Wilson, Douglas L., ed.; Davis, Rodney O., ed.; Kyle, John G. 'John G. Kyle to William H. Herndon' in 'Herndon's Informants: Letters, Interviews, and Statements About Abraham Lincoln' . Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1998. [format: book], [genre: letter]. Permission: University of Illinois Press
Persistent link to this document: http://lincoln.lib.niu.edu/file.php?file=herndon367a.html

Harrodsburg Ky., Oct — 8th 1866 —

Dear Sir:

Yours of inquiry in reference to the ancestors of President Lincoln was handed to me about a month ago by our post-master through whom it was Sent, and I have not replied Sooner because I have been endeavoring to get some information that might be of benefit to you — . I have not been able to learn any thing of the grand father of the late president, but I learn that President Lincoln's father lived at one time in what is now Boyle County Ky. which was formerly a part of our County, Mercer — I learn that Judge J. P. Mitchell of Danville Boyle Co. Ky — Knows more about President Lincoln ancestors than than any one in this section of the country — I have not been able to see him since the reception of yours, but I have this from those who have Conversed with him. I suggest that you write to him in reference to it, and say to him that I advised you to write to him and he will take pleasure in giving any information he may have — I learn that he frequently saw Pres. Lincoln while a boy. I think after the time that Pres. Lincoln's father lived in what is now Boyle Co. he lived in Hardin Co — K. the County Seat of which is Elizabethtown — I have frequently Seen this statement in the papers, and that the log house in which he lived still stands; though I believe I have seen some statement that it had been removed and was on exhibition somewhere — I will make further enquiry about the matter, and will write you any information I may gain —

Very truly,
John G. Kyle

Illinois State Historical Library: Weik Papers, box 1; Huntington Library: LN2408, 1:75 — 76