of "747 Braniff Place" (1971). The collection was debuted at the Dallas Hilton by Pucci himself, in 1970. Today all of the vintage Pucci attire designed for Braniff is valuable.

In 1968, under the leadership of Mary Wells and Jack Tinker, Braniff expanded the advertising campaign that showed the likenesses of Andy Warhol, Sonny Liston, Salvador Dali, Whitey Ford, the Playboy Bunny, and other celebrities of the time, all flying Braniff. It became one of the most celebrated marketing efforts Madison Avenue had ever produced, blending style and arrogance. One advertising slogan was "if you've got it — flaunt it!" Although management considered the campaign a success, Braniff's core customers were outraged by the grandiose behavior and perceived "bragging", causing many corporate accounts to leave Braniff.

Blue Sky Homes

At Salon for the Parched, fantastic event coordinated by Kurt Cyr, we met Dave McAdam who is the owner of Blue Sky Homes, which is using a fantastic light steel construction method to build custom prefab homes. These are different from other types of constructions in that they are totally designed to straddle a site/lot and not interfere with landscape, or to be placed on a lot which would be prohibitively expensive or impossible to place a home on.

Rock Reach House is the first home utilizing the Blue Sky Building System. It was built in the Southern California desert community of Yucca Valley. Rock Reach House was completed in eight weeks, and we expect that future homes of this design will be finished in approximately six weeks (once footings are in place). These homes maximize the house’s spectacular location at 4,000 feet above sea level amid massive weathered boulders and ancient piñon and juniper trees.

In terms of pricing, Blue Sky Homes anticipates that a base model of the Yucca Valley prototype will cost about $275,000 (the prototype is 1,000 square feet and has over $75,000 in upgrades). In addition, the price excludes all site-specific items such as land costs, surveying, soil engineering, permitting, utilities, and footings (but Blue Sky will work with prospective buyers to provide price guidance on these items).

Palm Springs Preservation Retro Martini Party 2011

This year's popular Retro Martini Party (Coordinated by the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation) was at the Jorgensen-Mavis House (1955) located on the 9th fairway of the exclusive Thunderbird Country Club, playground of U.S. presidents, located in my current hometown of Rancho Mirage, California.

Remarkably, this house has only changed hands once, in 1956, and has ALL of its original furnishings, hardware, and even the upholstery and window treatments are original. Can you say "patina?"

Modernism week in Palm Springs typically highlights interior design from approximately 1946 through the early 80's, but this house was a glimmering example of how sophisticated and reserved mid century modern homes could be- there was nothing wild about it- it simply was sleek, modern, comfortable living for its occupants in the 1950's.

Ever wonder what living next door to Lucy and Desi was like? You (as steel magnate Earle M. Jorgensen) are in your modern William "Wild Bill" Cody-designed home and the doorbell rings...those pesky Hollywood folk...whenever they're in town they want to play pinochle...guess you have to make a pitcher of martinis...

Well 1955 is long gone, as are the Arnazs and the Jorgensens...but their hip houses remain, the country club is still exclusive and the views are still magnificent...so let us make you a martini and you and your fellow hipsters can recapture the cool of midcentury Palm Springs.

Even if you weren't able to make this fantastic event, there's always next year- and this event, always held in a significant mid century modern home, is always the highlight of the week's events.

Things I Love About Modernism: Papa Bear Chair

Among the many choices of lounge chairs for a swank space-age bachelor pad, one in particular is a standout: Has Wegner's Papa bear Chair. Ironically, I don't see too many of these in midcentury homes in Palm Springs, and I am not sure why. It certainly is one of the most comfortable chairs of the period. Designed in 1951 by Hans J. Wegner, the Bear chair was originally sold by AP Stolen. The wooden frame was supplied by PP Mobler and they were reissued recently. Expect to pay upwards of $5000 for a nice original one, and more than that if it has the beautiful matching ottoman.

Things I Love About Modernism: Sputnik Chandelier

A light fixture that at once brings a smile to my face and immediately sends me into orbit is the Sputnik Chandelier. There are many variations, some are graceful starbursts of light; other imitations are clunkier and less beautiful to look at. My favorite source for them is 20 First, 1117 N. Palm Canyon Drive, (760) 327-5400. We have one of their chandeliers in the living room, and a sconce in each bedroom. Simply Space-Age Jetson Wonderful!

