Judge — February 16, 1918 — page 3: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Abraham Lincoln's Hat This page from *Judge* magazine features an article by Perriton Maxwell about Abraham Lincoln's tall stovepipe hat, presented as a historical relic worthy of reverence. The text celebrates Lincoln as an American icon whose "wisdom has withstood the acid test of time" and whose legacy grows stronger with decades. The article frames the hat symbolically—as representing Lincoln's character: "simplicity," "homely severity," and "lack of affectation." The author contrasts it favorably with grandiose symbols like Caesar's crown or Napoleon's laurels, suggesting American democracy values humble authenticity over ornate power. The piece appears written during a period of national crisis (possibly WWI era, given references to "chaos"), using Lincoln's enduring memory to inspire contemporary Americans facing turbulent times.