Abraham Lincoln the Legislator

Marble, by Avard T. Fairbanks, 1985

The U.S. Capitol Historical Society

Celebrates the Legacy of Abraham Lincoln

1809 – 1865

Member of Congress (IL-Whig) 1847 – 1849

President of the United States (Republican) 1861 - 1865

“Public sentiment is everything.  With public sentiment, nothing can fail; without it nothing can succeed.” 

“I am rather inclined to silence, and whether that be wise or not, it is at least more unusual nowadays to find a man who can hold his tongue than to find one who cannot.” 

“I do the very best I know how—the very best I can; and I mean to keep doing so until the end.”

Members of Congress today can identify with these words of Abraham Lincoln, spoken so many years ago.  Lincoln was elected to Congress from Illinois on the Whig ticket.  As a Freshman, his seat was at the rear of the Chamber, now Statuary Hall, in a location designated by a plaque on the floor.  Lincoln did not seek re-nomination but served only one term, from 1847 to 1849.  

His principles as a Congressman and President guide our nation today.  His legacy continues.  Tonight we celebrate this legacy as the new Members of the 111^th Congress reflect on what Lincoln means to them, and contribute to the legacy by preserving it for future generations.

111^th Congress

Pays Tribute to

the Legacy of Abraham Lincoln

on the Bicentennial of his Birth – 2009

On May 13^th, at the Congressional Reception hosted by the U.S. Capitol Historical Society, the 111^th Congress will have the opportunity to reflect on the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and the humanity, leadership, and vision exemplified by his life. 

During this 200^th anniversary year, we invite Members of Congress and Americans from the north, south, east, and west to share their thoughts on President Lincoln’s legacy.  What did he teach us and what should the next generation know about this remarkable American leader? 

These “historic” reflections will be placed in a time capsule preserved by the U.S. Capitol Historical Society.  The time capsule will be displayed in Statuary Hall on the evening of the reception, and submissions will be accepted throughout the reception. 

The 111^th Congress Time Capsule will be opened 50 years from now -- 2059 -- on the 250^th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth.  

Please make your mark on history by contributing your own thoughts on the Lincoln Legacy.  Your contribution will teach future generations of Americans about the legacy of the 111^th Congress. 

To submit your reflection, contact Mary Hughes at the U.S. Capitol Historical Society, 202-543-8919, x31 or M_Hughes@uschs.org.