One of the most famous and mysterious rooms in American history is the Lincoln Bedroom, which is hidden away in the White House‘s private quarters. Despite what its name implies, Abraham Lincoln never slept here. Rather, he shaped the future of the country in this area, which was once his Cabinet Room and personal office. He drafted the Emancipation Proclamation and navigated the darkest days of the Civil War there.
World leaders, celebrities, and political allies have been hosted in the Lincoln Bedroom, which has evolved into a very prestigious guest suite over time. But even with its contemporary purpose, the room still has a strong connection to Lincoln’s legacy thanks to its antiques, period furnishings, and even eerie stories that imply Lincoln may never have really left.
Inside the Lincoln Bedroom: A Room Steeped in Presidential History
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Second floor, southeast corner of the White House |
| Original Purpose | Used as Lincoln’s Cabinet Room and office during the Civil War |
| Current Use | White House guest suite, primarily for dignitaries |
| Signature Furnishings | The Lincoln Bed, Victorian-era furniture, and authentic artifacts |
| First Named “Lincoln Bedroom” | 1945, by President Harry Truman |
| Notable Guests | Winston Churchill, Margaret Thatcher, Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg |
| Haunted Reputation? | Many claim to have seen Lincoln’s ghost in the room |
A Presidential Office Converted into a Legacy Space
This space functioned as Lincoln’s Cabinet Room during his presidency, where he met with advisors, discussed war plans, and polished the language that would reshape the country’s values. A desk that once stood in this exact location was used to draft the Emancipation Proclamation, one of the most influential documents in American history.
It’s easy to picture Lincoln pacing in candlelight, his hands crafting the words that would alter the course of American history, his mind heavy with the weight of war. Even today, when the room is used as a guest suite, its walls seem to whisper of its former use as a center for decision-making, which is why it still has such a commanding presence.
An iconic aspect of White House history is the Lincoln Bed.
The massive rosewood bed, also known as the Lincoln Bed, is arguably the most eye-catching feature of the Lincoln Bedroom. One of the most opulent and instantly identifiable pieces of White House furniture, it is eight feet wide and almost nine feet long, with towering carved posts and rich Victorian detailing.
Lincoln never slept in it, despite what many people think. First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln bought the bed in 1861 as part of her massive White House renovations, with the intention of using it in the most opulent guest bedroom in the house. Since then, numerous presidents have used the room for high-profile visitors, making it one of the most esteemed lodging options in Washington, D.C.
From Truman to Obama: The Lincoln Bedroom’s Development
Although the room has historical significance due to Lincoln’s presidency, President Harry Truman did not formally name it the Lincoln Bedroom until 1945. In an attempt to keep the room authentic, he brought in furniture from Lincoln’s time to keep it historically accurate.
A number of First Ladies, such as Laura Bush and Jacqueline Kennedy, have led restoration efforts to bring the space even closer to its mid-19th century style. From the wallpaper to the carpeting, every element has been carefully chosen to make entering the Lincoln Bedroom feel like traveling back in time.
A Room Set Apart for the Most Powerful People in the World
Originally used as Lincoln’s Cabinet Room, the Lincoln Bedroom is now a highly sought-after guest suite that is mostly used to host influential people, diplomats, and world leaders. Some of its most well-known residents over the years have been:
- The British prime minister, Winston Churchill, is said to have seen Lincoln’s ghost while he was in the room.
- One of the most esteemed visitors to Washington during her visits was Margaret Thatcher.
- Elvis Presley: Enticed by White House history, he asked to see the Lincoln Bedroom, but he never stayed overnight.
During the Clinton administration, when the room was frequently extended to well-known supporters, Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg were frequent visitors.
When it was discovered that Democratic donors were asked to stay in the Lincoln Bedroom as part of fundraising efforts, the room became the subject of controversy during the administration of Bill Clinton. Even though this attracted political attention, subsequent administrations have carried on the custom of entertaining notable visitors.
The Lincoln Bedroom’s Haunting
It would be impossible to discuss the Lincoln Bedroom without bringing up its eerie reputation. Lincoln’s influence on the White House is so strong that many people argue he never really left.
Strange events have been reported by a number of visitors, including Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands, First Lady Grace Coolidge, and even Winston Churchill. While some assert they have seen Lincoln’s apparition standing close to the fireplace, others say they have sensed his presence.
Churchill’s encounter is especially well-known. According to the story, he was holding a cigar and wrapped in a towel after taking a bath when he noticed Lincoln’s ghost staring at him. Unfazed, Churchill is said to have said, “Good evening, Mr. President,” in his now-famous greeting. I feel like I’m at a disadvantage because of you.” According to legend, Lincoln’s ghost just disappeared.
Why We Are Still Enticed by the Lincoln Bedroom
The Lincoln Bedroom is a unique room in a home full of famous rooms with historical significance. It is a location where important choices were made, where Lincoln influenced the course of a divided country, and where his spirit—both literally and figuratively—remains.
The room has served as an inspiration to even contemporary presidents. According to reports, Barack Obama frequently went to the Lincoln Bedroom to consider Lincoln’s leadership and to use the room as a reminder of the seriousness of the office. One can’t help but feel a strong connection to America’s past because of the room’s furnishings, décor, and history.
Concluding Remarks: A Room Echoing a Legacy
The Lincoln Bedroom is more than just a guest room; it is a reminder of Abraham Lincoln’s tenacity, guidance, and lasting influence. Everyone who enters this room is captivated by the enduring ghost stories, the preserved artifacts of Lincoln’s presidency, or the elaborate carvings of the Lincoln Bed.
The Lincoln Bedroom is more than just a place to sleep for those who are fortunate enough to spend the night there; it is a place to experience history.