Click Here to Add to The Lincoln Mailbag

Megan, Mike, Bill, and Mr. Wally Megan, I have many pages within my website intended for students and schools, and if you have a page in your site devoted solely to “Ride With The Assassin” I will be happy to add a link to it from within my site. Mike, your book, "100 Essential Lincoln Books" continues to be an invaluable resource. Have you ever considered a second edition? Bill, I have a book titled "Abraham Lincoln in Print and Photograph: A Picture History from the Lilly Library." On p. 91 there is an old State Box lithograph entitled "The Martyr of Liberty." The lithograph has BOTH Mary Lincoln and Clara Harris sitting on the wrong side of Abraham Lincoln. Can you believe that! Finally, I received several e-mails from folks wanting to read the entirety of the interview with Mr. Wally. When I made that posting I specifically did not include the URL as it was not my purpose to publicly poke fun at the website for posting an interview filled with such extreme misinformation. Privately it's a different matter, though, and I will be glad to share the URL if anyone wants to contact me. Best wishes to the Snellers and all ALO posters for a wonderful Thanksgiving. Roger Norton ... 2009/11/20 - 11:24:14 ( # 1)

re: Megan's Novel Ride With the Assassin Dear Mr. Sloan, I am glad you noticed my note about my novel Ride With the Assassin about the assassination and escape of John Wilkes Booth. Ride With the Assassin By Megan Hardgrave A novel about the Lincoln Assassination &12 day escape of John Wilkes Booth ! It is a historical fiction novel written especially for kids! It is about a teenager caught up with John Wilkes Booth, Lincoln’s assassin, so that they would find Lincoln’s story come alive! The plot revolves around Mark Harris, a 15-year old boy who happens to be behind Ford's Theater the night Lincoln is assassinated and is innocently drawn into the escape of John Wilkes Booth. For 12 exciting days he travels with Booth along his escape route. The historical character on which I base my premise is a chore boy, "Peanuts" John Burroughs who held the reins of Booth’s horse while he went inside Ford’s. I have added a several twists to the plot; one is my character Mark struggles with his visions (Extra Sensory Perception) that allow him to ‘see’ Lincoln’s assassination, Lincoln’s deathbed, and the convicted conspirators swinging from the gallows. Included with novel: Timeline, Escape Route Map, Crossword Puzzle Size 8½” x 11” bound 124 page book I have not yet sucessfully found a publisher/literary agent. However my company , Collectible Profiles,Inc. is now offering it for sale. If you are interested in a wholesale order further please contact me. Megan Hardgrave ... Carrollton - Texas... 2009/11/19 - 20:16:02 ( # 2)

Sloan and the Assassination Play Mr. Sloan, I believe the Delaware Valley Civil War Roundtable would be very interested in your play. I am on the board. Please contact me at Mburkh@verizon.net Michael Burkhimer ... Audubon - PA... 2009/11/19 - 10:23:59 ( # 3)

Dirge How nice to listen to "Dirge" as offered on YouTube by Mr. Trimborn. A wonderful diversion from assassination, assassination, assassination! Alan Gephardt ... Baltimore - Maryland ... 2009/11/19 - 10:10:56 ( # 4)

Lincoln Watch Take a look at the real watch below. http://www.thehistoryblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/lincolnsgoldwatch.jpg John E. Elliott ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/11/19 - 10:10:51 ( # 5)

Museum errors Joe: Wow, that's amazing. I think we can forgive museums for having displays of errors-after all we are all only human. The problem is when the museum doesn't correct the errors-and apparently-doesn't seem to care. I did contact the Hodgenville Museum by email after my visit there-never got a reply. Has anyone been there since 2007 to notice if they corrected the seating of the Lincolns? William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/11/19 - 09:51:19 ( # 6)

Lincoln Watch Replica The Stauer Watch Company has now a limited edtion replica of Abraham Lincoln's Pocket Watch, priced at $149.00. They also have a wrist watch version at $199.00. Check their website at www.stauer.com. Tom Lapsley ... Fairview - OR... 2009/11/18 - 23:42:16 ( # 7)

Lincoln Watch Replica Stauer has available a replica of Lincoln's pocket watch, priced at $149.00. Also a wristwatch version at $199.00. For more information, check their website at www.stauer.com. Tom Lapsley ... Fairview - OR... 2009/11/17 - 23:34:50 ( # 8)

museum errors William Nash, For as long as I could remember, the (then) Chicago Historical Society diplayed the Lincoln death bed in a mirror image of the room at the Petersen House. At the tender age of 11 I wrote to Paul Angle to point this out and never received a reply. Not content at all with being ignored I also contacted his successor, Mr. Silvestri--again being ignored. I pointed out this error to docents, guards, and others--to no avail. File this with the "Lincoln seated to the right of Mary" in the Hodgenville diorama. It is a shame that prime Lincoln sites can't take suggestions so visitrs can "learn." Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/11/18 - 18:59:23 ( # 9)

Roger's Post Roger, I haven't had a laugh like that in a long time. Thank you for posting that! Upon further reflection, it is sad to think that some people would accept such a report as factual. No wonder there's so much misinformation out there. Sometimes the misinformation can come from some really credible sources. I think I might have mentioned before visiting the Lincoln museum in Hodgenville a couple years ago. The museum has a series of displays depicting scenes from the life of Lincoln. The Ford's Theater scene has Lincoln sitting on the wrong side of Mary Lincoln. I pointed this out to the museum staff and she said she would bring my concern to the attention of the curator. I don't know if it was ever changed. I visited there in 2007. Small detail? Perhaps. But shouldn't a museum have done better than that? William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/11/18 - 14:58:57 ( # 10)

OMG Thanks for posting this Roger - it shows the tremendous amount of disinformation I have had to deal with at Surratt House over the years. These reminiscences are death and destruction on good historical research, as any of us "Lincoln assassination nuts" can attest. Laurie Verge ... Surrattsville - MD... 2009/11/18 - 11:53:03 ( # 11)

Mr. Wally Thanks for your post, Roger. I needed a good laugh. I'm just wondering why the conspirators were shot and not fed to the man-eating Alligators that resided in the moat surrounding the Arsenal. John E. Elliott ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/11/18 - 10:52:43 ( # 12)

Mary Surratt holding Booth's horse Roger, What a hoot! Thanks for putting a big smile on my face. It is incredible how much stuff is out there that is manufactured with or without the aid of strong pharmaceuticals! About two decades ago, one of the grocery check-out lane tabloids posted a front-page photo purporting to be Lincoln's corpse come back to life, using an old photo of an Egyptian mummy. I wish I still had my copy so I could share it with you. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/11/18 - 10:37:01 ( # 13)

Mary Surratt Held Booth's Horse At Ford's Theatre? Back in October Bill Nash posted that the Topps Heritage Card Series "Political Heroes" Card #18 said Abraham Lincoln died on April 14, 1865. Like Bill, I have come across some interesting information. This information comes from a county genealogy and history website which is for the use of researchers. The site contains an interview with a John Wally who claims he was one of the guards at the Old Washington Arsenal. Near the beginning of the article the reader is assured, "Mr. Wally, despite his 77 years, is in full possession of all his faculties, and is as active and full of business as many men 20 years younger." The whole article includes photos of John Wilkes Booth and his wife ("published for the first time"). I'll post a portion of the interview with Mr. Wally: ------------------------------------ DISPOSAL OF BOOTH'S BODY One of the blood points in the history of those days has been as to what became of the body of John Wilkes Booth, the hate-brained fanatical actor, whose murderous bullet ended Lincoln's benevolent life. Booth was shot to death in a barn about 10 miles from Washington where he had hidden after escaping from the theatre, and where he was followed and surrounded. He had taken a boy into the barn with him, but the boy came out and surrendered and was taken to Washington. The body of Booth was brought back to the city and was placed by the cellar of the Capital prison, mentioned above, pending an autopsy. The autopsy was delayed until the condition of the body took such a proceeding out of the question, and then a man was hired for $10 to take it out and sink it in the Potomac river. Mrs. Surratt, who had held the horse outside the theatre for Booth while he was shooting Lincoln, who helped him mount and escape, and at whose house the conspiracy was hatched, was arrested and placed in the Capital prison, with the boy above mentioned, and the conspirators who made the futile attempt to slay Secretary Seward at the same time Lincoln was shot. These three persons, Mr. Wally, with a detail of 30 men, was responsible for on every alternate day from the time of their arrest until they were led out to be shot. The detail was divided into squads which served four hours at stretch, and then took two hours off, until they had been on duty 24 hours, when they were given 24 hours off, and another detail took charge. These two details were on guard inside the prison, while outside, the building was surrounded by a double row of soldiers and the roof also had its quota of guards. A general officer was in charge of the prison. The other prisoners were in the third or top row of the triple tier of cells, and being under constant surveillance, and the soldiers having orders to keep silence, they must have had rather a trying time of it. The Frenchman, as Mr. Wally described the Seward assassin, was hampered with ball and chain on both wrists and ankles and Mr. Wally had to cut up his food for him when he ate. One day General Grant came to the prison and asked for admission, but the orders being strict, Mr. Wally refused him, and was later commended. Mr. Wally was in and out of the court room during the trial of the conspirators, being responsible for their safe arrival there and their safe return to their cells. On one occasion Mrs. Surratt tried to jump over the railing near her cell, while on the way to the court room, but was prevented by the guard. The height was considerable, and might have resulted in her death, which was doubtless what she thought. When the Frenchman was taken to court, two extra guards were required to carry the two heavy iron balls to which he was chained. The court room was in the prison building. When the Judge sentenced Mrs. Surratt, Mr. Wally was in the room, and he remembers that the woman asked, "What for?" when the Judge told her she must die. It was shown at the trial that she had harbored Booth for several months while the conspirators were hatching their plot. After receiving her sentence Mrs. Surratt was taken back to her cell. The chaplain visited her there, and Mr. Wally went into the cell with him. Mrs. Surratt lay on the cot with a black cloak over her, and apparently paid no attention to the words of the minister. Mr. Wally was not permitted to see the execution of the conspirators. Source: "The Binghamton Press," Binghamton, NY on Saturday, April 10, 1909, Third Section, 5. ---------------------------------- I am sure Laurie knows all of this but does Robert Redford? Is Robin Wright good with horses? Roger Norton ... 2009/11/18 - 08:28:05 ( # 14)

Civil War Jewelry Recently I was out looking for Civil War Photographs and I saw a Picture of a Civil War Woman wearing a pin.It was a sword with a Heart hanging from it.Any Ideas? Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/11/17 - 13:39:04 ( # 15)

Louis Weichmann Roger Norton wrote here that he is very interested in Louis Weichmann. I did a lot of research on him and came up with his 1901 correspondence with Osborn Oldroyd. I took their words, plus many of their published writings, and wove them into a play in which they meet in the House Where Lincoln Died. (They actually did meet there!) I have Oldroyd give Weichmann a tour of his museum and show him some of his photos and correspondence. They sit in two of the rooms and discuss the assassination story -- especially Mrs. Surratt's case. My Weichmann gets a little defensive and I try to show what I believe was his persona. Fellow Surratt Society member John Howard and I presented the play at the last Surratt Society Conference. (We have to read our parts, but we actually have stage movements, props, replicas of artifacts, and a few Lincoln pictures as scenery. And -- we act. (At least we try to!) We got pretty good reviews -- unless folks were lying so our feelings wouoldn't be hurt! (Dr. Edward Steers told people that he loved it.) If anyone is interested in seeing it, and is willing to pay us a fair honorarium and neccesary expenses, we are ready! We had a ball presenting it. Write to me at emma1231@optonline.net. Richard Sloan ... Massapequa - NY... 2009/11/14 - 22:09:15 ( # 16)

Megan Hardgrave's book Megan Hardgrave recently posted that she was diong research in 1996 for her book, "Ride With the Assassin." I can't find this on abebooks.com. Did Megan ever find a publisher? Can she tell us more about the book? Is it a fictionalized acct. of the escape, or non-fiction? What's her angle? Richard Sloan ... Masapequa - NY... 2009/11/14 - 21:50:46 ( # 17)

ocker and seeing Reford's hanging scene To John Elliott and Barry Cauchon: --Please give me/us a report all about what you witnessed in Savannah! How faithful was the scaffold and the surroundings? Did they tie Mrs. Surratt's dress? Use umbrellas? Have any drumrolls, soldiers lining the top of a wall? Show the empty graves nearby? Duplicate the conspirators sitting under umbrellas? Atzerodt saying "Goodbye, fellows; see ya..." etc; A weakened Mrs. Surratt getting last rites? Davy whimpering? Paine being steadfast til the end? etc; etc; We wanna know! LINCOLN's ROCKER -- Buyer beware! This replica rocker is beautiful, and the fabric shown, while not the same red damask pattern, is a fine substitute. H-o-w-e-v-e-r, the upholstered armrests are all wrong! Before you order this, you should compare it carefully with old b&w photos of the original and you'll see what I mean. Don't order without making this comparison. In short, the upholstery on the armrests should extend 18" from the end of the armrests (where they meet the frame of the backrest)to a spot near the front where the wood starts a little sweep and then, about 4" further, ends in a noticeable notch before it starts curling downward. ASK THEM IF THEY CAN DO IT THE RIGHT WAY BEFORE YOU GIVE THEM YOUR ORDER. GET IT IN WRITING! If they won't do that for you, and you think you can buy it the way they sell it and simply have an upholsterer re-do it, you'd better notice that the upholstery extends down the sides of the armrests, where they are nailed down with edging ribbon. These nailholes will show when you pull off the fabric and edging ribbon and re-do the upholstery. Maybe you can ask them to refrain from nailing on the fabric so that they don't make the holes. But make sure that the top edges of the armrests are flat, and that the wood isn't chiseled out for any reason before they upholster them. (And if they agree to all of this, make sure they provide you with all the fabric you'll need to have the armrests upholstered in the historically accurate fashion. Richard Sloan ... Massapequa - NY... 2009/11/14 - 21:45:44 ( # 18)

Aiken Herb, how cool is that? This search for Frederick has been such fun for me! I have learned so much, and one of the most important things I've learned (which I guess I already knew, but needed to be reminded of) is that history is not a dead, boring subject. These men and women actually lived, loved, and laughed. History is alive, and constantly changes as we discover more information, often in obscure places, and put missing pieces of the puzzle together. We often find that our initial assumptions (that Aiken was an inexperienced, naive young man who was just simply inept or way in over his head and didn't know or understand the political and/or legal workings of the highest levels of the government) change or are modified. I still can't comment on how adept he was at defending Mary, but he was by no means an insignificant man in 1860 - 1865 Washington, DC. Thanks so much for all the help you and Laurie have given in this search and thanks to both of you for your kind comments about me. I have also learned that the Civil War years were tumultuous, not just in the prosecution of the war, but in the choices individuals were forced into making. Choices between country and personal belief. Choices between political expediency and personal integrity. Choices between lifelong friends and political allies and moral conscience. How excruciating those decisions must have been - not so different from choices we must make today. The sands of history shifted then as they do now, and the best course for any of us who really want to understand and learn about and from it, is to keep an open mind - to not jump to conclusions, to not paint pictures with a wide brush, but to look for the nuances, the details, the 'truth' as we can only interpret it. And to remember that what we believe today may need to change tomorrow as new research surfaces. Thanks for the discussions! Christine Christensen ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/11/14 - 14:26:37 ( # 19)

You Never Know ! I have to share this little bit of luck I had in tracking down--Aiken.I figured that I would go for a "shot in the dark".Why not try a Southern Military School.So I tried The Citadel.The Archives Librarian E-mailed me with the Question of,"Why are you looking for info on Aiken"?I explained the Enigma of the man.Bingo within hours she sends me the info and 5 attachments,Because the Actor in the movie playing Aiken is her favorite Actor!Go Figure! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/11/14 - 08:41:47 ( # 20)

Aiken Research I have to say that I dropped out of the Hunt for Aiken Info weeks ago because I just could not fit it into my work schedule. However, Christine and Herb kept up the search and have really helped fill in blanks on a gentleman that moved with the big-wigs in politics of his day - many with leanings towards the South. Thank you to you both, especially on behalf of the James O. Hall Research Center at Surratt House Museum. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/13 - 19:36:32 ( # 21)

Frederick Aiken Well,after 4 months of tracking down Aiken the search for the truth is from,Rice,Iowa,Georgetown,The Citadel,and Cornell Universities.Yes he contacted Jefferson Davis before and after the War.He was an avid Democrat and worked very hard to unseat Lincoln.His knowledge of law came from working with his Father in Law.But.Yes he was a Capt.with General Hancock and Smith during the entire Civil War.Phew.I am sure I probably left out some facts,But "Thats the way it is folks". Herbert Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/11/13 - 15:31:44 ( # 22)

Bottles in Coffins Kate Larson, author of Assassin's Accomplice, jogged my memory and cited an article related to the reburial of Mary Surratt in 1869, which mentions the vial (bottle) with parchment containing Mrs. Surratt's name still being in the burial case when taken to Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Once at the cemetery, the remains were transferred to a "handsome walnut coffin." The description of the remains is quite thorough and it is specified that everything was transferred to the new coffin. I guess that means that at least one bottle is intact in Section F at Mt. Olivet. I had read that 1869 article 5-6 times in the past, but the reference to the bottle flew right through my head. Thank you, Kate, for grabbing it and stuffing it back between my ears. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/13 - 13:02:43 ( # 23)

coffin vials According to eyewitness testimony at the disinternment of Mary Surratt's body in February 1869, it is implied that the vial containing the parchment with her name on it remained with her body. The Washington Chronicle reported that when her coffin was dug up (the second time - all the coffins had already been moved once) her "remains were found to be in excellent condition. The face, though black, was yet perfect in features, and the whole body compact and firm. The dress looked well, and the gaiter shoes appeared to be not the least soiled. Upon the day of her execution her daughter, Anne, who visited her, took from her own bonnet a steel arrow and stuck it upon her mother's dress close up to the neck, and which remained where it had been placed by the daughter. The bottle, with the name of Mrs. Surratt written upon a piece of parchment within, was also in the coffin, and without shifting anything the coffin was placed in the undertaker's wagon and driven .... to Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Father Walter, who had preceded the remains, was there in waiting to receive them, and they were taken from the coffin in which they were and transferred into a handsome walnut coffin, and then placed in the vault until today..." It seems to me that if the bottle had been removed - in fact, if anything had been removed - the reporter would have noted it. Another newspaper article, from the Baltimore Sun, mentioned that the "rough pine boards" of the coffin had "a strip of wood, painted white, with the name "Mrs. Surratt" painted upon it in black letters." Hope this helps. Kate Larson ... Winchester - MA... 2009/11/13 - 12:18:13 ( # 24)

Bottles in Coffins I was asked the exact same question by a researcher for the Redford film, The Conspirator. My response was that I knew of no documentation as to what happened to the bottles, but that my hunch was that they remained in the burial cases until 1869, when all bodies were turned over for proper burial. I further suspect that those bottles or something similar were buried in the new coffins in 1869. I learned many years ago that the little glass vials with the deceased's pertinent information did not become part of a coffin/casket's construction until after the Johnstown Flood. But I bet that our earlier ancestors wanted the remains to be easily identified in the future. The Flood taught them that coffins pop open and bottles fall out. Secret caches in the side of coffins are more secure. There's your funeral lesson for the day -- according to one of the oldest funeral homes in Washington, DC and the Johnston Flood Museum. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/12 - 16:37:53 ( # 25)

"Twenty Days" I've enjoyed the work the Kunhardts have done over the years. "Looking for Lincoln", for me, has been a revelation in that it collects some great photos in one place. "Twenty Days" still holds a very special place in my heart as it is one of the very first Lincoln books I ever really studied. Several years after I first became enamored by it I was a volunteer at the Lincoln Tomb and that was the first book they handed me to study there as well. It remains a remarkable work. I have just finished Professor Burlingame's massive biography. If you the means I strongly recommend you pick up a copy, it's worth every dime. John Winterbauer ... Petersburg - IL... 2009/11/12 - 12:45:18 ( # 26)

The Bottles in the Coffins Hi all: A researcher has asked John and I a very good question. Does anyone know the whereabouts of the bottles containing the names of the conspirators when buried with them in the Old Arsenal Penitentiary yard after the hangings? We were wondering if they disappeared when they were reburied in 1867 or given to the families when turned over to them in 1869. Any thoughts? Thanks Barry Barry Cauchon ... Toronto - Canada... 2009/11/12 - 10:57:45 ( # 27)

Lincoln, Life Size As somebody who does Lincoln art and creative work the concept of the book Lincoln, Life Size intrigues me. I flipped through it a bit at the Lincoln Home NHS bookstore and thought it was a fairly decent picture book. The author is going to be here in Springfield on November 19th (the day Lincoln gave the Gettysburg Address) so I'll learn more there. I personally enjoyed the Kunhardts' book Lincoln: An Illustrated Biography, it was one of the books that got me hooked on Lincoln. I know as far as text goes, it's pretty basic, but it's still a very good book to look at. I have the book Twenty Days, but I haven't really tackled the assassination yet. Looking for Lincoln didn't do as much for me, though. I don't have it, but I looked through it at downtown Springfield shops when it came out, and decided it wasn't worth it at that time. I'm still deciding whether to get Lincoln, Life Size or not. I'm looking forward to the author being here next week. Chris lincolnapparel.com Chris Umhoefer ... Springfield - Illinois... 2009/11/11 - 21:44:29 ( # 28)

The Conspirator Visit Hi all: John Elliott and I have been invited down to the set of The Conspirator. We've formally asked for access to check out the sets and speak with people on the production. So far we have been given the task of being extras for the shoot but I'm sure we'll have opportunities beyond this. What fun this will be. In September John and I have joined our research about the Old Arsenal Penitentiary and what went on inside its walls. So we had to make a tough decision to make about whether to go together or split up so we could cover more than one filming sequence. Reluctantly we decided to split up so that we can see both the execution sequence and the courtroom sequence. I will be visiting John in San Antonio this weekend and then heading to Savannah next week for the hanging sequence. John will follow two weeks later when the courtroom sequences are being shot. We will let you know how things go upon our respective returns. Have a great day. Barry Barry Cauchon ... Toronto - Ontario... 2009/11/11 - 07:45:52 ( # 29)

Music at Gettysburg On Wednesday evening October 7 at 7:00 pm, I presented a Faculty Forum lecture entitled Encounters With Lincoln Through the Arts in the Ophelia Parrish Performance Hall on the campus of Truman State University. The program focused on the writing of historians and the work of artists – poets, photographers, sculptors, painters, and musicians. I was assisted by members of the Truman State University Brass Choir and Cantoria performing vocal and instrumental music just as Lincoln actually heard it. Selected artwork that appears in my book Encounters With Lincoln: Images and Words, published by the Truman Press, was also shown and discussed. With the anniversary of the Gettysburg Address approaching later this month I decided to post a performance of “Dirge” by Alfred Delaney on YouTube. This piece was originally performed by a volunteer choir from all the churches of Gettysburg accompanied by Birgfeld’s Band of Philadelphia just prior to the President’s address. To my knowledge this work has not been recorded or seldom heard since that day. This is as close to the actual sound of the music as it was performed on that long ago day, November 19, 1863. The brass instruments in this performance date from the period and the vocal group sang from copies of the original sheet music from my collection. The conductor is my colleague Dr. Mark Jennings. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kibu-DjZWgs Thomas J. Trimborn ... Kirksville - Missouri... 2009/11/10 - 22:20:42 ( # 30)

Lincoln, Life Size I agree with all of the responses I received to my comment about "Lincoln, Life Size." To me "Twenty Days" was THE magnum opus from the Kunhardts, followed by the volume that was co-authored by Geoffrey Ward. Looking for Lincoln, while an interesting approach to the Lincoln legacy over the years since his death, did nt make the contribution I had hoped for during the bicentannial. The Mellon volume, "The Face of Lincoln" is still a standard hard to beat. I agree that the grainy character of some of the pictures simply shows what a magnifying glass might reveal and, therefore, I am not sure about the contribution this makes to the Lncoln literature. Harkening back to the seminal work of their ancestor, Frederick Hill Meserve, it was there that I first became fascinated with the face of Lincoln. "Lincoln, Life Size" does nothing for me in the same way as Meserve's, Lorant's, or Mellon's works. Thanks to all of you for your comments. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/11/10 - 20:17:16 ( # 31)

Rocker Megan, Thanks for the information, and I would definitely like more details about the rocking chair for our files at the Surratt House Museum. Every little tidbit helps. My e-mail at work is laurie.verge@pgparks.com; mailing address for Surratt House is PO Box 427, Clinton, MD 20735, or fax is 301-868-8177 -- whatever is the best for you. Thanks so much. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/11/08 - 18:56:30 ( # 32)

re:Lincoln rocker Dear Laurie, Just read you post about the Fords Theater rocking chair and you wanting to know if the Fords Museum in Dearborn ,MI ever has done complete history, I don't don't if they have done on but , when I was doing research on the Assassination for my novel Ride With the Assasin in 1996 I contacted them and they found in there records a detailed drawing of the rocker and it gave instuctions on how to built one replica , as well they sent me a detailed photos of the front and back of the rocker that shows an an paisley or indian pattern into the red velvet covered chair complete with the Lincoln Shaw,orignal playbill from our American cousin. If you want more info on this let me know. Sincerely, Megan Hardgrave Megan Hardgrave ... Dallas - Texas... 2009/11/08 - 17:58:25 ( # 33)

Twenty Days Twenty Days was the book that got me hooked on the whole Lincoln assassination thing when it first came out. I was all of 12 years old!! And the book is still a masterpiece IMO!! Paul W H ... EH - CT... 2009/11/08 - 15:10:08 ( # 34)

"Twenty Days" Joe, just my own personal bias, but nothing the Kunhardts will ever produce can match the spot in my heart for "Twenty Days." Roger Norton ... 2009/11/08 - 08:30:35 ( # 35)

Lincoln Book I flipped through the book at a local Sam's and was underwhelmed. My first thought was 'Why was this book made ?'. The quality of the enlarged photos is horrible. Why bother doing it ? If they had cleaned them up and magnified the photos to better quality then they might have had something to offer. Just my opinion. John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/11/07 - 23:26:45 ( # 36)

Lincoln, Life-Size Just finished the Kunhardt's new magnum opus "Lincoln, Life-Size." It's different. I was wondering if anyone else has had a chance to see this book. If so, what did you think about it, especially in light of the previous work of the Kunhardt's on Lincoln? Roger? Laurie? Anyone? Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/11/07 - 20:40:31 ( # 37)

Spielberg Film The Chicago Tribune last week had this story about the screenwriter of the upcoming Lincoln flick, due for release in '11. http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/chi-1101-arts-kushner-covernov01,0,7362215.story Dave K. ... North Aurora - IL... 2009/11/07 - 19:21:10 ( # 38)

Lincoln Rocker I remember seeing this in the gift shop back when the Lincoln Presidential Library/Museum was newly-opened. It was nicely made. Dave K. ... North Aurora - IL... 2009/11/07 - 19:10:29 ( # 39)

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 ( # 40)

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 ( # 41)

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 ( # 42)

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 ( # 43)

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 ( # 44)

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 ( # 45)

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 ( # 46)

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 ( # 47)

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 ( # 48)

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 ( # 49)

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 ( # 50)

Lincoln chair I'd like to know, who built the original chair? Tim MIchols ... Campbellsport - WI... 2009/11/03 - 10:16:15 ( # 51)

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 ( # 52)

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 ( # 53)

mary surratt my responce got cut off kevin a kearns ... aylett - va ... 2009/11/02 - 23:01:27 ( # 54)

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 ( # 55)

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 ( # 56)

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 ( # 57)

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 ( # 58)

Andrew Johnson You are correct. Too many Vans in my mind. William Richter ... Tucson - AZ... 2009/11/02 - 09:05:53 ( # 59)

Tennessee Johnson The movie starred Van Heflin. Kent Tucker ... Rantoul - Illinois... 2009/11/01 - 21:37:23 ( # 60)

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 ( # 61)

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 ( # 62)

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 ( # 63)

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 ( # 64)

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 ( # 65)

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 ( # 66)

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 ( # 67)

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 ( # 68)

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 ( # 69)

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 ( # 70)

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 ( # 71)

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 ( # 72)

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 ( # 73)

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 ( # 74)

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 ( # 75)

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 ( # 76)

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 ( # 77)

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 ( # 78)

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 ( # 79)

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 ( # 80)

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 ( # 81)

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 ( # 82)

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 ( # 83)

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 ( # 84)

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 ( # 85)

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 ( # 86)

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 ( # 87)

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 ( # 88)

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 ( # 89)

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 ( # 90)

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 ( # 91)

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 ( # 92)

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 ( # 93)

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 ( # 94)

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 ( # 95)

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 ( # 96)

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 ( # 97)

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 ( # 98)

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 ( # 99)

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 ( # 100)

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 ( # 101)

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 ( # 102)

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 ( # 103)

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 ( # 104)

Aiken's Military Record My link to the National Archives replied that personnel there are not allowed to conduct research without going through the proper channels. He also replied that there is no consolidated index for compiled service records for Union soldiers. They are arranged by state, thereunder by the designation of the unit, and thereunder alphabetically by surname. I quit. At this point, I know all I need to know about Frederick Aiken. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/13 - 09:37:13 ( # 105)

Frederick Aiken Christine and Laurie,I looked into the NYState Military Museum and it's Civil War Unit History section-NO-record in the NY79th-Volunteers or NYState79-th Milita.But,I did find him in the original,"Vermont Historical Society" I am having a hard time figuring out what the"Society"was for in 1859.My thoughts are like[Son of liberty-Skull and Bones-Masons].You two are best at uncovering strange information-Go get him! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/10/12 - 08:30:40 ( # 106)

Be in the Mary Surratt movie? I was just reading an online article by Kaity Gruenling. She says "The Conspirator" production will begin in Savannah on October 12. To quote part of her article: "The film is still seeking background extras. To apply, send a non-returnable photograph, height and weight measurements, clothing sizes, daytime phone number and email to: Conspirator Productions c/o Extras Casting 12020 Abercorn Street Savannah, GA 31419 Additionally, you may email a digital picture along with height and weight measurements, clothing sizes, daytime phone number to conspiratorcasting@gmail.com." I am thinking we have lots of talent among the many posters on this forum. Here's your chance! Roger Norton ... 2009/10/11 - 12:09:10 ( # 107)

States' Rights Your sentence in an earlier post regarding Aiken's grandfather espousing states' rights provides the key to his grandson's possible liaison with Jefferson Davis. There had been many Democrats in the early years of our nation who opposed the federalism proposed by Hamilton and others. In fact, early calls for secession came from New England states over issues such as the tariff. If that states' rights support carried through to younger generations of Aikens, Frederick - while serving as the secretary of the National Democratic Party - would certainly have ties with Jefferson Davis and might well have decided to cast his lot with the Confederacy. Oh that we could find Davis's response, if any, to Frederick's offer. I would also like to see what other cases he worked on in DC from 1863 to 1865 to see if any related to political prisoners of the Lincoln administration, etc. I feel sure that he knew the Holohan family, who boarded with Mrs. Surratt. Mr. Holohan had been represented by someone because he abused his wife. I believe the Catholic Church placed the family in the Surratts' religious abode. That's why I think Holohan was the one who got Aiken and Clampitt to represent Mrs. Surratt. Laurie Verge ... Cllinton - MD... 2009/10/11 - 11:27:02 ( # 108)

Aiken letter to Seward in behalf of Isaac Stevens I just found a letter he wrote to Secretary William Seward on Sept 25, 1861 from Washington DC. It is a note of introduction to comments about Isaac Stevens. It is included in The Abraham Lincoln Papers. You may read it by searching for the papers, then searching for Frederick Aiken. "I have been requested to make privately to you the enclosed statement by Col. Stevens. It is so far as I am able to understand expressive of his feelings and regarding the Secretary of State as his friend he feels that it can be submitted without misunderstanding or appearing presumptious. Very truly and respectfully yr obt. serv Frederick A Aiken" I had originally thought he was simply introducing a letter from Stevens, but upon further reading, I believe Frederick may have written all the pages. The long crossing of the t and the writing 'ex' seems to come from the same pen. If anyone looks at the original and disagrees with me, please let me know, as I could be mistaken. The following pages detail Stevens' great military experience, his administration as Govenor of the Washington Territory, his unwavering support of President Lincoln, his work to fight seccession from the southern states, his split with friends from the south, his hopes and expectations (as well as his friends' expectations the he would be given a division or brigade to command, his disappointment over being given instead a 'broken and undisciplined and mutinous regiment while every day before and every day since his juniors in graduation, his inferiors in military ability have been appointed to important commands, . . . (underlined two times) he will not now resign in the face of the enemy or while battle is pending but how long after that he will be able to endure his present mortification cannot be anticipated." Why would Isaac Stevens, a powerful political leader and experienced military officer ask Aiken to write this? How did Aiken know Stevens? At this point in the war Stevens was Col. of the 79th NY Volunteers. . . but he was from Massachusetts. . . How did Aiken know Seward well enough to be considered trustworthy as a character witness for Stevens? More questions, but it shows Frederick apparently had enough political clout to make a difference - Isaac Stevens was promoted to Brigadier General on September 28, 1861, 3 days after Frederick's letter. . . (or maybe it was just a coincidence and Frederick's letter didn't have any bearing on that decision. . . Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/10 - 21:32:03 ( # 109)

