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Rocker
I think the company that produces these tries to give the impression that this was the type of rocker he used and preferred as President in the White House. Their advertising says portraits depict him using this type of chair. It's actually a pretty good knock off of the original, but a little pricey just to be able to point out to your friends you have one. Jre Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/11/06 - 10:40:56 ( # 1) |
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Thanks
Jerry, Thanks for catching my typo in the URL for the Lincoln rocker. Without that "t" in the name of the company, I could have had people thinking they were looking for Christmas trees! I did have a question raised about the style of rocker. Did Lincoln enjoy this type of chair in the White House? I don't believe they were specified as "Lincoln" rockers until after the assassination, but does anyone know if he relaxed in one at home? Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/06 - 08:16:18 ( # 2) |
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Lincoln Chair
http://www.newyorkfirst.com/gifts/5107.html Laurie; I hesitate to correct ANYTHING you write, but the web address for the chair is above. Appears the "t" was left out of "first". Jerry Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/11/05 - 12:39:26 ( # 3) |
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Lincoln rocker
Thanks for the tip Laurie, but I'll stick with my super-comfortable Lazy Boy rocker and spend that cash on a new HD tv!!! PWH ... EH - CT... 2009/11/04 - 17:43:13 ( # 4) |
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Lincoln Rocker
PWH, Have I got a deal for you! Go to http://www.newyorkfirs.com/gifts/5107.html. This company has reproduced the Lincoln Rocker and has it on sale right now. Originally priced at $795, it is now being offered for $595. Give yourself a Christmas present. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/04 - 16:26:34 ( # 5) |
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Lincoln Rocker
I also remember that a few years ago some company was selling reproductions of the chair Lincoln was sitting in at Ford's Theater. I forget what the price was, but I actually considered buying one.....for about a minute!! PWH ... East Haven - CT... 2009/11/04 - 06:02:50 ( # 6) |
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Ogarita
Mr. Colfax, We would very much appreciate anything concerning Booth's "other family" for our files at the Surratt House Museum. We have had the wonderful support of several members of this family over the years. In fact, one lady is the widow of a famous producer and has just recently sent many of her papers to our James O. Hall Research Center. Mr. Hall worked closely with them over the years. On a personal aside: While I do not subscribe to Martha's and Ogarita's claims about marriage to Booth and his escape, I am open to the suggestion that Ogarita was the product of an "indiscretion." Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/03 - 17:35:51 ( # 7) |
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Louis J. Weichmann
Christine, I have been reading about Louis Weichmann for over 40 years, and I still don't have a really good "handle" on him. What sort of character he was all depends on what book you read. That aside, Weichmann's book includes evidence against Mary Surratt that is not commonly known. For example, when Weichmann was taking her to Surrattsville on the day of the assassination, the two were traveling along the same road Booth would use later that night to escape from Washington. Weichmann and Mary were in the buggy when they saw some soldiers along the roadside. Mary stopped the buggy and asked an old farmer why the soldiers were there. She was told that they were pickets. Mary then asked if they remained on guard all night. The farmer said that they were usually called in at about 8 in the evening. Mary replied, "I am glad to know that." Weichmann and Mary then continued on. (Story from page 166 of Weichmann's book and included on p. 84 of Kate Larson's book). Assuming Weichmann was telling the truth about this story, it would appear to me that Mary may well have known Booth was going to act that night and that she wanted to make sure the road would be clear after 10:30 P.M. when Booth would be riding hard to her tavern at Surrattsville to pick up the carbines and field glasses stored there. This would explain her "I am glad to know that" statement when hearing the pickets would be long gone before Booth rode by. Some books imply Mary probably knew about the plot to kidnap the president but may not have known about the plan to assassinate him. The above story, if true, implies she may have known about the plot to assassinate. In his book, Weichmann says, "I, at first, thought that Mrs. Surratt's action in reference to the pickets had been prompted by mere curiosity, but I am satisfied now that there was a deeper significance behind it, and that her question to the old man was dictated by the desire to know if the road would be clear that night for Booth and Herold." Of course Weichmann's character has been questioned by many, and the reader simply has to decide for himself or herself if Weichmann created this story or (if he didn't create the story) whether Mary was just curious on why the soldiers were there and when they would be leaving. Roger Norton ... 2009/11/03 - 13:34:37 ( # 8) |
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Ogarita Booth Henderson
