Little-Known Facts About Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, is best known for leading the nation through the Civil War and ending slavery. But there’s much more to this iconic figure. Here are some surprising and lesser-known facts about “Honest Abe.”

A Towering Presence
At 6 feet 4 inches tall, Lincoln stood far above the average man of his time, who measured about 5 feet 6 inches. His size 14 shoes had to be custom-made, adding to his larger-than-life persona.

An Inventive Mind
Lincoln is the only U.S. president to hold a patent. Drawing on his experience navigating rivers during his flatboat trips to New Orleans, he invented a device to help boats float over sandbars. While the invention was never produced, it showcases Lincoln’s innovative spirit.

A Unique Perspective
Some sources suggest that Lincoln was colorblind, a condition that could have affected his ability to distinguish certain colors—a rare trait for a U.S. president.

A Sense of Humor
Lincoln had a sharp wit and loved telling jokes. Reflecting on his time in the Black Hawk War, he famously quipped that while he hadn’t seen any combat with Native Americans, he had “many struggles with mosquitoes.”

Humble Beginnings
Before his rise to national prominence, Lincoln worked a variety of jobs in New Salem, Illinois. He ran a general store, worked as a surveyor, and served as the town’s postmaster. His honesty and integrity earned him the nickname “Honest Abe,” a title that followed him throughout his life.

A Presidential Beard
Lincoln’s famous beard came at the suggestion of 11-year-old Grace Bedell, who wrote him a letter in 1860. She encouraged him to grow facial hair, saying it would make him more distinguished. Lincoln took her advice, and his bearded look debuted shortly before he assumed the presidency.

These little-known facts highlight Lincoln’s wit, humility, and ingenuity—qualities that continue to endear him to Americans today.