Aiken's Military Record Still no word from my link with the National Archives, but we may be ignoring the obvious as to Aiken's military service. He was obviously not in the regular army in 1860. When the war first began, maybe he was one of those who answered Lincoln's call for 75,000 volunteers as opposed to the later policy of initiating the draft. In any case, there should be a military record out there somewhere. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/10 - 17:04:26 ( # 110)

Frederick Aiken Christine,Thanks for your clarification.From what I have found thus far is Aiken has no record of being with Gen. Smith or Hancock at Gettysburg.The Vermont Historical Society has no record of Aiken for anything.[Volunter]--A person who paid another person to take his place in the Military.Thus-He could go any where he wanted to go.Do you see what I am leading up to without saying It?As you said[This is fun].Good luck on flushing this guy out.PS.The Movie's web-sites are now admitting that Aiken's biography is a little Sketchy! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/10/10 - 11:08:48 ( # 111)

Aiken Herb, your question about Frederick being 'in two places' at the same time is a valid one. However, we have no proof he was at Gettysburg (that was speculation on my part when I heard the rumor he may have been injured there and that he served as Hancock's aide). The only proof I have seen about his civil war service is the letter of report he wrote from 1862, when he served temporarily with Hancock. I find it interesting that everyone says he served as Hancock's aide, when in fact he was aide-de-camp to Brig General Smith, on loan to Hancock during that battle. The sketch says he served as a volunteer in the early part of the war. I'm not sure what they classify as early, but maybe we'll be able to find other references to him by looking more closely at Smith's staff, instead of focusing on Hancock. I also don't know yet what the term 'volunteer' means. . . does it mean he had no set enlistment time? No enlistment papers? No pension for his widow to claim? No civil war service record detailing attendance and pay, battles and injuries? I'll check into that next. . . Christine ... Tremonton - U... 2009/10/09 - 23:31:20 ( # 112)

Frederick Aiken What still adds confusion about Aiken.How can you be with Hancock at Gettysburg and be on the US Supreme court in 1863? Or maybe my info is in correct!Help Me Understand. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/10/09 - 20:36:49 ( # 113)

Aiken biographical sketch I found another reference to Frederick. It comes from an entry in "Gazetteer of Orange County Vermont, 1762 - 1888," by Hamilton Child, June 1888. page 144 has a sketch about Frederick. "Frederick Argyll Aiken was born in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts September 30, 1833. His parents were Solomon and Susan Rice Aiken. When ten years of age he moved with them to Hardwick, Vermont. He was a student in Morrisville and St. Johnsbury academies, and a graduate of Middlebury college. He early displayed a proclivity for journalism, and immediately upon leaving college became editor of the Burlington Sentinel. While editing the paper he married Miss Sarah O Weston, eldest daughter of Judge Edmund Weston, a brilliant scholar and accomplished woman." "He afterward studied law with Judge Weston, and was admitted to the Orange county bar in 1859, and had an office for a time in Randolph. In 1860 Mr. Aiken went to Washington DC and became secretary of the National Democratic Committee. During the early years of the war he was a volunteer aide, with the rank of Captain, on the staff of General Hancock, and participated gallantly in several engagements, in one of which he had two horses shot out from under him, and received injuries which no doubt hastened his death." "In 1863 he was admitted to the Supreme Court of the United States, and practiced in that and the District of Columbia courts until 1868 when he gave up law for his former much loved profession of journalism. He labored with marked success on several of the leading city papers, till the winter of 1877, when he started with the Washington Post as its city editor." :This position he held until his death, which occurred Dec 24, 1878, after an illness of only two days. Gifted, brilliant, and versatile, a gentleman by nature and a true friend, Mr Aiken was held in high esteem by the journalism and liberatti of Washington and they united after his decease in paying special tribute to his memory. Mrs. Aiken still resides in Washington." Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/09 - 15:00:42 ( # 114)

Republicans/Aiken Christine, Thanks for beating me to the punch on the explanation of early politics designated as "Republican." I got busy at work and didn't remember to post. It all goes back to the Jefferson-Hamilton arguments concerning an agrarian/state-based society vs. federalism with a strong central government. As for your question about Aiken as a covert agent, I would suspect that, in reality, he was offering his services to the Union. However, I am betting that there is some personal link between Aiken and Jefferson Davis dating before the war -- some DC connection while Davis was still serving the USA -- that we have not yet located. Such a link might cause Davis to trust Aiken's offer of assistance and also to trust him in preparing a defense for the deposed President of the CSA after the war. Again, I am just speculating... Also, it is my personal opinion that Mrs. Surratt's boarder, John Holohan, is the one who secured the services of the law firm of Aiken and Clampitt. They did not volunteer their services, but ultimately settled for a much smaller fee than originally anticipated. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/09 - 13:48:56 ( # 115)

Republican vs. Republican Party Laura, great question, "If Solomon Aiken died in 1833, and the Republican Party was founded more than 20 years later, doesn't this reference to being a Republican mean something else?" Not being anything even close to a real historian I had to look it up because I hadn't even caught the ambiguity of that statement, since I had just assumed it meant the present day Republican party, without really thinking of the dates. "The Democratic-Republican Party, founded by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison as the Republican Party (not related to the present-day Republican Party) in 1792, was the dominant political party in the United States from 1800 until the 1820s, when it split into competing factions, one of which became the modern-day Democratic Party. "Jefferson and Madison created the party in order to oppose the economic and foreign policies of the Federalists, a party created a year or so earlier by Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton. Foreign policy issues were central; the party opposed the Jay Treaty of 1794 with Britain (then at war with France) and supported good relations with France before 1801. The party insisted on a strict construction of the Constitution, and denounced many of Hamilton's proposals (especially the national bank) as unconstitutional. The party promoted states' rights and the primacy of the yeoman farmer over bankers, industrialists, merchants, and other monied interests. From 1792 to 1816 the party opposed such Federalist policies as high tariffs, a navy, military spending, a national debt, and a national bank. After the military defeats of the War of 1812, however, the party split on these issues. Many younger party leaders, notably Henry Clay, John Quincy Adams and John C. Calhoun, became nationalists and wanted to build a strong national defense. Meanwhile, the "Old Republican" faction led by John Randolph of Roanoke, William H. Crawford and Nathaniel Macon continued to oppose these policies. The name of the party evolved over time. Party members in the 1790s and early 1800s called themselves "Republicans" and voted for what they called the "Republican Party," "republican ticket," or the "republican interest". . . The term "Republican" emphasizes devotion to the ideals of republicanism. The word "republican" was used by most Americans in the late 18th century to desceribe the new nation's political values, especially its devotion to opposition to corruption, elitism, and monarchies; Jefferson used the term "Republican Party," meaning those in Congress who were his allies, and supported the existing republican Constitution, in a letter to Washington as early as May 1792. From 1794 through 1823, Jefferson and Madison routinely used the term "republican" and the "Republican party." Interesting that Aiken's grandfather espused political views supporting states rights. . . over a strong national system. . . Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/09 - 09:39:28 ( # 116)

Aiken's military record Laurie, when you said you agreed with Kate about the possiblity of Aiken being a spy, where you thinking of being a Confederate opperative or a Union opperative? Of both? We know he offered his services to the Confederacy first, but later apparently volunteered for the Union and served with Smith (not too surprising since Brig Gen William F Smith was a Vermont man, as was Aiken, a natural fit. . . I'm researching that connection next. . .)and served in as his aide-de-camp at least during that one battle. Some of you feel he 'bungled' Mary's defense, but if he really were a confederate opperative, wouldn't he maybe have had access to some of the best confederate legal minds. . ? Wouldn't he have done his best to try to 'save' her, if he really sympathized with her cause. . . We know he was anti-Lincoln (he tried to convince Fremont to run against Lincoln, hoping to split the Republican vote). . . I wonder what he thought when asked to defend Mary? Or did he volunteer to help her? I just wish we could find some record from his own writings showing more about what he was thinking. I'm really enjoying American Brutus, and notice Mr. Kauffman has tons of newspaper sources, so there have to be some from Aiken somewhere out there. . . perhaps from the Vermont paper he bought before the war. . . or from some of the others in DC he wrote for after. . . Maybe we could ask Mr. Kauffman to write a book about him! LOL! Keep digging everybody! This is so fascinating. Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/09 - 09:25:48 ( # 117)

Lincoln's Autopsy I had never heard of Lincoln's blood being "...transferred to glass jars and sacredly preserved" until reading Mr. Swanson's book. I have no doubt, however, that this and other fanciful descriptions appeared in print; my favorite has always been the New York Tribune report that John Wilkes Booth's last words to the federal soldiers were actually: "Tell mother I have died for my country. You, gentlemen,have spoiled my fun in Mexico!" Somewhere I recall reading that a small amount of blood was drained into a vial, but what happened to that container is unclear. Several accounts note a basin used beneath the end of the table (or planks on sawhorses, or even a door, depending upon your reference), which would be expected in an autopsy of that era. However, there was probably little liquid blood left in Lincoln's head by that time. He had been dead about five hours before the autopsy was performed, and the various physician reports describe only large and small amounts of coagulated blood in and around the brain. Even the shirt cuffs worn by Dr. Taft, now in the National Museum of Health and Medicine, have only small stains as opposed to large soakings if there had been any sizable pools of blood. Another clue to suggest there was little fluid blood left at the exam was how the embalming was performed. One of my late friends (now deceased) was the second generation in his family to be a mortician; when he started in the 1930's it was still common practice here in rural Iowa to drip embalming fluid into the body from an overhead bag. Civil War embalmers did have embalming pumps, which were basically large hand held syringes, but they provided little suction to remove venous or arterial blood--especially when clotted--before administering the preservative. That, along with the fact only two incision sites were used on the presiden'ts body (the neck and groin) would have hindered attempts at either draining all blood out or effectively pumping in all of the embalming fluid. This helps explain the changes occurring in Mr. Lincoln's body during the journey back to Springfield. By the time he got to New York City, there was fairly remarkable darkening of the skin, and he had to be coated with white powder. If there were any major amounts of blood saved, just like reliquaries of the saints, I imagine we would have heard of them by now. My guess is that Dr. Charles D. Brown and Henry P. Cattell, Mr. Lincoln's embalmers, disposed of any liquids much like they would have after any other job. It went down the closest privy. Blaine Houmes, MD ... Cedar Rapids - Iowa... 2009/10/08 - 20:38:10 ( # 118)

Solomon Aiken If Solomon Aiken died in 1833, and the Republican Party was founded more than 20 years later, doesn't this reference to being a Republican mean something else? Laura ... Geneva - Illinois... 2009/10/08 - 20:11:31 ( # 119)

Frederick Aiken Kate Larson,I think Frederick Aiken was a,fraud,spy,Liar,and imposter.There are too many unanswered questions about his life.The biggest piece of the puzzle is his war record and his relationship with Jefferson Davis.I have found that men my age go to mitaria stores to get service hats with Viet-Nam combat pins, just to go to veteran functions and parades-etc.Perhaps Aiken had that problem along with many others.Plus I know of many men who say they are off-duty cops or they played sports in college.Thats it for Mr.Slick. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/10/08 - 19:07:23 ( # 120)

Final Sentence As you probably guessed, somehow a computer gremlin sucked up my closing statement that better lawyers than Aiken did not do too well during the 1865 Conspiracy Trial. Wouldn't you like to have been a tiny legal eagle fly sitting on a wall in that courtroom with the knowledge we have today... BTW: I have contacted one of my volunteers at Surratt House who has retired from the National Archives. His specialty is WWII and the German effort, but he is also very well read on the Civil War and also has contacts within those hallowed halls. He has not responded, but hopefully he can find a way to shake those Aiken bones and find a military record. I also tend to agree with Kate that his original offer to serve the Confederacy may have been a ruse for a covert operation. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/08 - 18:51:12 ( # 121)

Freddie Congratulations Christine on finding out so much about Aiken. I'm sure you are correct about his lineage because I remember one note in his file about his unnamed grandfather having fought in the Revolution. We had also asked for help from Oak Hill Cemetery, and they got back with us today with the exact same grave info. However, we had asked if they had a death certificate showing his parents' names. They do not. John, I doubt that Mary would have fared any better in that court room if Reverdy Johnson had found it feasible to fully represent her. Some very notable lawyers - Doster, Ewing, etc. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/08 - 15:20:13 ( # 122)

Aiken Christine - your research on Aiken is really interesting, and thank you so much for your dogged efforts and for sharing them with this forum. This still leaves me wondering about several contradictory and puzzling claims, however. How is it that as a Captain he doesn't appear in lists of CW soldiers. I thought I noticed in the NY regiment that the Fred Aiken there was only a private, so that would preclude our Fred Aiken from being in that regiment. 2ndly, we know that Aiken offered his services to Davis at the start of the CW War. Could it be that he *volunteered* for Union Service, but as a rebel spy? Just throwing it out there. If he was wounded, there would be records of that - as well as discharge papers. This is more than a little weird, and considering his near complete - along with Clampitt - bungling of Mary's defense, his embezzlement charge, and the even more fraudulent obituary statements, I am beginning to sense he was a con man who managed to pull off a pretty good con job... anyone else getting that feeling too? Best, Kate Kate Larson ... Winchester - MA... 2009/10/08 - 14:59:13 ( # 123)

Dr. Lattimer Hi Rich, Have you seen the Greystone production of the "The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln" ? It featured Dr. Lattimer holding many items such as Lewis Powell's medevial manacle that was wrapped around his wrists, Powell's large knife and the noose that was used on Mary Surratt. I kept thinking to myself, "How the heck did he get to hold those things ?". I might have my answer now. By the way, that same production featured are very own Laurie Verge, Michael Kauffman, Tom Turner and Harold Holzer. It's the best documentary done on the subject in my opinion. Tom Berenger was the narrator. John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/10/08 - 13:05:51 ( # 124)

Collection of the late Dr. John K. Lattimer Rich, this does not answer your question, but the current edition of the "Journal of the Lincoln Assassination" has a listing of many of the items that were put up for auction. To quote Frederick Hatch: "The collection included numerous books and pamphlets, autograph documents in Lincoln's handwriting, jewelry, photographs, books and other objects which belonged to Mary Todd Lincoln, autograph documents of Ulysses S. Grant, William H. Seward, Edwin M. Stanton, John S. Mosby, John Todd Stuart, Robert T. Lincoln, a collapsible stage dagger which had been owned by John Wilkes Booth, manacles worn by Lewis T. Powell, several strands of Lincoln's hair, and much more from all periods of Lincoln's life." However, nothing is said about whether the items ended up in private collections, public institutions, etc. The auction was held November 20, 2008. Roger Norton ... 2009/10/08 - 12:32:10 ( # 125)

Frederick Aiken Christine,Once again tremendous job of research! So based on what we know, his military record is shakey,But,His relationship with Jefferson Davis is a large[WHY].I hope that all of us will come up with something! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/10/08 - 09:50:22 ( # 126)

Lincoln's Blood Laurie: I'm glad to know you remember that detail. Dr. Blaine any word from you on this? I would think Laurie that you are correct in thinking that because the doctors were not in their 'normal' facility for an autopsy they used whatever means necessary. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/10/08 - 09:41:25 ( # 127)

Frederick Aiken The fact that Mary Surratt was horribly represented by Aiken gets lost when discussing his history. His defense of Surratt was so appalling that one has to wonder if Reverdy Johnson wanted to see Mary hang from the gallows. Time after time, Aiken called upon witnesses that would just contradict what he was trying to accomplish. She just kept getting buried deeper and deeper. The real question should be, why was this fraud of a lawyer assigned to defend her ? She may have been better off without a lawyer at all. She couldn't have done any worse. John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/10/08 - 08:51:06 ( # 128)

Frederick Aiken's family Well, I think I may have found enough evidence to say safely that I "think" Frederick Argyll Aiken is the son of Solomon and Susan (Rice) Aiken, of Hardwick, Caledonia, Vermont. Solomon is the son of the Reverend Solomon and Mary (Polly) Warner Aiken of Hardwick (or Dracut) Massachussetts. I just found a reference to the Reverend Solomon Aiken, which talked about some pamphlets he wrote. At the end of the article, it stated he was the grandfather of Miss F. C Aiken, now Mrs. M E Tucker of Montpielier Vermont. Remember the girl, Frances C Aiken in the 1850 census with Frederick, Solomon and Susan? I checked the 1880 census, and found Frances C Tucker, Montpielier, wife of Marcelles E Tucker. Living with her is Susan R Aiken, 76, mother, and a young son Fred A Tucker, 9 months. Remember Frederick Argyll Aiken died in 1878. If Frances is his sister, she named her baby after Frederick. DUH! I just realized I failed to search a database I frequent in genealogical research, findagrave.com. Here is the entry about Frederick: Birth: Sep. 20, 1837 Shrewsbury Worcester County Massachusetts, USA Death: Dec. 23, 1878 Washington District of Columbia District Of Columbia, USA Lincoln Assassination Trial Attorney. A Massachusetts native he moved with his parents to Hardwick, Vermont when he was ten years old. As a young man he studied at Middlebury College from 1855 to 1857. Drawn to journalism he became the editor of the Burlington Sentinel. After he married the daughter of a prominent judge in Randolph, Vermont, he began the study of law. In 1859 he was admitted to the Orange County, Vermont bar, moving to Washington, D.C. in 1860. When the Civil War began he joined the volunteers, becoming an aide with the rank of Captain on the staff of General Winfield S. Hancock. He returned to the law in 1863 when admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of the United States and in the District of Columbia Courts. He was best known for his defense of Mrs. Mary Surratt, accused of conspiracy in the assassination of President Lincoln. His speech in her defense was included in the The World's Best Orations in 1899. In 1868 he returned to the practice journalism. In 1877 he became the City Editor of The Washington Post, a position he held until his death after an illness of two days. Although his grave is unmarked he is buried in the North Hill lot containing the grave of Tennessee United States Senator and Secretary of War, John H. Eaton. Burial: Oak Hill Cemetery Washington District of Columbia District Of Columbia, USA Plot: North Hill, Lot 79. Unmarked burial. So, do you think this solves his family mystery? I'll check Shrewsbury birth records when I get a chance. . . Now, if we could just 'shake those bones' and get inside his head to know what he was thinking. . . Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/07 - 23:59:39 ( # 129)

Aiken Laurie, you wondered how Frederick, raised with strict New England sensibilities, could have possibly supported slavery, the Confederacy (at least at one time), defended Mary Surratt, and considered defending Jefferson Davis: maybe even in those times children chaffed at their parents and grandparents strict beliefs. . . IF the Reverend Solomon Aiken is his grandfather, then this might help explain it; or this might just add more confusion to the puzzle. (and again I possibly got the Scottish ancestors wrong. . . LOL! From a history of Hartwick Vermont: Hon. Daniel Warner Aiken.—Among the residents of Hardwick for many years, identified with its mercantile, political and social relations, must be especially mentioned, Daniel Warner Aiken, the oldest merchant, and now (1886) the oldest male inhabitant of the town. His birthplace was Dracut, Massachusetts; he was born March 23, 1799; his parents were Solomon and Polly (Warner) Aiken; his paternal ascendants were of Scotch origin. Two brothers, David and John, with their sister Mercy, having immigrated to this country from Scotland, were of the early settlers of Hardwick, Mass. Mercy married a Page, and died in 1820, at the age of one hundred and two years. John Aiken married (probably) an Atwood, and had four sons, of whom Solomon was born in July, 1758, and in 1776, while yet a mere lad, enlisted to serve his country in her noble struggle for liberty. He afterwards prepared for college, and was graduated from Dartmouth in 1784, and became a Congregationalist clergyman. He was settled in Dracut, Mass., in 1788, and his pastorate there continued until 1818, a period of thirty years, when he removed to Hardwick, Vt. From this time he relinquished regular preaching, but occasionally filled the pulpit to the satisfaction of his hearers. While in Dracut he was the representative to the general court from 1809 to 1816, inclusive. He married Polly, daughter of Daniel Warner, a native of Hardwick, Mass. Their children who attained maturity were: (1) Sophia (Mrs. Joel Spaulding); (2) Solomon; (3) Justus W.; (4) Alma; (5) Daniel Warner; (6) Mary Wright (Mrs. Elizabeth Kellogg); (7) Samuel Adams; (8) Harriet Whipple (Mrs. Russell Bridgman); (9) Selina Atwood (Mrs. George H. Cook). Rev. Solomon Aiken, A. M., was a man of commanding presence; his hair and eyes were black, his complexion clear, and his body well proportioned. His manners were those of the old school, courteous and distinguished, and, even when meeting children, his three-cornered hat was raised with all the grace of a Chesterfield. He was strong mentally and physically, bold and fearless in announcing his opinions, and, a pronounced Republican, he openly, and from the pulpit, hurled his terse and pointed denunciations at the Federalists. With his great mentality he imbued many with his convictions of right, and his influence was a good and lasting one upon the community. Mrs. Aiken died October 20, 1820, aged fifty-four. His death occurred in this town, June, 1833, when nearly seventy-five years of age. Their remains lie in the Center cemetery of Hardwick. On his monument is this inscription: "In youth, a soldier of the Revolution; in age, a Christian pastor; through life the inflexible friend of civil and religious liberty." Notice Solomon was a Republican. . . hmmmmm. . . Didn't Frederick serve in the Democratic Party? Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/07 - 22:44:54 ( # 130)

Frederick Aiken's possible parents Thanks for the added help. Since the obituary says his grandfather was a clergyman, then his father (if he is Solomon b. 1791, Massachussetts, listed in the 1850 Hardwick, Caledonia, Vermont census) is most likely NOT the son the the ones I earlier listed, but is probably the son of Reverend Solomon and Polly (Mary Warner) Aiken. He is listed in the book Vital Records of Dracut, Massachussetts: Solomon, s. Rev. Solomon and Polley, Oct 2, 1791. Another book said that the Reverend Solomon Aiken's wife, (possibly Frederick's grandmother)Mary Warner Aiken died in 1820 in Hardwick, Vermont. This is fun!!! Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/07 - 21:40:31 ( # 131)

Frederick Aiken Laurie and Christine,As you know I too have been perplexed by Aiken.He went to Middlebury College from 1855 to 57.The alumni library research team has nothing else about him.[very strange]Havard law school has No record of him.But Christine found out he learned about law from his Father in Laws firm[Is that like student teaching with your Mother]I have found nothing about his military record at the NYState Military Museum.His relationship with Jefferson Davis is very ODD.I even contacted Joan Cashin at Ohio State and asked her about Varina Davis in her research for her book,if she knew of Frederick Aiken--NO.We should team up on the research of Frederick Aiken! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/10/07 - 18:54:56 ( # 132)

Blood Mr. Nash, I remember reading that also and being surprised. I never researched it, but I just assumed that, because the autopsy was performed at the White House with no proper drain table, the blood had to go somewhere for proper disposal. Just a guess, however. Dr. Blaine Houmes might know the answer to this one. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/07 - 18:03:59 ( # 133)

Lincoln's blood I came across something that I hadn't heard before or perhaps just missed when reading- James Swanson's book 'Chasing Lincoln's Killer' states that during the autopsy Lincoln's blood was placed in glass containers. Anyone on this forum ever heard that? I'm wondering was that a 'normal' practice? Or was it because he was the President? It also makes me wonder whatever happened to the blood? Forgive me if it's a stupid or too morbid of a question. I know there are pieces of his skull that have been preserved. Anyone with light on this? William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/10/07 - 13:43:53 ( # 134)

Aiken the Scotchman Christine, Aiken's flowery obituary from the Washington Post does not give his parents' names. The reference to his being Scottish comes from this line in the obituary: "He came of a distinguished lowland Scotch family which had rendered itself conspicuous for hundreds of years, and particularly during the last two centuries, in theology and literature. His grandfather was a celebrated clergyman who perhaps more than any other man in this country first sowed the seeds of liberal Christianity..." Frankly, to me, the most interesting reference that I have found about Aiken is his letter of April 5, 1861, to Jefferson Davis, offering his services to the Confederacy and citing his support of VP Alexander Stephens's definitely inflamatory remarks regarding the institution of slavery. How did a Bostonian go from studying law at Harvard, to offering his services to the CSA, to being an aide to Union General Hancock, to defending Mrs. Surratt, and finally assisting in the defense of Jefferson Davis? 'Tis a puzzlement to me! Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/07 - 12:31:53 ( # 135)

Lattimer Collection John K. Lattimer had a large collection of Lincoln memorabilia at the time of his passing two years ago...including a large number of Lincoln assassination items. When he died the responsibility of determining what to keep and what to sell was left to his daughter. She made it clear that she would have to auction many items to pay estate taxes. A large auction was held in November of 2008. Does anyone know where any of these items may have ended up? I fear public institutions may not have had the funds to bid and the items are once again in private collections. Rich Smyth ... Milford - PA... 2009/10/07 - 10:15:23 ( # 136)

James Garfield and Abraham Lincoln during the War After many months of absence I hope to more regularly read postings on this site. I have a question, preceded by some background: After James Garfield was commissioned a Major General (following the battle of Chickamauga) he was faced with the need to either resign that post and take his place in the upcoming Congress (December 1863) or do the reverse. The story is that Lincoln advised him to resign his commission in order to be in Congress, and therefore another Republican vote for Lincoln's policies. I have yet to find a source for Lincoln's role in this matter. I do not know if this is oral tradition or if there is a written exchange. Roy Basler's "Works" do not contain any such matter. Neither is there a reference to an exchange between the two men in the standard biographies of Garfield (Peskin and Leech/Brown) or Garfield's published Civil War ear letters. Help? Alan Gephardt ... Baltimore - Maryland ... 2009/10/07 - 08:04:37 ( # 137)

Aiken commendation by Hancock I hope I'm not being a pest here. . . But I found another reference to Frederick in one of Hancock's reports of the day: Same book only a couple of pages before Frederick's letter of report (if anyone can't access the full letter and would like me to type it, please just ask) In writing his own report, Hancock added this: "For the success of the day I am much indebted to the valuable staff officers of my own and other commands whom circumstances placed with me on this occasion. Their intelligence and promptness in carrying orders prevented any errors. Their names are as follows:. . . (after two other names) Captain F A Aiken, volunteer aide to General Smith. . . " I'll keep looking for any report of injuries. . . Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/06 - 19:45:45 ( # 138)

Aiken's letter to Hancock Success!! I found his letter, May 8, 1862: It's rather long, so here is a link (hope this works. . . ) http://digital.library.cornell.edu/cgi/t/text/pageviewer-idx?c=moawar;cc=moawar;q1=fred%20a%20aiken;rgn=full%20text;idno=waro0012;didno=waro0012;view=image;seq=564;page=root;size=s;frm=frameset Basically he tells about delivering messages from Hancock to other officers, asking for reinforcements, communicating Hancock's position, etc, while serving as Hancock's 'aide-de-camp' at the Battle of Williamsburg, May 5. He closes the letter of report with, "I am sir, very truly and respectfully, your obedient servant, Fred. A. Aiken, Captain and volunteer A.D.C. to General Smith, and your acting A.D.C. on the 5th instant." No mention in this of any injuries. . . will keep looking. Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/06 - 19:31:46 ( # 139)

Aiken If Frederick is from Hardwick, then it is possible his parents are Solomon and Susan Aiken of Hardwick, Caledonia Vermont. They are listed in the 1850 Federal Census: Frederick A Aiken, 17, born in Massachussetts, with presumably his parents Solomon 58, born Mass, and Susan 46, born Mass. Both Solomon and Frederick are listed as farmers. Also with the family is a young girl, Frances C, 5, born in Vermont. I traced Solomon Aiken and I think he may be from Hardwick, Worcester, Massachussetts. He is shown in the 1860 census, Hardwick, with his wife Susan, daughter Frances, and a boy Charles. I looked at Hardwick Massachussetts vital records and couldn't find a marriage for Solomon and Susan or a birth for Frederick. Solomon (not sure if same one) is also listed in several US pension lists. He died in 1870 and is listed in the 1870 mortality schedule. Solomon is probably the son of Atwood and Hannah Aiken, bp Jul 31, 1791; it looks like his grandfather may have been James Aikens, b. 1692, in Lanarkshire, Scotland (which I believe includes Glasgow) and died in Massachussetts. I had thought that Frederick's middle name Argyll might indicate a connection with the Campbell Clan, who hail from Argyll and whose chief is often called Argyll, or Duke of Argyll, but I found the Aiken family was associated with the Gordon clan. Perhaps his mother is part of the Campbell clan. Then again, maybe not. . . maybe they just liked the name Argyll. . . Still no proof these are his parents, (notice I used lots of 'may be; perhaps; could be' lol!) but if we could find proof he is indeed from that area this could be him. Did the full obituary say his parents name? Where did the assumption that he had Scottish roots come from? The search continues. Too bad all my time is 'off-the-clock!' LOL! Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/06 - 16:41:34 ( # 140)

Aiken I am on my last gasp as far as getting full details on Frederick Aiken. Christine, you have located more than anyone else - now we need to find out if he truly was wounded at Gettysburg. I did contact the Huntington Library in San Marino, California, which has a good file on the assassination and Mary Surratt. However, their curator informed me that they had nothing pertaining to Aiken. Next step, I'll figure out a way to break into the National Archives! Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/06 - 13:55:59 ( # 141)

Frederick Aiken Christine,Great job of research.I just got an e-mail today.It stated that,1.He was from South Hardwick,VT-2-He went to Middlebury College from-1855-1857.What an Enigma!Herb Swingle Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/10/05 - 20:45:31 ( # 142)

Did you know Lincoln died April 14, 1865? Well, that's according to the Topps Heritage Card Series "Political Heroes" Card #18. LOL. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/10/05 - 15:18:55 ( # 143)

Frederick Aiken Whew. I'm glad to know I'm not the only one having a hard time finding hard evidence of Frederick Aiken. I have found a few clues that I'd love to share with you, in the hopes that we can use each other's ideas to find more about him. I found a brief biographical sketch of his wife Sarah Olivia Weston Aiken, which gave some information about Frederick. "Sarah Olivia Weston was born at West Randolph, Vermont September 28, 1837. Until the age of sixteen her education was supervised at home by her father . . . she continued her studies at Boston . . . she being the second of a few female students to whom the privilege of Harvard University were granted. . . After her marriage, in Randolph, to Mr Frederick Argyll Aiken, of Vermont, a lawyer who had studied law in her father's office, she settled in Burlington, Vermont, where her husband purchased and edited a newspaper. . . "At the opening of the Civil War, Mrs Aiken removed with her husband to Washington DC, where the latter established himself as a lawyer, a profession in which he soon attained distinction, having been the attorney for Mrs. Surratt, one of the Lincoln conspirators. He entered the army and served on General Hancock's staff, with the rank of Colonel, throughout the War of the Rebellion. "At the close of the war he became managing editor of the Washington Post, The Chronicle, and other papers of the capital city, and was engaged mainly in journalism until his death in 1878, resulting from injuries he received in the war. Mr. Aiken was also interested in national politics and at one time served as The Secretary of the National Democratic Committee. "After her husband's death, Mrs. Aiken was obliged to enter the Government service and held the position as clerk in the Treasury Department until her death on May 25, 1900. She left no children." (Several Ancestral Lines of Josiah Edson and his wife Sarah Pinney. . . by Harry Weston Van Dyke, 1901) I have been unable to find a marriage record for Sarah and Frederick. I found a couple of possible leads to his Civil War service: In the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies he is listed as corrosponding with Winfield Scott. (Fred A Aiken, Official records of the Union and Confederate Armies, 1861-1865 > Series I: Formal reports, both Union and Confederate, with related correspondence orders, and retur… > Serial No 012 (Vol 11, pt 1) p. 546: Reports on the Peninsular Campaign, Va, Mar 17-Sept 2, 1862) I don't know how to access this/these letters, but this does show some connection between Frederick Aiken and General Winfield Scott Hancock. Perhaps someone with access to these reports could look into this further. I found a Frederick Acan who enlisted in the Union Army July 1861 in the NY 82nd Infantry. I don't know if this is our Frederick Aiken, but he enlisted in DC. Upon reading a short history of the regiment I learned that it was originally recruited in NY, and then traveled to DC, and accepted more enlistments. They were attached to the 1st Brigade, 2nd division, 2nd corps. After passing the winter 1861-1862 in defense of DC, they moved to participate in the Pensinular campaign in the spring of 1862. (see letters from Fred Aiken to Hancock, Pensinular campaign). I believe the 2nd corps was Hancock's (if I'm wrong, somebody please correct me!) The regiment participated in Yorktown, Five Oaks, Seven Days Fighting, Antietam, Fredericksburg, and Chancellorsville, They also fought at Gettysburg and suffered great losses; out of 365 engaged, 192 lost. The story is that Frederick was injured at Gettysburg; if so he may have defended against Pickett's charge, as Hancock was defending the center of the hill on July 3, which resulted in the defeat of the confederates; some say not just for that one battle, but ultimately for the entire war. Frederick (or at least his wife) lived in DC in a boarding house located at First East Street - now the Capital grounds, during the winter of 1863 - 64. They were referenced in a book (Sixty Years at Concord and Elsewhere by Henry McFarland) He listed people who lived at the boarding house, " . . . Frederick A Aiken, a lawyer who afterward appeared in the defense of Mrs. Surratt, when that woman was tried for her complicity in the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, and his wife.” I found tax records which Frederick was assessed on a 'Intelligences Building.' in 1865 - 1866. These are from US IRS Tax Assessment Lists, 1862 - 1918. Fredk A Aiken, line 36, District of Columbia, lawyer, number in abstract 216, tax $10.00 (1865, roll title Special Lists; Sept. 1864-Dec. 1865; NARA Series M760, roll 7) FA Akein, line 5, note of demand, District of Columbia, lawyer, number in abstract 216, 4/12, $3.33 (1865, roll title Special Lists; Sept. 1864-Dec. 1865; NARA Series M760, roll 7) Frederk A Aiken, line 15, District of Columbia, lawyer, number in abstract 216, tax $10.00. (1866, roll title Annual Lists; 1866; NARA Series M760, roll 4) Not alot of concrete evidence, but at least a few things to go on. If anyone can access the letters to Hancock, I would love to see copies, or read abstracts; aybe those would provide more clues to his service. I have not been able to find Frederick and Sarah in any census records yet, nor have I found anything about his parents. I would love to read the full obituary, since I have only been able to find a short paragraph. Thank you all for your help. It really is interesting trying to put a 'face' to a name. Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/10/05 - 14:03:23 ( # 144)

