The Ghost of Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln’s ghost is the most famous and frequently reported spirit in the White House. Since his assassination in 1865, numerous witnesses including presidents, first ladies, and foreign dignitaries have reported encountering the 16th President’s spirit.

Early Sightings

Grace Coolidge, wife of President Calvin Coolidge, was among the first to publicly report seeing Lincoln’s ghost. She saw him standing at a window in the Oval Office, looking out toward the Potomac, apparently deep in thought.

Queen Wilhelmina

Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands, staying in the Lincoln Bedroom during World War II, reported hearing a knock at her door. Opening it, she saw Lincoln’s ghost standing before her in his top hat. She fainted and awoke on the floor.

Winston Churchill

Winston Churchill reportedly encountered Lincoln’s ghost while staying in the Lincoln Bedroom. He emerged from a bath to find Lincoln standing by the fireplace. Churchill addressed the ghost, who smiled and vanished.

The Lincoln Bedroom

Most sightings occur in and around the Lincoln Bedroom, though Lincoln never actually slept there. It was his office, where he signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Staff have reported sensing his presence and seeing his tall figure in the doorway.

Assessment

Lincoln’s ghost sightings span over 150 years and include some of the most credible witnesses imaginable. Whether residual energy, wish fulfillment, or genuine spirit, he remains the White House’s most illustrious ghost.