The Funeral of Willie Lincoln.

The Departments were all closed to-day in consequence of the arrangements for the funeral of William Wallace, second son of President Lincoln. His remains were placed in the Green room at the Executive mansion, where this morning a great many friends of the family called to take a last look at the little favorite, who had endeared himself to all the guests of the family. The body was clothed in the usual every-day attire of youths of his age, consisting of pants and Jacket, with white stockings and low shoes—the white collar and wristbands being turned over the black cloth of the Jacket. The countenance wore a natural and placid look, the only signs of death being a slight discoloration of the features.

The body lay in the lower section of a metallic case, the sides of which were covered by the winding sheet of white crape. The deceased held in the right hand a bouquet composed of a superb camellia, around which were grouped azalias and sprigs of mignionette. This, when the case is closed, is to be reserved for the bereaved mother. On the breast of the deceased, was a beautiful wreath of flowers, already named, interspersed with ivy leaves and other evergreens; near the feet was another wreath of the same kind, while azalias and sprigs of mignionette were disposed about the body.

The metallic case is very plain, and is an imitation of rosewood. On the upper section is square silver plate, bearing, in plain characters, the simple inscription:

WILLIAM WALLACE LINCOLN.

Born December 21st, 1850.

Died February 20th, 1862.

The mirrors in the East room, in the Green room (where the body was laid) and in the other reception rooms, were covered with mourning drapery—the frames being covered with black and the glass with white crape.

In accordance with the wish of the family, the body was not removed, but remained in the Green room during the funeral service, which was conducted by Rev. Dr. Gurley, in the East Room.

The occasion was a most impressive one, and the large crowd present seemed to be deeply affected by its solemnity. Among those present were the members of the Cabinet, foreign ministers, members of Congress, army and navy officers, and many distinguished persons in civil life. After the performance of the funeral service, the body was followed to the vault, in Oak Hill Cemetery, Georgetown, by most of those present.

SOURCE: “The Funeral of Willie Lincoln,” Evening Star, Washington, D.C., Monday, February 24, 1862, p. 3 col. 5