Fido's finale Roger: What a fascinating (though tragic)story about Fido! That's what I love about this forum. I have never read that story anywhere, but I'm not even close to having read the number of books that the contributors to this forum have obviously read. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/10/05 - 11:16:06 ( # 145)

Merrill Peterson I have never read his book-but I just ordered it. Based on comments here in this forum I'm really looking forward to reading it. I'll let you all know what I think of it. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/10/05 - 11:12:26 ( # 146)

fido i had no idea, thanks.a sad end kevin a kearns ... aylett - va... 2009/10/03 - 22:22:07 ( # 147)

Merrill Peterson I must add my thoughts on the passing of Merrill Peterson. His book was and remains a wonder. For those of us who think we are steeped in the Lincoln story, it is amazing how comprehensive his book is; it touches basically on any aspect of his life and times and as well as the years before and since. His was the long view, with all of the detail to accompany his points. He was an amazingly great historian in the very best sense of the word and we are all the richer for it. T. Trimborn ... Kirksville - Missouri... 2009/10/03 - 19:30:42 ( # 148)

Fido's finale Thanks for the explanation Mr Norton Paul ... 2009/10/03 - 09:58:48 ( # 149)

The death of Fido Paul, because of the nature of Fido's passing, and the fact that young children visit my Fido page (often as a class when a teacher takes them to the library), I have purposely chosen not to tell this sad story on my Fido page. I am an animal lover myself, and I think it's enough for a first grader to know that Fido died, but that it's not necessary for the child to know the exact manner until they are older. In other words, I have chosen to "censor" my own website. Fido was tragically killed, and it happened early in 1866 less than a year after the assassination. An elderly, homeless man was sitting along the street and Fido happened by. Trying to be friendly, Fido reared up and put his paws on the man's chest. The man apparently got scared and thrust a knife into Fido's body. The mortally injured dog struggled to return home but couldn't make it. He crawled into the shade under Springfield's old Universalist Church on the corner of 5th and Cook Streets. There the dog lay down to die. The Roll family who had been caring for him later found him there. Roger Norton ... 2009/10/03 - 04:23:43 ( # 150)

Fido I heard that some drunk shot and killed Fido on the street in Springfield Paul ... 2009/10/02 - 17:08:09 ( # 151)

Fido Kevin, Please go to Roger Norton's wonderful website - Abraham Lincoln Research Site - for full details on Fido, the Lincolns' dog. He was given to a neighbors' family (the Rolls family) to take care of and did very well. He was brought back to the Lincoln home the day of the Lincoln funeral to be there for the mourners, and then he went back with his adopted family and lived about a year. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/10/02 - 13:29:16 ( # 152)

fido i was wondering who took care of lincolns dog when he went to dc in 1861,spurs,boots,aiken?? lets get more info about his dog kevin a kearns ... aylett - va... 2009/10/02 - 01:30:54 ( # 153)

Passing of Merrill D. Peterson Sad news - Dr. Merrill D. Peterson has died at the age of 88. His book, "Lincoln in American Memory," has been an invaluable resource for me for many years. I really cannot say too much about this wonderful book, and I would recommend it to everybody. The book was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in 1994. In a 1995 interview with NPR, Dr. Peterson said, "I'm always dumbfounded by the power of the Lincoln Memorial. I have great admiration for the Jefferson Memorial...but it does not move me the way the Lincoln Memorial does, and that's, you see, the difference about Lincoln. Lincoln brings up chokes in the throat or maybe even tears to the eyes." Roger Norton ... 2009/10/01 - 09:41:30 ( # 154)

Herb Herb, Naw, I think I'll quit posting here also, things seem to go down hill when I question someone that has knowledge or facts, and I always end up in some kind of trouble, or get "flamed" and most times, I bring this on myself. This is a GREAT site and I wish the Snellers well, as they have been too kind to me. Randal Berry www.Texasreptiles.com www.Lincoln-Assassination.com Randal Berry ... 2009/09/30 - 20:36:34 ( # 155)

Frederick Aiken Randall-Keep posting-At times you are the last word-Sorry,I am very frustrated at trying to find the truth about thi guy.I have decided to take a break from the Mailbag for a while.Thanks-Herb Swingle Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/09/30 - 18:47:29 ( # 156)

OUCH! Herb, Truly I wasn't laughing at you, just the information you provided. I am sorry if I hurt your feelings.I have been called worst than a know-it-all! I'll try to restrain myself in the future and not post too much. Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/09/30 - 17:56:09 ( # 157)

Aiken Again I am about ready to give up on finding any more information on Frederick Aiken. I had e-mailed our contact at the Manuscripts Division of the Lauringer Library at Georgetown University. As many of you know, they hold the unpublished ms of David Rankin Barbee. While I don't agree with some of Barbee's positions, he did an incredible amount of research. However, he obviously didn't search out info on Aiken. I received word that they found no file on Aiken in Barbee's papers. Supposedly Aiken is in an unmarked grave at Oak Hill Cemetery in Georgetown. If I can find the grave, I'm digging it up and shaking this man's bones until they yield some information about his military career!! Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/30 - 09:36:14 ( # 158)

"Morning, Noon, and Night" Over the past few weeks I have received some e-mailed questions from staff members working on Robert Redford's "The Conspirator." Most of the questions have been easy to research, but I had problems with one of them. I was asked if I knew the name of the artist responsible for "Morning, Noon, and Night." "Morning, Noon, and Night" was one of many pictures found in the Surratt boardinghouse by the authorities. I think its primary significance was that Anna Surratt had hidden a photo of John Wilkes Booth in the back of "Morning, Noon, and Night." She did this because her brother, John, was furious she had a photo of JWB. I have an image of "Morning, Noon, and Night" on my Mary Surratt web page at http://home.att.net/~rjnorton/Lincoln26.html I tried to research the artist, but I didn't find much. Possibly Laurie has already answered this as I know she has had many contacts with Redford's people. If not, does anyone know the artist? I came up with James Henry Beard, but I felt the source was not definitive. I wonder if anyone knows a definitive source for the artist's name. Thanks. I was also asked how I acquired the image of "Morning, Noon, and Night." Way back in 1996, when I created my website, a donor who requested anonymity sent that image to me (via file attachment). Therefore, I refused to answer that question. I think they are looking to provide clearance for their legal department in order to use the image in the upcoming movie. Roger Norton ... 2009/09/30 - 08:46:46 ( # 159)

Frederick Aiken Randall-Baby Do not Be such a know it all Hater!Try the Georgetown Special Collections Libary.Show some class,and PLAY with me privatly.The reason I posted that is because, from what I found I do not know what to believe. and I asked for help. can you understand that? Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/09/30 - 06:23:48 ( # 160)

Frederick Aiken1234 In 1866 a booklet was compiled by Francis H. Brown, M.D., titled: "Roll of Students of Harvard University Who Served in the Army or Navy of the United States During the War of the Rebellion," published by Welch, Bigelow in Cambridge, MA. It lists all students (and those leaving to enlist)from the university as well as the Law, Medical, and Divinity schools. This included members from the class of 1818 to the prospective class of 1868. There is no entry for a Frederick A. Aiken. Robert Todd Lincoln is listed as graduating with the class of 1864. Blaine Houmes ... Cedar Rapids - IA... 2009/09/29 - 21:29:50 ( # 161)

Corbett Boston? I was laughing so hard,when I penned this post I inverted his name! It's Mr. Boston Corbett! Apologies all around. LOL! Randal Berry ... 2009/09/29 - 21:16:23 ( # 162)

Herb, Herb, Herb......... Aiken had the hot's for Anna or her mom? Where on earth did you un-earth this? What's next? Corbett Boston fathered a child in 1867? This is incredible! Really, what source is this from? uhh, the Anna comment. Randal Berry ... 2009/09/29 - 20:05:04 ( # 163)

Frederick Aiken He is the most elusive enigma I have ever tried to find in US History,1-he is from Hardwick. VT-went to Middlebury college 1855-57.2-Graduated from Harvard law-NO record.3-Was with Gen Smith or Hancock--NO record.4- coresponded with Jefferson Davis before and after the Civil War.5---It is suggested that he might of had the hots for Anna+ Mary Surratt!6-He embezeled his law partner Clampitt.7--He was either a Col or Capt.Take this info and HELP.PS.-All of this info comes from reputable universities special collections libraries. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/09/29 - 19:11:55 ( # 164)

The Spur Again Our inside source at Ford's Theatre, Curator Gloria Swift, has returned from leave and has answered my inquiry regarding how many spurs are in the possession of NPS. Unfortunately, for our research, they have only one, and it came to them via Osborn Oldroyd's collection on August 30, 1926. It is for a left boot, measures 3/4" at its widest, and is made of brass. The circular "pizza cutter" at the rear has fourteen teeth. (Yes, she used the proper term, but I didn't write fast enough.) Gloria posed another question for us to ponder: What became of Booth's clothing after the autopsy? Did he remain partially clothed during the autopsy? Is there any mention of clothing at the time of his remains being returned to the family in 1869? Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/29 - 14:14:34 ( # 165)

Photos of one spur I finally got over to the USNA museum to photograph their JWB spur. Recall that this one was reportedly picked up on the stage at Ford's Theatre by a Union cavalry soldier named Samuel B. Ream following Booth's escape. It is claimed to have been pulled from Booth's heel by the treasury flag draping Lincoln's box, and to have broken either then or when it hit the stage. Ream said that he welded the break at a later date--a repair which is clearly visible in one of the photographs I have posted here: http://www.backcreekbooks.com/bbd.php When we last mentioned the spur question I think Laurie was waiting to hear from Ford's Theatre regarding the spur(s) they have--one of which I believe descended through Oldroyd's original collection having been purchased from a Southern Maryland gentleman down the road from Mrs. Mudd's house. Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Merryland... 2009/09/29 - 13:34:14 ( # 166)

Aiken Laurie, Was looking in the OR and found where you got your reference to Aiken. The way I look at his report he signs it "Capt. and Volunteer A.D.C. to General Smith, and your acting A.D.C. on the 5th instant" which would say to me that he was a indeed a commissioned captain and then volunteered with Smith and later with Hancock. As I'm sure you are well aware, the OR has no other listing of either F.A. Aiken or Fred A. Aiken. Best Rob Rob Wick ... 2009/09/29 - 12:51:06 ( # 167)

Connemara We just finished a week with our daughter in South Carolina, and during a "day trip" we came upon Connemara, Carl Sandburg's beautiful home for the last 22 years of his life. Don't miss this wonderful attraction if you are ever traveling in western North Carolina. Our NPS guide was terrific. The view from one of the upstairs rooms is so breathtaking that Mr. Sandburg refused to use it as his office for fear he would get nothing done due to the distraction. The 9,000 square foot house sits on almost 250 acres, plenty of room for Mrs. Sandburg's goats to roam. A must see if you're ever in the vicinity (located in Flat Rock which is south of Asheville). Roger Norton ... 2009/09/28 - 15:43:12 ( # 168)

Aiken Kate, I have been searching for info on Aiken also. The only thing that I can posit about his military record is a line that I used in the Aiken article that I did for the Surratt newsletter. There was reference to him being a "volunteer aide" to General Hancock. Does the word "volunteer" indicate that he was not on the military payroll and thus would have no records? It's a far-out guess, but... I'm just as stumped as everyone else. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/28 - 15:29:35 ( # 169)

Aiken Kate, I really hate to say this, but your best bet is asking Michael Kauffman. If anyone would know the in's and out's about Aiken, my $ is on Mike. Here's the caveat, he's extremely busy and get's inundated with requests all the time. However, (and I hate putting this pressure on him), he's the "go to" guy for, probably ANY information regarding the assassination. The reason I hate to say this is, I hope he doesn't get mad at me for mentioning this! LOL! Randal Berry ... 2009/09/27 - 21:57:38 ( # 170)

Speaking of bogus. ...check out the cdv of JWB offered here: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270459226414 Notice that the seller can't absolutely guarantee that the gent pictured is John Wilkes Booth, but having themselves bought it "as a genuine picture" and then completed "some research" they believe it is indeed Booth. Despite the fact that it looks nothing like him and is plainly marked on the back as being a Harvard science student transferred to West Point. Take one part eBay, two parts Antiques Roadshow, add any Civil War era cdv, and voila! I haven't seen it for awhile but for a long time there was a silly photo going around purporting to Abraham and Mary Lincoln together with something like a $5 million opening bid on eBay. Silliness everywhere. Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Maryland... 2009/09/27 - 21:01:25 ( # 171)

Booth's Derringer Can anyone point me in the direction of Booth having bought a matched set of his .44 cal. derringer? The Henry Deringer Company in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania sold matched sets of their "pocket pistol",for $25.00 in the late 1850's. Anybody have a clue what happened to the "other" one, IF indeed Booth bought a matched pair? Randal Berry ... 2009/09/27 - 20:55:23 ( # 172)

Frederick Aiken So, I have been digging around and I cannot find any record of Frederick Aiken in Civil War soldier records. In his obit (Washington Post) he is referred to as Colonel, but I have no idea where that comes from. Anyone out there know? I have read the lengthy obituary in the Washington Post, and frankly, it is over-the-top. Now I am questioning the veracity of what was published in it. Does anyone have any independent information that supports the claim that Aiken served the Union during the Civil War, or anything else other than being a poor defense attorney and stealing money from his law partner John Clampitt? Thanks, Kate Kate Larson ... Winchester - MA... 2009/09/27 - 19:19:43 ( # 173)

William Safire 1929-2009 Noted Columnist William Safire died today at the age of 79. Among his works was the 1987 novel "Freedom: A Novel of Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. Tom Lapsley ... Fairview - OR... 2009/09/27 - 17:37:06 ( # 174)

Aiken Christine,From what I could gleen about Aiken.He was from Vermont and graduated from Middlebury College.Supposedly he was a Capt.with General Hancock at Gettysburg.BUT,do read Laurie's story about him.It will be interesting if you can come up with his Civil War record and other info about him and Pre-Mary Surratt experiences.Go For It!Herb Swingle Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/09/24 - 19:26:24 ( # 175)

Booth's boot The CDV image of Booth's boot appears periodically on the market and has also been reproduced identified as George Washington's boot. E.M Wentworth (later changed his name to Worth) started his "American Museum" in Boston, competing with P.T. Barnum's "American Museum" in New York City. Worth charged a dime admission, Barnum charged a quarter. Worth later had a similar museum in New York, opening in 1888. Both gave the public what it wanted, at times disregarding historical accuracy, let alone taste. There were other, similar CDVs also sold (usually with the same disembodied hand holding the object) including one with "Abraham Lincoln's Straight Razor." Blaine ... Houmes - Cedar Rapids, IA... 2009/09/22 - 16:19:15 ( # 176)

Aiken Article Christine, Good luck finding very much material on Frederick Aiken. I wrote an article for the Surratt Courier, a monthly newsletter that goes out to 1500+ associates of Surratt House, about six months back when I was proofing the script for the upcoming Redford movie, The Conspirator. Luckily, the late, great James O. Hall had a small file on him in our research center. I would also like to know what battle or battles he fought in. The information in the file mentions one battle without a name and says he was seriously wounded, having two horses shot out from under him. His obituary mentions these wounds perhaps leading to his early death at age 41. If you would like a copy of the article I did, send me a note at work laurie.verge@pgparks.com. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/22 - 15:29:31 ( # 177)

"auction" boot I said it "appears" to be another boot. Of course it's not Booth's boot, and the poor schmuck that paid dang near 300 bux for it, is ,well, sorry. hahahahaha! Randal Berry ... 2009/09/22 - 15:10:20 ( # 178)

Good Grief! I went to that online auction site and nearly fell out of my chair laughing at that photo of the so-called Booth boot! I think we can safely delete it from the files of footwear attributed to JWB. My first reaction was that, if it belonged to any famous person, it would have to be Annie Oakley. Booth's boots came over his knee. This boot is maybe mid-calf. His did not lace up the front - this one does (like a showgirl's). And I guess we are supposed to believe that Booth broke his big toe and not his fibula - hence the toe area being cut away. I still await word from Ford's Theatre on their spur(s). The last time I tried to send them an e-mail, it bounced saying that the NPS router database was full. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/22 - 12:49:28 ( # 179)

Frederick Aiken I've been trying to find out more information about Frederick Aiken. Laurie mentioned doing some research about him and writing an article. Do you have a link to that article? I can't seem to find him in civil war records. Which battles did he serve in? Thanks for any information. Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/09/22 - 12:32:28 ( # 180)

Artifacts I think you hit the nail on the head Joe! Provenance? What provenance? Someone should throughly investigate all of these supposed artifacts. As I stated earlier, there were a lot of souvineer hunters back in the day, and today on internet sites, auction sites, there are a lot of questionable items offered. Why, just recently I have seen hair strands from Lincoln and Mary Surratt offered on a MAJOR auction site (rhymes with ray) LOL! Randal Berry ... 2009/09/21 - 18:25:26 ( # 181)

boots Holy Nancy Sinatra!! Another boot. Don't "spur" us the details. This is an interesting topic and it sometimes makes one wonder about some of the other artifacts of mixed provenance that are out there. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/09/21 - 17:07:11 ( # 182)

Boots/Spurs So by my calculations, we have 5 spurs and three boots! LOL! Randal Berry ... 2009/09/21 - 11:48:03 ( # 183)

and...another boot There appears to be another boot! Check out this auction! http://www.cowanauctions.com/past_sales_view_item.asp?itemid=28867 Randal Berry ... 2009/09/21 - 08:53:21 ( # 184)

The "Oldroyd" Spur My guess is, Detectives searched the Mudd house from top to bottom. Especially after Mrs. Mudd produced the boot. Bell's must have went off when they saw it. (the boot)and probably did a through search for more evidence. And, if she spectulated the "spur" might be worth something someday, and that's why she hid/saved it, can only mean one thing, that she knew it was Booth that night, which means beyond a doubt, that they (he) was guilty as charged. Randal Berry ... 2009/09/20 - 23:30:49 ( # 185)

Booth's Spur{s} Rock; The photo I mentioned of Booth's boot with the spur resting in place on the heel of the boot, with no strap attachment, is, I believe, a Ford's Theater photo. I saw it at Surratt's House this week on a board with several other photos which was put together by John Howard. Take Care Rick Smith ... Spencerville - maryland... 2009/09/19 - 17:44:48 ( # 186)

Mudd[y] Spur I must admit that I also thought of that Southern Maryland gentleman pulling a scam on Oldroyd too. However, why would Mrs. Mudd have sent Oldroyd directly to that one man? Of course, Mr. Unknown could have sold a "fake" spur and kept the real one. I frankly think we have one of the unsolved mysteries that lurk as sidebars to the assassination story. As for the photo that I mentioned, I realized after I posted that it was likely an NPS staged photo. I'll check again, but I'm sorry if I misled everyone. Hopefully we'll get a response of some sort from Ford's soon. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/19 - 17:15:07 ( # 187)

Booth's spur(s) Thanks Laurie and Rick. Laurie, your scenario for the Oldroyd spur is quite plausible. Of course I must admit that my instinct has the Southern Maryland gentleman chuckling at having gotten Oldroyd's 50 bucks for some old spur he had out in the barn. What about the photograph you mentioned showing the boot Mudd cut from Booth's foot with the spur still attached? Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Maryland... 2009/09/19 - 09:15:07 ( # 188)

Booth's Spur{s} Rock; You are most welcome. Unless there was some sort of defect in the steel or brass of the spur, I just can't imagine one breaking, but I suppose it is not impossible. Even if a spur did break, the strap attachment would still hold it to the boot. If you would like, Laurie or I can email you a picture of one of my boots with a spur attached which shows how securely a spur is fixed. Better yet, come to Surratt's for a tour and see it in person. I think that Laurie has been in touch with Ford's but has not received a response. Take Care. Rick Smith ... Spencerville - Maryland... 2009/09/18 - 17:30:38 ( # 189)

Spurs Rock, I'm sure that Rick Smith will send a much more detailed response to your question of a spur breaking and detaching, but after seeing Rick's boot and spur, my instinct is NO WAY. You really need to see the photo that Rick took of his boot and spur up close and personal. E-mail either of us (laurie.verge@pgparks.com or smthsgrdns@aol.com) for a copy. I, too, am very suspicious of all the spurs now. One idea that I had that might lend credence to the Oldroyd story of acquiring from Mrs. Mudd's acquaintance: Dr. Mudd removed the spur from the boot so that he could grasp the boot better in order to remove it. If I remember correctly, he cut straight down the front of the boot, but not into the instep portion. So the foot would still be gently extracted from the actual "shoe" portion. The spur was laid to one side and didn't go under the bed when the boot was kicked there. Mrs. Mudd held onto the spur instead of giving it to the authorities. The only "souvenir hunters" would be the soldiers who remained on guard for quite some time. A smart woman would know exactly where to hide that spur in her house. We know that she was desperate for money during the four years that Dr. Sam was in prison. Therefore, we can speculate that she might have sold the spur to the neighbor for some income. That neighbor held it as a memento until Oldroyd made him an offer he couldn't refuse. That's my female view of things. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/18 - 16:25:39 ( # 190)

Original Times Article Thanks Roger, I am doing research on some of the things that pop up about Lincoln on the internet. I am really trying to find the original text of the article in the "Times of London" from March of 2001. Is there anyone out there who has access to the original article? Michael Burkhimer ... Audubon - PA... 2009/09/18 - 15:51:42 ( # 191)

Me Again I just received information on the US Treasury Guards flag at Ford's Theatre from Park Ranger Eric Martin, a very personable historian who is also a member of the Surratt Society. Eric reports that the flag is on display in the new museum. There is a definite tear in that flag, which can be seen "on close observation on your right on the flag's edge near the center." Eric has passed my question about how many spurs and the provenance on to the deputy superintendent of Ford's Theatre, Rae Emerson, for a response. You'll hear from me again once I hear from Rae. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/18 - 12:56:45 ( # 192)

Booth's Spur(s) Thanks for the great information Rich. From your description of the fitting and attachment of spurs it seems very unlikely that Booth lost one at Ford's, despite more than one witness claiming to have picked up one of Booth's spurs on the stage after his leap. But what about this notion of spurs breaking? If one broke at the heel, would that release it to fall off, or would it still be attached to the foot by its straps? The provenance of the spur that came to Ford's through Oldroyd frankly doesn't seem any more credible than that for the one at the Naval Academy. The most telling thing still seems to me to be whether or not Ford's has a matching pair that individually trace back to Booth. Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Maryland... 2009/09/18 - 11:35:33 ( # 193)

False Rumors about Spielberg movie Mike, I could not locate an archived version of that Drudge Report, but I did find an old "Stax Report" that I think covers pretty much the same false rumors. ---------------------------- Spielberg Sharpens the Hatchet for Lincoln? by Stax March 20, 2001 - It was recently announced that DreamWorks Pictures had bought the film rights to acclaimed historian Doris Kearns Goodwin's yet-to-be-published biography of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. It is widely believed that DreamWorks honcho Steven Spielberg will also direct Lincoln, which will examine Honest Abe's bloody 1861-65 term in the White House. Now there's already been something of a controversy over how The Great Emancipator will be portrayed in both Goodwin's book and Spielberg's film. The trouble exploded this past weekend when the London Sunday Times reported that Spielberg's film "will portray the so-called 'Great Emancipator' as a manic depressive racist who nearly lost the American civil war. The blockbuster will be Hollywood's first attempt to unravel the myths of liberal historians which maintain Lincoln's near saintly image." The Times article quotes Goodwin as saying that her book will not make Lincoln "palatable to the American public, who like their saints saintly." In addition, the Times even suggests that Civil War "battle scenes" for Lincoln will be filmed this fall after Spielberg wraps up production on Minority Report. Bear in mind, however, that the looming actors' and screenwriters' strikes might not even be settled by then and that there is currently no screenwriter attached to pen Lincoln because Goodwin hasn't finished her book yet! (It's due out sometime in 2002 or 2003.) In addition, the Times quotes an unnamed DreamWorks insider who suggests that Lincoln "is a project close to (Spielberg's) heart but he is not interested in a sugary confection". The Times even claims Spielberg was drawn to the figure of Licoln because after "years of medical problems, culminating in the removal of a kidney and orders to slow down, Spielberg is said to identify with the stresses that haunted Lincoln and Mary Todd, his rich socialite wife." Steven Spielberg I was literally in the midst of writing this article up last night ¿ including some rather heated historical observations formed by my own extensive reading on Lincoln ¿ when I happened across this article at The Boston Herald. The Herald flatly states that "the (Times) story isn't true, at least according to Spielberg's spokesman and to presidential biographer Doris Kearns Goodwin". The Boston Herald interviewed hometown historian Goodwin who referred to the Times story as "absurd". Spielberg spokesman Marvin Levy also said that the filmmakers "consider the London Times story hogwash." According to The Herald, the allegation that Lincoln will be portrayed as an outright racist have particularly irked Goodwin and Spielberg. "Goodwin says that like many progressive politicians of his day, Lincoln, hoping to be elected, said during various campaigns that blacks and white 'could not easily live together in our country.' He also supported voluntary emigration of black Americans to their homeland in Africa. ... But once president, he experienced a conversion ¿ either born of moral outrage, as Goodwin believes, or of pragmatic politics, ... or maybe of both. In any case, Lincoln outlawed slavery. He pursued passage of the right to vote for all men, at least, at a time when to do so seemed, and proved, a deadly course. 'You have to put things in context of their time,' says Goodwin. 'Tell the story from beginning to middle to end. . . . Lincoln seems to me now greater as a human being and as a leader than I even imagined.'" Abraham Lincoln was obviously a flawed man, very much a product of his era. He did have his prejudices. He did have a stormy marriage. He did suffer from bouts of "melancholy" as they used to call it. Like Goodwin, I also wish that filmmakers (and revisionist historians) will not judge Lincoln by today's allegedly more enlightened standards. Here's another thing to consider about this project. You'll recall that Spielberg once planned on directing a biopic of Charles Lindbergh until he discovered that he was an anti-Semite and a Fascist sympathizer. After that, Spielberg's interest in the project cooled. I can't help but wonder if the same thing could happen with Lincoln if Spielberg grows apprehensive about portraying Honest Abe warts and all? STAX would like to see Lincoln but only if it is a well-informed and responsible portrait. Roger Norton ... 2009/09/18 - 11:34:36 ( # 194)

Booth Genealogy Christine, For help with Booth genealogy, make friends with Dinah Faber, who is the "Booth Lady" for the Harford County Historical Society in Maryland and who is spearheading the move to showcase the Booth family home, Tudor Hall. Dinah can be reached at belairbooths@msn.com. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/18 - 09:21:42 ( # 195)

Booth's Spur Ok, this is lengthy. This info was supplied by James Cheevers - Senior Curator of the US Naval Museum at Annapolis: Booth’s Spur U. S. NAVAL ACADEMY MUSEUM 118 Maryland Avenue Annapolis, Maryland 21402-5034 USNA 51.18.1 Uniform: Footwear: Boot Spur: John Wilkes Booth (1838-65). Material: steel Color: steel gray Dimensions: 1 1/8 x 4 5/8 x 3 inches Maker: unknown Country of origin: U.S. Period/date: 1860s Description: Rounded “Y-shaped” metal device or boot spur; slots for straps in both outer ends of the “U-shaped” shank; one side of the shank shows break and repair; slotted stem, post or neck holds 12-tooth wheel or rowel or prick which is riveted in place; general pattern commonly known as a “Prince of Wales” or English-style spur. Source: Gift of D. L. Reem, 107 North Market St., Elizabethtown, PA, May 6, 1951. Special condition of gift: Donated in memory of his grandnephew, 2d Lieutenant Robert Dale Reem, USMC (1925-50), NA Class of 1948; KIA Korea; MH Historical significance: This boot spur was reputedly worn by the actor John Wilkes Booth (1838-65) on the night of April 14, 1865, when he assassinated President Abraham Lincoln in Ford’s Theater in Washington, DC. The President and Mrs. Lincoln were seated in a box located above the stage and the front of which was decorated with patriotic bunting. Booth entered from the rear of the box, shot Lincoln using a small Derringer pistol, and leapt through the box onto the stage below. His right foot got caught in the bunting and his left ankle was badly injured in the fall. This spur was pulled from the boot by the bunting and broke when it fell on floor below. U.S. Cavalry soldier Samuel B. Ream (1845-1927) of Pennsylvania, who was in the audience, picked up the pieces of the broken spur and kept it as a souvenir. At some later date he repaired the spur by welding. The donation of this boot spur was accompanied by a handwritten statement signed by the donor and it reads: “This stirrup (spur) is presented to the Museum of the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md., by D. L. Reem, Elizabethtown, Pa., in memory of 2nd Lieutenant Robert D. Reem, who graduated from Annapolis Academy, Class of 1948. Lieutenant Reem was killed in Korea, November 6th, 1950, while serving with the U.S. Marines. This stirrup was picked up in Ford’s Theatre, Washington, D. C. by Lieutenant Reem’s USNA 51.18.1 great-great uncle, Samuel B. Reem, who was attending the play the night President Lincoln was shot by John Wilkes Booth. The great-great uncle of Lieutenant Reem at the time was serving as a Union Soldier. The spur was later welded by Uncle Sam Ream, as he was known by his relatives, and was in his possession until 1927, when he died suddenly while attending a convention of the Grand Army of the Republic. Shortly after his death the spur came in possession of D. L. Reem, a great uncle of Lieutenant Reem. Uncle Sam Ream was born at the Reem homestead at Rheems, Pa. in 1845. At nineteen he enlisted in the U.S. Cavalry for the duration of the Civil War. Returning from the war he went to Kansas where he lived the rest of his days. He taught school at Holton, Kansas, where Buffalo Bill (Bill Cody) also taught at the same time. Ream and Cody became very intimate friends. He followed the great scout in the circus business for several years. Later he returned to Holton, Kansas, and entered into business [soft drink bottling]. He never married, but spent much of his earnings assisting poor boys, bearing the expense of rearing and educating four boys, all of whom are living but one, who was only seventeen years old when Uncle Sam died. The young man mourned his death and died of a broken heart two weeks later. [According to a later newspaper article Sam Ream “dropped dead on a boat on Lake Michigan, while throwing coins to kids on the shore.] During his career he served several terms in the Kansas Legislature. Since one of the descendants of S. B. Ream, has made such an unusual, short career, it is only fitting that this cherished relic be placed in the Annapolis Museum as a token of the patriotic deed performed by 2nd Lieutenant Robert Dale Reem on Nov. 6th, 1950.” Signed: D. L. Reem. Along with the boot spur D. L. Reem provided a press clipping from the Lancaster, PA, Sunday News, dated April 11, 1937, with an article titled “Booth’s Broken Spur Owned by Man in Lancaster County.” The article quotes a message written about the spur by Samuel B. Ream himself on the back of a carte de visite photograph of Daniel Snyder and himself [see USNA 51.18.2] which read: “This stirrup (spur) was picked up by me in Ford’s Theatre at Washington, DC, on the night Lincoln was shot. I was attending the play of the evening. Jumping from the box seat in the gallery, this stirrup caught in the American flag and threw him [John Wilkes Booth] to the stage below, tearing this from his foot. I picked both pieces up.” On a visit to the Lincoln Museum located in the old Ford’s Theater on November 3, 1952, Captain Wade DeWeese, USN(Ret), then Director, U.S. Naval Academy Museum, saw a spur on exhibit identified as coming from a boot worn by John Wilkes Booth on the night he assassinated President Lincoln. DeWeese wrote the Lincoln Museum about this second spur and received the following reply: USNA 51.18.1 “The spur on display was acquired by O. H. Oldroyd who spent a lifetime collecting Lincolniana. The Government purchased his collection in 1926 and it is now a part of the items at the Lincoln Museum. In William Benham’s Life of Osborn H. Oldroyd, the circumstances surrounding the purchase of the spur are given as follows: ‘Mrs. Samuel Mudd received him [Oldroyd on a visit in 1901] cordially upon learning who he was and the nature of his errand. She told Captain Oldroyd that Dr. Mudd upbraided Booth for his rashness and told him that he had inflicted an irreparable injury to the South. She also said that when Booth arrived at their home his ankle and leg were so badly swollen that it was necessary to slit the bootleg to get his foot out of it. Speaking of the spur which was attached to the boot she said it was in the possession of a gentleman living about eight miles farther up the road. Bidding her adieu Captain Oldroyd continued his journey to the home of the possessor the spur and after some dickering with him he became the owner and possessor the relic at a cost of fifty dollars.’” Later observers of both the spur in the Naval Academy Museum and the specimen in Ford’s Theater point out that the two spurs are not a matching set. Correspondence in 1973 with Dr. Richard D. Mudd, a descendant of the doctor who treated Booth, stated that “from every account Booth only wore one spur and it is at Ford’s Theatre.” Of course, Dr. Mudd was only familiar with the story of the spur acquired by Osborn H. Oldroyd and sold with his collection to the Lincoln Museum in 1926. In December 1975, John C. Brennan, who had corresponded with the Naval Academy Museum about the two different spurs and had concluded that Booth was too vain to have worn mismatched spurs, provided additional information about Booth and his spurs extracted from the records of the investigation of the Lincoln assassination. In a statement by James M. Pumphrey, the keeper of the stable where John Wilkes Booth rented a horse on April 14, 1865, he said “before he mounted he took out a brass spur and put it on his right foot. I could identify the spur if shown to me.” Later in the record it states: “James M. Pumphrey being duly sworn makes the following statement. A spur being shown by Superintendent Richards of the Metropolitan Police the witness states ‘this to the best of my knowledge and belief this spur is the same that J. Wilkes Booth put on at my stable yesterday.’” This statement would have been given on April 15, and thus adds further confusion over how many different spurs Booth may have worn on April 14, 1865. This third spur could not be either the one then with Booth or Dr. Mudd, on April 15, in southern Maryland or the one collected at Ford’s Theater by Samuel B. Ream. Perhaps it was simply a matching spur to the one James M. Pumphrey had observed Booth putting on his right boot the night before. It could be that all three spurs were associated with Booth on April 14, 1865, and that he could have changed spurs and/or the boots themselves between his fleeing Ford’s Theater, renting the horse, and arriving at Dr. Mudd’s home. When he jumped from the box to the stage in the theater it is most likely that he injured the foot and leg opposite from the foot which caught in the bunting and from which he lost the spur. He would have damaged the leg on which he landed and which took the full weight of his body. Since it was his left leg injured, the spur collected from the floor USNA 51.18.1 by Samuel B. Ream probably came off the boot on the right foot. It is interesting that the stable keeper, James M. Pumphrey, testified that he observed Booth put a new spur on his right foot. When Booth was treated by Dr. Mudd, the account indicated that the leg and foot were so swollen it was necessary to cut the boot to remove it. If this was the same boot from which the spur was later collected by Dr. Mudd’s neighbor and subsequently purchased by Captain Oldroyd, it would have been from the left boot. No evidence has been produced to prove that the spur, which U.S. Cavalryman Samuel B. Ream said he collected at Ford’s Theater on the night of April 14, 1865, is not authentic as having been worn by Booth that night. As a cavalryman, too, Ream would have had more than passing knowledge of spurs. The fact that it does not match the second spur at Ford’s Theater, proves that John Wilkes Booth wore more than one set of boots or more than one set of spurs on that fateful evening. The eyewitness record exists that after the assassination he added a new spur to his right boot before mounting a rented horse for his escape into southern Maryland. The Reem’s spur remains in the U.S. Naval Academy Museum as an important historical object and as part of the memorial to Naval Academy alumnus Lieutenant Robert Dale Reem, USMC, killed in action in Korea and awarded the Medal of Honor. References: Chamlee, Jr., Roy Z. Lincoln’s Assassins: A Complete Account of Their Capture, Trial, and Punishment. Jefferson, NC: McCarland & Co., 1990. Guttridge, Leonard F. and Ray A. Neff. Dark Union: The Secret Web of the Profiteers, Politicians and Booth Conspirators That Led to Lincoln’s Death. New York: Wiley, 2003. Kauffman, Michael W. American Brutus: John Wilkes Booth and the Lincoln Conspiracies. New York: Random House, 2004. U.S. Naval Academy Museum documentation file 1951.018.001. Rich Smyth ... Milford - PA... 2009/09/18 - 09:20:54 ( # 196)

