Lincoln’’s doings December 4, 1859

On the ensuing Sabbath, Mr. Lincoln confined himself to the house in company and association with a few particular friends.

Leavenworth correspondence of The New York Tribune, August 30, 1860.

 Sunday, December 4, was free for social contacts, and it is likely that most of the day he spent with a distant relative, Mark Delahay, who lived here, and who largely was responsible for Lincoln’s visit.

The Planters House Is a Monument to Exciting Past

He spent part of his time at the Delahay home on the corner of Third and Kiowa. Mrs. Delahay is thought to have been a distant relative on the Hanks side, although the story is denied by some investigators.

The Story of Leavenworth, Part 10

One day there were invited half a dozen gentlemen to dinner to meet him.  Among them were Judge Pettit, Marcus J. Parrott, S.N. Latta, Gen. J. H. Lane and others I do not recall.  In keeping with those early days, the maid of all work took care of the baby in the kitchen, while I assisted my mother in the dining-room.  I remember an incident during the meal while conversation waxed warm on the subject of politics.  My father rose to carve, as was his habit, and pausing, knife in hand, remarked,  “Gentlemen, I tell you Mr. Lincoln will be our next President.”  Mr. Lincoln replied, “Oh, Delahay, hush.”  My father retorted, “I feel it, and I mean it.”  After this prediction was verified, in Kansas it was spoken of as Delahay’s prophecy. 

JUDGE MARK W. DELAHAY. A reminisence by his daughter, Miss Mary E. Delahay, of Leavenworth.