Lincoln Impersonator Fined On Presidents Day

WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) - Just like Abe Lincoln, Phill Howell is 6'4'' and has a thick beard. For years his friends have told him he looked so much like Abe he should play the part. So on Presidents Day, 2011, the 26-year-old decided to follow through on his friends advice. He never though he'd wind up on the other side of the law.

"I think the officers were doing their jobs, and I think that we broke the law," said Howell.

There was nothing wrong with his outfit: a bow-tie, black suit and top hat. Nor his thick, dark beard. But when he started reciting the Gettysburg Address at the top of the steps at the Lincoln Memorial, officers moved in.

"He just said we weren't allowed to give speeches without any kind of permit. It didn't matter what we said or agenda we were pushing. I said, 'It's Presidents Day. it's the Gettysburg Address!' He said, it doesn't matter," Howell said.

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