Booth's Spur / Spurs Hello All; Laurie Verge asked that I make a response with regard to the spur dabate, more specifically, with regard to whether Booth's spur could have become detached from his boot as he dropped from the President's box. From what I can see in a photo which shows Booth's boot with one of his spurs resting on the boot heel, the spur shown is a very common style of the 19th century, and the 20th century for that matter. I have a pair similar to the one shown in the photo mentioned above. The ends have double slots which are used to thread the strap through. To attach a spur to a boot, the strap is threaded through the slots, then is run under the arch in front of the boot heel, up the other side and through the second set of slots, then over the instep and buckled into place. When the spur is attached properly, it is next to impossible to detach it from the boot without unbuckling the strap and pulling the spur off. Most spurs of this type fit in such a way to be so snug to the boot heel that it takes a little effort to pull it off even after it is unbuckled. This is the way you want spurs to fit. If they do not fit correctly, or are loose, they can be dangerous, especially in the hunt field where a rider is very likely to come up against brush, fencing trees, etc., and any loose or ill fitting equipment can be snagged and can even cause you to be dragged from your mount. I have seen this happen on occasion. The point being that even under these circumstances, the spur remains intact, but the rider does not. As an aside, some riders do opt to wear only one spur. I do not mean to add any confusion to the issue, I think a man of Booth's style and sensabilities would certainly have worn two spurs. And I think that his spurs would have been a matched set. If Booth did get tangled up in the Treasury flag, his weight behind the spur would have easily torn it, but that spur would have stayed firmly fixed to his boot. If you would like to see a photo of one of my boots with a spur attached, as an illustration, email Laurie at her address, or myself at smthsgrdns@aol.com and we would be happy to forward the photo to you. My apologies for having been so lengthy. Rick Smith ... Spencerville - Maryland... 2009/09/18 - 08:52:43 ( # 197)

Old Internet Rumor Hello, I was wondering if anyone here could help me out on an odd request. In 2001 there was a patently false internet rumor that Steven Speilberg was going to make a movie from the then unpublished book about Lincoln by Doris Goodwin. The rumor stated that Lincoln would be shown as a "manic-depressive" racist. Goodwin of course denied this. There was however another part of the rumor that dealt with Mary Lincoln and their marriage. In particular, there was a part of the rumor that said the film would show Mary's role in making Lincoln President. Does anyone have a url or a link to the original story. I don't mean Goodwin's denial. It did run on the Drudge Report but their archives do not go to 2001 when it would have appeared. Any help in this matter would be most appreciated! Mike Burkhimer ... Audubon - PA... 2009/09/17 - 23:05:45 ( # 198)

Suggested reading Thank you all so much for your fantastic suggestions. I can see I'm in for alot of great reading! Can't wait to get started! I am really interested, also, in JWB's genealogy, since my husband grew up thinking he was related to him somehow. But I have been able to show that his Booth ancestors were already in America for at least a generation or two (probably more) before JWB's family came. There was a collective sigh of relief when I was able to set their minds at ease. LOL! Anyway, thank you all again for your great suggestions, and I'll look forward to discussing with you what I learn from my reading. I've often said that genealogists are the most helpful and kind people on the web; I guess I'll have to ammend that to say genealogists and historians! Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/09/17 - 21:27:12 ( # 199)

Oldroyd/American Brutus No way am I buying the Oldroyd story. 36 years had passed and I have a hard time believing "the" spur would have not been snatched up by a collector by then. Souvenir seekers took everything related to the assassination. Including wood from the scaffold, Garrett's, you name it, they took it.Probably the kitchen sink too. On another subject. Mary, I don't think Laurie implied "American Brutus" as "complicated". I think she meant it was the most comprehensive book regarding the subject,and readers would benefit by reading the other two mentioned books to whet their appetite for this subject, and that's a good thing. She used a level of grading 3 good book's on the subject with "American Brutus" being the most informative. That's what I got out of her post. Mike certainly did his homework on "American Brutus", and it shows! And Laurie certainly knows that I am one of Mike's most ardent admirer's. Tis' only my opinion. Now back to the spur/flag subject. "Iv'e got spurs, that go jingle, jangle, jingle" (try to get that song out of your head tonight)! Best, Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/09/17 - 19:04:43 ( # 200)

BRUTUS Mary Kauffman I read Brutus after Randall Berry posted that he could not believe that I have not read Brutus yet.Great book!Every month I E-Mail my mentor Albert Castel at Western Michigan University when I was there during the 1960's.I always ask him for his opinion on Civil War books.Answer-Brutus!Take care-Herb Swingle Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/09/17 - 18:38:56 ( # 201)

Me Again Kauffman cites Capt. John Rankin Gilliland of the 51st Pennsylvania Infantry as being the one who found the spur on the stage at Ford's Theatre and turned it in. That sort of dispels the Samuel Ream claim at the Naval Academy. Laurie ... MD... 2009/09/17 - 16:14:18 ( # 202)

Flag/Spurs I am awaiting word from Ford's Theatre as to how many spurs are in their possession, the provenance, and if they are a matching pair. I have also asked for help on the Treasury Guards flag question. To throw more kindling on the fire: In the Surratt files, I found reference to the Treasury Guards flag being carried in the Lincoln funeral procession. The citation is an article in the Washington Evening Star, April 20, 1865, pg. 1. The article itself was not attached. Anyone want to dig? Does it refer to damage on the flag? I also uncovered a quote from Philadelphia's Sunday Dispatch of April 16, 1865, concerning the spur: "...the spur which he dropped by accident after he jumped to the stage was identified as one of those which he had obtained from the stable where he procured his horse." This citation was found by Dr. Terry Alford, author of the upcoming bio on JWB, in 1990. Expect a posting soon from my volunteer who is quite familiar with spurs. I got a good demonstration today as to how these are attached to a boot, and there is no way in god's little green acres that a flag could rip that sucker off! As far as the above issue of him "dropping" his spur on the stage, a near impossibility even if the buckle came loose. I am hanging tough that one spur came from the Mudds via Oldroyd and the other spur came with Booth's dead body. As for the Academy's flag, I would bet that Samuel Ream was one of the soldiers assigned to the theatre after the event and that family folklore came down that the spur he "found" was actually one that he "wore" during his assignment. Or, as my horse expert says, that spur could well have been part of the stage props that routinely clutter backstage areas at theatres. I am now spurred on to leave work because my energy is flagging. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/17 - 15:56:16 ( # 203)

Surratt books I must take exception to Laurie's implication that American Brutus is complicated and must be eased into by reading other books. The book is filled with well-documented information, but is in no way difficult to understand. Although understanding a book depends on each person's individual reading level, this book has been enjoyed by people of all ages. Mike has used the original sources to document all the information in the book, so it sometimes draws a different conclusion than books that take a more traditional approach to the assassination. I confess I am Mike's wife and it may be argued that I am biased. However, since its publication numerous strangers have contacted Mike to tell him they had no interest in the subject of Lincoln's assassination until they read his book. My daughter even met a 13-year-old girl at camp who was thrilled to meet her, as American Brutus is her favorite book! American Brutus was chosen as a top-ten non-fiction read by The Washington Post, Boston Globe and New York Times, among other media outlets. The Wall Street Journal had it on its top five assassination books of all time (the only book about an American assassination, incidentally) and earlier this month it was listed in a poll as one of the 50 best Civil War books of all time in a poll sponsored by Civil War Interactive. I am the current president of the Surratt Society, a friends organization that supports the Surratt House Museum and hope after looking at the website Laurie recommended, you will consider joining our group. Christine, I hope you enjoy American Brutus as well as all the other books you read! And, please let me know what you think of American Brutus after you read it. Mary ... Kauffman - Maryland... 2009/09/17 - 14:58:56 ( # 204)

learn,learn Learn Christine Welcome-Christine!I am new[about a year]also.These people are the most well read experts about the Lincoln Assassination I have ever watched.Ask questions and give opinions.Read the Assassination books.This is the most fun learning something new I have ever had! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/09/17 - 13:15:19 ( # 205)

Flag at Ford's I was under the impression that the flag which was torn by Booth's spur is, or was, on display at Ford's. I found a picture of it (see link below) and it certainly appears to be torn on the edge. After seeing this flag myself at Ford's some time ago, I have always accepted this as fact. So, is there knowledge that this obvious tear was caused by something else? Was it torn before being hung that day? Or are some of you saying his spur did indeed tear the flag, but it didn't cause his leg to break? If it was caused by his spur, how could he have made a "clean" jump? http://www.awesomestories.com/assets/treasury-guards-flag-torn-by-booths-spur Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/09/17 - 09:42:49 ( # 206)

Welcome Hi Christine, Welcome to the wonderful world of Lincoln and especially to the dramatic events surrounding his death. As the director of the Surratt House Museum, I will warn you that it is an easy topic to become addicted to! If you are just starting to go indepth with the Lincoln assassinaton study, you have definitely chosen the book that will give you tiny little details on every aspect. Mr. Kauffman did a tremendous amount of research. However, I generally recommend starting out a little easier. The book, Manhunt, is not designed to be an indepth encyclopedia of information, but it is a good, basic way of becoming informed on the overall deed and the escape of the assassin - and it's easy to read and digest. I would then recommend reading Blood on the Moon by Dr. Edward Steers, which goes into more depth and considers a variety of theories about the event. By the time you finish with these, you will have a good base for taking in all the fine details of Kauffman's work. Of course, there are many other books on the subject, if you really get hooked. As for the topic of Mary Surratt: First, go to our website - www.surratt.org - and read through what it offers. There are only two books readily available that cover the lady exclusively: An American Tragedy by Elizabeth Trindal and Assassin's Accomplice by Kate Larson. The former leans very heavily towards her innocence, the latter towards her guilt. When you get confused about what to believe, e-mail me at laurie.verge@pgparks.com or go to the Ask the Historians section on our website. Have a Happy History experience. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/17 - 08:41:16 ( # 207)

Booth's spur(s) Looking at Michael Kauffman's book, he specifically mentions a spur found at Ford's Theatre after Booth's flight. Page 19 mentions a spur found on the stage along with a hat. He lists the same spur on page 38 as one of the items of physical evidence found at the scene, and on page 55 he quotes the detective's blotter for April 15 as listing, among other objects taken into evidence from Ford's in connection with the assassination, "...one Slouch hat. One Opera Glass Case, one Spur...," etc. According to the note 39 on page 405 a drawing of this particular spur appeared in the May 6th, 1865 issue of Frank Leslie's. Anyone want to dig that up and compare it to what Ford's has vs. what the USNA Museum has? Anyhoo, I'm thinking Mr. Kauffman probably has something to say on this spur business, especially since, as I said, it logically goes to the issue of where and when Booth broke his leg. The spur found at Ford's could belong to someone other than Booth, of course, but who else would have been wearing them to the theater? Surely none of the actors on stage where it was found. Perhaps someone from the audience who went onstage after the assassination and had their heel stepped on? If Booth did lose a spur at Ford's--presumably by catching it in the flag--how does this affect the evidence Laurie mentions of a spur still attached to the boot cut from Booth's foot by Dr. Mudd? I suppose he could have broken the opposite leg to the one caught in the flag, but for some reason I've always assumed that the caught side would have been the one injured. But that's probably not necessarily so either. The interesting thing, again, will be whether or not Ford's has a matching pair with solid provenance. If so, the one found on stage at Ford's couldn't have been Booth's could it? Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Maryland... 2009/09/16 - 22:06:39 ( # 208)

Surratt books Christine, "The Assassin's Accomplice" by Kate Clifford Larson,should be on your lap. For balance, "Mary Surratt, An American Tragedy" authored by Elizabeth Trindal, on your bookshelf. Both are very good books. I would avoid "The Case of Mary Surratt" by Guy Moore and "The Judicial Murder of Mary E. Surratt" by David Miller Dewitt and Helen Jones Campbell's book, "The Case for Mrs. Surratt" as these three books are outdated. Randal Berry ... 2009/09/16 - 20:03:28 ( # 209)

I have Sur's that go jingle jangle jingle While looking at Timothy Good's book "We Saw Lincoln Shot" There is no mention of Samuel Ream. As Rock mentioned, it was donated to the Naval Academy by a family of a Union soldier who picked it up on the stage shortly after Booth escaped the theatre. Randal Berry ... 2009/09/16 - 19:22:52 ( # 210)

Recommended books about Mary Surratt I'm glad to have found this site! I am really excited about "The Conspirator," especially since James McAvoy will be Frederick Aiken. He is an extremely gifted, talented, and charasmatic actor who will bring depth, compassion, and great emotion to the film. Since I am only just becoming acquainted with the story of Mary Surratt, beyond the basic high school history lessons, I am wondering if those of you who are so knowledgeable would please give me a list of recommended reading material. I just ordered "American Brutus" and would love other suggestions about what to read after that. Thank you all for sharing your insight into this interesting chapter of American History. Christine ... Tremonton - UT... 2009/09/16 - 18:44:11 ( # 211)

Hold on to your Spur(s)! I find it interesting that TWO spurs were entered into evidence in the trial. You can find this on NARA M-599, reel 15, frames 0066-557. These were Military Commision exhibits introduced at the trial.One was described as belonging to Booth and the other a "brass" one. Randal Berry ... 2009/09/16 - 18:12:26 ( # 212)

Hold Onto Your Horses! The spur question deepens! I can't answer Rock's latest inquiry about how tightly a spur held to a boot, but I have contacted several of my horse experts to see if they have an answer. However, my research librarian did some digging in the James O. Hall files and came up with correspondence on the spur issue dating back to 1946 when a Baltimore lady was attempting to interest the Interior Department into acquiring what could possibly be a 4th spur! She basically got the brush-off from the assistant superintendent of the National Park Service -- lack of sufficient provenance. There is a letter from a Mr. Jeffries of the Naval Academy dated 1975, in which he informs a Surratt Society member that they are aware of the discrepancies between the spurs in appearance. The Academy acquired their spur in 1951 from a descendant of Samuel Ream, a Union veteran. Mr. Jeffries hints that Booth wore mismatched spurs, which is highly unlikely. There is also a poor photo of the spur at the Naval Academy, and it appears much too delicate for a man's boot. The Ford's Theatre spur is much more substantial and just looking at the picture, one can tell that it would be nearly impossible for a flag or even the railing itself to rip that spur off. One of my museum volunteers is an accomplished horseman, wears spurs with his tour outfit, etc. I have asked him to weigh in on this online. One spur came back with Everton Conger as part of Booth's belongings gathered up from Garrett's farm. It was entered into evidence in the 1865 Conspiracy Trial. I'm not sure that this spur is at Ford's, however. In 1908, it was not listed among Booth items that the War Department had in its possession. A 1942 list shows a spur -- see next paragraph for where that spur came from. The third spur came from Osborn Oldroyd's collection. The story behind it is that Mrs. Mudd told Oldroyd in 1901, upon his visit to her, that a man "eight miles down the road" had the spur from the boot discarded at the Mudd house. Oldroyd visited the man and acquired the spur for $50. At this point, I'm starting to lose count as to how many spurs there are! And, do any of them have the proper provenance? Stay tuned for further developments, because I agree with Rock that the spurs can give credible evidence as to where Booth broke his leg. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/16 - 17:12:28 ( # 213)

Editing a Post To the person who emailed us today, asking to have their Mailbag message edited, please re-post your message as you wish to see it written. It's difficult to edit Mailbag postings, so to comply with your request quickly, we had to remove yours. An attempt to email you did not work or you would have heard from us already. ALO Editor ... 2009/09/16 - 16:12:06 ( # 214)

Booth's spur Thanks all. I agree with Laurie that one of the most important points is whether Ford's has a matching set, which is why that was part of my original question. I've got to think that Ford's has a matching pair of spurs (and I know the USNA Museum is cognizant of the shaky provenance of their spur). I also wonder if someone here could give us an idea of how tightly these spurs held to a rider's boot. How much force would it have taken to pull one Booth's spurs from his boot? Could catching it in a flag do it? How about dropping a spur-laden boot to the floor and having it kicked under the bed at Mudd's house? And what of the treasury flag that supposedly snagged Booth's spur? Does it show evidence of that? Mundane questions certainly, but the answers might be informative as to the issue of how and when Booth actually did break his leg. If a 19th century spur could be pulled from you boot by catching it on a flag, and if Ford's has a matching pair of spurs belonging to Booth, and if the treasury flag showed no evidence of being torn by a spur, that all bolsters the idea of Booth vaulting cleanly out of the box, missing the flag, landing safely on the stage, and then breaking his leg after leaving the theater--probably under his horse. Reverse one, some, or all of those variables and you see how it affects the weight of the rest of the evidence. Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Maryland... 2009/09/16 - 14:27:10 ( # 215)

Spur/Film We consulted our photo archives here at Surratt House and found pictures of Booth's boot that was removed at Mudd's. The spur is still attached, so that accounts for one with pretty good provenance. As for the Mary Surratt film: I spoke with a screenwriter on the project today and flat out asked what the "spin" would be on the guilt or innocence of Mary Surratt. She will be the usual innocent victim, I believe. Ed Steers, Elizabeth Leonard, and I all proofed the original work and suggested major changes. On the question of guilt vs. innocence, I guess they're not considering our positions. I did suggest that good historians would be their worst critics, so they might want to put a closing comment on the screen as to the evidence that made the military court find her guilty (ie, kidnap turning to murder implied conspiracy, assisting Booth up to within hours of the deed, incriminating evidence that might be circumstantial by our standards, but damaging at the time of turmoil from the Civil War, etc.). We'll see. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/16 - 14:11:35 ( # 216)

The "Spur"ious Spur As promised in a previous posting, I did contact Gloria Swift, the curator at Ford's Theatre, about the issue of the third spur at the Naval Academy. She replied that she knew of the spur, but not about the spur there -- it's provenance, etc. I have asked her since if the spurs at Ford's were a matching pair. That would seem to be the telling point to me. As Randal Berry and I discussed on the phone last night, it is my belief that one spur was still attached to the boot left behind at the Mudd home and that it was sent to the War Department as part of the evidence. When the body of Booth was brought back to Washington, the second spur should have still been on that boot (unless it was removed somewhere after Mudd's). That boot and spur should have been removed from the body at the time of the autopsy on board the ironclad. It should have been turned over the authorities at that time. If Ford's has a matching pair, that would seem to solve the problem. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/16 - 09:48:37 ( # 217)

Booth's Spur I am one that believes Booth's spur didn't "snag" on the flag,(no pun intended) thus causing him to land off-balance on the stage, resulting in him breaking his leg,(actually fibula). I thought Michael Kauffman laid that "rumour" to rest in "American Brutus". As I recall, the "flag" and "spur" story caught on much later, as primary eyewitnesses never said Booth's "spur" and the flag dangling down from the box came in contact (why would they), and that many days after the assassination at Lincoln's funeral did Bishop Simpson mention it during his talk. Simpson talked about the "payback" of Old Glory! I believe Ford's has both spur's and I don't believe Dr. Mudd removed the spur from Booth's left boot as he was slicing it (the boot) from the side to the calf, thus, the spur would not be in the way. Check out the actual boot at Ford's and you will see what I mean. When Sarah Mudd brought the boot down from upstairs, I am pretty sure the "spur" was still attached and the boot was turned over intact, as evidence and brought back to Stanton. I believe Booth and Herold switched horses "after" Booth's original horse fell and landed on Booth's left leg while still saddled. So in a way, Laurie Verge was correct, that Booth didn't need to "spur" his horse, as it has been described and a slower, gentler horse. Also, Booth was in a great deal of pain, so I don't see him "spurring" ! Randal Berry ... 2009/09/15 - 19:58:13 ( # 218)

Mary Surratt film I sense a frisson of excitement over the Redford film on Mary Surratt and, under certain circumstances, I would share that excitement. However, all-too-often "Hollywood" has done an abyssmal job portraying history and I am not sure this new film will prove otherwise. Even the TV stuff done for the bicentennial was wanting in so many ways--with the possible exception of the Lincoln the lawyer production produced by WILS-TV (PBS) in Illinois and "Stealing Lincoln's Body". Even "Looking for Lincoln" was not as good as the Kunhardt volume of the same title. The suggested casting has even raised the hackles of a few of you. Perhaps if the BBC were to tackle the subject, persons cast for the film might look somewhat like the "originals", but Hollywood's penchant for pretty faces rather than a sense of history gets in the way. Can you imagine today a person like Humphrey Bogart becoming a leading man? He was short in stature, had a speech impediment.... I love ALO and its contributors and the Roger Norton site because of the excitement they generate for history. With the general apathy about history, geography, and other areas characterizing even some of our school-age children, can Robert Redford hope to generate enough of an audience out there for his film? Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/09/15 - 16:28:23 ( # 219)

Booth's Spurs The issue of Booth's "three" spurs has long been debated, and I believe the Academy's claims have been thought spurious. Dr. Mudd fitted Booth with a low-cut work boot and splinted his leg with parts of an old bandbox. Since Booth would have a great deal of trouble spurring a horse to faster paces with his broken bone, I would assume that his left spur would not be needed. The wonderful and helpful curator at Ford's Theatre may have the definitive answer for you. I'll contact her. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/15 - 10:38:04 ( # 220)

Booth's Spur Hello Rock, I believe he was wearing a make shift cast on his broken leg. It was pretty swollen so I imagine a shoe of any kind was going to be tough to put on. John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/09/15 - 09:41:58 ( # 221)

Booth's spur Hi all. The museum at the Naval Academy here in Annapolis has on display the spur which Booth caught in the flag as he leapt to the stage after shooting Lincoln. Or so they believe. The story is that it was donated to them by the family of a Union soldier who picked it up on the stage at Ford's after Booth's escape. However, the musuem at Ford's has a pair of spurs which were recovered on Booth when he was captured/killed. I can't recall, was he wearing boots on both feet when captured? If so, where did he replace the boot left behind at Dr. Mudd's? Would he have left the boot at Mudd's but taken the spur? Are the two spurs now at Ford's a matching set? Minor details, no doubt, but the flag-catching spur can't be in both museums. And the spur is rather important if it led to Booth's broken leg, because an uninjured Booth may well have escaped. All insights appreciated. Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Maryland... 2009/09/15 - 07:12:01 ( # 222)

Laurie's point of view Laurie,You had to have been a tremendous teacher!Aiken looks older in the Harpers Weekly sketch,so once again the media has it's problems just like today.But,I did more research on Aiken and Clampit.This was their first case,Clampit was 24 and the article said Aiken was younger!Aiken was a dedicated Democrat and secretly helped Freemont get the nomination and run against Lincoln.All of this opens up a can of worms about the Surratt case.In Kate Larson's book I get the sense that Aiken made a lot of errors in his defense of Mary Surratt.Do you think that Robert Redford knows this? Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/09/14 - 17:34:36 ( # 223)

Conspiracy Trial Sketches My personal tendency is to agree with Laurie. There is a clearer image (at least to my eyes) of that sketch on the top of page 96 of the book by James Swanson and Daniel Weinberg. The bearded man in the upper right corner is indeed labeled "Aiken." But he looks much older than 28. To me he looks like one of the oldest gents in the entire vignette. One caveat: in my humble opinion many trial sketches of people that were there make them seem older than they were. For example, I've seen several different sketches of Dr. Mudd, and he appears older than 31 in most of them. Some sketches of Mary Surratt make her appear older than 42. In some of Lew Wallace's sketches the people don't look anything like their photographs (to my eyes anyway). Roger Norton ... 2009/09/14 - 15:01:17 ( # 224)

Harry Hawk Hi J.C. Harry continued his acting career finally retiring to Grouville, a small town on the Isle of Jersey in England. He died there on May 28, 1916 and is buried in the local Catholic cemetery. Rich Smyth ... Milford - PA... 2009/09/14 - 14:29:06 ( # 225)

Aiken/Ekin I think I might have solved the question as to who that older man was in the sketch. One member of the military court was James Ekin. I would make an educated guess that the sketch artist confused the names Aiken and Ekin - hence his drawing of James Ekin became identified as Aiken. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/14 - 14:02:16 ( # 226)

Aiken's Age Several days ago, after the sketch purportedly showing Frederick Aiken appeared, I posted a note that has not yet appeared on ALO. In it, I commented that I was pretty sure that the heavily-bearded, bald gentleman identified as Aiken in the sketch was too old to be Mrs. Surratt's defender. About six months ago, after proofreading the script for the new Redford movie on The Conspirator, I did an article on Frederick Aiken for the Surratt Courier. While reading the script, I realized that I did not know that much about Aiken. So off I went to the Surratt Museum's research center. Frederick Argyle Aiken was born in Boston in 1837, which means that he was 28-years-old at the time of the 1865 Conspiracy Trial -- hence my serious doubts about the obviously middle-aged to old gentleman shown in the sketch. He was from an influential family, educated at Middlebury College in Vermont (winning high honors) and earned his law degree from Harvard. He started out, however, in the journalism field and ended up in Washington, DC, in 1858, about the same time that he married the daughter of Judge Edmund Weston of Vermont. In 1860, he was the secretary of the National Democratic Committee. There is also a letter from Aiken to Jefferson Davis in the National Archives in which he offers his services to the Confederate States of America (April 5, 1861)as a writer for the Southern cause. Instead, he ended up as a volunteer aide to Union General Hancock and received serious injuries at one battle where he had two horses shot out from under him. By 1864, he had set up a law firm with John W. Clampitt as his partner. Most references to the Conspiracy Trial refer to the pair as underlings to the respected Reverdy Johnson. I found no evidence to support that claim. It appears to me that Mrs. Surratt's boarder, John Holohan, secured the help of Aiken and Clampitt. After the Conspiracy Trial, Aiken was called on to do some preliminary paperwork in the defense of Jefferson Davis. He was also admitted to practice before the Supreme Court as well as the DC courts. By the 1870s, however, he had gone back to journalism and was the city editor for The Washington Post at the time of his death in 1878, at the young age of 41. He is buried in Oak Hill Cemetery in Georgetown, DC. Sorry for the long history lesson - once a teacher, always a teacher - just to prove my point that I really don't think the older man in that sketch is Aiken! Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/14 - 13:53:52 ( # 227)

Aiken Laurie, I was a bit taken back to see what looked like a balding man with a long beard portrayed as Aiken...especially since the actor McCavoy was being considered for the role. I'm not sure what to think of Robin Wright as Mary Surratt. Unless she mixes in a cheeseburger or 2, Hollwood is going to need to do some magic to make her look like Mary Surratt. I would think that Hartranft's story would have been a better angle to associate with Mary Surratt. He showed more compassion to her than most of the general public realize. John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/09/14 - 10:51:50 ( # 228)

What Ever Happened to Harry Hawk? He probably said the last words Lincoln ever heard. I was wondering if there is any biographical information about him after the assassination. I own a card with his signature and on the back he wrote, "The only man on the stage of the play 'American Cousin' when Abraham Lincoln [undecipherable] shot". So, I am curious how his life progressed thereafter. J.C. Marrero ... Raleigh - NC... 2009/09/14 - 10:50:13 ( # 229)

Aiken John, Please let's do some further checking before accepting that sketch as Aiken. Again, I think he was much younger than that sketch would indicate. Also, he and his partner, John Clampitt, quit their legal career after some shady dealings; and Aiken went back into the journalism business. I believe he was working for the Washington Post when he died in 1878. Surely their archives must have a photo? Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/14 - 07:29:54 ( # 230)

The Conspirator I just learned that Redford has cast James McAvoy as Frederick Aiken and Robin Wright Penn (wife of Sean Penn) as Mary Surratt in his upcoming film, The Conspirator. They obviously paid no attention to the ca. 1864 photo of Mrs. Surratt. Check out Ms. Penn's photo and you'll see why I say that. Ah, Hollywood, you gotta love it. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/14 - 07:08:22 ( # 231)

Surratt movie Just heard from a friend who has a friend who is working on the Surratt movie. He tells me that Robin Wright Penn - Sean Penn's ex-wife - will be playing Mary Surratt. Mary will indeed be made out to be the victim. Stanton will be portrayed as the villian. For heaven's sake! I thought this stuff was put to rest years ago! Kate Larson ... Winchester - Masachusetts... 2009/09/13 - 22:02:01 ( # 232)

John, I will be in Live Oak, at the Civic Center the first weekend on Nov. I hope we can meet up. Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/09/13 - 21:56:51 ( # 233)

Aiken Thanks to JS for pointing out that sketch. It does indeed look like the name Aiken under the sketch. Thanks to everyone who responded to my question. I appreciate it. John E. John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/09/13 - 21:49:38 ( # 234)

