The Most Amazing Facts

1. Lincoln was the first president to have a photo taken at his inauguration.
2. Abraham Lincoln had no middle name.
3. When he was 23, Lincoln bought a store, however did so badly that he ended up owing money on it. He was so honest however that he paid back every penny, even though it took him 17 years.
4. Lincoln was once challenged to a duel over a letter written by his wife. He accepted and suggested the weapons used should be broadswords. His terrified opponent backed out.
5. Abe Lincoln is the only US President ever to have obtained a patent - a boat-lifting device.
6. After his son Willie died, Abe took part in a number of séances at the White House arranged by his wife.
7. In the weeks leading up to his assassination, Lincoln twice dreamed of his impending death.
8. Lincoln is considered one of the three greatest presidents of all time, alongside George Washington and Franklin D Roosevelt.
9. His death masks were actually made before he was killed - he sat for casts in both 1860 and 1865.
10. Abraham Lincoln was the first president to sport a beard whilst in office.