Pa. museum may allow DNA test of Lincoln's blood

[May 05, 2009]  PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- The head of a Philadelphia museum says its sample of Abraham Lincoln's blood may get DNA testing, but some questions must be answered first.

The 16th president's blood is on a strip of a pillowcase in the collection of the Grand Army of the Republic Museum and Library.

Cardiologist John Sotos believes Lincoln had a rare genetic disorder and wants the DNA test to prove his hypothesis. The museum's board met Monday night and rejected Sotos' request to test the pillowcase.

Board President Eric Schmincke says more questions need to be answered about how the artifact will be treated. He says it's possible that testing will be overseen by the National Museum of Health and Medicine.

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On the Net:

Grand Army of the Republic Civil War Museum and Library: http://garmuslib.org/

"The Physical Lincoln" by John Sotos: http://www.physical-lincoln.com/diagnosis.html

[Associated Press]

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