Aiken Herb, Frederick Aiken had a fine career. Aiken is featured in "The World's Best Orations" a 10 Volume set published in 1899/1900. As Laurie Verge described,"Victorian summations" He is desribed in this book as eloquent in delivery and facts. Aiken died 13 years after "defending" Mrs. Surratt. Randal Berry ... 2009/09/13 - 20:48:03 ( # 235)

Aiken Sketch JS Banning,After looking at the sketch all day-printing it-blowing it up and magnifing it.Great job finding Aiken.To me he looks-heavy-set-with an unkept- beard.I wonder if he was trying to make a name for himself to enhance his career? Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/09/13 - 18:36:17 ( # 236)

Redford's movie I read in the paper that Robert Redford plans on filming 'The Conspiritor' in Savannah, GA A beautiful town IMO The ride out to Fort Pulaski is so nice, as is visiting Ft. McAllister, which is outside Savannah Paul ... CT... 2009/09/13 - 17:55:35 ( # 237)

Aiken Photo John, Like Joe, I doubt that you are going to find a photo of Fredrick Aiken. I went through his file at the Surratt library when I was asked to read the script for The Conspirator. I realized that I knew very little about him except for his "very Victorian" summations at the trial. There was not a great deal of information on him, and I do not remember a photo - even with his obituary. I'll look again, just in case. There was even less on his partner, Clampitt, whom the script conveniently left out, if I remember correctly. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/13 - 10:45:12 ( # 238)

Aiken Sketch John E. I think the person in the upper right hand corner is identified as Aiken. http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/lincolnconspiracy/harpweeksketch2.jpg JS JS Banning ... Storrs - CT.... 2009/09/13 - 10:25:11 ( # 239)

Aiken photo John and Joe, I too, have scoured all of my books on the assassination and couldn't find a photo of Aiken. It's certainly strange that you can find photo's of lesser known people involved in the trial, but not one of the defense attorney for Mary Surratt! Maybe Laurie Verge and the Surratt House can find one in Mr. Hall's archives or somewhere! Randal Berry ... 2009/09/13 - 09:50:25 ( # 240)

Aikens, John F. Parker, Peanut John, etc. I agree with Joe - this is a tough one. It's probably hidden in the same drawer as photos of John F. Parker, Joseph Burroughs (Borrows), etc. I don't ever recall seeing a photo of John Lloyd, either. Conceivably when Ed Steers' assassination encyclopedia comes out we'll get to see a few photos of folks we hadn't previously seen. Roger Norton ... 2009/09/13 - 05:04:50 ( # 241)

Aikens photo John E., My guess is there isn't a photo link for that person. I find it interesting that neither Jim Swanson, Dan Weinberg, the Surratt House Museum, nor the Kunhardt's include a photo of him in their voluminous and scholarly works. Even in courtroom sketches, he is not identified as one of those drawn. Nevertheless, stranger and even more esoteric things have surfaced over the years. All the best in your search. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/09/12 - 20:47:55 ( # 242)

Frederick Aiken Hello Everyone, Would anyone happen to have a link to a photo of Frederick Aiken ? Thanks in advance, John E. John E. ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/09/11 - 22:45:18 ( # 243)

The Unpopular Mr. Lincoln Several months ago, I asked readers of this site if anyone would comment on a new book by Larry Tagg entitled The Unpopular Mr. Lincoln. I would like to respond to my own query and report that I am currently reading it and loving it! As stated earlier, it is not an anti-Lincoln book. It is almost entirely primary source material dealing with the bad press and social outcry that Lincoln endured from the time of his nomination until his assassination. Personally, I am one who has deliberately steered away from reading in depth about his politics - frankly the subject would put me to sleep in the past. Not so with this book, which takes you step by step through the prevailing political climate of America in the 1800s and Mr. Lincoln's riding against the waves of the establishment. I highly recommend this book, and also am pleased to announce that the author will be a speaker at the March 2010 conference held by Surratt House Museum. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/09/08 - 20:26:00 ( # 244)

Disregard last post I guess you need to disregard my last post. The car ddepicted in the Wikipedia site is one built by Robert Lincoln when he worked at the Pullman co. This is NOT the funeral car. Sorry. Jerry Eagon Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/09/08 - 08:16:19 ( # 245)

Lincoln's Funeral Car Here is a very informative article on the Funeral Car from Wikipedia. The pictures are great. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abraham_Lincoln_(Pullman_car) Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/09/08 - 08:10:40 ( # 246)

Railroad car A few years ago the RR car was up for sale on eBay for $15,000.It was claimed to be the real thing then. I guess they rethought their position... Paul ... CT... 2009/09/07 - 16:55:27 ( # 247)

Lincoln funeral car? Roger, If your HOA is anything like mine, it would be easier to get approval for pink plastic flamingoes! All kidding aside, looking at close-up photos of the original and of the burned-out car on your site, and then looking at the "ends" of the car in question, I am reminded of the Chicago Historical Society's showing--in an exhibit titled "What George Wore and Sally Didn't"--of the skin of the snake that tempted Eve! This smacks of John Hanks and the rails that "Abe" split. Nevertheless, it was refreshing to note that the company makes no claims, and even states honestly that there is a 99% chance that none of this is from the Lincoln funeral car. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/09/07 - 12:13:54 ( # 248)

Rail Car What would my Home Owners Association say?It was hard to put a fence for our Dog in our back yard!But,Maybe we could decorate it for Christmas with LED lights and get Media Coverage and get the Metro-- Rochester award for the most unique decorations for Western New York! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/09/07 - 08:04:27 ( # 249)

Roger, Thanks! I was wondering when someone was going to post again! I was waiting for the Propofol to were off. Randal Berry ... 2009/09/06 - 18:29:43 ( # 250)

Railcar "My wife asked me how we would transport it to our backyard, and I didn't have an answer." Well Roger, you just do what I do, make up an answer. Randal Berry ... 2009/09/06 - 18:25:55 ( # 251)

Looking for a railroad car for your backyard? This morning I exchanged a few very pleasant and interesting e-mails with Ozark Mountain Railcar. The company is a brokerage firm that specializes in the sale of railroad properties and railroad equipment. Based on legend, they are selling Abraham Lincoln's funeral car for $6000 or best offer. On their website they say, "There is no way to prove this was actually Lincoln's Funeral Car, it is only a local legend...but legends have to start from somewhere!" The company feels there is an outside chance that both ends of the car are indeed "original equipment" which was salvaged by a Civil War memorabilia collector after the 1911 fire that destroyed the car. The company admits there is a 99.9% chance that it's not the Lincoln car. I suggested to the company's owner that he contact Dr. Wayne Wesolowski on this matter. ALO has an excellent web page devoted to Dr. Wesolowski at http://showcase.netins.net/web/creative/lincoln/news/train.htm If anyone is interested in seeing what they have and/or making them an offer, please go to http://www.ozarkmountainrailcar.com/lincolns_funeral_car.htm My wife asked me how we would transport it to our backyard, and I didn't have an answer. Roger Norton ... 2009/09/06 - 15:49:39 ( # 252)

Grant Romer Thanks, Herb. I have talked to Grant Romer in the past, so he does know who I am. The subject of our conversation was a certain alleged daguerreotype of Lincoln that I regard as a fraud. I think it's probably best that I not mention the perpetrator’s name on this forum. Thanks again, Herb. Roger Norton ... 2009/09/01 - 04:48:54 ( # 253)

photo-gallery Roger and Joe,This is the most informative photo collection I have ever seen!Perhaps you could go to the-[George Eastman House Museum] web-site and contact them for a future display of Lincoln era photos.You can contact Grant Romer-585-271-3361 ext324-He is the person that is in charge of the photo archives dept. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/08/31 - 10:42:50 ( # 254)

Joe Di Cola Many thanks to Joe Di Cola for sending me a .pdf file containing many rarely seen Robert Lincoln (and Robert-related) photos. Included are several photos of Robert playing golf (often with President William Howard Taft), a photo of Mary Harlan Lincoln on her wedding day, an interior view of Robert's mansion on Lake Shore Drive, and several other photos not often seen in history books. If interested, I have posted them on my Robert Lincoln Photo Gallery page at http://home.att.net/~rjnorton2/robertgallery.html This is not the first time Joe has helped make my Lincoln website more complete. Thank you, Joe. I appreciate it very much! Roger Norton ... 2009/08/31 - 09:27:46 ( # 255)

Lincoln Medal Surratt House has been contacted by a collector who is working with the Tokens and Medals Society in presenting an exhibit on Lincoln medallions. He is trying to locate a pure silver medallion produced in 1971 by the Medallica Art Company right before their move from NYC to Danbury, CT. The coin is 2 1/2-inches in diameter, has a profile of Mr. Lincoln on the front, and an image of Ford's Theatre on the reverse with the words "Ford's Theatre" above and "Established 1863" beneath. It is believed that the coin was probably commssioned by the Ford's Theatre Society and used as an award. The image was also struck in bronze and used as a fundraiser. The latter is fairly common; however, so far, we have been unable to locate the pure silver one. Does anyone have any hints? If you prefer to e-mail me directly, my office e-mail is laurie.verge@pgparks.com. Thanks for any and all help. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/30 - 18:33:27 ( # 256)

Thank Many thanks to both Joe and Roger for furthering my education. I remembered the reference to Wabash Avenue and was so busy searching for the street number that it didn't occur to me to also mention the luxurious mansion that the Robert Todd Lincolns built on North Lake Shore Drive. The Wabash stuck in my mind - I immediately thought of the Wabash Cannonball - but also because of the vivid description Mr. Lachman gives in his book about the family watching the Great Chicago Fire and Robert rushing to try and save his law partner's home. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/29 - 12:03:34 ( # 257)

Lincoln in Chicago Thank you, Roger. I have tried to track down some of the exact address numbers for years, and am glad to finally have the house number of RTL's address down the street from the Clifton House. Somehow I thought the 653 address was for the latter, but now can update my information as it being RTL's address. I remember when the Robert Lincoln mansion on the north side was raised. I was still in elementary school. The Chicago Daily News at the time mentioned that it was possible to get a "piece" of the house--a doorknob or something--from the razers, but I never was able to find out how to do that at that tender age. It is incredible how many fine pieces of Chicago architectual history went the way of the wrecking ball during the 50s and into the 60s. Many of these losses are beautifully documented in David Lowe's LOST CHICAGO. Thanks for the reference--I will try to locate a copy of the book about the Lincolns in Chicago on Alibris. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/08/29 - 10:25:03 ( # 258)

Cranberry Sauce Mr. Berry: Well done! Being from Detroit, I remember the whole thing as it played out (no pun intended). It certainly was fun "discovering" all the clues in the records and on the album covers to "prove" Paul was dead. That he was being cited as dead was in itself interesting considering that the typical scenario is positing that a dead famous person is still alive. I don't ever remember reading anywhere that anyone ever claimed that Mr. Lincoln was still alive after the assassination. We all know the myth about Booth not really being killed in the tobacco barn and living into the early 1900's. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/08/29 - 08:30:13 ( # 259)

Lincoln Family in Chicago For folks visiting Chicago here is some "geographical trivia:" The Lincolns spent much time in Chicago. Abraham came to Chicago often to argue court cases. When he was in Chicago his favorite restaurant was Tom Andrews' Head Quarters Restaurant located just south of the southwest corner of Lake and State. Lincoln spent much time at the City Hall and Cook County Court House located at Clark, Randolph, LaSalle, and Washington. An estimated 125,000 people viewed Lincoln's remains in this building on May 1 and May 2, 1865. Lincoln's favorite hotel in which to stay when he was in Chicago was the Tremont House located on the southeast corner of Dearborn and Lake. Additionally, he stayed numerous times at the Sherman House located on the northwest corner of Clark and Randolph. In July, 1857, Lincoln saw two plays at North's Amphitheater located on the northwest corner of Wells and Monroe. John Wilkes Booth appeared in 1860 at the McVickers Theater on the south side of Madison in the middle of the block west of State Street. Lincoln is thought to have attended the McVickers Theater occasionally but not when Booth was there. Lincoln was nominated for president by the 1860 Republican National Convention which met at the Wigwam (a temporary structure) on the south side of Lake and Market (now Wacker) across from the present day Merchandise Mart. Robert T. Lincoln came to Chicago with his mother after his father's assassination. He studied law in the offices of J. Young Scammon located in Crosby's Opera House on Washington between Dearborn and State. His home was at 653 (now 1332) Wabash. The Chicago Fire of 1871 spared his house, but his law office located just east of the northeast corner of LaSalle and Lake was destroyed. In 1893 Robert built a mansion at 1234 Lake Shore Drive (located at the northwest corner of Scott). Robert lived there until 1911 when he moved to Washington, D.C. His Chicago mansion no longer exists. In 1865, after leaving Washington, D.C. after her husband's assassination, Mary Todd Lincoln went to Chicago and lived with young son Tad in the Tremont House. Later Mary moved to the Hyde Park Hotel, but in 1866 she purchased a home at 375 W. Washington in Chicago. This home was located between Willard (later known as Ann) and Elizabeth Streets. The 375 was the old address when Mary lived there. She attended the Third Presbyterian Church at Washington and Carpenter Streets. Tad attended Sunday School at the (old) First Congregational Church at Washington and Green Streets. At that time Washington Street had a wooden sidewalk, and Mary could look down the block both ways from her front parlor. Tad attended Brown School on Warren Avenue between Page and Wood Streets. In May, 1867, Mary rented her home and moved to the Clifton House at the southeast corner of Wabash and Madison. Tad then went to school at the Chicago Academy located at 216 Wabash (old number) between Adams and Jackson. Later in the same year Mary moved back to her old neighborhood and lived at 460 Washington, almost opposite Union Park. Again in 1868 Mary stayed at the Clifton House. After spending several years in Europe, in May, 1871, Mary and Tad returned to Chicago and lived with son Robert at his home at 653 Wabash Avenue. She soon moved out and was back at the Clifton House. Tad died in the Clifton House in the summer of 1871. In 1874 we find Mary living at the Grand Central Hotel located on Michigan Avenue between 13th and 14th Streets. On April 6, 1874, she sold her old home on Washington Street. All of this information came from an old book I have entitled "The Lincolns In Chicago" by Blaine Brooks Gernon (Chicago, Ancarthe Publishers, 1934). Roger Norton ... 2009/08/29 - 04:28:52 ( # 260)

My work is done now "Mr Berry, that was a hilarious seque back to the topic! LMAO my friend!!" Thank you! Randal Berry ... 2009/08/28 - 22:56:56 ( # 261)

Lincoln family in Chicago Sorry, Laurie--I should not have relied on memory alone when I sent my last posting...here are both the chronology and the locations of the Lincoln family in Chicago. Still, the major location associated with RTL was on North Lake Shore Drive, as mentioned before. 1. from about May 1866-early summer 1867, Mary's first residence was on Washington St east of Loomis Ave 2. from late 1867 to late 1868, Mary resided at the Daniel Cole House between Ashland and Ogden, south of Washington St 3. During this time, Tad attended the Brown School on Hermitage Ave between Madison & Washington Sts 4. Tad attended The Chicago Academy in 1867 before leaving for Europe with his mother--the Academy was located on Wabash Ave between Adams & Jackson Sts 5. RTL was residing in his own home on the west side of Wabash Ave between Adams & Jackson in 1871 6. Mary & Tad resided at the Clifton House (THIS is the one at 653 S. Wabash) after returning from Europe, and it is where Tad died on July 16, 1871. I hope this helps Joanne in her touring around Chicago and clears up dates and places of residence of the Lincoln family AFTER the death of the President. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/08/28 - 22:26:18 ( # 262)

Sleepy Clarke Mr Berry, that was a hilarious seque back to the topic! LMAO my friend!! No Name Given... 2009/08/28 - 22:00:58 ( # 263)

RTL Chicago address Hi, Laurie, The Wabash Avenue address was primarily the home of Mary and Tad. Robert stayed there while attending law school at the University of Chicago. The site usually referred to as that of the Robert Todd Lincoln home was the one on North Lake Shore Drive, built by Robert in 1893. Prior to his family's permanent removal to Vermont, he also lived with his wife and two daughters at another location in Chicago. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/08/28 - 20:53:59 ( # 264)

Address I just finished reading Charles Lachman's The Last Lincolns and enjoyed every page of it. He gives the Robert Todd Lincoln address in Chicago as 653 Wabash Avenue. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/28 - 20:42:02 ( # 265)

Robert Todd Lincoln's Chicago mansion Joanne Cole, The address of the Robert Todd Lincoln home was 1234 North Lake Shore Drive. The Lincolns and their two daughters lived there from 1893 to 1911. Robert had it built upon his return to Chicago after his four-year service as U.S. Minster to Great Britain. In 1911 the Lincolns moved to Vermont. This home, along with many other Gold Coast residences including the fabled Potter Palmer residence, was wontonly destroyed during the 1950s. The site is now occupied by a high-rise, condo-ized building (1200 N. Lake Shore Dr.). Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/08/28 - 20:26:41 ( # 266)

Cranberry Sauce Yes Mr. Nash, it was tagged on the end on "Strawberry Fields Forever". After a Detroit DJ started a rumor that McCartney had been killed in a car crash (and the Beatles had a stand-in). The DJ pointed out clues he found on various records, and "backwards masking" (playing songs in reverse, using a reel to reel tape recorder, simply flipping the tape) became the norm, and people thought the Beatles were "providing" clues about Sir Paul's death. It's Lennon saying that,(cranberry sauce) albeit, slowed down by vari-speed on a 3M multi-track recorder in studio #2 at Abbey Road studio's, in London. BTW, which is next door to where Asia and "Sleepy" Clarke lived. See how I eased this back on topic! Randal Berry ... 2009/08/28 - 19:08:54 ( # 267)

Robert's home in Chicago Hi All, Here is good piece of Lincoln Trivia for you. Who knows the address of the home that Robert Todd Lincoln lived at in Chicago? I visit Chicago often and would like to see where it stood. Thanks in advance, Joanne Cole joanne cole ... Boulder - Colorado... 2009/08/28 - 17:57:43 ( # 268)

Buried Paul?? I always thought it said "Buy Stones albums"! No Name Given... 2009/08/28 - 17:22:48 ( # 269)

I Buried Paul Which since we're talking about it-doesn't actually say "I buried Paul" but "Cranberry Sauce." William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/08/28 - 10:10:30 ( # 270)

Related to Abe Lincoln My Grand Mother on my Dads side was (is) a Lincoln Bill Reid ... Henderson - NV... 2009/08/28 - 09:19:57 ( # 271)

Ghost Hunters Randal, I almost fell over laughing when I read your comment! Mary Kauffman ... Owings - Maryland... 2009/08/28 - 06:21:12 ( # 272)

I Buried Paul OMG, another fraud perpetrated by the Mudd story? Non-believer ... USA... 2009/08/27 - 20:24:23 ( # 273)

Beatles/Booth Of course I would, it's from Revolution #9. Mike has a "file" so to speak on Beatles/Booth facts that are revelent and trivial, and downright scary! Maybe someday he will publish it. I actually taped that "Ghosthunters" episode last night, and played it backwards and the "I am not guilty" played backwards says: "I buried Paul" Randal Berry ... 2009/08/27 - 17:32:12 ( # 274)

Ghosthunters Mike believes the ghosthunters misunderstood what the voice was saying. The voice was actually saying "Turn me on, dead man." (You Beatles fans will know what he means.) Mary Kauffman ... Owings - MD... 2009/08/27 - 15:24:31 ( # 275)

Bates Connection Finis Bates is the paternal grandfather of actress Kathy Bates. I learned this in the early-1990s from Finis Bates's proponent, Nate Orlowek, and his lawyer, Mark Zaid, when they were asking the courts in Baltimore City to allow the exhumation of Booth's body in Green Mount Cemetery. On another subject: If you watched SyFy last night and saw the segment on the Ghost Hunters at Dr. Mudd's house, you know that they claimed that a voice was heard uttering, "I am not guilty." One would automatically assume that it was Dr. Sam pleading his case. However, it occurred to me that at least one other person related to the Lincoln assassination died in that house and that person had a very legitimate reason to be claiming innocence. That person was Edman (Ned)Spangler, the stagehand at Ford's who was sentenced to six years at Ft. Jefferson. His sentence was "light" because the evidence against him was very flimsy. Ned spent his last years living with the Mudd family in the upstairs room now used by the caretaker. He converted to Catholicism before his death, and the Mudds had him buried in the old St. Peter's Cemetery near their farm. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/27 - 10:47:20 ( # 276)

Surratt Movie I was Just having a fun time with my fantasy movie cast!Actually,I agree with Kate,Laurie,and Randall. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/08/27 - 10:24:34 ( # 277)

Bates / Depp Hi Laurie, That would be an ironic twist if Kathy Bates were to land that role. I think my first choice would still be Streep but I think Kathy Bates could pull it off with some Movie magic make-up. As for the role of Booth, I also think Johnny Depp would be great. Although Booth was only 26 when he assassinated the President, Hollywood has a way of "Youthinizing" older actors. :) I'm just curious as to who could pull off playing Paine ? John Elliott ... San Antonio - Texas... 2009/08/27 - 09:02:47 ( # 278)

The Lincoln Assassination Encyclopedia" I noticed Ed Steers' "The Lincoln Assassination Encyclopedia" is available for pre-order on Amazon.com. The expected availability date is in early spring of 2010. I will sure look forward to this - way to go Ed! Roger Norton ... 2009/08/27 - 05:24:35 ( # 279)

Bates?? Not that I doubt you Laurie, but what is the Finis and Kathy Bates relation? I never heard this story. Jim ... Boston - ma... 2009/08/26 - 20:34:31 ( # 280)

Ghost Hunters visit Mudd Ghost Hunters visits the home of Dr. Mudd Tonite (8/26) 9pm EST on the Sci-Fi channel Mel ... NY - NY... 2009/08/26 - 17:38:53 ( # 281)

Surratt Film Laurie, and others, Of course I was kidding. Streep would be great. My nomination for Booth would be Johnny Depp. With minimal make-up and a 'stache, he would be a dead ringer for JWB. Regarding Larson's book, she is the ONLY one that has pointed the guilty finger at Mary. Trindall, Moore, DeWitt, and Campbell point at innocence. Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/08/26 - 17:24:39 ( # 282)

Kathy Bates John, It just dawned on me how ironic it would be if Kathy Bates ended up playing in a Lincoln assassination film since she is descended from Finis Bates, the creator of The Escape and Suicide of John Wilkes Booth theory that will not die! Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/26 - 17:09:42 ( # 283)

Film John, I understand from Ed Steers, who has seen the screenplay after he, Elizabeth Leonard, and I had made our suggestions, corrections, etc., that they did make considerable changes and that he was actually pleased with the results. To be honest, I have read three screenplays in the last year; and my brain is drained as to which one was which. I would think that there would have to be some sort of recreation of the assassination to set the scene. However, most of the scenes involve the penitentiary, the boardinghouse, and DC scenes in general, if I remember correctly. I guess you know that it is being shot in Savannah since the State of Georgia is kind to film companies. We did have a team at Surratt House several weeks ago taking interior photographs, especially of the tavern, to recreate; and we have had big discussions on what the Garrett barn might have looked like. Luckily, my family owned three tobacco farms when I was growing up in Southern Maryland, so they got lessons on barns, stripping rooms, and even tobacco worms! Keep your fingers crossed that someone does justice to the story of Mary Surratt. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/26 - 14:36:58 ( # 284)

Surratt Film Laurie - oh, you are right! Meryl Streep would be excellent - right age, sort of, the right steely look when she needs it, soft when necessary. Let's hope! Then the focus would have to be back on Mary! Kate Larson ... Winchester - Massachusetts... 2009/08/26 - 11:05:19 ( # 285)

Mary Surratt: Meryl Streep Laurie ! I couldn't agree more. I think that Meryl Streep would be fantastic in that role. I also thought that Kathy Bates might be good in the role as well. Do you know if they are going to recreate the assassination as part of the movie ? Will the movie begin with the trial and then flash back to the crime and the conspirators during the testimony ? Just wondering. I am absolutely thrilled about this movie being made. I can't wait to see it. John Elliott ... San Antonio - Texas... 2009/08/26 - 09:39:58 ( # 286)

Surratt Film My picks would be Debra Winger, Jane Kaczmerick, or better yet, Angelina Jolie! Kate Larson ... Winchester, MA - Massachusetts... 2009/08/26 - 08:26:29 ( # 287)

Mary Surratt Okay, Randal, I know you're being facetious; but let's get real here. Dr. Larson has a very valid point. Why aren't they mentioning Mrs. Surratt since she should be the focal point of the movie? When I was asked to read the script about a year ago, I actually had to go back and search out more details on lawyer Aiken when I realized that he was taking center stage. I knew his role in the story, but always viewed him as a lawyer way in over his head. He and his partner, Clampitt, proved to be an interesting pair. Now, back to who should play Mary Surratt? Years ago, there was talk of another movie with Susan Sarandon playing the part. That didn't work for me at that time, and still doesn't. My choice would be Meryl Streep. I was also once told that Kate Winslet was interested in the Surratt story for her production company. With a little aging, I think she would be excellent in the role. Researchers with the project have been very diligent in working with the staff at Surratt House Museum in nailing down details, so I hope the producers will be just as careful about their choice of characters. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/26 - 08:24:40 ( # 288)

The Film Industry Need not go Far The leading actor already has legal experience--Sen.John Edwards or E.Spitzer.The leading lady has national experience--Sarah Palin.As for Booth lets see--Oh!Iknow!Shaun Hannity.Now this wasn't a list that was hard to think of! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/08/26 - 06:48:22 ( # 289)

Surratt Film ah Kate, I thought your book portrayed her as a bad-ass! You didn't handle her with kid's gloves at all. My vote for an actress playing Mary would be Kyra Sedgewick or Dianne Kruger, no wait, Mary Kate Olsen, or, sheesh, I can't make up my mind! No, I got it, Jennifer Aniston! That's the ticket! No,! Jennifer Hudson! OMG, I can't make up my mind. LOL! Randal Berry ... 2009/08/25 - 20:19:37 ( # 290)

Redford's Surratt film I find it fascinating that in all the articles I have read during the past week and a half about Robert Redford and his film "Conspirator", everyone is dying to know who will play Booth. Not one word on who might play the leading lady, Mary Surratt. Ah, poor Mary. In fact, I just read that the film "will focus on the Union hero assigned to defend her, Frederick Aiken, and his growing conviction that she might be innocent after all." Ugh! Even the incompetent lawyer gets top billing and a "hero" badge to go with it. I wish somebody would give Mary credit for being a bad-ass and not some some frail victim who can't be the star of her own life story?!! Kate Larson ... Winchester - Massachusetts... 2009/08/25 - 18:10:58 ( # 291)

46360 Lincoln was NOT born in 1804 two years prior to his parents marriage in 1806 as the crazy Lincoln paternity "fantasy story" falsely claims. Lincoln was born just south of Hodgenville, Kentucky on February 12, 1809. R Christensen ... Michigan City - IN... 2009/08/25 - 00:08:32 ( # 292)

Peanuts Like Roger, I'm not sure that Mike Kauffman ever firmly proved that Peanuts was the son of Dr. Borrows. Besides the lack of mention of race in statements made by Peanuts, a telling factor to me that he was Caucasian is the fact that he went to the nearby saloon to drink with some of the gentlemen. A member of the Negroid race would not have been allowed to do so in DC in 1865 - even if he were a free man, at least to the best of my knowledge. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/24 - 16:41:46 ( # 293)

Burroughs, Borrows, Barrows, Burrows, Bohraw or Whatever Thanks, Randal. The reason I brought this up is that I have received this question at least once a year ever since I started my website 13 years ago. It seems junior and senior high school students are fascinated to learn there was someone in their general age group involved in the Lincoln assassination saga, and they write me asking all I know about "Peanut John" or "Johnny Peanut." I was aware Mike K. believes he may have been the son of a Dr. Borrows who lived in the vicinity of Ford's Theatre. William Withers, the orchestra leader at Ford's, mentioned "Peanut John, the Negro chore boy…" in a published article. Police Chief Richards mentioned questioning a colored boy in Baptist Alley. It seems the evidence is conflicting in at least some particulars. Roger Norton ... 2009/08/24 - 09:14:23 ( # 294)

Joseph Borrows Roger, While looking at "The Lincoln Assassination: The Evidence" based on Microcopy #599 which contains evidence collected and proceedings from the trial, I would presume that Joseph Borrows was caucasian, because other's, either by description or statements made, were indentified as "colored". The entries for Joseph Borrows didn't indentify him as "colored". While trivial, Borrows made two separate statements to investigators about his knowledge of Booth. On the 24th of April, he stated that he has known Booth, "about four months". On examination before Justice A.B. Olin (one of the justices from the Supreme Court),Borrows stated on 15th of April, that he had known Booth for "two months." BTW, the above mentioned book by William Edwards and Ed Steers Jr. is a GREAT resource, and I assume you already have it, if not, I urge you and anyone to get this book! Randal Berry ... 2009/08/24 - 07:54:03 ( # 295)

Peanuts I thought the correct name was "Borrows". I thought Michael Kauffman corrected that published "mistake" years ago. Randal Berry ... 2009/08/23 - 21:02:52 ( # 296)

Joseph Burroughs Just curious, as I have discussed this question in e-mails with Laurie Verge, Ed Steers, and maybe a few others over the past several years. Joseph Burroughs, whose nickname was "Johnny Peanut," is stated as being white in some of my books and African American in others. From what I can surmise, the available evidence leans toward him being white, but that is not definitive. Has anyone ever come across an absolute definitive, 100% "for sure" description as to his race? Roger Norton ... 2009/08/23 - 11:22:01 ( # 297)

Mary Surratt Movie I feel that kudos should be given to Dr.Kate Larson and Laurie Verge for having the possibity of a movie made on the Lincoln Assassination and Mary Surratt.It shows how lucky we all are to have this forum-web-sites-experts-authors and historians to learn from.It shows that it is never too late to learn something new and interesting. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/08/21 - 10:26:09 ( # 298)

Movie Yes! It has been posted on my website,www.Lincoln-Assassination.com and on http://www.surratt.org/ Both movies are discussed. Randal Berry ... 2009/08/19 - 20:36:16 ( # 299)

Another movie?? Read a blurb today that Robert Redford is planning to do a movie about Mary Surratt. No word about the 'alleged' Spielberg Lincoln pic we've been hearing about Fernwald ... Banner - Wyoming... 2009/08/19 - 19:22:21 ( # 300)

Beard Reaction Roger and Roger, In "Mary Lincoln, Biography of a Marriage" by Ruth Painter Randall, Randall writes:"Eleven-year-old Grace Bedell wrote Lincoln suggesting he grow a beard. It was an age of whiskers - they were the style - and one may be sure Lincoln would not have adopted the suggestion if Mary had not approved" Randal Berry ... 2009/08/18 - 19:00:47 ( # 301)

Beard Reaction Roger, I figured one logical place to look for this would be in the letters Mary wrote to people. I checked "Mary Todd Lincoln: Her Life and Letters" by Justin G. Turner and Linda Levitt Turner (New York, Alfred A. Knopf, 1972), and I drew a blank. Roger Norton ... 2009/08/18 - 05:58:26 ( # 302)

Lincoln's Beard Does anyone know how Mary Lincoln first reacted to the idea of her husband wearing a beard in 1860? Roger Martin ... Des Moines - Iowa... 2009/08/17 - 07:54:42 ( # 303)

Used Book Sale Surratt House Museum is holding a Used Book Sale in order to make room in our research center. Most of the titles are Lincoln-related or Civil War battles and generals. Many of them are out-of-print books. The first "wave" has been posted on our website, www.surratt.org. Near the top of our front page, there is a note directing you to the list. We have already sold most of the assassination-related books, but there are still a good number of others left, especially for those readers who might be just getting started on this era's collection. Details about ordering are given on the site. Happy Hunting. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/16 - 17:01:41 ( # 304)

Tad's Soldiers I am thoroughly enjoying reading Charles Lachman's book, The Last Lincolns. I have just gotten to the point where Mary Lincoln and her two sons finally leave the White House. There is one poignant sentence where the staff is giving one final inspection of the rooms, and the only thing left behind is Tad's collection of hand-carved toy soldiers that his father had bought him over the years from Stuntz's Toy Store on New York Avenue. The book leaves the impression that Tad left them behind deliberately because of the memories. I wondered immediately what happened to those soldiers. Does anyone know if they were returned to Tad? Kept as a collection? Where they went? Do they still exist? Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/16 - 12:22:56 ( # 305)

Spiritualism Hi Joan, My mistake. The book "Was Lincoln a Spiritualist," was by Nettie, not Belle. rich smyth ... milford - pa... 2009/08/14 - 15:44:12 ( # 306)

psychics Joan,I checked out this book at Barnes +Noble.This book seems more legit and the author is respected in field.Troy Tayor is strange to me.The book is "The Psychic Life of Abraham Lincoln"By Susan B Martinez.I hope this helps. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/08/14 - 10:54:09 ( # 307)

