The railway platform rescue of a young man by actor Edwin Booth in 1863 or 1864 gained historical gravity when the rescued man’s father, President Abraham Lincoln, was later assassinated by Booth’s brother. Robert Todd Lincoln, the only child of the President to reach adulthood, navigated a lifetime in the shadow of his father’s immense political legacy.
Education and Civil War Service
Born in 1843 in Springfield, Illinois, Lincoln prepared for university at Phillips Exeter Academy after struggling with early entrance examinations. He graduated from Harvard College in 1864. Following a brief period at Harvard Law School, he secured a commission as an assistant adjutant with the rank of captain in the Union Army. Serving on the staff of General Ulysses S. Grant in the final weeks of the Civil War, Lincoln was present at the surrender of Robert E. Lee at Appomattox before resigning his commission in June 1865.
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Lincoln built a robust legal career in Chicago, representing corporate interests and establishing financial independence. His administrative service began as United States Secretary of War, a role he occupied from 1881 to 1885 under the presidencies of James A. Garfield and Chester A. Arthur. Subsequently, he served as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom from 1889 to 1893 during the administration of Benjamin Harrison. Despite frequent suggestions that he pursue the presidency, he declined to seek the office.
Corporate Leadership and Later Life
In the private sector, Lincoln became the general counsel for the Pullman Company. Following the death of founder George Pullman in 1897, he assumed the presidency of the firm. He maintained this leadership role until 1911, thereafter serving as chairman of the board until 1924. During his later years, he divided his time between Washington, D.C., and his estate, Hildene, in Manchester, Vermont. He participated in the dedication of the Lincoln Memorial in 1922 and died at Hildene on July 26, 1926.
Fast facts
- Born: 1843, Springfield, Illinois
- Died: 1926, Manchester, Vermont
- Education: Harvard College, Harvard Law School
- United States Secretary of War: 1881-1885
- United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom: 1889-1893
- Burial site: Arlington National Cemetery
Questions readers ask
Did Robert Todd Lincoln serve in the Civil War?
Yes, he served as a captain on the staff of General Ulysses S. Grant during the final weeks of the conflict in 1865.
What was his involvement with the Pullman Company?
He served as the company's general counsel, later becoming its president in 1897 and chairman of the board until 1924.
Achievements
- Educated at Phillips Exeter Academy, Harvard College and Harvard Law School
- Worked as lawyer, diplomat and politician
