Abraham Lincoln and Robert Burns by Alec Ross

[Donna McCreary]

This is an interesting story.

This year on Burns Night (January 25), I gave a short presentation about the history of the celebration and how Burns' Night Suppers were held throughout the English speaking world. Burns Societies were popular social group throughout America. Does anyone know if there was a Burns Society in Springfield? If so, did the Lincolns belong to it?
They both loved the poetry of the Scottish Bard, and I would think if there was a Burns Society, Abraham and Mary would have attended. They may have even hosted a few Burns Suppers in their home.

No other author commands the respect that has been given to Robert Burns. We celebrate Robert Burns Day, but there has never been a William Shakespeare Day or a James Joyce Day. The poetry of Robert Burns has impacted the world. But I do recommend searching for a modern translation to read. The Scottish dialect is often difficult to sort out.