Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Political Banner for Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) and Hannibal Hamlin (1809-1891)
1860
Possibly H.C. Howard
USA
Lithograph on glazed cotton
overall: 11 1/2 x 17 in.; frame: 16 3/8 x 24 3/8 in.
Gift of Robert A. Frank
2001.067.46

Political campaign banner for Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) and Hannibal Hamlin (1809-1891); United States flag format; reads "For President, Abram Lincoln. / For Vice President, Hannibal Hamlin"; red, white and blue colors; wooden frame with glass.

While Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) is one of our most recognized and loved presidents today, in 1860 he was far less known. The misspelling of his name on this banner demonstrates his lack of recognition, particularly in the eastern United States. During the presidential campaign, he was presented as a man of the people. Active campaigning by the candidates was still not considered entirely appropriate in 1860, so Lincoln did not campaign. Speeches by party orators and partisan newspapers brought the issues to the voters. This banner for Lincoln and vice presidential candidate Hannibal Hamlin (1809-1891) follows the design and colors of the American flag, showing the Republican party's reverence for both the Union and the Constitution during an election that revolved around the issue of Southern secession. Despite his lack of recognition, Lincoln won the 1860 election and was re-elected in 1864.