IN regards to posting a link to my story about Ogarita Booth Henderson a few days ago: I was very happy to see the comments especially from a historian like Laurie Verge. It has spurred me on to find some new items. To that end please bear with me as I add the link again, and point out that the new items are whispered below the story in the comments section, as will be any subsequent new information. http://www.terrastories.com/bearings/ogarita-booth-henderson-binghamton I did see the comments this brought out about the family identification of John Wilkes Booth, and so I point out that the link now supplies in the comments section a newly found article. Previously "Rita" had claimed that her Mother had "Id'd" Booth (in the shown 1885 NY TIMES article) but by 1890 she was claiming that she herself saw the body "numerous times." This change in the story occurs after her Mother's death. And personally to Laurie Verge, I see the addy of your Surratt Museum easily online, would you have any use for a photo print of Rita's grave, or a rubbing? I would be happy to send them. jt colfax ... binghamton - new york... 2009/11/03 - 11:40:05 ( # 9) |
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Lincoln Rocker
Tim, Assuming that you mean the rocking chair that Lincoln was sitting in when shot, I am going to say that that is the first time that I have seen that question asked in my thirty-five years of working at Surratt House. The Snellings and Roger Norton may have had it asked before, and I would love to hear the correct answer. That chair was brought from Harry Ford's bedroom to serve the Presidential party that night. In order to answer your question, we would have to know from whom the Fords bought the chair and then search that company's records to find the manufacturer. Has anyone done that? The Henry Ford Museum owns the original. I wonder if they have ever tracked down its history. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/03 - 11:03:07 ( # 10) |
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Harvey-Marr
The Harvey-Marr funeral establishment in Washington did take charge of Booth's body upon its release from the Penitentiary grounds. Ironically, the remains were taken to their building adjacent to Ford's Theatre in preparation for transport to Baltimore. The Weaver establishment took over from there, and it was in their Baltimore offices that the identification by family members, John T. Ford, and others took place before reburial in Green Mount Cemetery. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/03 - 10:52:00 ( # 11) |
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Lincoln chair
I'd like to know, who built the original chair? Tim MIchols ... Campbellsport - WI... 2009/11/03 - 10:16:15 ( # 12) |
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Mary Surratt
Christine,I am going to take a shot at your great question!Yes I feel she was guilty on the conspiracy side of the of your question.Yes, I feel that she should have been hanged!I also now feel after chasing down the "Bits and Pieces"about Aiken-R.Johnson and Clampitt's involvement in the trial.She knew more than she let on!I think she felt that she would not be hanged based on what she was told by her "crack attorneys".IT-seems like our man- Aiken was out to defend as many of Jefferson Davis's political prisoners as he could! Remember-Today, All of the inmates on "Death Row" always claim to be INNOCENT! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/11/03 - 08:17:47 ( # 13) |
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Booth's body
I thought Booth's body was brought to the Harvey-Marr funeral parlor in DC in 1869?? PWH ... EH - CT... 2009/11/03 - 05:53:38 ( # 14) |
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mary surratt
my responce got cut off kevin a kearns ... aylett - va ... 2009/11/02 - 23:01:27 ( # 15) |
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Ogarita
I forgot to comment that it was actually Booth's brother, Joseph Adrian Booth, who identified the "plugged" tooth of his brother as confirmed by the records of a Washington, DC dentist. This was done at Weaver's funeral establishment in Baltimore when the body was transferred to the family for interment in Greenmount Cemetery. There is no record that the so-called Mrs. John Wilkes Booth was present at that viewing and identification. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/02 - 16:19:45 ( # 16) |
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mary surratt
at least jail time-she knew something but said nothing-military court war not over yet anyway commander-in kevin a kearns ... aylett - va ... 2009/11/02 - 15:23:04 ( # 17) |
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Ogarita Booth Henderson
Mr. Colfax, Thank you for the interesting article on yet another mystery tied to John Wilkes Booth. Working at Surratt House Museum, I have had the pleasure of working with wonderful descendants of the Martha Mills/JWB supposed-liaison as well as several researchers, including the late James O. Hall. Michael Kauffman has been in the mix also. All are hunting for the truth. Two members of the Surratt Society undertook the project nearly thirty years ago and scoured every record they could find in the New England states. The title of their book, The Elusive Booths of Burrillville, basically says it all. Their papers were donated to the research center at the Surratt House Museum years ago. To my knowledge no one has found the paper trail that definitely substantiates the story as told in that great book by Izola Forrester, This One Mad Act. They have had a good time looking, however. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/02 - 14:49:16 ( # 18) |
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Mary Surratt - guilty or innocent?
