Lincoln and Songs

[Eva Elisabeth]

(10-05-2013 11:05 AM)Joe Di Cola Wrote:  

(10-05-2013 05:14 AM)RJNorton Wrote:  Have fun, Gene!

In one source I read that Abraham Lincoln once played an instrument. Because I feel the author sometimes accepted doubtful stories as true, I don't know about the veracity of this.

During the Lincoln-Douglas Debates, Lincoln decided to mock the brass band which accompanied Douglas. Lincoln took out harmonica and played upon it. "This is my brass band" he said.

SOURCE: page 151 of Lincoln Talks: A Biography in Anecdote
compiled, collated, and edited by Emanuel Hertz (Halcyon House, New York, 1941).

Roger,

There have been a few references to his pkaying the Jew's Harp. If I had the time I would try to tell you which ones made that reference, but I am pressed for time in getting ready for Springfield. Lincoln was also very fond of the song "Blue-tailed Fly."

Joe

Joe, if you ever (after returning from Springfield) have time to look up a source for Lincoln playing the Jew's harp I'd be most grateful! I recently asked if anyone knows of such. I've sometimes read this, but never with a source given.

Anita, what a cool link, thanks!