The Battle of Bull Run

This battle has signaled a longer war than what we had hoped for. However, we must remain strong and support the Union as she fights against slavery. Although we lost today's battle, with troops that are better prepared, we can quickly end the rebellion of the South. While our soldiers do their part on the battlefield, I am currently working with my seamstress and close friend, Elizabeth Keckley, a former slave, to raise funds for the Contraband Relief Association.

http://www.mrlincolnswhitehouse.org/inside.asp?ID=15&subjectID=2

http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?index=2&did=8736106&SrchMode=1&sid=10&Fmt=3&VInst=PROD&VType=PQD&RQT=309&VName=PQD&TS=1232676429&clientId=19245

Fort Sumter Attacked

It seems to me that my fears of a war have been confirmed with the firing of Fort Sumter today. I do not wish for the nation to be divided, but I do wish for the abolition of slavery and the success of my husband in his role as the leader of this nation. He is currently calling for volunteers to increase the ranks of our forces. While he continues to do his duty, I must do mine; entertaining political guests at the White House is not an easy feat. The condition of our new home was disgraceful when we moved in; the first thing I think must be cleaned up are the tobacco stains on the walls. I have started renovation immediately to make it more fit for guests. After all, the home of the President of the United States ought to be a grand place.

Longest Night by David J. Eicher; p. 58; http://books.google.com/books?id=1p94XzYASDAC&printsec=frontcover&dq=civil+war+subject:"History+/+United+States+/+Civil+War+Period+(1850-1877)"&as_brr=3#PPA58,M1

"Hellcat or Helpmate: The Mary Todd Lincoln Saga" by Karen Springen; http://www.newsweek.com/id/41140/page/1

I've known for quite some time that my husband was made to be the President of the United States. Although I am thrilled to now be the First Lady, I feel some conflict over the current situation. The secession of several states worries me greatly; after all, many of my family members are pro-slavery. Coming from the South, they will remain loyal to the states that secede. I, on the other hand, will have to stand behind Abraham, but staying strong if my family members die at the hands of men from the United States will be a difficult task that I must begin preparing for right now. 

http://www.lkwdpl.org/WIHOHIO/linc-mar.htm

http://www.mrlincolnswhitehouse.org/inside.asp?ID=15&subjectID=2

Hello, I am Mary Todd Lincoln. I would like to thank all of you for supporting my husband, Abraham Lincoln, in the upcoming presidential election.