As I've studied about Mary and the other conspirators the past few months, I've found opinions all over the spectrum as to her guilt or innocence and as to the legality of the military tribunal. Some feel she was guilty, but not deserving of hanging; others believe that she was guilty and got what she deserved. Some think that she was completely innocent and was only convicted due to her lawyers' inability to properly defend her. Still others say she would have been convicted no matter who her attorneys were or what they argued. So, where do most of the posters on this board come down on these questions? But let me ask in two different ways: According to the evidence presented at the trial in 1865: Mary Surratt, guilty of conspiring to assassinate Lincoln or not? Deserving of hanging or not? According to what we know now: Mary Surratt, guilty of conspiring to assassinate Lincoln or not? Deserving of hanging or not? Would she have been convicted and sentenced to death if the trial had been a civil trial and not a military tribunal? Do you agree with Aiken, Clampitt, Johnson, and others that the military trial itself was illegal and unconstitutional? Or do you believe that because the country was still in a state of war and the crime was a war crime it was the proper venue for justice? Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/11/02 - 14:28:26 ( # 19) |
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Andrew Johnson
You are correct. Too many Vans in my mind. William Richter ... Tucson - AZ... 2009/11/02 - 09:05:53 ( # 20) |
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Tennessee Johnson
The movie starred Van Heflin. Kent Tucker ... Rantoul - Illinois... 2009/11/01 - 21:37:23 ( # 21) |
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Andrew Johnson
A lot of what ifs in Alan Gephart's prior posting. This will be a superficial reply. Suffice to say Hamlin was a Radical spy in the cabinet and probably would have followed Congressional Reconstruction to the letter. The real problem was could Lincoln have run with Hamlin on the ticket and won. Probably not. Johnson was a known loyal man from the South and a perfect man to counter the Peace Democrats. He had been military governor, survived assassination attempts, Confederate invasion and like Lincoln embraced emancipation, although not for it initially. If you believe Lerone Bennett's analysis of Lincoln's racism, he was again a perfect match for Lincoln, although a bit more outspoken in his racism. Both thought blacks inferior to whites, according to this theory. The standard work on Johnson is Hans Trefousse, Andrew Johnson. The most critical view of Johnson is Eric McKitrick, Andrew Johnson and Reconstrucion. The view of him as hero is Claude Bowers, The Tragic Era, which Hollywood used to base its movie Tennessee Johnson on starring Van Johnson. William Richter ... Tucson - AZ... 2009/11/01 - 15:04:58 ( # 22) |
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John Wilkes Booth's daughter
Here is a link to a story showing old clippings from the 1800's depicting the career and death of Ogarita Booth Henderson who claimed to be the daughter of John Wilkes Booth. http://www.terrastories.com/bearings/ogarita-booth-henderson-binghamton jt colfax ... binghamton - new york... 2009/11/01 - 10:16:12 ( # 23) |
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Andrew Johnson
I confess that I don't know enough about Andrew Johnson, and what I do know leaves me with a less than positive opinion of the man. From what I know, he was clearly a racist in his attitudes and his policies were affected by those attitudes. However, I don't know that he was "a snake." Moreover, my understanding of President Lincoln's role in the nomination of Johnson was not the decisive factor in that nomination. It is interesting to contemplate how Hannibal Hamlin might have fared as president against the Radicals. If not Hamlin or Johnson, who might have been Lincoln's running mate in 1864, and how would he have "improved on" the historical record that Johnson left. Any takers on a "what if" scenario? Alan Gephardt ... Baltimore - Maryland ... 2009/10/31 - 19:47:15 ( # 24) |
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An Ogarita Halloween
OK, this story was in Cindy Adam's gossip column the other day, and I hesitated about posting it, but here goes: 'Halloween. Ghosts. Goblins. Specters of those gone before. So, anyone planning to cavort around gravestones in cemeteries this Saturday, let me tell you about one in upstate Binghamton (NY). John Wilkes Booth's daughter lies buried there. Ogarita Booth Henderson. Did burlesque in the 1880's. Her mother came fro actor/circus folk. Ogarita dead at 32 of pneumonia, claimed to be Booth's daughter as did her family. It's the 150th birthday of Ogarita's believe-it-or-don't story. In any case, those bones got buried there in 1892. A Dec. 5, 1885, NY Times story out of Boston talks of "the only living child of the murderer of President Lincoln." She's "Mrs. Henderson, an actress, playing in a burlesque troupe at Grenier's Garden under the name 'Rita Booth'" Mrs Henderson, 5 when her father died, said her mother, now the widow of a Navy officer named Bellows and living in Scotland, CT., near Norwich, "had gone to the undertaker's shop where Booth's body lay and examined it closely." To identify it for burial, she said her mother "examined the teeth and was convinced by a certain gold filling that it was her husband." The Chicago Tribune's 'Necrology Of 1892' lists Ogarita among the year's 'Distinguished Dead' ' So there it is. Granted it was in the NY Post, but I though you all might enjoy this little tabloid tale. PWH ... EH - CT... 2009/10/31 - 11:25:31 ( # 25) |
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Fort Jefferson Article
Hello All, Here is the article that Laurie was referring to in her earlier post. http://www.preservationnation.org/magazine/2009/november-december/fort-jefferson.html John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/10/30 - 19:38:45 ( # 26) |
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Aiken
