When Abe Met Mary

Posted on February 13, 2014

Abe was an up-and-coming lawyer when he met Mary Todd.

Her parents objected to the relationship due to their age difference. Abe was 31, while Mary was just 21. The pair came from completely opposing upbringings. Abe grew up in a poor environment, while Mary’s family was financially well off. Abe and Mary endured a long engagement. At one point Abe broke off their impending nuptials, but their relationship eventually resumed. During a wedding ceremony which took place at her sister’s home on November 4, 1842, Abe and Mary became man and wife. Abe presented Mary with a golden band engraved with “Love Is Eternal.” The couple faced struggles, but always remained supportive of one another, and had four sons together. After Lincoln’s untimely death, Mary’s love continued until the day she passed away with the ring Abe presented to her still intact on her finger. Learn more about our nation's great 16th president by visiting these Lincoln attractions.