Page "Abraham Lincoln" Paragraph 8

Lincoln's first romantic interest was Ann Rutledge, whom he met when he first moved to New Salem ; by 1835, they were in a relationship but not formally engaged.

She died on August 25, most likely of typhoid fever.

In the early 1830s, he met Mary Owens from Kentucky when she was visiting her sister.

Late in 1836, Lincoln agreed to a match with Mary if she returned to New Salem.

Mary did return in November 1836, and Lincoln courted her for a time ; however, they both had second thoughts about their relationship.

On August 16, 1837, Lincoln wrote Mary a letter suggesting he would not blame her if she ended the relationship.

She never replied and the courtship was over.