For those of you who suffered through the weeks of postings on Frederick Aiken, I just want to commend Christine for some of the leads she has come up with. It seems that Aiken had post-CW ties to Andrew Johnson, Salmon Chase, Clement Vallandigham, Fernando Wood (pre-War). It would appear that Aiken kept in touch with Jeff Davis also, because Herb Swingle tracked down a note in the Alabama Archives where Aiken congratulates Davis on his release from prison. Our incapable lawyer may have had bigger fish to fry than the case of Mary Surratt. PS: Nice article on the preservation efforts at Fort Jefferson in the Nov/Dec issue of Preservation Magazine, published by the National Trust. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/30 - 16:49:32 ( # 27) |
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Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson may have been a drunk and snake.According to his biographer his life was full of grief.Mary Lincoln did not let he and his family occupy the White House until August.His wife became ill and Never came down stairs.His one son was run over by a wagon in front of the White House and his other son who had a drinking problem also and was sent away with the navy, committed suicide behind the White House!No excuses--just reasons! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/10/30 - 15:06:37 ( # 28) |
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Andrew Johnson
Johnson was a drunk Amazing bad judgement by Lincoln for ever putting Andy on the 1864 ticket It really screwed the USA up good Charlie ... NY - NY... 2009/10/30 - 06:08:11 ( # 29) |
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Booith & Johnson
Roger mentioned that Booth and Andrew Johnson knew each other from Tennessee. William Richter discusses this in his book, The Last Confederate Heroes. Speaking of Richter, I am currently reading his latest book, Sic Semper Tyrannis, which is a compilation of essays tracing the political principles of both Lincoln and Booth which led to the president's murder. Anyone interested in the subject should analyze the assassination with this perspective in mind (in my opinion). I am also trying to remember where I recently read the theory that Booth was an acquaintance of Johnson's secretary, and that the note on the calling card may have been intended for that friend instead of for Johnson. When you live with this subject day and night like I do, all sources tend to run together. I'm not complaining about the constant menu of Lincoln assassination, mind you. I am delighted that my avocation became my vocation. However, advancing years are depriving me of my good memory. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/29 - 20:07:42 ( # 30) |
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Andrew Johnson
Thanks for the info on A Johnson!After reading A Castel's" biography of Andrew Johnson"He states that people said, "If Andy Johnson were a snake he would lay in the grass and bite the children as they ran bye."No More Mr.Nice Guy"So Be IT! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/10/29 - 19:57:21 ( # 31) |
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Andrew Johnson
Herb, I checked my files and have a very small amount of information on the topic of Andrew Johnson and the death of Lincoln. A special Assassination Committee was established by the 40th Congress in 1867 to investigate any possibility that Johnson was involved in Lincoln's death. Nothing suspicious was ever found by the committee. Did Johnson and Booth know each other? In the 1997 publication "Right or Wrong, God Judge Me The Writings of John Wilkes Booth" edited by John Rhodehamel and Louise Taper it is stated on p. 146 that Booth had previously met Johnson in Nashville in February, 1864. At the time Booth was appearing in the newly opened Wood's Theatre. Also, author Hamilton Howard in "Civil War Echoes" (1907) made the claim that while Johnson was military governor of Tennessee, he and Booth kept a couple of sisters as mistresses and oftentimes were seen in each other's company. Roger Norton ... 2009/10/29 - 17:48:53 ( # 32) |
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Calling Card
Herb, First, I want to thank you for the recent e-mails you have sent on replies to your continuing search for Aiken material. Thanks to you, I think I have a new friend in the Alabama Archives. As far as Booth's calling card left at the front desk of the Kirkwood House, supposedly for VP Johnson, it may have been part of the many ruses that Booth concocted to implicate more people - sort of the power of suggestion - according to what I remember Mike Kauffman inferring. But yes, Mrs. L. got upset at that also - and who can blame the lady? I'd be suspecting anyone and everyone too, if my husband were killed directly beside me. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/29 - 16:29:47 ( # 33) |
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Mary Todd Lincoln's Thoughts
Laurie.After reading"Mary Todd Lincoln"byJ.Baker,Mary did feel that Andrew Johnson was involved with the Assassination.because of the discovery of Booth's calling card in his desk!What has been done to unfold that claim? Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/10/29 - 06:12:47 ( # 34) |
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this site
i wish to thank one and all for the disscussion and dialogue on this web site. its become one of my favorite to peruse. every question i have had has been answered or least a response of some kind offered.the people here seem very knowledgeable and offer good insights,anyway thanks one and all. kevin a kearns ... aylett - va... 2009/10/28 - 23:28:59 ( # 35) |
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Stanton Portrait
PWH, I almost included the comment about the portrait of Stanton, but I couldn't remember whether it was a portrait in his home or a photo in his office. I also think we would have heard loads from Mrs. Lincoln if she had the slightest idea that Stanton had a hand in her husband's murder. She berated John Parker, the negligent guard (if that was really his assignment on April 14), horribly upon crossing his path at the White House. That lady took no prisoners in her heyday! Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/28 - 19:44:46 ( # 36) |
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Robert Lincoln and Stanton
I dont remember where, but I once read that RTL had a portrait of Stanton in his house And laurie, I read all those books you mentioned when I was young, and I almost bought into the stanton conspiricy theory too. Nowadays I consider him the right man at the right time PWH ... EH - CT... 2009/10/28 - 17:24:13 ( # 37) |
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Books in an old bookstore
