The train trip was intense. Because the itinerary had been published in all the newspapers, every town we travelled through was filled with people of all ages wanting to get a look at their new President, Abraham Lincoln.
Even out in the middle of nowhere, people waved as our train went past. In the large cities, huge crowds waited at the depots. In my new role as bodyguard, the logistics were a nightmare. In every direction I saw someone who might harm my friend, before he was allowed to go through the inauguration to become our country’s leader.
I was alone in worrying about his safety. Meanwhile, Mr. Lincoln was surrounded by family and friends. Mrs. Lincoln, Robert, Willie and Tad all were on board and helped us celebrate the president-elect ‘s 52nd birthday in Cincinnati on February 12, 1861. Others on board included Mr. Lincoln’s personal physician, William Wallace; is personal secretaries, John Hay and John Nicolay; Illinois Governor Richard Yates; Norman Judd; Major David Hunter; O.H. Browning; Judge David Davis; John Pope; and Captain Elmer Ellsworth.
On February 13, we arrived in Columbus, Ohio. There Mr. Lincoln spoke to the Ohio state legislature. That night we got the news that the Electoral College had made it official. The telegram from General Winfield Scott said it all. “The votes were counted peaceably. You are elected.”
Mr. Lincoln smiled at the news. And then he told me in soft voice only I could hear. “Now the work begins.”
W. H. Lamon
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