Things I Love About Modernism: Lucite

Lucite is clearly modern (yuk yuk yuk)! I love the corny jokes. One of the most fun materials in a modern home is lucite, both because it hints at the lines of furnishings while allowing visibility through to other pieces in a room. This material was first brought to market under the trademark of plexiglass in 1928, but the first real modern furnishings weren't produced with it until the 1960s-1970s. Love it in Kartell's Ghost Chair designed by Starck, these awesome tulip chairs, and the mod dressing table!

Lincoln's Inauguration Journey Arrival In Washington February 23, 1861

Abraham Lincoln's Inauguration Journey ended 150 years ago today, February 23, 1861 with his arrival in Washington City. He and his family, along with other associates, had been traveling since February 11, when they departed Springfield, Illinois. They rode through seven states, visited the state capitals of six of them, and stopped countless times along the way at large cities and places which barely qualified as crossroads. Some estimates say that Lincoln spoke to approximately 1 million people over the 1900 miles of the journey. Records show that he gave at least 75 speeches, but he no doubt gave more of which we have no evidence.

The Inauguration Journey which had been so successful in letting the people see their President-Elect should have ended triumphantly that day in Washington in front of adoring crowds. Instead it came to an inglorious end with Abraham Lincoln, while in disguise, being sneaked into the city before dawn broke, with only one person present to greet him.

The drama which led to Lincoln's stealthy entry began while Mr. Lincoln was still in Philadelphia. It was there where private detective Allan Pinkerton, who ran a famous detective agency (still in existence today) out of Chicago, informed those close to the President-Elect that his operatives had uncovered a plot against Lincoln. According to the reports of the agents, Lincoln would be attacked (probably stabbed) as he transferred between railroad stations in Baltimore, Maryland.

Maryland was a slave state, with strong secessionist leanings, more southern than northern in its outlook concerning the sectional crisis. Baltimore was the hotbed of those sympathies and the city was hostile towards northerners at that point. It mostly would have been problematic to get Lincoln and his family safely through the city to begin with, but now this "plot" that Pinkerton was reporting further complicated the situation.

It wasn't only Allan Pinkerton's detectives who reported a conspiracy against Mr. Lincoln. In fact, the superintendent of the New York Metropolitan Police, Mr. John A. Kennedy, had himself gone to Baltimore along with the city police chief, to investigate what they also felt was a plot against the President-Elect. The city's best detectives joined them in going to Baltimore.

At first, Lincoln's advisers were split about what should be done. But ultimately, it was decided that Lincoln should be sneaked through Baltimore so safe passage to Washington could be guaranteed. Lincoln himself was convinced by Pinkerton that the plot was real.

Lincoln continued with his itinerary in Pennsylvania, though. He spoke in Philadelphia at Independence Hall, then traveled for his address to the state legislature in Harrisburg. The public had been informed that Lincoln would then travel to Baltimore and finally to Washington.

Instead, Lincoln was secretly put onto another train car in Harrisburg and traveled back to Philadelphia on the night of February 22, 1861. Lincoln wore a type of overcoat (similar to a Navy pea coat), a soft felt cap, and a shawl he could put around his face if necessary. Lincoln's friend Ward Hill Lamon was with him, as was a female detective from the Pinkerton agency. Mary and the children remained overnight in Harrisburg while Lincoln was under protection. They would travel to Washington via Baltimore the next day on the Presidential Special which Lincoln was to have taken.

Other precautions were taken as well. Telegraph wires in and around Harrisburg were cut, thus isolating the city from the rest of the country. Lincoln had boarded the train there under an assumed name, with the female agent posing as his sister.

They arrived in Philadelphia the night of February 22, 1861 at around 10:00 p.m. where the party boarded the overnight train to Baltimore, Lincoln registering under an assumed name. The female agent shared the sleeping car with Lincoln, and slept near him in another bunk. If Mary Todd Lincoln knew about this, she must have exploded in rage as she was insanely jealous if another woman so much as looked at her husband.