Laurie: Loved your response! I'll file the one book under my 'Curiosities' section of Lincoln books. Sounds like you'd have another place for it. LOL. I'm starting the Jones book now. It's quite interesting. As always, thanks! William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/10/28 - 14:32:47 ( # 38) |
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Mars
Dr. William Hanchett's closing sentences in "The Lincoln Murder Conspiracies" are as follows: "Lincoln would not have enjoyed the extravagant and pseudoreligious praise being offered in his name by so many Americans. Possibly he would have been reminded of some anecdote by which to deflate the absurdities of such exaggerations. But one suspects that if he could learn of the slush written about the suggested involvement of his secretary of war in his own death he would simply become angry." Roger Norton ... 2009/10/28 - 13:25:30 ( # 39) |
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More Thoughts
Kevin, I think you and I have similar thoughts on the Lincoln assassination. James O. Hall, co-author of Come Retribution, was my mentor. Even before the book was published, he used to tell me that, after the fall of Richmond, Booth became a loose cannon. Of course, he believed in the commands coming via Richmond; and with chaos in Richmond and the controllers fleeing, Booth fulfilled his own personal agenda. Could Plan B in Richmond have been assasination if the kidnap plot failed? It's a possibility, especially as a reaction to the Dahlgren Raid. I also wish that Come Retribution could be proven, but the authors state right up front that, because it is based on a covert operation, there is very little in the way of a paper trail - which is as it should be with any espionage movement. Also remember that Gen. Tidwell was Army Intelligence by training (and the handler of Gary Powers of U2 "fame"), David Gaddy is retired CIA, and Hall's background was in WWII Army investigations and later in the same capacity with the Department of Labor. They all had the skills necessary to study and comprehend covert information. The new book, Dixie Reckoning, is going to come at the conspiracy angle from a different perspective, so I will be interested in seeing what is offered (and proven). Since I was raised in a military family, the assassination always made more sense to me when viewed from a military/espionage operation standpoint. I've been waiting years for an author to agree with me! I also agree with you as far as Stanton first thinking that Lincoln was a bumpkin when he went up against him in court in the famous McCormick Reaper case. However, I think at least a wartime friendship formed between the two out of mutual respect for each others abilities. Personality-wise, both of them were a little strange (given the standards of their day), but they both did what had to be done to win the war. As to Stanton's take-charge actions at the time of the assassination, he was the logical one to lead the investigation. Andrew Johnson could not be depended on, and Seward was incapacitated. Stanton had a full staff of military people and investigators already at his beck and call and a slew of generals to call into action if the assassination was more than an individual act by a lone gunman. End of epistle. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/28 - 13:18:40 ( # 40) |
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Books in an old bookstore
John: Yes, that thought that Mr. Jones was trying to sell his book occurred to me. I wonder how successful the sales were? Like I mentioned, I haven't read the book yet. I also wonder if he truly was sorry for his part in aiding Booth and Herold on their escape. His statement that I quoted was not an apology really- as he seemed to blame his actions on the times of the era. I am reminded of Albert Speer's first book. He never really got around to "owning up" to his actions either (with Hitler). William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/10/28 - 09:54:27 ( # 41) |
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Opinions
First, let me respond to Mr. Nash. Yes, I am familiar with The Odd Couple and several other books written by Charles Bauer in the 1970s and 1980s. They are very good examples of why I dislike vanity presses - they allow anyone and everyone with a little cash on hand to get their ideas published. I had discussions with Mr. Bauer several times while I was still a volunteer at Surratt House and he would come peddling his latest publications. I always thought that he was the typical stereotype figure of the patent medicine huckster with the horse-drawn wagon filled with bottles of alcohol dressed up to look like cure-alls. Sorry to be rather blunt, but I guess from the above that you can figure out what I think of his books! As for the Thomas Jones book, you do have a reprint; but you have a very good book. As you know, Jones was the Confederate agent who set Booth and Herold off across the Potomac River to Virginia. Despite the fact that the book was written thirty years after the event, it is still a very good reference. Jones wrote the book in time for the Chicago Exposition. Unfortunately, while peddling it in that city, he came to realize that people in the Land of Lincoln were not thrilled about a book written by the man who helped Lincoln's assassin. Southern Maryland folklore has it that Jones came home, dug a hole, and buried the remainder of his books. It was later reprinted of course, for those of us who appreciate the history of the Lincoln assassination. As far as his change of heart towards Lincoln, I think he was like many who survived Reconstruction - sometimes the enemy you know is better than the enemy you don't know. Also, Jones (in my estimation) was a true gentleman who operated on the Southern Code of Honor. He helped a fellow Southern sympathizer because he was committed to the cause. Hope this helps. Now, my thoughts on the Eisenschiml Theory that Stanton was the mastermind behind the Lincoln conspiracy: I have been a student of the assassination since I was about ten. Unfortunately, I too fell for Why Was Lincoln Murdered when I first read it many long years ago. I was starting to question it when all of a sudden I read Theodore Roscoe's Web of Conspiracy. I loved Roscoe's work for his fine details (much like Mike Kauffman's American Brutus). Therefore, when I realized that he was leaning towards the Stanton theory too, I almost became convinced. Fortunately, I kept on reading and things just didn't add up. I did a little reading about Lincoln and his Cabinet (which was boring to me - sorry Doris Kearns Goodwin!) and other political and assassination works and came to get a new understanding of the Lincoln-Stanton dynamics. I also discussed it with James O. Hall when he became my mentor in the 1970s. In my opinion, there was a friendship and general trust between Lincoln and Stanton that is hard to understand because of their two intense personalities. One last thought, when Robert Lincoln was married, Stanton was invited to the wedding. If Robert had any inkling of bad blood between Stanton and his father, I don't think an invitation would have been forthcoming (just a female way of analyzing the situation, sorry). Laurie Verge ... Surrattsville - MD... 2009/10/28 - 09:16:21 ( # 42) |
