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Where did Lincoln sleep in Gettysburg?

Published in American History 2 mins read

Abraham Lincoln slept in the David Wills House in Gettysburg.

Lincoln's Stay in Gettysburg

On the night before delivering his immortal Gettysburg Address, President Abraham Lincoln lodged at the David Wills House. This significant historic residence is located on the corner of Lincoln Square in downtown Gettysburg.

It was within this very house that Lincoln also completed the final revisions of his iconic speech, which he would deliver the following day, November 19, 1863, at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery. The David Wills House thus holds a unique place in American history, serving as both a resting place and a workspace for the President during a pivotal moment for the nation.

Key Details of the David Wills House:

  • Location: Situated prominently at the intersection of Lincoln Square in the heart of downtown Gettysburg.
  • Historical Significance: Beyond being Lincoln's sleeping quarters, it was the site where he put the finishing touches on the Gettysburg Address.
  • Host: The home belonged to David Wills, a prominent Gettysburg attorney who was instrumental in establishing the Soldiers' National Cemetery.

Experiencing the Site

Today, the David Wills House operates as a museum, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the rooms where Lincoln stayed and worked. It provides a deeper understanding of the events leading up to the Gettysburg Address and the immense pressure Lincoln faced during his visit.

For more information about this historic landmark, you can visit the David Wills House National Park Service page.