Lincoln and Spiritualism Rich, I am familiar with the book by Nettie Colburn Maynard but not the one by Belle. Does it have a title? I am coming to the conclusion that Lincoln was aware of the Spiritualist activity and did attend several seances but only because he was curious as to how they did their thing and also to protect Mary, who was really captivated by this, from being taken advantage of. There may have been many frauds in the spiritualist field but there were many high ranking people who bought into it. It is an interesting phenomenon. Joan L. Chaconas ... Clinton - Maryland... 2009/08/14 - 08:28:43 ( # 308)

Lincoln and Spiritualism Hi Joan, Margaret Laurie and daughter Belle were of dubious reputation in Washington. Most info you can find comes from Belle's book although brother Cyrus Poole wrote an article “The Religious Convictions of Abraham Lincoln. A Study,” Religio-Philosophical Journal, November 28, 1885 in which he states that his father Cranston Laurie met Lincoln through his position in the DC postal service. Cranston was a known spiritualist and said he got the President interested in the religion.This was around the time of Willie's death (1862). After reading the article, William Herndon said he could not say one way or the other if Lincoln was a spiritualist. Joshua Speed gave a letter of introduction for the Lincoln's to Nettie Colburn who brought the Lauries with her. They indicate that the Lincoln's attended more than a few seance's in the White House and once in the Laurie's Georgetown townhouse. In the Chicago Historical Society there is a lock of the President's hair (presumably from the autopsy) with a note saying it is from the Lauries. Mary asked for the lock of hair while the autopsy was in progress and gave pieces to close friends. Most people that knew Lincoln said he was not a religious person...perhaps his interest was only because of his wife's interest in this new religion that professed the ability to communicate with the dead. There were many new religions cropping up at this time (see "burnt over district in New York state) and one that gave Mary the ability to talk to her dead sons must have been very appealing. The Lauries are still in Wash DC albeit Congressional Cemetery. If any of the readers of the mailbag are Spiritualists, maybe we can ask them to comunicate with the Lauries and get the inside dope. rich smyth ... milford - pa... 2009/08/13 - 13:44:29 ( # 309)

Cell's John, That makes perfect sense. (7x7) Built as a penitentiary in 1831 it had 160 cells, and the building was 120' x 50'. The cells were 7' x 3.5' with 7' ceiling. Either a partition was knocked out for the women's cell's, or only one to accomodate Mrs. Surratt. I can't imagine there were a lot of woman prisoners held in a Fed.Pen back in those days. I thought they just threw them in the pokey back then! LOL! I don't know! However, I have a book (which I can't put my finger on at the moment)that describes the dimensions of the cell's, and if I recall, the size is different. If I stumble upon it, I'll email you. However, Kauffman's article titled "Fort Leslie McNair and the Lincoln Conspirators" in the Lincoln Herald, is an excellent article. Randal Berry Randal Berry ... 2009/08/13 - 12:23:45 ( # 310)

Women's Cells in the Penitentiary Hello All, Does anyone happen to know how large the Female Cells were in the Old Arsenal Penitentiary ? Michael Kauffman mentioned that they were twice as large as the men's cells which were 7 x 3.5 feet. (24.5 sq ft) I can't imagine that they were 14 x 7. Does anyone know if they were 7x7 perhaps ? (49 sq ft) -- wouldn't that make more sense ? John Elliott ... San Antonio - Texas... 2009/08/13 - 09:31:05 ( # 311)

Lincoln and spiritualism I have that book Haunted Presidents, not too good on some of the history but interesting. I have a feeling most of the spiritual info regarding Lincoln is based on the controversial book by spiritualist Nettie Colburn. Thus all the info regarding Lincoln and this topic comes from spiritualists themselves and very little from outside sources. Therein lies the problem. Joan L. Chaconas ... Clinton - Maryland ... 2009/08/13 - 08:43:29 ( # 312)

Who Knows? Joan,I Found this book at Barnes+Noble.I figured it would be something like"The Haunted Major".But this book"The Haunted President" by Troy Taylor.All I can say is once you start reading it.Fasten your seat belts! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/08/12 - 19:26:38 ( # 313)

Lincoln and Spiritualism Changing the subject, what is the general feeling among you out there about Lincoln and Spiritualism? We know it was very popular during his presidential years and there were lots of people practicing it. Was Lincoln influenced by spiritualists? Did he indeed attend seances as some say? He was a brooding type and given to deep thought do you think he gave any serious thought to Spiritualism? Do any of you? Curious about your comments. Joan L.Chaconas ... Clinton - Maryland... 2009/08/12 - 13:40:29 ( # 314)

Historic Markers To: Roger Norton, I totally agree with your statement and feelings while reading from a “Historic Marker” that such and such happened on this very spot. In deed some of them - - may or not be accurate..!!! This is another reason why my energies have been involved with: 1. Finding, 2. Documenting them - with Photos and G.P.S. equipment, AND 3. Attempting to Involve Historians and Researchers in validating and “entering” comments on “Historic Marker PAGES.” In particular is preferred a historic marker Web Site that allows “unlimited” photos, text, and links. Currently the only one I know is “Historical Marker Data Base” ( www.hmdb.org ) that has these abilities. It is an open forum for “others” to comment and correct listed information. The aim is to arrive at the most accurate facts possible. Another area of items that need inclusion are the War Memorials that need recording to prevent their engraved information from being lost from age or storms. There is a growing need for “well documented” historic marker pages and its information to be listed on the inter-net. Yes original documents are the best, but time and tragedy may destroy vaults and file cabinets. With involvement: individuals, class room students, historical organizations, and expert Historians alike can contribute and learn. It is a fine class room or educational activity. Local “Historical Organizations” can list their area markers with a touch of area input. After all is fully documented, given items can be taken to another step with video re-enactments or raw video documentation placed on a host site and linked back to the related “historic marker page.” Old photos, news clippings, and scanned original documents are an added plus when also added. The cost and convenience of transportation is placing History at a “Click” away on the inter-net. Al Wolf ... Veedersburg - Indiana... 2009/08/11 - 15:48:11 ( # 315)

Location of the Lincolns' first home in Illinois I was reading the August issue of "Outdoor Illinois" Magazine and was surprised to learn the actual location of the Lincolns' first home in Illinois may not be within the boundaries of Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park and Memorial. The article is written by Floyd Mansberger and is entitled "Searching for Thomas Lincoln’s Cabin." I think I knew the exact location of the cabin was uncertain, but I didn't realize it might not even be within the boundaries of the state park which commemorates its location. Historic specialists Massie, Massie and Associates Architects and Fever River Research have been looking into the site, and their research indicates the artifact scatter is more indicative of a water-powered mill, not a family cabin. The conclusion of the current research is that the Lincoln cabin was most likely located nearby but probably not within the boundaries of the state park. Reading the article made me wonder about historic sites in general. So many times I've stood on a spot in which a marker indicates "such and such" happened on this very spot. I wonder how often the sign really means "in this general vicinity" and not really "on this very spot." Roger Norton ... 2009/08/11 - 07:12:29 ( # 316)

re: David L. Wolpers Sandburg's Lincoln on DVD To All that have posted about David L. Wolper's Sandburg's Lincoln with vetran Actor Hal Holbrook, I am glad someone is interested as I am in having it on DVD. To this end 3 years ago I contacted the curator Sona Basmadjian at David L. Wolper Center at the University of southern Ca and she has passed on my e-mail to David Wolper, others might want to e-mail her about this. The David L. Wolper Center University of Southern California Doheny Memorial Library, G6 Los Angeles, CA 90089 Hours Of Operation Monday through Thursday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Friday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Closed university holidays Sona Basmadjian, Lead Curator (213) 821-3094 sonab@usc.edu Also I have written a letter to Hal Holbrook , and if anyone wants to the address I'll share it. PS. If it did go on DVD the folks at the Lincoln Cottage would like sell this Thanks, Megan Hardgrave Megan Hardgrave ... Dallas - TX... 2009/08/10 - 12:28:51 ( # 317)

SESQUICENTENNIAL This October marks the Sesquicentennial of John Brown's raid at Harpers Ferry. The cause of the Civil War can be argued - States rights, slavery, but I believe it was that "peculiar institution" that caused 650,000+ soldiers to die in four years fighting for their beliefs. If so, then much like the skirmish at Lexington that signaled the begining of the Revolutionary War and acknowledging Harriet Beecher Stowe, Abolitionists and Fire Eaters, I believe the raid was the flame that lit the fuse in America's greatest struggle. That being said...Private Luke Quinn, U.S. Marine who died on Oct. 18, 1859 in the attack on the engine house was the first military casualty of the war. Private Quinn has rested peacefully in St. Peters Catholic Church Cemetery on the hill above Harpers Ferry for the last 150 years. Rich Smyth ... Milford - PA... 2009/08/09 - 09:57:05 ( # 318)

Books and more Books Randall,I am just a fledgeling at excellent books on the Assassination.I finished AB,Manhunt,Mary Todd Lincoln,Bishop's Book,Assassin's Accomplice and yes, I bought Blood on the Moon,yesterday.You have to understand,I was Civil War Battles reader until I got hooked to this forum.You can blame Kate Larson for that! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/08/09 - 06:23:35 ( # 319)

American Brutus Herb, I am stunned! I am amazed! I am shocked!....that you haven't read "American Brutus" yet! Holy Cow! Great book, isn't it? When you finish AB, then balance it out with "Blood on the Moon" Then, you will get the whole picture. Best, Randal Berry Randal Berry ... 2009/08/08 - 19:41:55 ( # 320)

Booth and Women To the Kauffmans, I will be finishing "Brutus" this weekend-What a great read-Wasn't Booth a ladies man?Sort of like being in the Navy with a girl in every port?So who knows the exact number of offspring are out there.Thanks! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/08/08 - 15:33:42 ( # 321)

Izola Forrester I agree with the Kauffmans that it would be nice to put some closure to the subject of Izola Forreser and This One Mad Act. The late James O. Hall was friends with descendants, several of whom are members of the Surratt Society, and worked extensively with them trying to tie up the ends of their story. It was through him that I met these fine women about thirty years ago. Nearly two decades ago, two independent members of the Surratt Society, both from the New England area, collaborated on a book entitled The Elusive Booths of Burrillville. Their research materials are in the library at Surratt House Museum. The gist of their work was that they could find no recorded proof of a marriage with Booth, but they could not disprove a liaison. Perhaps this is an instance when DNA should be used? Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/08 - 12:33:51 ( # 322)

Booth's daughter? Dear Mr. Marrero, Thank you so much for your support of Mike's book. Mike is interested in definitively finding out whether Izola Forester is, indeed, Booth's daughter. As you noticed, there is a resemblance--especially those rare dark eyes. The fact that the initial claim that Izola was Booth's child was made in 1865, when being related to Booth was not a good thing, seems to bolster the claim. Izola had several children who are sincere in their belief that Booth is their grandfather. It would be nice if they could have some answers. Thanks again for telling letting us know how much you enjoyed Mike’s book and tour. I’ve passed your words along and it means a lot to both of us. Mary Kauffman ... Owings - MD... 2009/08/08 - 09:16:00 ( # 323)

Herb Swingle Thanks for your kind words, Herb. You really made my day! Mary Kauffman ... Owings - MD... 2009/08/08 - 09:01:31 ( # 324)

Booth's Leg Joan: After reading so many eyewitness accounts of what transpired that evening in Ford's Theater, I happen to believe that he broke his leg later that evening too. However, I have thought that he may have sprained it with the jump and was moving so well because of all the adrenalin that must have been racing through his body. It's hard to say. Thanks again for your help with the Arsenal Penitentiary information you sent me. I really appreciated it. Part 2 (The Trial Period) is now posted. I will start work on Part 3 soon. John Elliott ... San Antonio - Texas... 2009/08/07 - 20:52:17 ( # 325)

Booth Broken Leg Joan, That is a very, very good theory about the hurt leg. However, I think Booth was "rewriting history" in his diary of what actually happened in the theatre, after reading newspaper accounts, to make his "act" more dramatic and interesting. Randal Berry ... 2009/08/07 - 19:07:44 ( # 326)

Booth broken leg I know the broken leg theory has probably been put to rest but has anyone given thought to the fact that Booth could have sprained his leg in the jump at the theater and also had his horse fall and further hurt the leg? Thus Booth told the truth in his diary and Kauffman could be right also. We know that Booth told Mudd the horse story but he would hardly have told Mudd he broke it after shooting Lincoln and leaping from the box. Joan L. Chaconas ... Clinton - Maryland... 2009/08/07 - 14:36:25 ( # 327)

Sad News Almost everyone interested in Lincoln studies is familiar with the Abraham Lincoln Book Shop in Chicago and its very accommodating owner, Dan Weinberg. I just received word this morning from his assistant, Sylvia Castle, that Dan's 23-year-old son died unexpectedly last Thursday after a brief illness. I'm sure we all send our sincere sympathies to Dan and his family. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/07 - 10:53:04 ( # 328)

Thomas and Tad Thanks for the kudos!I became so interested in this topic I called John Hutchinson to talk about his article.Here is his background--President of Lincoln College in Illinois-Speech Pathology Degree from Purdue.He always been interested in Lincoln and his family.Tad and his grandfather has always made him wonder about the cleft inheritance topic.I now know that there is always an expert out there on most topics.The hard part is finding the expert with" Just a shot in dark". Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/08/07 - 08:51:38 ( # 329)

"American Brutus"--Great Book I've just reread this great book and was left wondering whether Mr. Kauffman looked into the issue (no pun intended) of whether Booth left a daughter. An American writer Izola Forrester, whose picture suggests she might be right, claimed to be his grand-daughter. I noticed that Mrs. Kauffman recently wrtoe in the Forum, so I thought she might ask him. By the way, one of my all time great memories of living in D.C. was taking the Booth Escape Tour with Mr. Kauffman as the guide/professor. J. C. Marrero ... 2009/08/07 - 07:55:37 ( # 330)

Truce? Not on your life! LOL! Laurie, you know me well enough, and for a long time. I always had the utmost respect for you and we even banter back and forth through (seems like) daily emails. I know I'm stubborn, my wife remind's me everyday. This is all in fun folks's and livens things up around here! Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/08/06 - 20:39:53 ( # 331)

A Truce Randal, I declare a truce. Thank you for reminding me of the exact order of events regarding the Atzerodt confession. This dementia is causing me to forget many details. And thanks for agreeing with me that the lies told had a purpose. All of the conspirators were southern-leaning Marylanders (except for Powell, who picked up some of the same traits from a stint with Mosby's men), who had learned to lie pretty well for self-protection during the CW. I also want to assure "non-assassination" enthusiasts who put up with reading our little back-and-forths on ALO that this is what makes our study of this crucial event so much fun. Our "gang" takes pleasure in friendly discussions and debates, and yet we remain friends and honor other people's opinions. It is especially nice to have forums such as ALO in which to express ourselves, because we enjoy spreading history to others who might develop an interest also. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/06 - 18:42:16 ( # 332)

Herold Laurie, I think you actually agreed with me when I said that Herold "lied all over the map" when you state: "We all agreed that Herold's statement, taken one day after his capture at Garrett's farm and following a grueling twelve days on the run, was cleverly crafted to tell his interrogators exactly what he wanted them to think." I think "crafted" is the key word here. Webster's defines "crafted" as "skill in decieving to gain an end. Have a great weekend Laurie! Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/08/06 - 17:38:36 ( # 333)

Atzerodt (again) As I recall,George Atzerodts statement, or "lost confession" being "paraphrased" on the witness stand by James McPhail, (who earlier had Atzerodt's statement taken at Atzerodt's request), however Atzerodt's attorney, Mr. Doster, objected to McPhails testimony on the grounds the his statement was made under duress. The Judges overuled Doster's objection and McPhail was to continue to testify BUT only to items found in Atzerodt's room at the Kirkwood House. The court was not advised by McPhail that he had Atzerodt's statement that implied or implicated others involved in the conspiracy. When McPhail was finished with his interview of Atzerodt, he gave the "lost confession" to Atzerodt's attorney, who kept it away from the court during testimony. As I stated earlier, this "lost confession" is subject to conjecture. Doster's take on this being gathered during duress, can imply Atzerodt was willing to say about anything to get out of the jam he was in, and that includes lying. Randal Berry ... 2009/08/06 - 17:28:40 ( # 334)

Atzerodt/Herold Yep, Randal, we are going to agree to disagree on the subject of Atzerodt and the lost confession. BTW, are you aware that Atzerodt made several other confessions? One on board the Saugus to Frank Munroe on April 23, 1865; another to Col. Wells on board the Montauk on April 25, 1865; another was read into the court records by lawyer Doster on June 21, 1865; the "lost" confession; and finally that statement as it appeared (in a somewhat altered version) in the Baltimore American newspaper on January 18, 1869. All of them are pretty factual -- albeit whineing and self-serving. As for David Herold's statement, we are probably going to disagree again. I have read his statement many times. In fact, in 1979, I transcribed it from a copy of the original handwritten one in the War Department files when producing the book, From War Department Files: Statements Made by The Alleged Lincoln Conspirators Under Examination, 1865, for sale in the Surratt House museum shop. At that time, and several years later when I was preparing a talk on Herold for a symposium at Ford's Theatre, I discussed Herold's statement with the "old-timers" of the assassination -- Hall, Brennan, and others. We all agreed that Herold's statement, taken one day after his capture at Garrett's farm and following a grueling twelve days on the run, was cleverly crafted to tell his interrogators exactly what he wanted them to think - and nothing else. He throws out lots of correct names of people in the region, fabricates his "happening upon Booth on the road" and being forced to join him, half-truths here and there,etc. Just like Mrs. Surratt's statement, it gives you the impression that each was expecting to be caught and each was prepared for what they would say. Herold was referred to as "a trifling boy," but that doesn't mean that he was stupid. He was educated at the prestigious Rittenhouse Academy in DC as well as a stint at Georgetown. He preferred play to work, obviously, but under what would have been stiff interrogation at a time when he would have been physically and emotionally exhausted, he handled himself quite well. I guess what I'm trying to say is that there are STUPID lies, and then there are CRAFTY lies. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/06 - 11:30:42 ( # 335)

Mary Kauffman Mary,Your post was, "well put, and well said!You have probably heard this before,but,"behind every great man is a great woman".I have always felt that Yogi Berra had it right," If there is a fork in the road take it"Now-I will go to Borders and buy your husband's book"The American Brutus"I have never learned so much about the Lincoln Assassination as I have on this Forum ! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/08/06 - 08:45:55 ( # 336)

Herb Swingle Kudos to Herb Swingle for finding that article by John M. Hutchinson. Like Jerry, I had never before read this information about Thomas Lincoln. I was very impressed by the depth of Hutchinson's research (mostly regarding Tad), and I have placed a link to it from my Tad Lincoln web page. The article Herb was referring to is online at http://www.historycooperative.org/journals/jala/30.1/hutchinson.html Once again, thank you Herb. It's always fun to learn new things about the Lincoln family, especially in an area that never even crossed my mind previously. Roger Norton ... 2009/08/06 - 04:26:37 ( # 337)

the upper lip of the two Thomases Herb, Thanks ever so much for the reference to the winter 2009 issue of the Journal of the Abraham Lincoln Association. This is the most informative treatment I have ever read concerning Tad's speech problems. For years I have magnified the upperlip portion of the sole photograph of Thomas Lincoln to discern whether he had a cleft lip and/or palate. The article in the "Journal" seems to confirm a number of the accounts of Tad's speech difficulties, and points to the possibility of an inherited factor from his paternal grandfather. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/08/05 - 21:37:34 ( # 338)

Booth's broken leg Recently, several people have posted remarks about my husband’s, Mike Kauffman's, theory about where Booth broke his leg after assassinating President Lincoln. I’d like to take this opportunity to explain the importance of Mike's discovery. For more than a hundred years, no one questioned the accepted story that Booth broke his leg when he jumped to the stage. But when Mike looked at the original statements given by the witnesses, he began to see a very different picture. Mike questions everything and his meticulous research has uncovered facts that occasionally prove long-accepted information is not necessarily accurate. In addition, Mike's broken leg theory provides a wonderful example of how eyewitnesses change their testimony over time. Having grown up in both the North and South, Mike learned all about seeing both sides, and when he applied that lesson to history, he realized how much folklore had found its way into the assassination story. That much of it was not true led him to question everything he could not verify. Many people find small details quite interesting. Through the years, Mike has been asked every imaginable question from the names of the horses to the types of food Booth ate on his escape. Mike goes to great lengths, spending many hours in research, to do the work of ferreting out obscure facts that contribute information to the Lincoln assassination story. The particulars might be important to some, but to Mike what really matters is the underlying principle that nothing is beyond reach to anyone who is willing to do the extra work of finding it. I know firsthand how much effort he put into his book. Much of this research might never appear in print, but in one way or another, those details do matter, if for no other reason than to provide an insight into personalities of the people he writes about. Mary Kauffman ... Owings - Marylnd... 2009/08/05 - 21:18:30 ( # 339)

Lost Confession Pt.2 "and he thought his lack of involvement in the murder of Johnson, would make things "easier" for him during sentencing." I meant to say "his lack of involvement in the murder of LINCOLN" Sorry for the mistake! Randal Randal Berry ... Boothsville - MD... 2009/08/05 - 20:02:25 ( # 340)

Lost Confession Laurie, Regarding the "lost confession", I was only going by what I was told a few years ago the it was auctioned. I didn't know it was sold the to the Weichmann editor (Risvold). I thought it was sold to a person in Detroit. Anyway, what author claimed that Atzerodt babbled about everything under the sun? From what I have read, or what I interpret, Atzerodt was clueless and he hung around after the news of the assassination, (which he knew was going to take place) before he took off to stay with relatives, until he was arrested. I think his "confession" in his mind, would be his way out of the mess he was in, and he thought his lack of involvement in the murder of Johnson, would make things "easier" for him during sentencing. We can agree to disagree, but I don't believe everything he said in his "confession" was very truthful. Have you read David Herold's statements in Microcopy #599? I think he lies all over the map. If I can't take his statements seriously, then I surely don't take Atzerodts statements as whole cloth. While I am not as well versed on this subject as you and the majority of the people that post on here, I stand by my statements. Best, Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/08/05 - 19:15:16 ( # 341)

Atzerodt Confession Just to clarify some details on the Atzerodt confession: Joan Chaconas, now a historian assigned to Surratt House Museum, was a volunteer at the museum in 1977 when we were visited by a descendant of William Doster, Atzerodt's attorney at the 1865 Conspiracy Trial. He was surprised when she knew who Doster was and then told her about the papers still being in a family member's possession in Connecticut. Having family in Connecticut, Joan managed to contact both her relatives and those of Doster and arrange a trip. She did not set out to find the confession, but it was among a pile of papers that she was handed and then sent to a cold porch to peruse. She was allowed to copy the confession. The rest is history. Upon her return, Joan contacted the late, great scholar James O. Hall, who was naturally delighted with what she had found. She gave Mr. Hall a copy, and he got in touch with his friend, Floyd Risvold, who had recently edited the memoirs of Louis Weichmann. Mr. Risvold went directly to the family and offered a handsome sum for the original. His offer was accepted. He and Mr. Hall asked us to hold off publishing the confession in our newsletter because they were thinking about doing a book based on the people mentioned in the confession. That book never came to fruition, and we published the confession in our Surratt Courier about a decade later. I should comment here that the confession had been published at least once in an 1865 newspaper and then disappeared. Floyd Risvold died recently at the age of 97. So far as we know, the original confession is now part of his estate and has never gone to auction. We are making contact with his descendants to see if it might be possible to obtain it for Surratt House's James O. Hall Research Center. While at least one author has claimed that Atzerodt babbled about everything under the sun trying to save his own neck, my personal feeling is that he told the truth because he was too afraid not to. Doster must have believed him because it appears that he is the one who pocketed the confession because it did too much damage to Surratt, Mudd, and others. Also, James O. Hall and Floyd Risvold were outstanding historians. They would not have gone after the original document and obtained it at a high price if they did not see some value in it. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/05 - 15:29:37 ( # 342)

source Jerry,Here is the source-"Journal of the Abraham Lincoln Association"--Vol-- 30 No1--Winter 2009--published by Univ of Illinois press.Author-- John M Hutchinson--Article--What was Tad Lincoln's Speech Problem? I started to subscribe when the forum knew so much and I knew so little!Enjoy Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/08/05 - 15:23:13 ( # 343)

Thomas Lincoln Herb; Thanks so much for your swift response. I never knew that - with any of my readings. When, where & how did that come out? I'd be interested in the source. Thanks again. Jre Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/08/05 - 12:47:17 ( # 344)

Thomas and Tad Jerry,After extensive reasearch in various Lincoln Family books.YES,Thomas Lincoln had a cleft pallette.This was "The grandfather-grandson inheritance" that skipped Abe.Very interesting! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/08/05 - 10:49:24 ( # 345)

Thomas Lincoln I have a question that someone here might be able to comment on and enlighten. Recently I was looking at a large version of the famous (and maybe only) photo known of Lincoln's Father, Thomas. It appears (to me at least) that he had a split lip or large scar on the left part of his upper lip. Can anyone tell me if there is any historic information known about Thomas Lincoln that would affirm this? I know in reading some accounts (I think by the Hanks family) that he was described as "stoop shouldered". But I don't recall ever reading that he had suffered a blow to the lip that would cause such a noticable scar. I then wondered if perhaps it was a similar condition to the problem Lincoln's son Tad suffered from, which was a cleft palate I believe. Thanks for any comments on this. Jerry Eagon Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/08/05 - 08:36:07 ( # 346)

Atzerodt's "Lost Confession" Roger, We would be remiss if the history about Atzerodt's "Lost Confession" didn't get proper credit without mentioning Joan Chaconas, Historian at the Surratt House Museum. Joan found the "confession" amongst personal papers of Atzerodt's attorney, William Doster in 1977. I understand the original was sold at auction and now resides in a private collection. This was a MAJOR find regarding the assassination and it's aftermath. How believable or true the confession, is surely subject to conjecture. As Atzerodt projected himself as a coward and came off as saying just about anything to get un-invited to the the "neck-tie" party. Randal Berry ... 2009/08/04 - 21:05:45 ( # 347)

Atzerodt's 'Lost Confession' Laurie mentioned George Atzerodt's 'Lost Confession.' If anyone would like to read this who has never done so I have a web page devoted to the topic at this URL: http://home.att.net/~rjnorton/Lincoln82.html Regarding Mudd, Atzerodt states, "I am certain Dr. Mudd knew all about it, as Booth sent (as he told me) liquors & provisions for the trip with the President to Richmond, about two weeks before the murder to Dr. Mudd's." Regarding Mary Surratt, Atzerodt states, "Booth told me that Mrs. Surratt went to Surrattsville to get out the guns (Two Carbines) which had been taken to that place by Herold." Roger Norton ... 2009/08/04 - 16:38:22 ( # 348)

Mudd I tried really hard to avoid this question, but I just couldn't... In regards to the issue of Booth's broken leg, I personally feel that Mr. Kauffman makes a very good case for the scenario that the injury occurred when Booth's horse fell on him. Having grown up in the DC/Southern Maryland environs (before the days of straight, dual-lane highways), I know quite well the hills, valleys, swamps, creeks, etc. that the fugitive would have encountered between Ford's and the Surratt Tavern. However, I also like the time-honored tradition that he broke the leg upon his jump from the theatre box. My point is, I guess, that it's a moot point. We will never know definitely where the injury occurred, and it really makes no significant difference to history where the leg was broken. It was the injury (not the location of where it happened) that definitely sent Booth to Dr. Mudd and slowed his escape somewhat - maybe even prevented a complete escape. That's wherein the historical significance of the broken leg lies - not in where it happened. Now, I'm really climbing out on the proverbial limb with (again) my personal opinion. I think Dr. Mudd's house was always a possible destination in Booth's mind. He had visited it and/or Dr. Sam on several occasions; it was familiar territory to both him and Herold; the doctor had introduced him to other members of the Confederate Secret Line in lower Maryland; if we believe George Atzerodt's "lost" confession, supplies and provisions had been sent to Dr. Mudd prior to the kidnap scheme; throughout the war, Confederate agents had been known to receive shelter and food on the grounds of the doctor's home; and, importantly to me at least, Dr. Mudd's house was conveniently off the beaten path, but within the maximum mileage range that Booth and Herold could expect to push their horses that night without harming the animals and yet getting themselves at least thirty miles from the city and the expected search teams. Surely, at some point, officials, or even later historians, would have brought Dr. Mudd into the picture for at least his actions with the original kidnap plot, thus tying him to John Wilkes Booth. There is just too much evidence - even if you want to term it circumstantial - to dismiss Dr. Mudd from the overall picture. That's my story, and I'm sticking to it -- and, I'm really glad that rotten veggies cannot be thrown at me through the Internet! Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/08/04 - 15:21:06 ( # 349)

Mudd on his Face I disagree.I believe we would have heard of Dr. Mudd if Booth HAD NOT broken his leg. Earlier, Booth had supplies sent to Mudd during the kidnap plot.I think Booth was headed to Mudd's all along. Also I believe his name would have come up in the John Surratt trial. As far as jumping from the box, or being thrown by a horse, it doesn't matter. He STILL ended up at Dr. Mudd's. Randal Berry ... 2009/08/04 - 13:43:38 ( # 350)

Booth and Mudd If Booth hadn't broken his leg, we never would have heard of Dr. Mudd. But the chase to catch the assassin would have lasted a lot longer. BLOGGO ... Anytown USA - USA... 2009/08/04 - 05:44:53 ( # 351)

Booth, Corbett, and Powell Jayne, this does not answer your question, but it does give me an excuse to share with everybody why Mike feels as he does. As far back as 1990, in a long article in "Blue & Gray" magazine, Mike argued his case in an article entitled "Booth's Escape Route: Assassin on the Run." Within his article, Mike itemized 7 different reasons to believe the broken leg occurred from his horse falling, not from the Ford's Theatre leap. (1) At the time of the assassination eyewitnesses at Ford's Theatre gave no indication of the accident. They only said Booth landed on the stage off balance. (2) During his escape Booth told about a dozen people he had broken his leg when his horse stumbled and fell on him. This includes John Lloyd. (3) David Herold backed up the stumbling horse story, adding that he helped Booth mount back up after the horse fell. (4) When Booth first mounted his horse in the alley in back of Ford's the mare was skittish, and Booth bore all his weight and torsion of his body on the left leg but gave no indication of pain. (5) Sgt. Cobb at the Navy Yard Bridge said the assassin's voice was smooth, and he appeared at ease. Everyone else from Surrattsville down said Booth's voice was cracked in pain. (6) Dr. Mudd said that Booth's pants were muddy when he arrived. (7) Thomas Davis, a farmhand of Mudd's, told detectives that Booth's mare had a badly swollen left front shoulder and a fresh cut on its leg. In other words, Mike does not believe Booth told the truth about the broken bone in his diary. One more thing - for those who are making a quick judgment on Boston Corbett. You should listen and read expert and scholar Steven G. Miller's research on Corbett before jumping to conclusions. It will give you a more complete view of the man. It sure did with me, just like Betty Ownsbey's biography of Lewis Powell did back in about 1993. Betty spent many, many years researching the man, and her book gave me a much fuller understanding of the man. Roger Norton ... 2009/08/04 - 04:55:10 ( # 352)

Chicago Lincoln Exhibit Don't make the trip just for the Lincoln Exhibit. It's mostly just copies and replicas. But hey, there's always lots to do in Chicago. Make a day of it and check out the new wing of the Art Museum. Brian Steenbergen ... Grand Rapids - MI... 2009/08/03 - 20:14:05 ( # 353)

Dr. Mudd A few years ago I read in American Brutus by Michael Kaufman, that implied that John Wilkes Booth actually broke his leg from a fall from his horse and not from jumping from the box seat at Fords theatre. My question is:if he had not broken his leg,would we have not heard of Mudd because there wasn't a reason for Booth to seek treatment? Thanking you in advance Jayne Greenfelt ... Houston - Texas... 2009/08/03 - 19:51:56 ( # 354)

Ingredients for nut cake The light shines on Boston Corbett---Take some mercury+castration= nut cake!"The mad hatter"theory sounds valid to me.By the way--stay away Great Lakes fish they have large amounts of mercury in them--warnings all the time--It all equals out about Boston Corbett. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/08/03 - 07:04:16 ( # 355)

The madness of Boston Corbett I was thinking of all the reports of Corbett's erratic behavior, and remembered that he was at one time a hatter. In those days, making hats used mercury, which gave off plenty of fumes. Thats actually where they got the saying, 'Mad Hatter'! So this exposure (who knows how much) Corbett had to the fumes might have rendered him a bit 'off kilter', to put it nicely. If so, that explains a lot IMO. Just my thought........ BLOGGO ... Anytown USA - USA... 2009/08/02 - 19:07:50 ( # 356)

Chicago Lincoln Exhibit Has anyone been to the Lincoln exhibit at the Chicago History Museum? Do you think it's worth a trip? Are there many artifacts which aren't normally shown? Laura ... Geneva - Illinois... 2009/08/01 - 16:51:20 ( # 357)