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Thomas Jones
William, I suspect that statement is true UNLESS you are trying to sell your book to a wider audience. If I'm not mistaken, Laurie mentioned that Jone tried to sell his book at the World Fair held in Chicago. Not a great idea. John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/10/27 - 22:49:55 ( # 43) |
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booth, herold,paine and killing lincoln
at what point in time and from whom did booth recieve orders to kill lincoln?complete thier mission?it was a criminal act of homicide,and cowardly shooting a man from behind and in front of his wife.too bad tad wasnt there to witness it also.i almost wish the csa had put booth "ON HIS MISSION"it would make more sense than an actor who never served in uniform to fill so full of hatred he just had to kill especially with the war practiclly over and nothing to gain for the csa for doing the deed.come retribution is so full of holes its like it was written by allan pinkerton for george mac.stanton thought lincoln a bumpkin?im sure at first maybe but after spending a few years with the man im sure he changed his if he ever felt like that-stanton was a sucessfull lawyer like lincoln was, he wasnt stupid so he must have seen lincoln was actually very intelligent.the way stanton acted april 14th?murder seemed all around-talk about pressure how would others have acted?its been awhile since i read come retribution i intend to read it again so i can talk more about this book. kevin a kearns ... aylett - va... 2009/10/27 - 21:46:04 ( # 44) |
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Mr Stanton
Stanton grew to respect Lincoln deeply. He was never involved with the assassination, but he might have played a little hanky-panky with the legalities of the aftermath. Paul ... EH - Ct... 2009/10/27 - 20:33:45 ( # 45) |
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Books in an old bookstore
Picked up two books in an old bookstore of interest to us on this forum. The first one is entitled: "The Odd Couple Who Hanged Mary Surratt" by Charles J. Bauer. It says it is copy 576 out of 1000 printed. Looks interesting. Laurie, have you ever heard of it? Just glancing at the book I noticed that it wants to posit that Jim Lane and Preston King were pretty much responsible for the penalty of hanging for mary Surratt. I haven't read the book yet so I could be wrong about that. The second book is "J.Wilkes Booth" by Thomas A. Jones. It is printed 1893. Although it doesn't say so-I don't think it is an original-the book is in great shape and doesn't seem that old. Mr. Jones starts off this interesting statement: "No act ever committed has called forth such universal execration as the murder of that great and good man, Abraham Lincoln. Today I speak of the murdered President as 'great and good,' thirty years ago I regarded him only as the enenmy of my country. But now that the waves of passion stirred up by the storm of war have all subsided and passed away forever, and I can form my opinion in the light of reason instead of the blindness of prejudice, I believe Lincoln's name justly belongs among the first upon the deathless role of fame." So I guess 'once a rebel always a rebel' isn't always true? LOL William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/10/27 - 17:00:17 ( # 46) |
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Stanton
I know this doesn't mean much and only my opinion, but I'll always believe that Stanton was involved or at least assisted in covering up the assassination investigation. I think he disliked Lincoln and thought of him as a country pumpkin. He was guilty of something but his overbearing power kept the investigators far enough away they couldn't prove anything. John ... Cincinnati - oh... 2009/10/27 - 10:33:55 ( # 47) |
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Booth
I am looking forward to Dixie Reckoning; but I would remind readers that Booth, Paine, were successful in their mission. The question of thier finances and possible operational control are al subject to continued study. Come Retribution presents an interpretation of material from Confederate sources and presents a plausible explantion for facts already on the record. In April 65, Gen Tidwell continues with where Come Retribution stopped/missed/needed more information. Gaddy, Tidwell and Hall- stepped outside and questioned what we knew or thought we knew. I look forward to what Dixie Reckoning will present. Like all researchers (either history or biology, I've published in peer review in both areas) Mr. Stelnick is going to reviewed and questioned. From what I seen and discussed with him , he seems prepared and ready to accept the challenge. The problem as Laurie Verge pointed out is when conjecture is presented as fact John Howard ... West Paterson - nj... 2009/10/27 - 08:28:37 ( # 48) |
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Lincoln's face
I watched with interest the special on History HD Channel last night entitled "Death Masks". The beginning episode of this new series depicted what new technologies are now available to show what some famous people really looked like. The program dealt extensively with Lincoln, and it was awesome to see his face as it must have looked to his contemporaries. If you didn't see this show, I'm sure it will be repeated sometime soon. The series will cover other famous people in episodes to come. Jerry Eagon Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/10/27 - 07:45:00 ( # 49) |
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Money For Nothing
