The Misconception about Abraham Lincoln’s Ride to Gettysburg

Many people often joke about Abraham Lincoln driving to the site of the Gettysburg Address, imagining a visit in a luxurious modern-day car. However, the reality is far different and much more interesting.

Lincoln and the Civil War Era Transport

When Abraham Lincoln traveled to Gettysburg to deliver his famous Gettysburg Address, there were no personal limousines, let alone luxury cars like Cadillacs, available to the President. The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad was the primary mode of transportation for Lincoln and his party. A special train was provided for the occasion, and the carriages used were likely built or modified by the railroad itself. The builder of these railcars is unknown, but the journey was seamless and well-coordinated for a president of such importance.

The Internet Misconception: Lincoln and the Cadillac

The internet is rife with information - and often misinformation. Some believe that Lincoln drove a Cadillac to Gettysburg, an idea that is both ironic and false. Instead, Lincoln rode in a train carriage, with his son, Tad, driving it while the President himself penned his address. Ford even took advantage of this misconception by rebranding their tow car as the 'Lincoln Town Car'.

The Reality of Lincoln's Journey

The more accurate picture is that Lincoln traveled the majority of the way by train. Once in Gettysburg, he walked a short distance from the station to the center of town. Then, he rode a horse from the Wills House up to the cemetery where he delivered his speech. Reports suggest that an early morning ride in a carriage was possible, allowing him to view the battlefield for himself.

It is important to consider the context of automotive history for the time. In 1863, when Lincoln gave his address, automobiles were not yet invented. Cars would be around 30 years later, which makes all these jokes, even more amusing in their inaccuracy.

In Conclusion

The misconception surrounding Abraham Lincoln’s ride to Gettysburg is a testament to how far we have come in automotive technology and the internet's ability to spread information - both true and false. While the idea of a luxurious car ride to deliver such an important speech is humorous and catchy, the historical truth is that Lincoln traveled primarily by train with occasional horse rides and walks. This question serves as a reminder to take historical accuracy and critical thinking seriously.