Existing comment:
July 1861:
Seeking an Edge:
Lincoln was constantly on the lookout for weapons that might tip the scales in the Union's favor. Ignoring local laws, the president personally tired out the latest guns on what is now the National Mall at 6:30 in the morning. He also showed interest when the director of the Smithsonian Institution, Joseph Henry, introduced him to "Professor" Thaddeus Lowe, who insisted that hot air balloons could give Northern forces a military advantage.
Modern Warfare:
Not only could balloons provide eyes in the sky; by utilizing telegraph wires between his aerial platform and agents on the ground, Lowe was able to demonstrate the balloon's communications possibilities. In fact, Lowe sent Lincoln a message while floating high above the Mall.
November 1861:
Holding McClellan's Horse:
McClellan treated the men in his ranks with more deference than he showed his superiors. Case in point: one evening in November 1861, Lincoln called at the general's Washington home, only to find McClellan out.
On returning, McClellan was notified that his Commander-in-Chief was patiently waiting for him in the parlor. Rather than meet with Lincoln, whose questions and advice he had come to resent, McClellan had a servant inform the president and his party that he had retired for the night. Lincoln made light of the snub. To angry associates he said, "I will hold the McClellan's horse if he will only bring us success." |