Lincoln Serves as New Salem's Postmaster

Lincoln's tenure as New Salem's postmaster marked an important phase in his early career. During this period, he also took on the role of county surveyor, which allowed him to engage with the community and develop a network of contacts. Despite the economic boom in the region, local businesses, including the one he was involved with, faced financial difficulties, leading Lincoln to sell his share. This experience highlighted the challenges of entrepreneurship and the impact of economic fluctuations on small businesses. Throughout his time in these roles, Lincoln maintained a strong commitment to self-education. He was known for his voracious reading habits, which played a crucial role in shaping his future career. Rather than seeking formal legal training under an established attorney, Lincoln opted for a self-directed approach to learning the law. He borrowed legal texts from John Todd Stuart, an attorney in the area, and dedicated himself to studying these materials independently. This decision not only reflects Lincoln's determination but also his belief in the importance of self-education and personal initiative in achieving one's goals. His experiences in New Salem laid the groundwork for his future legal career and political aspirations, demonstrating how early roles can influence one's path in life.