An Abraham Lincoln Descendant’s WWI Public Health Service Uniform

This uniform grouping is identified to George Washington Lincoln with the rank of captain during WWI, serving with the Public Health Service. The uniform consist of tunic, trousers, and hat. Also comes with a letter from a later descendant passing on provenance on this grouping.

The tunic is in fine condition having all the original buttons, insignia, etc. There are a few small moth holes, one stain on the front, that from the photos you can see they are hard to see. The lining is excellent.  The pants are equally as nice, with exception to one inside thigh area (see photo).  The cap follows suit as to condition with a few very tiny holes that can be repaired easily.  Subdued finish on all metal surfaces is fine+.

The only physical ID to the owner are initials on the leather sweatband, “G.W.L.” for George Washington Lincoln. When this uniform was purchased from the family in 1999, the grandson of this officer stated in the signed letter, that he ( the signer) was the 7th generation removed from the 15th President of the U.S., Abraham Lincoln. The letter reads, “To the best of my knowledge I am a 7th generation relative of Abraham Lincoln.  My grandfather was a U.S. Army Major born 2/22/1873 and lived in Lynwyd, Pa.  He worked as a doctor for the VA in Washington, D.C.  He was George Washington Lincoln.  Charles S. Lincoln was my grandfather’s father.” The letter is dated 7/15/99 and signed by George R. Lincoln, Jr.

Together with the letter I found a small envelope marked “Not Transferable” in the lower right pocket of the tunic which contained a carriage check of the period of use.

I don’t know how this family fits in the line of the president but it will be fun to do the research.

A desirable uniform for WWI with an association with “Old Abe.”