Judah Philip Benjamin and the New York City connection. Booth's own team of collaborators were not CSA operatives. Ask Laurie Verge about Dixie Reckoning. Rick Stelnick ... Jersey City - NJ... 2009/10/24 - 18:47:23 ( # 50) |
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come retribution,and judah
the book is full of holes and what ifs.what proof of benjamin behind it?the confed secret service?what big sucesses did they achieve? the montreal confeds?they sat in a hotel durring the war drinking and coming up with schemes that were extreme even for our present time.plus they gave booth money to kidnap lincoln-how did that turn up?the csa secret service was so good they employed the likes of booth, herold,powell,etc. kevin a kearns ... aylett - va... 2009/10/24 - 10:23:37 ( # 51) |
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Look Away Dixieland
Right on, Laurie. J-u-d-a-h B-e-n-j-a-m-i-n I believe is the name you all are looking for. Rick Stelnick ... Jersey City - New Jersey... 2009/10/22 - 10:13:26 ( # 52) |
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Stanton Theory
Kevin, Like you, I doubt that anyone is going to give you good documentable evidence linking Stanton to the assassination. Otto Eisenschml did a disservice to both the Union Secretary of War and to Stanton, the man himself, when he wrote way back when. For thirty-five years of dealing with visitors, students, researchers, authors, etc. at Surratt House Museum on the subject, I have always countered with the thought that perhaps they were looking in the wrong Cabinet. Turn around and face South. The authors of Come Retribution got slammed for daring to look for other alternative answers. There is a new book poised to come out in the spring that will likely set the old pot a boiling again! Google "Dixie Reckoning." Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/20 - 16:46:17 ( # 53) |
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Stanton-Conspiracy
Stanton has been the subject of a conspiracy forever.But as we found out with Frederick Aiken .NO exact evidence to prove any involvement!I guess that we will all have to take a seat on [the grassy etc]and wait it out.Remember--Forever is a LONG time! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/10/20 - 08:07:19 ( # 54) |
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Stanton
Mr.Kearns: In answer to your question about Stanton I would like to refer you to the excellent book 'Lincoln And Booth' by H. Donald Winkler. I think (if I remember correctly)that Winkler doesn't believe Stanton was involved in the conspiracy,but he put together a fascinating set of questions concerning him. I can see why some might say he was involved after reading the book. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/10/18 - 17:19:46 ( # 55) |
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STANTON
WHY WOULD STANTON WANT LINCOLN DEAD?I WILL NEVER BELIEVE STANTON WAS A CONSPIRATOR-REALLY, SOMEONE TELL ME WHY PEOPLE THINK THIS IS TRUE- PLEASE AND MAKE IT CONVINCING NO HE SAID SHE SAID- HOW BOUT REAL PROOF. KEVIN A KEARNS ... AYLETT - VA... 2009/10/18 - 02:36:57 ( # 56) |
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The Conspirator
Hi Folks, It looks like more people have joined on the "Conspirator" movie. Take a look: http://screenrant.com/robert-redford-the-conspirator-cast-justin-long-tom-wilkinson-toby-kebbell-evan-rachel-wood-kevin-kline-alexis-bledel-ross-30758/ John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/10/16 - 16:02:03 ( # 57) |
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Reverdy
Regarding Kevin's inquiry about Reverdy Johnson representing John Merryman, I believe that Merryman was represented by a George Williams, and Roger B. Taney issued his verdict sitting as a circuit court judge, not as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Lincoln was not happy with Merryman's release and asked his then-Attorney General, Edward Bates, to consult with Reverdy Johnson regarding the use of a writ of habeas corpus. Lincoln wanted to know if presidents had the right to arrest and detain apparent beligerents during a time of domestic upheaval and if a president could refuse to obey such a writ. Those same questions are coming into play today still with the Guantanamo Bay situation. However, Reverdy Johnson and Roger B. Taney had been law partners in the early years, and Johnson represented the owner of Dred Scott in that famous case and won with his old partner Taney making the final decision that would pretty much ruin his reputation for the rest of time. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/16 - 12:23:26 ( # 58) |
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john brown
1ts oct 16th,150 years ago john brown visits harpers ferry-does anyone know how lincoln felt about him.and on reverdy johnson wasnt he the lawyer representing john merryman in 61"ex parte merryman" case? kevin a kearns ... aylett - va... 2009/10/16 - 01:10:44 ( # 59) |
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Reverdy Johnson
For years, I thought that Aiken and Clampitt worked for Reverdy Johnson in his law firm. However, when I did some digging in James O. Hall's files while reading the movie script, I became aware that Aiken and Clampitt were their own business all together. At one point, Johnson had a law office here in our county seat, about ten miles from Surrattsville. It appears that he had had some legal contact with the Surratts in the past, but I can't prove it. Anyhow, he was quite a distinguished statesman (and deserves a good article or book all on his own). He was approached by Aiken and/or Clampitt to assist in the defense of Mrs. Surratt - specifically as related to the jurisdiction of a military court trying a civilian. However, Johnson was immediately challenged by Gen. Harris of the tribunal because he had questioned the legality of a verbal oath of allegiance that had been required in order to vote in Maryland in the 1864 state election dealing with a new constitution that would outlaw slavery in Maryland. Johnson attempted to explain himself and in so doing stated something to the effect that he would act in the Surratt case according to what the facts showed him - that he would not protect anyone where the facts showed that they may have participated in the heinous crime of assassinating Lincoln. He sat in the courtroom for a few days and then left. He prepared a speech concerning the jurisdiction of the court and left it to Aiken to deliver. His actions appeared to indicate that he had abandoned Mrs. Surratt. Did that mean that he thought she was guilty? Probably not; he probably thought his presence was hurting her case. He did advise Clampitt later as to getting a writ of habeas corpus to delay her execution, which we know was granted by Judge Wylie, but overturned by presidential order from Andrew Johnson. Reverdy Johnson is a very interesting subject in his own right. He was a pivotal figure in many of the events of the time -- Dred Scott Decision, McCormick reaper patent, admired by Lincoln and sent to New Orleans to "subdue" Beast Butler, and ambassador to Great Britain, a decisive role in the Johnson impeachment trial. He had his heart in the South, but was against slavery and secession. A fascinating figure who has slipped from the pages of history books. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/14 - 15:37:25 ( # 60) |
