Lincoln Bedroom
The Second Floor room that once served as President Lincoln’s office is now the well-known Lincoln Bedroom. A copy of the Gettysburg Address, handwritten and signed by Lincoln, is displayed on the desk in the corner. Hanging above it is the painting Watch Meeting—Dec. 31st 1862—Waiting for the Hour by William T. Carlton, which depicts enslaved people waiting for news of the Emancipation Proclamation. An engraving of Francis B. Carpenter’s 1864 painting, First Reading of the Emancipation Proclamation, is seen reflected in the mirror above the fireplace mantel. This space where Lincoln once readily admitted visitors is not on the public tour.
- Credit
- White House Historical Association
