First published in 1942, "They Knew Lincoln" by John E. Washington sold out quickly and was never reprinted, until now. This book was the first to focus solely on this little researched area of Lincolniana, the personal relationships of African-American people with one of our most beloved presidents. Washington provides part memoir, part biography of the lives of those who served the Lincolns’ and of some of the African Americans who shaped Lincoln’s view on slavery. In the new introduction, Kate Masur details John E. Washington’s own life, discussing why the book was important to him and the historical significance of people’s lived experiences when discussing history. This reprint makes this wealth of research into Lincoln’s life more readily available for 21st-century audiences. Kate Masur will discuss the book with journalist and founder of The Race Card Project, Michele Norris. The talk will be followed by a book-signing. Books will be available for purchase.