Chapter 61: The Lincoln Family Settles Into the White House

As war breaks out, Abe and Mary begin their hectic Washington life along with their three sons.

The oldest and most reserved is seventeen year old Robert who has finally been admitted to Harvard after previousl failing his entrance exams. But he is eager to enlist in the army, much to the dismay of his parents.

The youngest is Tad, just turned eight and still plagued by a cleft pallete that results in a severe lisp and the cruel nickname of “Stuttering Tad.” His general development also lags his peers and he remains unable to dress himself or to read or write, despite tutors.

The middle child, and leader of the pack when it comes to hijinks, is ten year old Willie. He is the proud possessor of a small pony which he rides gleefully along the corridors, and two goats that live on the lawn, but often spill inside. Willie is also captain of war games, donning a uniform, drilling his pals and setting up “log cannons” on the roof of the White House aimed across the Potomac at the shadow enemy.

For Abe, time spent with his children provides much needed breaks from the pressures of office. He reads to them, piggy-backs them around, plays along with their games, and allows them to wander in and out of his office at will. His intent is to provide them with the carefree childhood he never had.

As he says: “it is my pleasure that my children are free, happy and unrestrained.”

Mary fits into the DC social scene with ease, hosting events and holding her own with politicians, friend and foe. But she finds the White House décor ugly and a detraction for America’s global image. She throws herself into remodelling and soon riles Abe and other officials by far surpassing her assigned budget.

Meanwhile the war begins badly for the Union.