There are two types of DNA that must be considered in the context of the investigation: nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. Nuclear DNA contains coded genetic sequences that determine hereditary characteristics. Mitochondrial DNA lacks this information, and can only be used for identification purposes. A proposal to extract Lincoln's mitochondrial DNA does not raise the compelling privacy issues associated with other kinds of DNA analysis. Nonetheless, a panel of ethical experts must approve any plans to isolate Lincoln's DNA.
Is there a compelling reason to identify Lincoln's blood?
Invasive research should be limited to legitimate historical or scientific questions. What could researchers learn from an investigation of the cloak? This last question is the first the Chicago Historical Society can answer. Museums have an ethical responsibility to establish the authenticity of their collection. More importantly, the investigation of the cloak will foster a unique collaboration between historians and scientists.
The investigation of Mary Todd Lincoln's cloak has generated an international response. The mystery of the cloak engages public interest in important issues of authentication, preservation, access, and scientific methodology.
Public participation in the investigation is an unusual aspect of this research. With the help of its collaborative partners, the Chicago Historical Society will reconstruct the evidence from the scene of the crime, revealing Civil War America and the intricacies of DNA analysis in the process.