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Aiken
Laurie, thanks for all your help with learning a bit more about Frederick. I think we've helped to at least add some dimension to someone who seems like a very interesting person. I'd like to mention one more thing, (lol!) if you don't mind. . . While I was trying to find the connection between Frederick and Govenor Isaac Stevens I found a corrospondance record of F A AIKEN housed at University of Washington in the Stevens papers. It might show how Frederick came to write that letter to Seward, or at least show how they were acquainted before the war. . . (I'm guessing through Frederick's work with the Democratic party) If someone is able to access that it might prove interesting. Now, on to another question: in some of my reading I seem to have a bit of uncertainty about something. I have read that Frederick was working for Reverdy Johnson, who came to the trial and said that he would defend his client as long as he believed in her innocence, but then he pulled out, leaving Aiken and Clampitt holding the bag, and causing many to believe in Mary's guilt by his distancing himself from the rest of the trial. Is that historically accurate or did I misunderstand? Or, did Aiken and Clampitt start the defense on their own, realize they were in over their heads, appeal to Johnson to help, but then he decided he was unable to help. In other words, my question is: Was Johnson unable to help with Mary's defense, or unwilling. Two very different things. . . Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/14 - 09:12:39 ( # 61) |
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Arsenal Penitentiary
Hello All, I just wanted to update everyone on the progress of the Arsenal Penitentiary Courtroom renovation. Yesterday, I had a truly great experience. I was able to have unfettered access to the 3rd floor where the trial was held. The entire building has been vacated and was left open for various contractors and project managers to view. Work will begin within the next few weeks to restore or "reclaim" the 3rd floor and present it as looked in 1865. I had a chance to speak to the contractors and even offered some help as to which room Mary was kept in for part of the trial. Apparently, President Obama gave the green light to additional funding for the project. No matter what your political stance is, its nice to know that the President has an appreciation for this particular part of our history. I estimate that the project will be completed in the next 8 months. I believe the entire 3rd floor will remain unused or almost in "museum" mode while the rest of the building will house the Center for Africa studies. My hope is that the general public will finally get to see the 3rd floor. It's certainly doable. This will add one more stop on the Booth escape tour. Many people don't know that JWB's body was buried in a storage room of the Penitentiary. John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/10/14 - 08:32:40 ( # 62) |
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Aiken The Phantom
Great job Laurie and Christine on the research of Aiken!The most frustrating thing about this,Just when you think you have found something,you can't prove it!This will be put into my "Cold Case files" along with Joseph Snevel! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/10/13 - 19:02:58 ( # 63) |
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Thank You
Thank you Joe for your kind words. Little did I know that reading a movie script nearly a year ago would have me delving into the life of Frederick Aiken. Like nearly everyone else, I had written him off as an untried lawyer way in over his head. I suspect that that is still the case. I am hoping that the movie does justice to the correct history. In their favor, I will say that the researcher for the playwright is in weekly contact with good questions on a variety of historical issues related to the general time period. Someone is striving for accuracy. We'll see if that filters upwards to the director. PS: The researcher reads this Mailbag. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/13 - 16:56:59 ( # 64) |
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Aiken
Laurie, You have done a great job in filling in the Aiken gaps, and have made the right decision to stop the search. This is just another instance of running into a cul-de-sac while researching the life of a lesser player on the stage of history. I believe these players deserve their due but, after a time with no new leads or verifiable data, the time comes to move on to other, more fruitful areas. I say all of the above to disabuse, in advance, any out there who might think you a "quitter". You have been one of the major contributors to the blogging that occurs on AOL, and have contributed much to our knowledge of the Lincoln assassination, the conspirators, the search for the perpetrators, and the trial. Again, you have made the right decision to hang up on the Aiken matter. Thanks to you and to all of the others for the information you were able to provide about Aiken. I still wonder why Aiken will be a major figure in a motion picture not likely to draw viewers--unless the trailers for said film go for the sensational or salacious. I hope, for the persons who are putting their heart and soul into this film, that I am wrong. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ`... 2009/10/13 - 15:51:47 ( # 65) |
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