Recollections of Lincoln 1847-1865

Summary

Recollections of Abraham Lincoln, 1847-1865 by Ward Hill Lamon offers a personal and candid view of Lincoln through the eyes of one of his closest friends and bodyguards. Lamon, a lawyer and former law partner of Lincoln, had a unique vantage point, accompanying him through critical periods of his life, including his presidency. Known for his loyalty and blunt honesty, Lamon sheds light on Lincoln’s personality, quirks, and struggles, portraying him not just as a revered leader but as a complex, deeply human figure.
The book reveals intimate moments, including Lincoln’s moods, personal habits, and bouts of melancholy, along with anecdotes about his humor and kindness. Lamon also provides insights into Lincoln's relationships with colleagues, his evolving stance on slavery, and the weight of responsibility he carried during the Civil War. Unlike more formal biographies, these recollections offer an unpolished, raw perspective that sometimes challenges the idealized image of Lincoln.
Lamon’s account is significant because it comes from someone within Lincoln’s inner circle, presenting a version of the president based on friendship and firsthand experience. Though not without controversy—some criticized Lamon for being too critical or unfiltered—the book remains a valuable contribution to understanding Lincoln as a man, not just a mythic figure. Narrated by Emmy-nominated actor Geoffrey Giuliano and The Sycthe.