In early May 1860, when Abraham Lincoln was in Decatur to attend the Illinois State Republican Convention a local photographer, Edward A. Barnwell, wanted to take a picture of “the biggest man” at the convention. After spotting Lincoln, Barnwell him to his People’s Ambrotype Gallery at 24 North Water Street to pose for this portrait. The next day, after Richard Oglesby introduced the “Rail Splitter,” convention delegates unanimously endorsed Lincoln for President.
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