Unpopular Mr.Lincoln Laurie,I need to clarify.I had been reading this book at Barnes@ Noble for about a week now.The title caught my eye and or course the cover.Then when I saw your post, bingo! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/07/30 - 08:58:00 ( # 358)

Unpopular took guts to write Thanks,Laurie--I went to Barnes@ Noble sat in a big chair and took on the book.I am suprised that it took so long to have an author to write about Lincoln in that vain.The 60's did have authors who suggested these theories but backed off.Let's see what happens! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/07/30 - 08:15:32 ( # 359)

New Book Has anyone read the new book entitled The Unpopular Mr. Lincoln and would you like to comment on it? I recently read an interview with the author, who seemed very knowledgeable and who maintained that, despite the title, he developed even more of an admiration of Mr. Lincoln after his research was completed. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/07/29 - 17:48:54 ( # 360)

Sandburg's Lincoln I also agree that Sandburg's Lincoln was great. Just a thought but have you tried the Library of Congress to see if they can make you a copy? Brian Steenbergen ... Gra - M... 2009/07/27 - 21:06:05 ( # 361)

One Destiny Sir; I didn't mean to imply that artifacts should be "all be at one place". My post was only to foster the notion that displays of assassination artifacts should not be decided solely to take focus off the assassination over fear that Lincoln's life and accomplishments would somehow suffer as a result. Jre Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/07/27 - 09:53:46 ( # 362)

One Destiny and artifacts Two comments: I had the pleasure of seeing "One Destiny" at the Lincoln Presidential Museum in Springfield, IL July 17. It was outstanding! Regarding the gentleman who desires all artifacts to be on display: I suspect he does not realize how much space that would take. Most museums have far more "stuff" in storage than space to display it. I know of one large museum near where I live that can display only about 10% of its holdings at any one time; and that is with about 14 acres of display space in one building! That is why exhibits are rotated from time to time so that the best "stuff" can be seen for awhile before giving way some other good "stuff". It also brings visitors back to the museum to see what is "new". Fred Priebe ... Belleville - Michigan... 2009/07/27 - 06:33:25 ( # 363)

Sandburg's "Lincoln" Mr. Greer, The only reason I could think that it is not released is because there were 7 writers involved in that series. Maybe 1 of the 7 wouldn't release their "rights", or were holding out for more money. My 2 cents. Randal Berry ... 2009/07/26 - 19:33:50 ( # 364)

sandburgs lincoln yes i agree kevin a kearns ... aylett - va... 2009/07/26 - 18:40:33 ( # 365)

"Sandburg's Lincoln" I know that I ask this question often on this message board, but here I go again! Does anyone know why the 1976 mini-series "Sandburg's Lincoln" has never been shown again or made available on DVD? I just don't understand it. Just about every obscure program imaginable has been been sold in DVD boxed sets. That series was very well done and Hal Holbrook did a super job! I have even checked education supplies houses with no luck. It makes no sense. Am I the only person who thinks that these programs were good? Do any of you remember them? Many of Wolper's other programs can be purchased. What gives??? Brent C. Greer ... Easley - SC... 2009/07/24 - 11:24:08 ( # 366)

Ford's It should be clarified that Paul Tetreault is actually Director of the Ford's Theatre Society, the theatrical component of Ford's Theatre. The historical building, daytime interpretation, and the museum is still, I believe, under the National Park Service. To give everyone their credit, Kym Elder is NPS superintendent of the site, Gloria Swift is the NPS curator of Ford's, and they are ably assisted by Claudia Anderson. There are quite a few others of the NPS staff who have worked long and hard at maintaining the historical integrity of Ford's Theatre. All, both the NPS and The Ford's Theatre Society, should be recognized for their part in keeping alive a very important segment of our American history. As an elementary school teacher in the Washington suburbs, I know how vital it is to teach our past to the present and future. Thank you to all who have done this at Ford's Theatre since the 1960s. Jennifer ... LaPlata - MD... 2009/07/23 - 16:43:35 ( # 367)

Artifacts & assassination I have no problem with anyone pursuing the advancement of knowledge about Lincoln on any level - as President, Lawyer, etc. But I do take issue with anyone who would attempt to stifle or reduce exposure to information, artifacts, etc concerning the assassination of Lincoln. What gives them the right or authority to make such decisions?? The presupposition is that those less knowledgeable will be unable to digest facts about his life while studying facts about his death. To me, that is an attempt to decide for others what is important and what is not, whether it is Lincoln's life OR death. In addition, it is a discount to another's ability to think and conclude for themselves. If there are artifacts to be seen, let's see them all - just as we expect all artifacts from Lincoln's life to be exposed to view. I for one, have only been made MORE interested in Lincoln's life by studying those events and areas surrounding his death. Thus for me, the argument is specious. Jre Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/07/22 - 13:58:36 ( # 368)

Ford's Theatre I personally traveled to Washington, DC for the grand opening of the new Ford's Theatre museum and you’ll be glad to know that it was everything I expected it to be and more! With such a small space to work with, the curator’s team at Ford's made it feel roomy yet full of excellent information. What some people tend to forget is that Abraham Lincoln was more than just an assassinated president. It is so important to know who he was so that his tragic death is put in proper perspective. Ford's has done an excellent job of preparing to educate the general public and all the school children that will visit this museum in the days and years to come! It gives a good overview of his presidency, his accomplishments and ultimately his untimely death. It is correct that Ford's theatre does not have all the exhibits necessary to monopolize the story of his assassination. They are spread about in museums across the country so that all Americans can experience a piece of the story. When I saw the actual hoods worn by the executed conspirators in the Smithsonian Museum of American History, I was a bit saddened that those were not a part of Ford's exhibits. But whether they are or not does not detract from the beauty of what Ford's has done with the space they have and the exhibits they have chosen to open with. In fact, just last month I was in Landover, Maryland touring the very site of the stored exhibits that will be accessed by Ford's as time goes on. And I assure you, there is so much more to look forward to! I respectfully appreciate the personal opinions of others, but I would never judge a museum or a curator’s team from only the opinion of another. I save my strongest opinions for that which I see and experience for myself. I absolutely encourage and strongly recommend all interested in both Lincoln's life and death to visit Ford's Theatre the next time the opportunity presents itself. I suggest that you request tickets for two different admission times because in most cases, a group only gets about 30 minutes to tour before being ushered to the theatre for a ranger program or across the street to the Petersen House. Only after two admissions did I feel I had sufficiently examined every part of the museum. There are also 2 short plays you might want to attend during your visit, Road to Appomattox and One Destiny. I attended the latter and was impressed by the dramatic performances of its 2 actors. This speaks highly of the quality influence Dr. Paul Tetreault has had on Ford’s Theatre since taking the reins as Director. To my pleasant surprise, I ran into and chatted briefly with Michael Kauffman in the gift shop and later spotted Richard Norton Smith in the lobby as the members of the press were being greeted for their private tour. All in all, a great first day for Ford’s! Valorie Hallenbeck ... Cary - NC... 2009/07/22 - 01:39:14 ( # 369)

lincoln's voice Joe I agree with you about Lincoln's Hoosier twang.I went to Indiana Univ.and went home with friends from all-over the state--big accents South of Indianapolis.However, they did have fun with my nasally Western New York accent! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/07/21 - 12:04:26 ( # 370)

Robert Lincoln's voice Just a thought or two...It has been noted by a number of people who knew Abraham Lincoln personally that he had a high-pitched voice that exhibited what might be called a southern Indiana "accent". He left Kentucky when he was seven and spent his truly formative years ("There I grew up...") in Indiana until he reached his majority. He said "cheer" for "chair", for example, and there are other examples provided by those who knew him. It is even stated that his voice rose to an extremely high pitch when he was excited. [Hal Holbrook was probably one of the best portrayers of Lincoln on this account.] Robert also might have had a higher-pitched voice (we just don't know). However, being educated at Philips Exeter Academy and at Harvard University, it is doubtful that he would have possessed some of the unique characteristics of his father's voice, accent, pronunciations, etc. Springfield, even though small and somewhat provincial, was far more cosmopolitan than the environs that shaped Abraham Lincoln for his first twenty-one plus years. Joseph M. Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/07/20 - 20:41:52 ( # 371)

President Lincoln's Cottage segment on NPR This morning NPR aired an interesting segment on President Lincoln's Cottage at the Soldiers' Home. It ran slightly over seven minutes in length. If anyone would like to hear the segment please go to this URL: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=106578249 Roger Norton ... 2009/07/20 - 13:13:37 ( # 372)

Robert Lincoln's Voice Sadly, it appears that his voice was not recorded. Sometime ago, I called Hildene and asked that very question to the curator. They know of no such recording. They suggested that perhaps he would have spoken at the recorded dedication of the Lincoln Memorial, but, alas, he was not one of the speakers that day. RTL's voice appears lost to history. Perhaps, this publicity-shy man would have wanted it so. J. C. Marrero ... Raleigh - NC... 2009/07/20 - 07:01:55 ( # 373)

Dr. Stamp Thank you Tom for your tribute to Dr. Kenneth Stamp. Those of us who majored in history during the 1960s and 70s were greatly influenced by his groundbreaking examination of "The Peculiar Institution." A copy of it still sits on my bookshelf at work. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/07/19 - 17:45:05 ( # 374)

Mamie "Mary" Lincoln Mary "Mamie" Lincoln is buried in the Isham family plot next to her husband Charles in Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx, NY. Their only child Lincoln "Linc" Isham is buried in Dellwood Cemetery with his wife Leahalma in Manchester, Vermont right next door to Robert Todd's home Hildene. Incidentally, Robert was interred in the receiving vault (still there) in Dellwood for almost a year before being moved to Arlington. The other granddaughter Jessie Harlan Lincoln is also buried at Dellwood. Hope this helps - Rich Rich Smyth ... Milford - PA... 2009/07/19 - 11:56:45 ( # 375)

Mamie Isham I don't know where Lincoln's granddaughter is buried, but she was living in New York City at the time and died in Presbyterian Hospital, I think. There is an obituary which mentions that she had been long affiliated with that city's Grace Church, but it didn't give her place of burial. It might help to see if there are still records for Grace Church. Another thought: Jason Emerson is busily working on a bio of Robert Todd Lincoln. Hopefully he reads ALO and knows the answer. If we don't hear soon, I'll pester him! Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/07/18 - 21:07:05 ( # 376)

N.Y. Times review Regarding the New York Times review, yes, E.M., Ms. Stevens was editorializing. However, I find it interesting that on the Ford's Theatre website that this quote appears: "The Lincoln Museum is filled with artifacts relating to the assassination. It only holds, however, approximately 10% of the total museum collection. The curator uses one case to show visitors objects that are typically housed in museum storage. This temporary exhibit changes on a regular basis." If true, then that could be construed as a "good thing". Hopefully they will add more "assassination" exhibits in the near future, as that is WHAT Ford's is KNOWN for. Another interesting sidenote: Historian, Richard Norton Smith,hired as an "consultant" for the new Ford's Theatre "exhibit" was quoted years ago saying, “There’s no excuse for a dull book, a dull museum, or a dull speech,” says Richard Norton Smith. “Especially when dealing with history – the most fascinating subject I know.” I have not seen this new exhibit at Ford's. I posted that a friend of mine went on opening day and I relayed what he told me. Seems to me (as I trust my friend's opinion), that this is a "dull museum". And maybe, just maybe, regular contributers here, or people, such as Michael Kauffman, Ed Steers,Richard Sloan,Steve Miller, Laurie Verge, Roger Norton, etc. etc., should have been "consulted", because "they know fore what they speak". Best, Randal Berry Randal Berry ... 2009/07/18 - 20:16:45 ( # 377)

NY Times Review I went to the online address for the review mentioned by Mr/Ms Stevens, but could not pull it up. After playing around for awhile, I was finally able to retrieve it and realized that the comment given by Stevens was not a quote from the review. It must have been a personal opinion. Four friends who have been to see it this week admired the quality of each individual exhibit, but thought the museum was too cramped and labels were hard to read. They also expected more on the assassination, since that's what draws people to the site. I'll be anxious to get there soon to see it. e.m. ... MD... 2009/07/18 - 17:46:58 ( # 378)

Ford's Museum A New York Times reviewer on July 14 also noted, "...a lot to cover in a small space, and there are times when ambition would have been better fulfilled if it had been more moderated." In covering the conspirators and the assassination, he writes, "Here, rather than providing too much narrative, the museum presents too little, particularly given the spectacular events that unfolded." Jennifer M ... LaPlata - MD... 2009/07/18 - 10:20:42 ( # 379)

Kenneth M. Stamp 1912-2009In In Memory of Kenneth M. Stamp, noted Civil War historian, who died on July 10, two days short of his 97th birthday. Tom Lapsley ... Fairview - OR... 2009/07/18 - 00:19:14 ( # 380)

Ford's Theater If Ford's Theater does not have the common sense to put more information about the assassination in their museum.Perhaps we should combine with the French and Napeleon's tomb and put the lincoln assassination museum next to Napeleon's tomb.I am sure that the French would try to do it with the effort we have not shown.Then the Europeans who know their history--would respect it more.It is called respect! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - ny... 2009/07/17 - 19:49:18 ( # 381)

Ford's Fiasco Pt. 2. My whole point on commenting must have been lost on Ms. Stevens. I say now, and I thought I made my point earlier on the ALOL, Ford's would not be a historical landmark if NOT for the assassination. There are a lot of wonderful museums, etc. that celebrate Lincoln's achievements. Who ever called the shot's on the exhibits, simply goofed. Or,they mis-read what the Theatre represents, and of course that is the first assassination of a President, and a horrible tragedy that we as Americans should not forget, sweep under the rug, or simply lessen which is what Ford's apparently has done. BTW, please give Lonnie my best! Best, Randal Berry Randal Berry ... 2009/07/17 - 17:57:16 ( # 382)

lincoln's grandaughter does anyone know where Mary "Mamie" Lincoln Isham is buried? Thanks mike gross ... arlington - tx... 2009/07/17 - 17:18:30 ( # 383)

Lincoln Assassination Museum I think that the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln warrants its own museum. It is an interesting and fascinating story and a part of our history. The story of his assassination has probably spawned as many if not more books than his actual accomplishments. His death by assassination while tragic, probably helped to make him one of the most iconic figures in history. Just my 2 cents. John E. ... San Antonio - Texas... 2009/07/17 - 16:05:25 ( # 384)

Robert Lincoln's voice How very interesting to hear Edwin Booth's voice. Does anyone know if there was a recording of Robert Lincoln's voice? He died in 1926, and had a high profile. Surely someone would have made a recording of him speaking somewhere. If true, it might be a small indication opf how his father's voice sounded. Jre Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/07/17 - 14:34:24 ( # 385)

Edwin Booth John, Thanks for the link to Edwin Booth's gramaphone voice sample. What a link to history ! Rich rich smyth ... milford - PA... 2009/07/17 - 08:52:22 ( # 386)

Ford's Here is the New York Times' take on the Ford's Theatre exhibitions. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/15/arts/design/15museum.html Washington, DC is a city crowded with museums that are themselves crowded with artifacts and history. Despite Lincoln's prominence, he does not get that much attention in the national museums. Thus, Ford's can (and should) be viewed as a dedicated and large Lincoln museum, where he gets 100% mindshare. That is a wonderful thing, which even George Washington doesn't merit (unless you drive 40 minutes to Mt. Vernon). In any Lincoln museum it would be a misappropriation to devote more than a sliver to his death, when there is so much to say about his life. S. Stevens ... 2009/07/16 - 14:19:37 ( # 387)

Edwin Booth For anyone interested, here is a link to some information, pictures and a gramophone recording of Edwin Booth. http://www.josephhaworth.com/edwin_booth.htm Hearing his voice is a little spooky but fascinating. I wonder if JWB's voice was similar. john elliott ... San Antonio - TX... 2009/07/16 - 12:59:11 ( # 388)

Did Lincoln underestimate the crisis? I think Lincoln understood the nature of the crisis, which is why he said it was greater than Washington's. But I think he definitely underestimated what it would take to subdue the other side if the crisis broke. It was well into the war before Lincoln finally abandoned his belief that there were large pockets of loyal citizens in the Confederacy anxious for their states to rejoin the Union. He underestimated the other side's desire for independence, and that they were going to have it or die trying. Rock ... Toews - Annapolis, Maryland... 2009/07/15 - 23:34:15 ( # 389)

Ford's Theatre Fiasco!!! I have a friend who lives in Arlington, VA, and today he went to Ford's Theatre to see the exhibits and he was extremely disappointed. He told me about 80% of the exhibits were of Lincoln during his time in D.C. Hardly anything regarding the assassination! Someone really goofed! Ford's Theatre would most likely be a pub/sports bar today if it weren't for the assassination. I think we need to ban together, contact the Curator's in charge and ask them why the lack of assassination artifacts? I am puzzled! Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/07/15 - 19:44:54 ( # 390)

Down play I really think he wanted to downplay the situation to get elected and reelected.However I do not think he knew how grave the situation was.Remember when the public went to see the 1st Bull Run,because most of the people thought the war would be over in a month?One of the first POW's was Alfred Ely our Congressmen from Rochester,NY-He wanted to watch the exciting foray.Well,this exciting foray lasted all of 4yrs.Who knew?Plus--How good were his intellgence people? Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/07/15 - 18:33:08 ( # 391)

Did Lincoln underestimate the crisis? Did then President-Elect Lincoln underestimate the crisis that was unfolding regarding the States? The reason I ask is that in his "farewell" speech at Springfield in 1861 he indicated that he knew the task he was facing was greater than that which rested on Washington. However, in some subsequent speeches en route to Washington City he seemed to be saying (in so many words)that things were not so bad. He received criticism from newspapers and others for not being "up to speed" on how deeply troubled the state of affairs really were. Was Lincoln merely downplaying the crisis or was he really not aware of things as they were at that time? William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/07/15 - 11:33:30 ( # 392)

Booth biography Rock & Laurie, thanks for your input. I guess I'd better invest in a copy. I was just worried she'd be too biased but it sounds like she tried to be honest. John Winterbauer ... Petersburg - IL... 2009/07/15 - 06:59:41 ( # 393)

Asia Writing on JWB John, I would definitely recommend reading Asia Booth Clarke's writings on her beloved brother. However, I would suggest that you skip the original 1938 The Unlocked Book edition and read instead John Wilkes Booth: A Sister's Memoir, which is a nicely edited 1996 version by Dr. Terry Alford. The introduction and background information provided by Dr. Alford is very helpful. Of course, it is a personal and intimate look into the Booth family and the various relationships within it, but Asia was an intelligent and perceptive lady. Her insights help us to gain a better understanding of the complex make-up of her infamous brother as well as the family. Lastly, I enjoyed it because we so often read about the effect that the era and the assassination specifically had on the American public. In this case, Asia relates it in a very personal, and ultimately tragic, way. I think you will enjoy it. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/07/14 - 12:59:34 ( # 394)

Asia's book I'd definitely say Asia Booth Clarke's "Unlocked Book" is worth reading. In fact it is an essential source on Booth. Of all people close to John Wilkes Booth, Asia undoubtedly knew and loved him best. While Edwin Booth and other family members tried to blot all record of their brother from the family history after his assassination of Lincoln, Asia secretly preserved her memories of him in this journal which she wrote within the first ten years following his death. It's just a source that can't be ignored if you want to know about the origins and personality of John Wilkes Booth. There are many essential details of Booth family life, extracts from documents and letters given to Asia by people who had known John Wilkes as a schoolboy and an actor, several photographs, etc. It was originally published in 1938, some 50 years after Asia's death. An excellent 1996 edition titled "John Wilkes Booth: A Sister's Memoir," edited by Terry Alford, is still in print. Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Maryland... 2009/07/14 - 11:14:09 ( # 395)

Edwin Booth Of course Mrs. Ruggles "wrote" a great bio. of Lindsay. Can anyone provide a review of Asia Booth Clarke's bio of JWB? I've always wondered if it was worth reading. John Winterbauer ... Petersburg - IL... 2009/07/14 - 08:19:55 ( # 396)

Edwin Booth Roger beats me to the punch! I agree, that's a great book, very good biography and I, too, highly recommend Ruggles. Incidently she also a great biography on Vachel Lindsay called "The West-Going Heart". John Winterbauer ... Petersburg - IL... 2009/07/13 - 17:00:00 ( # 397)

Edwin Booth Heritage Megan, I would heartily agree with Roger Norton that you need to read Eleanor Ruggles's "Prince of Players" and perhaps Edwina Booth Grossman's "Reminiscences." You should also contact the Harford County (Maryland) Historical Society's "Booth Lady," Dinah Faber, who has her finger on the pulse of the family history. Her e-mail is belairbooths@msn.com. Edwin survived the post-assassination era very well after fearing that his career was over. In order to help support his mother and older sister, he appeared back on stage at the Winter Garden in NY as Hamlet in January of 1866 -- to great applause. During 1868-69, he built his own Booth Theatre in NY, but that failed economically about four years later. He continued to play at home and abroad and achieved higher greatness than before his brother's evil deed. Ironically, he was the object of an assassination attempt in 1879 by a Mark Gray, narrowly missing the bullet. He is well known for turning his stately residence on NY's Gramercy Park into the famous Players' Club. It is still in existence, so you might want to check with them. Edwin had one surviving child, Edwina, by his first wife. She married Ignatius R. Grossman and had two children, Mildred Booth Grossman Tilton and Clarence Edwin Booth Grossman. I am unaware of any children through Mildred; but the son, who went by Edwin, fathered a girl, Edwina, and a boy, Booth. Clarence Edwin Booth Grossman lived until 1957. There is a concise history of Edwin at http://www.theatrehistory.com/american/booth001.html. The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts also has an excellent collection known as the Billy Rose Theatre Collection. There are eight boxes of Edwin Booth/Grossman materials in that collection. A catalog is at http://www.nypl.org/research/lpa/the/pdf/theboothgros.html. Happy hunting... Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/07/13 - 15:29:14 ( # 398)

Edwin Booth Megan, I own a book titled "Prince of Players: Edwin Booth" by Eleanor Ruggles. I can see from the index that there are lots of references to Edwina Booth Grossmann. I would recommend Ruggles' book. It is available through Alibris, AbeBooks, and other online sources. There are many copies available for purchase, some for less than $2.00. You might also be interested in Edwina's book titled "Edwin Booth: Recollections by His Daughter." Roger Norton ... 2009/07/13 - 04:54:24 ( # 399)

Edwina Booth There is a vast trip to find out info about the various Booth's on the net.Just type their names on Google,But remember not every thing on the net is not always valid.Good Luck---Herb Swingle Herb Swingle ... Fairport - N Y... 2009/07/12 - 18:21:36 ( # 400)

Edwin Booth decendants Hi, I am trying to locate more info on what ever happened to Actor Edwin Booth after the Lincoln Assasination ,perticularly his current decendands via His daughter Edwina Booth Grossman any help would be great! Thanks Megan Hardgrave Megan Hardgrave ... Dallas - TX... 2009/07/11 - 13:56:19 ( # 401)

Russian Info Thanks Laurie. I know Craig. He says that when he was working on "Lincoln and His Admirals" he looked for any interaction between AL and the visiting Russian fleet, but came up empty regarding Demidoff. But thanks for mentioning him. He deserves a plug for "Lincoln and His Admirals," which this year won both the Barondess Award and the Lincoln Prize--no small feat considering the avalanche of competing Lincoln titles brought out of the woodwork by the bicentennial. It's one worth buying if you haven't. Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Maryland... 2009/07/09 - 22:58:25 ( # 402)

Russian Info Rock, This is an outside possibility, but Lincoln/Civil War/Naval History scholar, Dr. Craig Symonds, is the retired Department Chair and Professor Emeritus of History at the Naval Academy and lives in Annapolis. If you can make contact with him, he might have run across this incident in his many forays into history. If you have trouble contacting him, e-mail me at laurie.verge@pgparks.com, and I will see what I can do. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/07/09 - 08:33:44 ( # 403)

Lincoln and the Russians Rock, There is a book called "Lincoln and the Russians" by Albert A. Woldman published in 1952. I actually picked it up for a dollar at a library sale. Looking at the index, I don't see the name of the man who was murdered in there but it could be mentioned somewhere else. Let me keep looking and I'll get back to you. Best Rob Rob Wick ... 2009/07/08 - 20:35:55 ( # 404)

Lincoln and Russia In the winter of 1864, two ships of the Russian navy were anchored at Annapolis, the sailors of which would frequent the taverns near the city dock. On the night of February 4 an altercation broke out between a group of Russian sailors and a barkeep who thought they'd had enough liquor for one evening. Things got violent and William League, said barkeep, shot and killed Nicholas Demidoff, one of the Russians. League was arrested for murder and Demidoff's body was taken to the dead house at the hospital on the grounds of the Naval Academy. An autopsy was performed. Within two days there was an elaborate Greek Orthodox funeral that greatly impressed the locals and Demidoff was buried at the National Cemetery in this place. He remains the only foreign national buried there. Now to the point. I have seen a reference regarding the diplomatic strain this incident caused, and that Lincoln himself took some kind of role in smoothing it out with the Russians. In the Lincoln Papers at the LC there is a note from Seward dated April 4, 1864, saying that he has taken the liberty of arranging an interview between Lincoln and Eduard de Stoeckl, the Russian minister, to discuss a matter of ceremony. I don't know whether this interview took place, or what was actually discussed if it did. No meeting with de Stoeckl is mentioned in "Lincoln Day-by-Day" for 1864. Does anyone know anything about Lincoln becoming involved in the Demidoff incident? Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Maryland... 2009/07/07 - 21:55:37 ( # 405)

William Styple I would just like to mention that I was pleased to see the note from Bill Styple. He spoke on his book, Generals in Bronze, several years ago at a Surratt conference and was a big hit with our attendees. I'm sure that his new work will be a welcome addition to our Lincoln libraries. He is also a great speaker, so those of you who belong to groups in search of programs, you might want to seek him out (and NO, I am not his agent!). Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/07/07 - 16:15:07 ( # 406)

Memorial Events for Mary Lincoln Mary Lincoln's Coterie will host events honoring the life of Mary Lincoln in Springfield, IL July 14th - July 16th. This year marks the 127th anniversary of her death. Events include programs at the Lincoln Home, a wreath-laying ceremoy at the Lincoln Tomb, and a memorial luncheon in downtown Springfield. Lecturers include authors Donna McCreary and Catherine Clintn. For a complete list of program time and locations, please visit the website at www.marylinolnscoterie.com Donna McCreary ... Charlestown - IN... 2009/07/07 - 11:25:26 ( # 407)

Building 20 & 21 Ft. McNair Hi all: I've been meaning to mention this for some time. John Elliot has posted the first of three articles on Fort McNair on my blog "A Little Touch of History". John and I met on line and has as much of an interest in Ft. McNair and the history of the Washington Arsenal Penitentiary as I do. As Ft McNair is now restricted to public access, John has still been able to visit the site twice (as his father is ex-military) and taken some great photos of the few remaining structures from the penitentiary and surrounding buildings. We will be posting these photos once John has completed his last two articles for the series. John Oliver, one of the people who works at Building 20 (where the conspirator trial was held) has been very helpful to us as well. We asked him to go to Building 21 and take a picture from the roof (to confirm if this was the location of Gardner's 'Rooftop View' of the hangings. Access to the roof is no longer available although he did take a shot from the 3rd floor. There are a lot more mature trees now than there were in 1865 but the angle certainly leaves us little doubt that this was the building that Gardner took the photograph from. We look forward to sharing some of his photos from Fort McNair shortly. Best Barry Barry Cauchon ... Toronto - ON... 2009/07/07 - 08:44:11 ( # 408)

144th Anniversary of the Conspirator Hangings Today Hi all: As all of you are probably aware, this is the 144th anniversary of the Lincoln conspirator hangings at the Washington Arsenal Penitentiary. I have been doing a photographic study on the Alexander Gardner images for some time and was recently contacted by one of my readers indicating that he believes he saw an image not included with the 10 currently known ones to exist. If this is the case, then this would make the count of known photographs from that day now at 11. The image he mentioned to me was taken of The Drop. The present image of the Drop shows the bodies in motion just after the traps have been sprung (I'm guessing it's about 5 seconds or so after the traps were sprung). The soldiers under the scaffold are no longer in their positions. The photo my reader remembers shows the bodies in a much more animated state (probably taken just after the traps were sprung) which may show them recoiling upward just after the initial drop. The more important aspect of the photo for me is that the soldiers are still in place below the scaffold. Would anyone know of this photo and where the source of this photo could be. My reader noted that he had seen this in a Blue & Gray magazine from the late 80s or 90s. The same magazine had an article on a curved sword that had been found by a treasure hunter. Apparently when a confederate officer heard that Lee had surrendered, was so upset that he bent his sword over his knee and threw it away. The treasurer hunter tracked it down and found it. Regarding the potential 2nd photo of the Drop, it is feasible that it could exist as the current image of the Drop was taken by Gardner's stereoscope camera. As he also had his full-format camera, and his assistant, Timothy O'Sullivan with him, it's logical that both cameras would have been in action to capture this most critical moment in the event that day. I personally believe that as many as 14-20 photos could have been taken that day of which this new one would make 11 known to date. One note, when I first heard about this photo, Laurie Verge and Steven G. Miller were very helpful in identifying an article from Blue & Gray magazine that Michael Kauffman had written which included a photo of The Drop. However, this image is not the one I'm searching. It is the one that is still part of the original series of 10. So my search continues. I will say that when I was much younger, I believe I recall seeing this image. But who knows. As you get older, the mind plays tricks. Any thoughts. :) Best Barry Barry Cauchon ... Toronto - Ontario... 2009/07/07 - 08:29:50 ( # 409)

New Lincoln Discovery Thanks for your important work; I have enjoyed reading these comments in the past and hope to add to the discussion. For those who may have enjoyed my last book, Generals in Bronze, Interviewing the Commanders of the Civil War, which contained several eyewitness interviews by artist/historian James Edward Kelly (1855-1933) regarding Lincoln's Assassination--you will enjoy my upcoming release: Tell Me of Lincoln--which contains fifty never-before-published interviews by Kelly in an effort to correctly depict President Lincoln's life and death. Over a ten year period, Kelly interviewed fifty people who knew or saw the 16th President--none of this important history has been published before and will greatly help further the study of Abraham Lincoln. William B. Styple ... Kearny - NJ... 2009/07/06 - 20:05:57 ( # 410)

Sebastiao Albano Thanks Roger for flagging me about Sebastiao. I'm so happy for him. He has contacted me many times and his enthusiasm for Lincoln is amazing considering he is from Brazil. It makes you want to appreciate Lincoln all the more when you view him through Sebastiao's eyes. I'll definitely check in on his blog. Way to go Sebastiao! Barry Barry Cauchon ... Toronto - Ontario... 2009/07/06 - 11:04:27 ( # 411)

Jerry, I have this book also. It is a great read. I used to think "What? another book on the assassination?" What else could there be that we already don't know? LOT'S. New information pop's up all the time thanks to places like the Surratt House Museum and the like. I suspect that we haven't heard the whole story on the assassination, which makes this exciting. Best, Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/07/06 - 09:06:22 ( # 412)

Book Laurie; Thanks for your comments about the book. I had the darn thing in my hands this weekend and put it back down, deciding I had so many Lincoln books - how could I possibly gain more information from another one. Your review made me decide to go back to the store and buy it. Jerry Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/07/06 - 08:23:56 ( # 413)

Sebastiao Albano Sebastiao Albano, a frequent contributor to this forum, has a Lincoln blog at this URL: http://abralincoln2.blogspot.com/ Also, over the weekend, Dave Bakke of Springfield's "State Journal-Register" published an article about Sebastiao's 1979 trip to Springfield at this URL: http://www.sj-r.com/bakke/x931217598/Dave-Bakke-Brazilian-remembers-Springfield-kindness A much larger audience will now get to read about Sebastiao's unforgettable journey. Way to go, Sebastiao! Roger Norton ... 2009/07/06 - 06:03:35 ( # 414)

Recommended Book I had been lax in delaying reading a 2008 addition to the field of Lincoln assassination studies. After over fifty years of devouring material related to the subject, I put Anthony Pitch's new book, "They Have Killed Papa Dead," aside until this past week. What a mistake that was. Tony is a well-respected journalist with worldwide experience, and he has brought this jounalistic style to his book. He tells us the who, what, where, and how; but more importantly, he adds the human interest touch to the assassination story by filling his narrative with primary source quotes from newspapers, diaries, letters, etc. of the period - such as excerpts from Sallie Hartranft's letters to her husband, John Hartranft, who was in charge of the imprisoned conspirators at the Washington Arsenal Penitentiary. I caught about a half-dozen "historical typos," such as Booth being born in Cockeysville, Maryland instead of Bel Air, but they were very minor. Only an old school-teacher like me would fret over them. Pitch's description of the scenes in Washington immediately after the murder, during the trial of the conspirators, and again during the trial of John Surratt reminds one of "Reveille in Washington" in their bringing to life the temper of the times. His treatment of the imprisonment of the conspirators, the intricacies of the 1865 trial, and the escape, capture, and turbulant trial of young Surratt is one of the best that I have read. Perhaps what I enjoyed most is that Anthony remained true to his journalistic style of reporting and very seldom strayed into the field of theorizing or speculating on motives, psychological examinations of the characters, etc. It was just a plain old good read that left you feeling like you were in the midst of the Civil War era. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/07/05 - 11:09:22 ( # 415)