The train finally came to Washington City at around 6:00 a.m. the next day, February 23. The only person present to greet Lincoln was his old friend, Congressman Elihu Washburne of Illinois. Washburne had seen right through Lincoln's disguise and said "Abe, you can't fool me!" The bodyguards, not recognizing Washburne, nearly attacked him on the spot, until Lincoln stopped the men.

Lincoln was safely arrived in the nation's capital without incident. But once the news got out about his stealthy trip to the city, the newspapers had a field day with their criticisms and lampooning of Lincoln. He was called "cowardly," "undignified," and much worse. Editorial cartoons were published in newspapers across the country (one of which, from Vanity Fair is shown at the beginning of this post), showing him sneaking around in exaggerated attire. His overcoat, shawl, and hat quickly became a "Scottish cap" and "kilt" according to some papers, and people even today believe that Lincoln wore a dress to pose as a woman.

Such was the ridicule from the newspapers that Lincoln himself regretted allowing himself to be hidden in disguise and sneaked into the nation's capital. Some historians claim that it affected his outlook on his personal safety throughout his presidency, leading him to refuse more than minimal security. However, it must be understood that death threats had come to Lincoln while he was still in Springfield. Even then, he seemed to take a cavalier approach to his own safety.

Historians today debate just how real the "Baltimore Plot" was. Harold Holzer, the nation's leading Lincoln scholar, believes that the plot, even if it did exist, was "ad hoc" at best. Other historians seem to believe it was authentic and that Lincoln would have been in true danger.

However, Lincoln himself chose to believe the plot was real. It must be remembered as well that Dayton, Ohio had been purposely avoided early in the Inauguration Journey due to a large population of "Copperhead Democrats" (Northern Democrats who supported Southern principles), thus avoiding potential dangers.

Above all, Lincoln's personal secretary and his self-appointed bodyguard and friend Ward Lamon, insisted that getting Abraham Lincoln safely to Washington City was of the greatest importance. And it is unquestionable that they were correct. To help resolve the national crisis, Abraham Lincoln had to survive to become President Of The United States.

Lincoln's Inauguration Journey Philadelphia to Harrisburg February 22, 1861

Abraham Lincoln was finished with his visit to Philadelphia. Earlier that morning on February 22, 1861, he had given by far his most dramatic (and best) speech of his Inauguration Journey, when he claimed he would rather be assassinated than save the country by giving up the principles of the Declaration Of Independence.

Now it was time to travel on the next leg of the trip to Washington. The next major stop was the Pennsylvania state capital of Harrisburg, where he would address the legislature and governor. Smaller towns and cities were briefly visited as well along the way. In Leaman Place, Pennsylvania, Lincoln for once brought his wife Mary out to appear before the crowd. Lincoln made one of his jokes, and told the crowd he was giving them the "long and short" of his visit. At 6'4", Lincoln towered over Mary, who was much shorter at just 5'3" or so. At Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Lincoln resorted to his simple speech of thanking the crowd for showing up, saying he had no time for a lengthier address, and bade the crowd farewell. Lancaster was the home town of the current President, James Buchanan, who was of course in Washington.

Lincoln and his family arrived in the early afternoon at the Harrisburg train station. Awaiting Lincoln was a grand display of the state militia, and the Governor, Andrew Curtin. A grand procession took Lincoln and his family to the Jones House, one of the stylish hotels of the city. After settling in for a bit, Lincoln appeared on the balcony with the Governor, who introduced him. The President-Elect once again told a crowd that he felt he had the gravest task and responsibility before him than any other president before him, except Washington. He praised the appearance of the militia, but hoped strongly that no blood would be shed by them, especially fraternal blood (i.e. civil war). He again said that it was his goal to preserve the peace of the country if he could do so without giving up the "institutions" and principles of the nation.

The next appearance in Harrisburg was to be the capitol building where he addressed the Pennsylvania General Assembly. In that speech, he related how honored and moved he had been earlier that morning to speak at Independence Hall. He also shared that he had raised the new American flag and that he hoped it would be an omen of good things to come. He also reiterated his admiration for the state militia and re-emphasized that he hoped that there would be no need for bloodshed in the nation. The image of the postcard above is an artist's idea of how Lincoln might have appeared as he addressed the Assembly.

