As a kids pastor, I often reflect on the profound impact children can have on the world around them. Recently, I discovered a story that beautifully illustrates this truth—a tale involving none other than Abraham Lincoln.
A Personal Connection
David Yount – Fan of Honest Abe
While Abraham Lincoln has no direct living descendants, my father-in-law was a descendant of the Hanks family, Mary Todd Lincoln’s lineage. Standing tall and bearing a striking resemblance to Honest Abe, he often donned the iconic stovepipe hat, embodying Lincoln’s spirit. Yet, it wasn’t until a friend shared this particular story with me that I realized the depth of influence a single child can wield.
The Letter That Changed History
In October 1860, 11-year-old Grace Bedell from Westfield, New York, penned a letter to presidential candidate Abraham Lincoln. Having seen his campaign portrait, she believed he would look better with a beard and suggested that growing one might help him win more votes, especially from women who would then persuade their husbands to support him.
Dear Sir, (she wrote) … I am a little girl only 11 years old, but want you should be President of the United States very much so I hope you wont think me very bold to write to such a great man as you are… I have yet got four brothers and part of them will vote for you any way and if you let your whiskers grow I will try and get the rest of them to vote for you you would look a great deal better for your face is so thin. All the ladies like whiskers and they would tease their husbands to vote for you and then you would be President … if I was a man I would vote for you too… I will try to get every one to vote for you that I can… I must not write any more answer this letter right off Good bye
Grace Bedell
Lincoln responded kindly, expressing his skepticism about growing a beard at his age but appreciating her suggestion. However, shortly after, he began to let his whiskers grow. By the time he embarked on his journey to Washington, D.C., for his inauguration, he sported a full beard.
Miss Grace Bedell
My dear little Miss Your very agreeable letter of the 15th is received. … As to the whiskers, having never worn any, do you not think people would call it a silly affectation if I were to begin it now? Your very sincere well wisher
A. Lincoln
Yet, a month later, after another letter from little Grace, which you can read here, he grew a beard.
A Memorable Meeting
On February 16, 1861, during his inaugural journey, Lincoln’s train stopped in Westfield. There, he met young Grace Bedell in person. He greeted her with warmth, saying, “You see? I let these whiskers grow for you, Grace.” This encounter left an indelible mark on both their lives and became a cherished anecdote in American history.
Visual Transformation
The transformation in Lincoln’s appearance is evident when comparing photographs from before and after he grew his beard. These images not only show a change in facial hair but also reflect a shift in his public persona—a move from a clean-shaven lawyer to the bearded leader who would navigate the nation through its most challenging times.
The Power of Encouragement
Grace’s simple, sincere suggestion led to a change that became an integral part of Lincoln’s identity. Her encouragement serves as a reminder that even the smallest voices can inspire significant change. I can’t tell you how many times I ask kids for advice because I know they will be honest with me.
Ironically, when I decided to grow a beard and asked the kids at my church what they thought, they universally told me to “lose it.” They were so encouraging, telling me things like, “You look like a terrorist,” or “Are you a criminal now?” or “You look old,” or “gross.” I love the sweet honestly of children.
A Challenge to Us All
As children’s pastors, we are in a unique position to nurture and amplify the voices of the young. Let’s encourage our children to speak up, to share their ideas, and to believe that their words matter. Who knows? The next Grace Bedell might be sitting in our Sunday school class, ready to inspire a future leader.
But it also applies to us – are we looking only to our own success? Or the success of others? Grace wanted to see Lincoln succeed, so she made a suggestion she thought would help him. To this day, Abe’s Beard is a symbol of his leadership and legacy. Do we dare to make gentle suggestions to those we love and want to see succeed?
