Lincoln's Dog Fido

[Donna McCreary]

The problem with the Kunhardt story is that there is nothing to suggest that Ingmire was a photographer before 1863, and may not even have been in Springfield in 1860-61. The curator of the ALPL is currently working to establish a date for these photos. He is looking for concrete information such as a city directory or something that says a different photographer took the photos. I have read different accounts each using a difference date - and each story has elements which seem accurate. However, only one is correct. I am hopeful that Dr. Cornelius can find the evidence he needs.
Personally, I have always leaned towards the 1865 date. It was not a common practice for people to photograph their pets in the 19th century. However, once Lincoln died, anything and everything connected to him was photographed.