The uniqueness of Lincoln's beard

[LincolnMan]

As we all know, Lincoln only sported a beard the last four or so years of his life (as it turned out). Did you ever wonder why he chose the style he did? In particular, why did he not have a mustache to go along with it? As I look at photographs and prints of men from that era I don't see those like the one Lincoln had. it was a matter of personal taste I'm sure-or was it?