After listening to a fairly lengthy oration about General Washington (this was, after all, Washington's birthday) in the statehouse, Lincoln returned to the Jones House hotel, where he was going to retire at around 8:00 p.m.

That was the official story. In reality, new travel plans had been made for the President-Elect, thanks to the discovery of a plot to assassinate him as he changed cars in Baltimore.

More on the attempt to get Abraham Lincoln safely to Washington City in my next post.

Lincoln's Inaugural Journey February 22, 1861 In Philadelphia

By February 22, 1861, Abraham Lincoln and his family had been traveling for twelve long days on the Inauguration Journey to Washington City, as the nation's capital was called in those days. Hundreds of thousands of people had ventured into the cold to see the President-Elect along the route, even if it was for a minute or two during a quick watering stop, where he would have time only to greet the crowds, and then just as quickly say farewell. Others who were luckier would hear Mr. Lincoln give longer speeches, but those speeches contained nothing of real substance. Lincoln was still keeping his deepest thoughts and emotions about the national crisis close to his vest.

That would change 150 years ago today in Philadelphia, when he spoke in the "sacred" building called Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were written. Lincoln had been invited to speak there on that day, George Washington's birthday, and to also help raise a giant American flag featuring the nation's newest star, the one for Kansas, the 34th state which had been admitted on January 29th of that year.

Lincoln arrived at Independence Hall early that morning, which was cold, but sunny. Lincoln was welcomed by the president of the Select Council Of Philadelphia, then began his speech. It would be the most moving speech of his Inauguration Journey.

He opened with the words "I am filled with deep emotion at finding myself standing here in the place where were collected together the wisdom, the patriotism, the devotion to principle, from which sprang the institutions under which we live." These words were not mere platitudes from Lincoln. He had mentioned the previous day in Trenton, N.J., that he had often read Mason Weems' "Life Of Washington" biography. Lincoln had a deep knowledge and appreciation for the sacrifices that Washington, his soldiers, and the other Founding Fathers made in forging a new nation.

Lincoln continued: "I have never had a feeling politically that did not spring from the sentiments embodied in the Declaration of Independence. " Huge cheers broke out inside the building at these words. For Abraham Lincoln, the United States of America did not begin with the U.S. Constitution, by which the structure of the government was determined; it began with the Declaration of Independence. This is why in his Gettysburg Address he would give more than 2 1/2 years later, he dated the beginning of this nation to "four score and seven years" before 1863, the year 1776.

He went on, saying that it wasn't the mere separation of the colonies from Great Britain which had thus far sustained the nation, but "something in that Declaration giving liberty, not alone to the people of this country, but hope to the world for all future time. It was that which gave promise that in due time the weights should be lifted from the shoulders of all men, and that all should have an equal chance. This is the sentiment embodied in that Declaration of Independence. " They were powerful words.

The group of men Lincoln was speaking to at that moment didn't know that on the previous day, an assassination plot against Lincoln had been uncovered. The plot was confirmed by two different sources, the New York Chief Of Police, and informants working for Allan Pinkerton, a private detective. According to reports from each source, Lincoln was targeted for assassination in Baltimore, Maryland, as he would be switching train cars in that city for the final leg to Washington.

Given the fact that Lincoln was already a target of a conspiracy, the next words in his speech that morning to the VIP's of Philadelphia hold even more meaning with the hindsight of history. Lincoln asked those assembled if the country could be saved on the principles of equality for all people. He said "If it can, I will consider myself one of the happiest men in the world if I can help to save it. If it can't be saved upon that principle, it will be truly awful. But, if this country cannot be saved without giving up that principle...I would rather be assassinated on this spot than to surrender it." Lincoln was willing to die to save his country and the freedom for which it stands.

Lincoln closed this speech by stating that there would be no blood shed, unless it "be forced upon the Government. The Government will not use force unless force is used against it." He would repeat this message in his First Inaugural Address the following week.

After this speech (which Lincoln claimed was "unprepared"), Lincoln stepped outside to the platform for the flag raising ceremony. Before he assisted in raising the new 34-star flag, Lincoln briefly spoke to the crowd, saying that he hoped there would be many more stars to come to the flag. He also told those in the crowd that the future of the nation rested in their hands. With that, Lincoln hoisted the new American flag.

