Abraham Lincoln Museum Acquires a ‘Boring’ Snapshot of Lincoln
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum has recently acquired an original 1858 photograph of the 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. The museum is excited about the unique backstory of the snapshot that they say adds to their impressive collection of Lincoln artifacts.
But let’s be real here, folks. A picture of Lincoln, really? How groundbreaking! It’s not like we haven’t seen hundreds of photos and paintings of him already. But no, this one is different! Apparently, it was taken just before the start of his famous debates with Stephen A. Douglas, and get this, his hair was different than in other photographs. Wow, hold the presses.
The director of the museum, Alan Lowe, said, “It’s not just Lincoln’s hair, but the story behind it. It’s an action photograph, where he’s gathered with his advisers and they’re getting ready to go on stage. You can only imagine what was going through his mind as he prepared for those debates.”
Wow, I can feel the excitement brewing already. An action photograph of Lincoln getting ready to go on stage. Is that all the director could come up with? I mean, I’m not trying to discredit the historical significance of the photograph but let’s be honest, it’s not exactly a Mona Lisa.
The museum reportedly paid $225,000 for the photograph which was discovered at a garage sale in Illinois. I guess the seller saw an opportunity to make a quick buck off the museum’s obsession with acquiring anything remotely associated with the late president.
But hey, at least the museum can now add this “unique” photograph to their collection of over 52,000 artifacts. I’m sure visitors will be thrilled to see yet another image of Honest Abe in action.
In all seriousness, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a remarkable institution that does an amazing job at preserving and celebrating the legacy of one of America’s greatest presidents. And, the backstory of this latest acquisition is undoubtedly interesting and adds to the rich history behind the debates of 1858.
So, sarcasm aside, the acquisition of this photograph is truly a testimony to the museum’s dedication to preserving the history of Abraham Lincoln and the pivotal moments of his presidency.
