Lincoln's Beard - Beards in History

Interested in learning about some historical beards? In this blog series - Beards in History - I've decided to start with Lincoln. When I think of historical beards, his always comes to mind first. I had heard that it was a young girl who first suggested that Lincoln grow a beard. I did little research and discovered there is a letter from said girl still in existence where the fateful suggestion was made. 

Hon A B Lincoln...

Dear Sir
My father has just home from the fair and brought home your picture and Mr. Hamlin's. 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. Have you any little girls about as large as I am if so give them my love and tell her to write to me if you cannot answer this letter. I have got 4 brother's 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 husband's to vote for you and then you would be President. My father is going to vote for you and if I was a man I would vote for you to but I will try to get every one to vote for you that I can I think that rail fence around your picture makes it look very pretty I have got a little baby sister she is nine weeks old and is just as cunning as can be. When you direct your letter direct to Grace Bedell Westfield Chatauque County New York

I must not write any more answer this letter right off Good bye

Grace Bedell

Abraham Lincoln took her advice and grew a beard. Perhaps the addition of the beard was what helped him get elected and do all of the wonderful things for this country that he did. Makes me wonder about what other beards have helped shape history.