ABRAHAM LINCOLN (1809- 1865): The 16th President of the United States. Authentic Abraham Lincoln memorabilia is hard to come by and is sure to increase in value as time goes on. The item up for bid is an elaborately Custom Framed "short lock" of Lincoln's hair, comprising of a few strands (frame alone is several hundred dollars). The strands of Lincoln hair offered in this auction have been displayed over a scan of the original lock, making it a substantial display. This magnificent item is guaranteed 100% authentic and is accompanied by a letter of authenticity and other documentation. It was a common practice in the 18th and 19th centuries for people to collect locks of hair from celebrities, politicians and world leaders. This lock of Lincoln's hair was presented to Edward Duffield Neil who was one of President Lincoln's secretaries during his term as President. Edward D. Neil joined the small Presidential staff in 1864. He is quoted as saying "Lincoln could recognize a revolutionary station when he saw one, and he could act fast and ruthlessly to meet it." Mr. Neil was the founder of Macalester College in Minnesota. The Lock of hair was obtained from this college.