The image at the beginning of this post was taken 150 years ago today when Lincoln was on the platform at Independence Hall for the flag raising. Lincoln stands bareheaded directly over the third star from the left. His son Tad appears in the photo as well, resting his arms on the railing as he stares at the crowd. I've included a close-up of the photo below, with Lincoln outlined in red, and Tad outlined in yellow. The first photograph (along with two others taken at the same scene) are the only known photos in existence of Lincoln's Inauguration Journey.

Things I Love About Modernism: Blenko Art Glass

My friend Ben introduced me to this years ago in Ohio. He's been collecting for years, but this company has been producing outstanding colorful art glass in West Virginia for years. I love the free form, fluid shapes as well as the bright intense colors. These accessories look great in just about any kind of home interior, but particularly are suited to Mid-Century Modern Homes as well as newer contemporaries. My favorites are the owl bookends- I've got a set of three that was given to me by the owners of Hedge in Cathedral City. Another great local source for vintage Blenko is Bon Vivant in Palm Springs.

Lincoln's Inauguration Journey New York City to Philadelphia February 21, 1861

Abraham Lincoln left New York City 150 years ago today, February 21, 1861 with that day's destination of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on his Inauguration Journey. But between those two cities, Lincoln and his family traveled through the state of New Jersey where yet more adoring crowds waited.

Lincoln departed New York around 8:00 a.m., probably realizing that he had a lot of work to do to win over it's business and political leaders. Residents of the city still didn't quite know what to make of this tall lawyer from the prairie who had dared to commit a fashion faux pas at the opera the previous night when he wore black gloves instead of white ones. The city leaders had treated him condescendingly, as if they figured they could easily manipulate this man who lacked political experience.

The crowds in New Jersey, waiting for him on the other side of the Hudson River, greeted Lincoln as enthusiastically as all the other towns and cities along the route. So many, in fact, the New York Times reported that Lincoln couldn't reach his train at first. Finally, he made it aboard and the Inauguration Journey continued.

In Jersey City, N.J., Lincoln gave his by now traditional speech of thanks, saying he didn't have time for a speech, and said farewell. But the New York Tribune reported that the "then followed a rush to shake hands with Mr. Lincoln, and in the rush and crush the policemen and reporters were nearly annihilated." Lincoln had to reappear and say a few more words to quiet the crowd, such was his apparent popularity in New Jersey.

An estimated 75,000 people greeted Lincoln upon his arrival in Newark, N.J. that morning only to see and hear him speak for not more than two minutes. He thanked the Mayor for the introduction and said general pleasantries. It was much the same in New Brunswick, N.J. as the stop was short and the words were brief.

Lincoln finally arrived at Trenton, N.J., the state capital. Lincoln gave two speeches at the New Jersey state house (shown in the modern photo above), first to the New Jersey Senate. In his speech to the state senate, Lincoln displayed some uncharacteristic sentimentality when he mentioned how as a young boy he had read Mason Weem's "Life Of (George) Washington" (which is the source of many of the Washingtonian myths such as the cherry tree). Lincoln told the men that he had read the book many times and how the accounts of the Revolutionary War battle in Trenton had caused Lincoln to idolize Washington. He stated that "there must have been something more than common that those men struggled for; that something even more than National Independence; that something that held out a great promise to all the people of the world to all time to come." Then he admitted that he was "anxious" that the Union and the Constitution continue. This speech revealed how deeply Lincoln felt about the Revolution, the Founding Fathers, and the documents which established the United States.

Lincoln then addressed the General Assembly (similar to House of Representatives) in the state house. Lincoln told the Assembly that he would take the actions that he thought would be "most just to the North, the East, the West, the South, and the whole country." He said that he would do all that would be in his power to "promote a peaceful settlement of all our difficulties. The man does not live who is more devoted to peace than I am. None who would do more to preserve it."

Then in only one sentence, Lincoln at last revealed the strength he had in his convictions about the sectional crisis. After stating that he wanted peace and would work for it, Lincoln stated: "But it may be necessary to put the foot down firmly." As he spoke these words, he lifted his foot and placed it back down on the platform with enough force that it echoed through the chamber. This action brought mighty cheers from the Assemblymen, most of whom were Democrats. Lincoln showed in this simple gesture that he would accept no compromise about saving the Union.

