The funeral of
Master William W. Lincoln occurred yesterday at the White House, at two o’clock,
p.m. His friends and acquaintances were previously allowed the sad pleasure of
a last look, in the Green Room, where lay his remains, clothed in accustomed
pants and Jacket, with white collar and wristbands turned over the dark cloth
of the Jacket. On his breast rested a wreath of flowers; another lay near his
feet, while a beautiful bouquet was held in his hand—the flowers composing
wreaths and boquet [sic] being the
queenly camellias, with azalias [sic]
and sprigs of mignonette, and ivy leaves and other evergreens interspersed in
the wreaths. White azalias and sprigs of mignonette were disposed about the
body. The beautiful boquet in his hand was reserved for his sorrowing mother.
A plain metallic
case, of imitation rosewood, was inscribed, William Wallace Lincoln. Born
December 21st, 1850. Died February 20th, 1862.”
The frames of the
mirrors, and the East and Green Rooms, were covered with black crape, and the
glass with white crape. The funeral service was conducted by the pastor of the
President, Dr. Gurley, in a very impressive manner. There were present, members
of the Cabinet, foreign ministers, members of Congress, army and navy officers,
and many citizens and ladies. After the service, the body was placed in a vault
in the Oak Hill Cemetery, Georgetown.
SOURCE: “Funeral of
Willie Lincoln,” National Republican,
Washington, D. C., Tuesday, February 25, 1862, p. 2, col. 1
