Herndon's Lincoln: The True Story of a Great Life, William Henry Herndon and Jessie William Weik, 1889
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- Chicago History Museum, ICHi-52487
A True Story?
William Henry Herndon’s book was based on his memory and interviews he conducted with Lincoln’s friends and associates after the assassination. Herndon wanted to present a realistic portrait of his long-time legal partner, but his colorful account overemphasized Lincoln’s supposed romance with Ann Rutledge in New Salem and the author’s own influence on the future president.