Lincoln left Trenton a short while later and at last arrived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After being welcomed by the Mayor of the city, Lincoln spoke once more in generalities, mentioning the "sacred walls" of Independence Hall, and promised that he would do his best to always adhere to the teachings which came from them. Lincoln took care to mention both the Declaration of Independence and Constitution in his address.

The main event in Philadelphia was scheduled for the next day, February 22, Washington's birthday, when Lincoln would speak at the Hall where the founding documents were written. It was to be a glorious day, the most moving of Lincoln's Inauguration Journey.

What should have been a restful, peaceful night for Lincoln 150 years ago today, February 21, 1861 became anything but. A conspiracy against Lincoln had come to light, one which was so potentially deadly, that his safe arrival in Washington City was now in jeopardy. More on that tomorrow.

Things I Love About Modernism: Room Dividers

Something is great about a room divider: creating privacy and mystery out of an open space. There is something even more hip and jet-setting about a den or living area with a teak or metal room divider with beautiful cut outs that give glimpses of the space that it hides. So Jetson that I can't stand it!

Lincoln's Inauguration Journey New York City, February 20, 1861

Abraham and Mary Lincoln had a full day in New York City 150 years ago today on February 20, 1861. They and their children spent the previous night at the Astor House, a luxury hotel, after riding through crowds estimated to be 250,000 people strong. It was a somewhat cool reception and today would not be any different.

After a breakfast with the city's most prosperous businessmen and merchants, Lincoln then went to City Hall to meet with the Mayor, Mr. Fernando Wood. The image above, courtesy of Library of Congress, shows a print of Lincoln and the Mayor meeting. The Mayor, no fan of Lincoln's, was almost "insolent" in his reception of Lincoln, according to Jay Monaghan, author of "Diplomat In Carpet Slippers." Mr. Wood had only a few weeks earlier suggested somewhat seriously that New York City itself should secede from the Union, due to the concerns that the city and its elite would lose hundreds of millions over the secession of the Southern states.

The Mayor "welcomed" Lincoln with a condescending speech, in which he said "Coming office with a dismembered government to reconstruct, and a disconnected and hostile people to reconcile, it will require a high patriotism and an elevated comprehension of the whole country and its varied interests, opinions and prejudices to so conduct public affairs as to bring it back again to its former harmonious, consolidated and prosperous condition." In other words, he was urging Lincoln to reach a compromise with the Southern states.

Lincoln in turn had his opportunity to speak to both the Mayor and the assembled City Council. He thanked them for the welcome, remarking that he understood that the group before him was not in agreement with his politics. Nonetheless, Lincoln replied to them by stating:

"There is nothing that can ever bring me willingly to consent to the destruction of this Union, under which not only the commercial city of New York, but the whole country has acquired its greatness, unless it were to be that thing for which the Union itself was made. I understand a ship to be made for the carrying and preservation of the cargo, and so long as the ship can be saved, with the cargo, it should never be abandoned. This Union should likewise never be abandoned unless it fails and the probability of its preservation shall cease to exist without throwing the passengers and cargo overboard. So long, then, as it is possible that the prosperity and the liberties of the people can be preserved in the Union, it shall be my purpose at all times to preserve it."

Thus Lincoln came the closest he had yet come on this Inaugural Journey to revealing what his policies concerning secession would be as President. He would be unflinching in his fight to preserve the Union, to save what he would later call the "last, best hope on Earth" for government of the people and for the people. Through this response to the Mayor and City Council, Lincoln also showed that he was not the backwoods dolt that so many in the city felt him to be. It was not the only entanglement with New York that Lincoln would have.

The visit to New York City was not all business and politics for Lincoln and his wife. That evening, they attended the Verdi opera "Un ballo in Maschera" or "A Masqued Ball." The crowd was a bit aghast, according to reports, that Lincoln wore black gloves to the opera, when the fashion was to wear white gloves. Even then, New Yorkers were fashion conscious.

That night was spent again at the Astor House. Departure on the next leg of the journey would take place the next morning at around 8:00 a.m. While the visit to New York had gone smoothly without the chaos of the other cities on the route, it was, in the words of Carl Sandburg, "the coldest" of all along the "journey to inauguration."