This fall brings an exceptional opportunity for history enthusiasts and admirers of Abraham Lincoln. I’m honored to have contributed to the catalogue accompanying a new exhibit titled “Abraham Lincoln: His Life in Print” at the Grolier Club in New York City, running from September 25 to December 28, 2024. This exhibit, curated from the Americana collection of philanthropist David M. Rubenstein, offers a rare glimpse into over 200 significant works that illuminate Lincoln’s life, leadership, and the extraordinary journey he undertook to preserve the Union and end slavery.

The collection on display includes treasured documents such as a signed Emancipation Proclamation, the Gettysburg Address, and Lincoln’s debates with Stephen A. Douglas. These pieces not only showcase the pivotal moments of Lincoln’s presidency but also highlight his commitment to ideals like equality and unity—ideals he championed even in the face of the Civil War’s deepest turmoil.

As one of twelve writers invited to contribute an essay to the exhibit’s catalogue, I explored Lincoln’s evolution as a leader molded by print. Books made Lincoln. His speeches and writings—crafted through deep reading and thought—captivated a nation and shaped public opinion during one of its most divided times. The exhibit captures this beautifully, tracing his journey from humble beginnings through self-education to his leadership at the heart of a fractured country.

The exhibit is particularly poignant in an election year, reminding us of the power of democratic engagement. Lincoln’s campaigns were pivotal in leveraging the burgeoning medium of popular print to engage and inform voters. In this sense, the exhibit also speaks to the enduring role of books and written words in fostering civic awareness and participation.

I encourage you to visit the Grolier Club to experience this deep dive into Lincoln’s printed legacy. For those who cannot attend in person, visit the exhibition online. Additionally, you may purchase the accompanying catalogue—filled with essays from leading Lincoln scholars—through University of Chicago Press. It’s a beautiful way to bring the exhibit’s richness into your home, with insights into Lincoln’s life and an array of iconic historical printings.

Media covering the exhibit and catalogue include Smithsonian Magazine, Martin CID Magazine, and Fine Books Magazine.