ATZERODT OFFSPRING Laurie, Excellent detective work. What a heritage young Edith had to overcome...the illegitimate child of an infamous criminal, hung for his crimes. Rich rich smyth ... milford - pa... 2009/07/04 - 06:55:42 ( # 416)

Atzerodt Offspring Rich, I think we're making progress. The same volunteer who gave us info on Booth's boots and the misspelling of "Independence" on his knife helped me do some sleuthing on the love child of George Atzerodt. I'm 99% sure after working with him and with the Preserve America archaeological project blog for Port Tobacco, Maryland, that Mrs. Wheeler's given name was Elizabeth B. -- not Rose. And, the 1870 Federal Census shows E.B. Wheeler as a home maker in Port Tobacco, age 42, with three children at home. The youngest is Edith, age 7. That coincides perfectly with reports that the child with Atzerodt was two years old in 1865. Now, on to the 1880 and 1890 Census to see if the child married somewhere along the way. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/30 - 16:30:32 ( # 417)

Mrs. Wheeler Laurie, Thanks for the additional info on Atzerodt's child. Please keep us informed if you find anything new. In his statement, Nicholas B. Crangle says that Mrs. Wheeler had a brother James "...about two miles off, who has a family of his own to support..." Rich Rich Smyth ... Milford - PA... 2009/06/29 - 12:20:00 ( # 418)

Mrs. Wheeler Regarding the off-spring of George Atzerodt, I'm going to have to check further, but I thought that the child that he had with Mrs. Wheeler was a girl. I have been following the progress of a U.S. grant that was awarded for archaeological studies of Port Tobacco, Maryland. One of the buildings that they hope to uncover is the carriage shop that George and his brother ran in that village. One of the blogs corrects the use of "Rose" as Mrs. Wheeler's first name. They claim that she was married first to a Charles Wheeler, then to a Mr. Rose, and then cohabitated with Atzerodt. Her given name was Mary, they claim, and her maiden name was Adams. I instantly wondered if she was related to Austin Adams of Allen's Fresh,who also figures into the Booth escape story. Researchers with the Port Tobacco project were recently at the James O. Hall Research Center at Surratt House Museum, so I'll see what I can track down. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/28 - 21:17:22 ( # 419)

Not You, Mr. Smyth! I meant, anyone who's interested! Read about the flag here: http://www.pikecountyhistoricalsociety.org/lincoln.html Sorry Rich, didn't mean to imply you, cuz' you already know about it! LOL! Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/06/28 - 19:40:42 ( # 420)

Lincoln Flag HI,Rich the Lincoln Flag is a very controversial issue and can not be proved either way.However I talked to various authors and read the trial documents.Where upon Neither person mentions a flag, only a handkerchief to comfort Lincoln's head.We need to debate this issue face to face,not on this forum. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/06/28 - 18:06:09 ( # 421)

Rathbone/Lincoln/The Flag Rich, That is interesting. I had always thought the blood on the flag was from Rathbone after reading Dr. Leale's account of very little blood coming from Lincoln's wound. To read more, go here:http://www.pikecountyhistoricalsociety.org/lincoln.html Randal Berry ... 2009/06/28 - 14:43:59 ( # 422)

OFFSPRING Offspring is such a non-family term for family, isn't it? Ok, here is my question. We know a great deal about the children of assassination conspirators Mary Surratt and Samuel Mudd. But, according to documentation, there was one other that gave birth to "offspring," and I am not talking about the alledged children of JWB. I am talking about George Atzerodt. An 1865 statement given to the trial commission by Nicholas B. Crangle claims that; Atzerodt had a common-law-wife by the name of Rose Wheeler. Nicholas was married to an Adams (Rose's maiden name) who was either Rose's full sister or half sister. Nicholas was a tailor by profession and worked with Rose for the same man in Port Tobbaco. Rose had been married twice previously and had 4 children, the eldest being a 17 year old daughter and the youngest (about 2 years of age in 1865) was the son of George Atzerodt. Nicholas saw Atzerodt on a daily basis in town and felt that he had "wronged" Rose by having a child and not marrying her. Finally, here is my question for all you assassination buffs and geneology experts...does anyone know what became of little Atzerodt? Rich Rich Smyth ... Milford - PA... 2009/06/28 - 09:44:59 ( # 423)

RATHBONE Hi Herb, I have to take the opposite point of view on the Lincoln Flag. BTW - I may be a little prejudice...I am a docent at the Pike County Historical Society and once a month spend the day sitting about 25 feet from the flag answering questions. When no one is around, I read all the documentation in the files. The blood has been analyzed twice and the stains are "contact" stains not splatter as would probably be the case if it was Rathbone's. Anyway...the case could be argued either way and either way, I am lucky enough to sit 25 feet from history. Rich Rich Smyth ... Milford - PA... 2009/06/28 - 09:30:23 ( # 424)

Rathbone Laurie.American Heritage shows how ancient I am.The whole series from hard covered to soft covered is in boxes in my basement.The article became very interesting when I was doubting the validity of the Lincoln Flag of Pike County.I feel after seeing all the blood on the Flag and reading about Rathbone, the flag and blood is legit.However by Historical speculation the blood is Rathbone's not Lincoln's."The Haunted major" helped me reach MY circumstancual conclusion.Thanks. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/06/27 - 12:22:42 ( # 425)

The Haunted Major Herb - You one-upped me! I did not remember, or never knew, that Gene Smith did an article on Henry Rathbone for American Heritage back in 1994 called The Haunted Major. I tracked it down, and it is quite good. Gene is a friend and a longtime member of the Surratt Society, so I don't know how this slipped by me - I wasn't even senile in those days! Gene is also the author of American Gothic about the Booth family. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/27 - 09:25:56 ( # 426)

That's a no-brainer! I agree Bloggo. For Ford's to play-down the assassination is silly. Ford's would probably would be a restaurant/bar today if not for what happened on April 14th! I was there last March, the exhibit wasn't open yet, but they had moved the gift shop from where it was originally and the new gift shop is larger. Randal Berry ... 2009/06/27 - 07:04:09 ( # 427)

Assassination exhibit I first went to Ford's Theatre in 1974 Totally enjoyed the assassination exhibits Downplaying them in the new Ford's museum seems to negate the reason for the museum in the first place. If I go there , all i want is April 14, 1865 and it's aftermath! BLOGGO ... Anytown USA... 2009/06/26 - 17:51:18 ( # 428)

Thank you Thank you everyone for your kind suggestions and for taking the time to answer. I will check them out. Regards -- Tina Tina J ... 2009/06/26 - 15:42:16 ( # 429)

Museum at Ford's Jerry, You heard wrong about the museum area in Ford's being enlarged. It is actually going to be smaller according to two sources who work there. The whole theme of the displays will also change back to the way it was 20+ years ago with emphasis on Lincoln, the man, instead of the assassination. I believe that I am correct in saying that the focus will be on Lincoln's Washington years. The assassination display will be where the bookstore is/was, with the bookstore being made smaller. James Swanson, who I believe is on the advisory board for the Theatre Society, said that the new Educational Center being planned adjacent to the Petersen House across the street may focus even further on the assassination. We'll see... Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/26 - 15:29:02 ( # 430)

Artifacts Rich; I wonder why Wither's coat, or any other artifact wouldn't be displayed. Not enough room at Fords? I thought the last renovation, remodeling, whatever was going to make the display area larger. Maybe I heard wrong. Jerry Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/06/26 - 14:44:57 ( # 431)

Rathbone Tina, You will get a good start on researching Henry Rathbone if you read "Henry and Clara" by Thomas Mallon. While it is considered a "novel," it contains excellent history - and if I remember correctly, great footnotes (yes, in a novel!). The book may be out-of-print. If you can't find it, contact me at Surratt House Museum, and I'll see what I can do. laurie.verge@pgparks.com. We had the author as a speaker at one of the early Surratt House conferences, and he definitely passed the test with some of our very learned audience members. You might also consult Blood on the Moon by Edward Steers, Jr. and American Brutus by Michael Kauffman for general information. Mr. Kauffman had the opportunity to interview a granddaughter of Henry and Clara and to peruse German newspapers of 1883, that reported the sad story of Clara's ending and Henry's decline into insanity. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/26 - 12:26:23 ( # 432)

Henry Rathbone Tina, try "Henry and Clara" written by Thomas Mallon. It's an historical novel but very well researched. Roger Norton ... 2009/06/26 - 11:42:34 ( # 433)

Rathbone Tina J,You can find out about Major Rathbone on the net,just type in Major Henry Rathbone,OR-you can get the book"The Haunted Major".You picked an interesting character to say the least. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/06/26 - 10:00:58 ( # 434)

Booth's Knife Jerry, Thanks for the link to Wither's coat. Richard Sloan who has done extensive research into Wither's life told me that the coat was in the possession of the Fords Theatre collection, never displayed, stored away and not, to his knowledge, ever conserved. Rich Rich Smyth ... Milford - PA... 2009/06/26 - 05:50:15 ( # 435)

Books, New/Old I, too await Terry Alfords bio on Booth. Roger Norton told me about a book I somehow missed called, "A.Lincoln: His Last 24 Hours" by W. Emerson Reck. It is a FASINATING book and I wished I had bought it earlier. Also Laurie, I agree with you on Theodore Roscoe's book, I still like that book very much. Roscoe certainly did his homework on that one. Randal Berry ... 2009/06/25 - 19:15:09 ( # 436)

Hello, Your web page has been recommended to me because I would like to research the life of Henry Rathbone. He was the army officer in the same box with Lincoln in Ford's Theatre. I have not been able to find any books about Rathbone, or even somewhat thorough articles. Does anyone have any recommendations? Thank you! Tina J ... 2009/06/25 - 18:32:59 ( # 437)

Booth's KNife I find the discussion about Booth's knife interesting. Just for curiosity, check the site below and find a picture of the coat William Withers Jr., the Orchestra Leader was wearing the night of the assassination. Booth evidently took a swipe at Wither's with his knife as he ran off stage, and sliced his coat. I'm re-reading a book of first hand witness accounts, and finding it so interesting how differently folks viewd the same event. Here is the link for the coat photo: http://www.picturehistory.com/product/id/2498 Jerry Eagon Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/06/25 - 13:45:48 ( # 438)

Booth's Kinife Again-thanks everyone for this excellent discussion regarding Booth's knife and related issues. For some reason it makes sense to me that Booth had the knife (probably in the sheath) tucked in his trousers. I also was very influenced by the Bishop book. I even had the entire book on cassette tape (which I still own). I didn't notice the incorrect spelling on the knife-wow! Did Booth have the knife on his person when he died? William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/06/25 - 12:49:15 ( # 439)

Bishop I was first introduced to the Lincoln assassination by my family's supposed ties to the kidnap plot. When Bishop's book came out, I suddenly realized that there were other people in the world interested in the topic too. So Jim Bishop soldified my addiction to the subject, and Twenty Days added to it. In the 60s, The Web of Conspiracy was my book of choice (even though I didn't agree with some of Roscoe's assessments). Then I became a volunteer at Surratt House, and my whole world opened up with first-hand contact with the major movers and shakers in the research field. From a modern day perspective, I must say that, watching visitors enter the doors of Surratt House over the past few years, James Swanson's Manhunt is the new Jim Bishop's Day book. If they don't have the book in hand, they mention having read it and becoming intrigued with the story. We "encourage" them further by recommending Steers, Kauffman, and Hanchett. We also mention The Darkest Dawn and They Have Killed Poppa Dead; and if they're really hooked, we throw Come Retribution at them. We're anxiously awaiting the new book due from Dr. Terry Alford. Keep those books coming. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/25 - 10:43:22 ( # 440)

Bishop's book Yes, reading Jim Bishop's book was what got me hooked on the Lincoln assassination story. I read it when I was 12 (back in the 60's) and that was it! Then the Kunhardt's '20 Days' hit the racks. Seeing all those photos expanded what I imagined in Bishop'd book. Now I'm 56 and still hooked. Nothing to ashamed about IMO.. BLOGGO ... Anytown - USA... 2009/06/24 - 17:57:18 ( # 441)

Bishops Book I second Roger on Bishops book. I was 11 years old at the time Kennedy was assasinated, and was fasinated and dumbfounded at what recently happened. (Kennedy's death). I was visitng my grandparents in central Florida at the time, and shortly after Kennedy's death, I noticed Jim Bishops book on my grandparents bookshelf. Well.....that did it for me, I was hooked on the Lincoln assassination. Many other contemporary authors got hooked by Bishop's book also, I later learned. I used to be called an "assassination buff" (that somehow had a sleazy conatation attached to it) so now I'm called a "Boothie" LOL! I think Richard Sloan coined that definition. I'm not sure though, but if the shoe fits......... Randal Berry ... 2009/06/24 - 17:56:34 ( # 442)

Lincoln Movie There's positive news on Steven Spielberg’s long-awaited Lincoln movie at this link: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/entertainment/film-tv/news/neeson-starts-work-on-lincoln-film-14337370.html Roger Norton ... 2009/06/24 - 05:44:08 ( # 443)

Location of Booth's Knife For what it's worth, Jim Bishop wrote that Booth's sheathed knife was stuck in the waistband of his trousers. As you know, Bishop didn't include footnotes so the reader doesn't know whether Bishop had a source for this or just used his own logic. I was talking to Randal the other day, and Bishop's book, along with all its pros and cons, was one of the very first books that originally caused our interest in Lincoln's assassination. Because many of my students could handle the reading level, I used it in my mock trial unit during my teaching years. For someone just starting with assassination reading, I would still recommend it. Consider reading it first, THEN go on to Kauffman, Steers, etc. Roger Norton ... 2009/06/24 - 04:36:25 ( # 444)

Sheath I had never thought of a sheath for the knife either, but one of the photos supplied by Ford's curator clearly shows a display panel with the knife mounted above its sheath. The same volunteer who provided the information on where Booth might have tucked the knife also caught a misspelling in the inscriptions on the knife blade. Sure enough, the word "Independence" is misspelled "Independance" on the knife. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/23 - 18:37:20 ( # 445)

Where was the Knife That makes perfect sense. However, I have never heard about Booth having a sheath on him. His clothes, hat, and boots has been described though. Could also be possible that he had the knife in his belt or waistband. Randal Berry ... 2009/06/23 - 17:39:49 ( # 446)

Where was the Knife? I posed the question about where Booth might have hidden his knife before using it on Henry Rathbone on the night of the assassination to one of my excellent volunteers at Surratt House Museum. Not only does he know Civil War/Lincoln Assassination history backwards and forwards, he is also very knowledgeable about men's styles of the day as well as horsemanship. His immediate response was that Booth had to have carried the knife and sheath on his belt, not in his boot. First, his boots were mid-thigh and unless they had a strap for holding the sheath, the knife would have slipped down the leg. Secondly, if forced to draw the knife, the natural instinct would probably be to grab at the waist, similar to grabbing for a small pistol. It would be easier to extract from the belt. That's one man's opinion; any comments? Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/23 - 16:38:06 ( # 447)

Lincoln's last - Library of Congress Link Mr. Wolf, The Library of Congress doesn't let you retain active links - they are just temporary. A better way would be to tell people how to find the specific page through a guided search on the loc.gov website. Kate Larson ... Winchester - MA... 2009/06/23 - 15:44:34 ( # 448)

Lincoln's Last Note - - Correction To Bloggo, I tested my link (posted) on Senator Ashmun - - It goes to "Error".. So for one last time::: This link should work-- http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/P?mal:4:./temp/~ammem_hDUo:: There will be a transcription button on it - if it will let you in. Al Wolf ... Veedersburg - Indiana... 2009/06/23 - 13:39:14 ( # 449)

Lincoln's Last Note ?? To Bloggo, Try this web address for a copy and a transcription of Lincoln's note to Senator Ashmun http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/P?mal:4:./temp/~ammem_Dc0d:: The web address ties back to the Lincoln papers at the Library of Congress (for this particular item.) Have a Good Day. Al Wolf ... Veedersburg - Indiana... 2009/06/22 - 14:24:49 ( # 450)

Looking for a “Lincoln Excuse" to Travel Abroad? I continue to be amazed at how much Lincoln-related e-mail I receive from folks in other countries. Because of Lincoln’s international presence it comes as no great surprise that there will be a Global Lincoln Conference at the Rothermere American Institute, St. Catherine’s College, University of Oxford. The dates for the conference are July 3rd to July 5th. Lots of familiar names will be there including Tom Schwartz, Douglas Wilson, Richard Carwardine, Catherine Clinton, Allen Guelzo, and Harold Holzer. The conference is co-sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Foundation, the Chicago History Museum, the Gilder Lehrman Institute, the U.S. Embassy in London, and the University of Oxford. For anyone interested, the Global Lincoln Conference has its own website at http://www.rai.ox.ac.uk/lincoln/ Roger Norton ... 2009/06/21 - 08:01:13 ( # 451)

last note Thank you Mr. Norton BTW, I enjoy your Lincoln site. BLOGGO ... anytown - USA... 2009/06/20 - 22:52:15 ( # 452)

Lincoln's Last Note According to my copy of "The Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln" the location of Lincoln's note to George Ashmun is the Library of Congress. Roger Norton ... 2009/06/20 - 17:06:55 ( # 453)

Booth's Knife Cudos to Laurie and Gloria Swift (of Ford's Museum) for providing the excellent information on the knife. In my search both in books and on the Internet, I found no such detail about the knife. Everyone seems to focus on the firearm that Booth used instead. Herb memtioned that the inscriptions on the knife may have more deeply demonstrated Booth's premeditation-how thought prrovoking indeed! Does anyone know where Booth may have had the knife on his person that night. Maybe in his boot? William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/06/20 - 12:39:54 ( # 454)

Lincoln's last note I was wondering who is in possession of the note Mr Lincoln wrote to Senator Ashmun before he left for the theatre on April 14?? I haven't been able to find a pic of it anywhere. Does it still exist?? Thanks! BLOGGO ... Anytown - USA... 2009/06/20 - 11:39:28 ( # 455)

Robinson Medal Betty Ownsbey is so busy taking care of an elderly mother, working full-time for the city of Richmond, and pursuing her Master's degree that it is difficult to get her to respond to e-mails. The medal that is pictured in her book on Powell is actually in her collection, but it is one of the reproductions that were done about 25-30 years ago. Several Surratt Society members purchased them at that time. I was too broke being a single mother to obtain one, however. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/20 - 11:25:14 ( # 456)

Booth's Knife After seeing the info from Laurie,we can all see what a demented person John Wilkes Booth was.His inscriptions on his knife shows the assassination of Lincolon was pre-meditated and pre-planed.These inscriptions are an eye-opening part of history that probably most of us have never seen before.Kudos to the Ford'Theatre museum and Laurie Verge. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/06/20 - 08:05:43 ( # 457)

Gallows Crossbeam on Display in Topeka, KS Hi all: Did you know that a section of the gallows crossbeam from the lincoln conspirator executions is on display until July 26 at the Kansas Museum of History in Topeka, KS in an exhibition called Lincoln in Kansas. Yesterday I interviewed Nikaela Zimmerman, the Assistant Registrar / Conservation Technician at the Kansas State Historical Society. The crossbeam has been in the possession of the KHS since 1885 when F.G. Adams, the secretary of the KHS contacted a Lieutenant Sebree Smith at the Washington Quartermaster's Office to ask if he could get a section of the gallows for their collection. The Lieutenant had served at Fort Levenworth in Kansas and considered himself a Kansan and happily shipped a section of the top crossbeam to Adams. He also included a letter of authenticity with the artifact. It's an interesting story. You can read about it at http://www.kshs.org/cool/gallowssection.htm. The interview with Ms. Zimmerman will be published sometime this week at www.awesometalks.wordpress.com. Best. Barry Barry Cauchon ... Toronto - Ontario... 2009/06/19 - 19:23:16 ( # 458)

Congressional Medal Laurie, According to you dear friend Betty Ownsbey, her book "Alias Paine" has a picture of the medal on page 84. I don't know if she actually "owns" the medal or what. But it claims "Author's collection". I don't know if that photograph is the one she took, or if the medal is actually in her possession. You might entice her to come on here and explain. Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/06/19 - 18:20:36 ( # 459)

Me Again, With Another Knife I received another speedy reply from the Huntington Library in San Marino, California. They do hold Powell's knife in their collection - along with other items from the estate of George Foster Robinson, attending nurse to Secretary Seward on April 14, 1865. That collection came to them from Myrtle D. Robinson on Sept. 19, 1961. The gold medal that Robinson had been awarded went in 1947 to the U.S. National Museum of History (the Smithsonian?). The knife is the Rio Grande Camp, etc. one. To get directly to the accession record requires about three lines of computer code. The easy way is to go to http://catalog.huntington.org. Run Author Search for Robinson, George Foster. Neither a physical description of the knife nor a photo is there, however. There is a brief bio of Robinson after 1865, that is interesting. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/19 - 16:13:46 ( # 460)

Booth's Knife Amidst all the hustle of preparing the Ford's Theatre museum for opening on July 15, the curator responded very quickly to my request for information on Booth's knife. She sent three photos as attachments. One is actually an accession diagram giving dimensions. I will give a description herein; if anyone wants an e-mail with the attachments or a hard copy of any or all of the photos, please e-mail me at laurie.verge@pgparks.com with the necessary mailing instructions. The NPS holds both the knife and sheath. The knife bears a manufacturer's mark just below the hilt of "Manson Sheffield." The overall length of the entire knife from blade tip to the end of the textured bone handle is 11 13/16". The blade itself measures 7 1/8" in length and a mere 1" in width at its widest point. The metal hilt is 7/16" from blade to the beginning of the bone handle and 2 3/8" wide at the "arms" of the hilt. The bone handle is 4 1/4" long and 13/16" wide. The blade is covered with floral decoration and a variety of inscriptions interspersed: AMERICA at the tip; The Land of the Free and The Home of The Brave at midpoint; and LIBERTY AND INDEPENDENCE about an inch from the hilt. There is no description of the sheath, but its one photo indicates a simple leather, cross-hatched design of the same length and width as the blade. with the significant wording, it almost seems as if Booth had it especially designed for his moment of infamy, but I'm sure that it was manufactured in England for import to patriots in America. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/19 - 14:32:00 ( # 461)

Lincoln Statue Dedication On Saturday, June 20, the Oregon Lincoln Bicentennial Commission will dedicate a stone plaque at the foot of the bronze statue of Lincoln, located at the Park Blocks in downtown Portland, OR. Tom Lapsley ... Fairview - OR... 2009/06/18 - 23:59:22 ( # 462)

Booth's Knife Yes,I have seen the RIO-GRANDE CAMP KNIFE.Made in Sheffield,England by Sheaf Island Works. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/06/18 - 16:54:15 ( # 463)

Bowie Knives I have not confirmed, but I believe Powell's "Bowie" knife is in the Huntington Library collection in San Marino, Ca. The bowie knife Lewis Powell used in his attack on Secretary of State William Seward (8 inch blade, "Rio Grande Camp Knife, Wm. Jackson & Co. Sheaf Island Works, Sheffield"), that Robinson received from the War Department in 1866. The bloody knife was tossed into the gutter by Powell outside the Seward residence. It was picked up the next day by Robert Nelson who gave it to a guard stationed in front of the home. The guard subsequently turned the weapon over to Doctor John Wilson who was attending to William Seward. The War Department took possession of the knife and upon receipt of a request after the trial of the conspirators by George Foster Robinson for the evidence, presented it to him in gratitude for his assistance in fending off the attack on Seward by Powell. I believe it remained in the Robinson family until donated to the library by Myrtle D. Robinson in the 1940’s. If anyone can confirm or has additional info - please post. Thanks. Rich rich smyth ... Milford - Pa... 2009/06/18 - 14:54:32 ( # 464)

Booth's Knife Thanks all for the information coming in (and yet to come in) regarding the knife Booth used April 14th. I have seen where his knife was referred to as a Rio Grande Camp knife (manufactured in England, I believe). Has anyone else seen this? William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/06/18 - 10:56:00 ( # 465)

Booth's Knife "A Knife just like the one Booth used,but it is not Booth's knife."What a sales pitch!How many people from the Jerry Springer Show bought that knife?What would this forum do without Laurie and all of her resources?Who did get other 2 knives? Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/06/18 - 07:48:41 ( # 466)

Booth's Knife Just an update - no complete details yet. Gloria Swift, the wonderfully cooperative curator at Ford's Theatre, called today to acknowledge that she had received my request for info on Booth's knife. She is extremely busy assisting with the mounting of the new exhibits in the museum portion of Ford's Theatre, which is set to reopen on July 15. If you haven't been on www.fordstheatre.org, please open it up and view the video. That aside, Gloria was able to tell me that Booth's knife is not a Bowie knife. The Bowie that they have is the one found under the mattress in Atzerodt's room at the Kirkwood. She will be supplying me with a photo and description of Booth's knife, with dimensions, in the near future; and I will immediately pass them on to ALO. That leaves another question: Kauffman cites three Bowie knives being purchased by Booth in New York in January 1865. Who received the other two? You might be interested in knowing that Gloria will be speaking on the Ford's Theatre holdings and their histories before coming to the NPS at the Surratt Conference, March 19-21, 2010. We have also booked Andrew Jampoler, author of The Last Lincoln Conspirator, and Michael Kline, author of the new book on The Baltimore Plot of 1861. We're also waiting to hear from Charles Lachman, author of The Last Lincolns. Several other invitations are also in the works. Just a "teaser". Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/17 - 16:05:39 ( # 467)

Booth's Putative Descendants I suppose that the possible J.W. Booth line could be matched with collateral descendants. But that might be technically difficult because there is no direct male line alleged here. It would be ironic if there was an extant J.W. Booth line, but none of Lincoln's. J. C. Marrero ... Raleigh - NC... 2009/06/16 - 14:55:06 ( # 468)

Booth's Knife + After thought I used knife manufacturing catalogs to researh Booth's knife.The length is correct-they did call it a Bowie hunting knife with a stag grip.After thought--Every catalog and picture I looked at"5"said, "that this is the Knife that Booth used,BUT in no way is this the knife that Booth used".Very amusing! Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/06/16 - 13:54:21 ( # 469)

Booth's Knife I used knife manufacturing catalogs to researh Booth's knife.The length is correct-they did call it a Bowie hunting knife with a stag grip. Herb Swingle ... Fairport - NY... 2009/06/16 - 13:35:42 ( # 470)

Booth's Knife Thanks Laurie! Yes, the knife is in the museum at Ford's. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/06/16 - 11:21:49 ( # 471)

Booth's Knife William, I used the late Dr. John K. Lattimer's measurement as my source for the 7 1/4 inches. Also, using the picture in his book as a source, and adjusting for sizes, I came up with an approximate blade width of 1.16 inches. We'll see how close that is to what Laurie may discover from the NPS at Ford's. I have no information on the handle, but I have used the phrase "hunting knife" in my website although many books call it a "bowie knife." I guess I just think "hunting knife" is a more accurate description. In other words, I agree with what you said in your post. Roger Norton ... 2009/06/16 - 07:24:28 ( # 472)

another note to add to that The Booth exhumation hearing in 1995 presented testimony AGAINST the exhumation of Booth by the Late James O. Hall, Michael Kauffman, Steven G. Miller, Terry Alford and William Hanchett, if my memory's any good. These days, I question it! (my memory) LOL! Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/06/15 - 20:01:52 ( # 473)

Booth's daughter And what would you test the DNA against? The "Kline vs. Green Mount Cemetary" case in 1995, effectually squashed getting DNA from Booth's remains, if I recall. Best, Randal Randal Berry ... 2009/06/15 - 19:56:37 ( # 474)

Booth's Daughter About a week ago, a reader posted a question about the reported daughter of John Wilkes Booth, upon which Izola Forrester's book, This One Mad Act, is based. The late James O. Hall worked extensively with descendants of Mrs. Forrester to research this story. Two members of the Surratt Society subsequently researched records in New England also and published a small book with the ultimate conclusion that there is no legal proof of a marriage between Booth and Mrs. Forrester's grandmother, but that the birth of a daughter was not totally out of the question. The family's belief that a son was also born AFTER April 1865, with Booth as the father, runs into trouble. Did I just hear someone call for DNA testing? Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/15 - 16:27:05 ( # 475)

Booth's Knife In American Brutus, Mike Kauffman notes that Booth bought three Bowie knives, along with other weapons, on a trip to New York in January 1865. After that, he interchangeably uses the words "knife" and "dagger." On Booth Escape Route Tours, I have heard Mike make reference to the symbolism of the knife blade having the words "America: Land of the Free" etched on its blade. Doesn't the NPS own the knife? I'll check with the curator at Ford's to see if they do have it and if so, dimensions and description. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/06/15 - 16:19:06 ( # 476)

Lincoln's Early Years My apologies, Max. It is KERSEY H. Fell, not Kelso, brother to Jesse Fell. I recall vividly that the leather wallet/diary had "K.H. Fell 1838" and "Bloomington County McLean Illinois" written in ink on the interior of the wallet - a very nice one, dark leather exterior, light on the inside with the diary tucked into one of the folds. How the wallet and diary from 1844 came to be in Waltham, Massachusetts in the mid 1990s is a mystery. The antique dealer I purchased it from, no longer in business, used to buy the contents of homes, and usually ended up with lots of paper that he sold off by the box full. This wallet I think came with boxes of items from an old New England family - businessmen, abolitionists, Civil War servicemen, ministers, educators, etc., - who seemed to have their been involved in practically everything. They were friends with poets and other writers, people who were working with John Brown, people who were moving west and settling there, people who traveled to Europe and Russia, fought in the Civil War, etc. I never researched the Fell family to try to figure out the connection to New England. Best, Kate Kate Larson ... Winchester - MA... 2009/06/15 - 09:55:21 ( # 477)

Booth's Kinife I've been trying to obtain the dimentions of the knife Booth used to slash Major Rathbone's arm. Roger, from your website it is noted that the blade is 7 and 1/4 inches long. Do you or any one else know how wide it is? Some have called it a Bowie knife, but it doesn't appear to be one. Others call it a hunting knife. Also what was the handle made of? Your help is appreciated. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/06/13 - 15:52:55 ( # 478)

Lincoln's Early Years Miss Kate, thanks for your interesting post, would you mind filling me in on "Kelso" Fell, thought I was up on the Bloomington lawyers but this one escapes me, (could be my advancing years,grin) any help would be greatly appreciated, Your Obt.Svt. Max Max Daniels ... Wheaton - Illinois... 2009/06/12 - 22:01:57 ( # 479)

Ben: Perley Poore Just to add a note to what Randal wrote. If you don't mind looking at them on the computer, you can also download the entire set from Google Books, although I noticed that whoever did the scanning on Vol. 2 messed up some pages. I've downloaded several books in the public domain about Lincoln as well as about the assassination. It's a nice resource. Best Rob Rob Wick ... 2009/06/12 - 08:53:56 ( # 480)

Lincoln's early years Back to some earlier queries about Lincoln's earlier legal career, I once purchased, by chance, a diary (among a box lot of other items) that belonged to one Kelso H. Fell, brother of Jesse Fell who helped shaped Lincoln's image for his successful presidential campaign in 1860. Kelso Fell was a lawyer who rode the 8th Circuit in Illinois in the early 1840s, as did Lincoln. The diary includes just a portion of 1844 - March 23 to June 7 to be exact. During that time he witnessed several debates between young Abraham Lincoln and local politician John Calhoun - a former surveyor of Sangamon County who had hired Lincoln in 1833 - according to Carl Sandburg, Calhoun rigorously pursued a political career.) Though I sold the diary years ago (what a mistake!), these are my notes (for the Lincoln related material) for those who may be interested: April 3 - ...Went on to Fremont stopped with Dean heard Calhoun make political speech and Lincoln followed... April 15. Circuit court began Docket called and court adjourned for public speaking - Calhoun lead off and Lincoln followed... May 6. Left morning about eight o'clock for Decatur and get in about twelve distance about twenty miles + bad roads - court adjourned after dinner for political speaking which was carried on by Calhoun until nearly night when Mr. Lincoln commenced but there not being time adjourned until the next day after dinner. May 7. Court meet and continued in session until evening when the business was concluded no business of any importance in court. Mr. Lincoln and Calhoun kept up the discussion from one o'clock until in at night without interruption. There are mentions of other political and social figures - Edward D. Baker, Stephan Gerard, Mr. Grubbs?, Mr. Cotton (temperance)?, Attorney Jenks, Elder Chase (preacher?), Mr. Roberts, Mr. Brown, Mr. Davis, James A. McDougal, and others. Hope this helps someone. Would be happy to share more from my notes if anyone is interested. Best, Kate Larson Kate Larson ... Winchester - Massachusetts... 2009/06/11 - 19:25:47 ( # 481)

The Conspiracy Trial.... For those not fortunate enough to own the Arno Press reprint of "The Conspiracy Trail For The Murder Of The President And The Attempt To Overthrow The Government By The Assassination Of Its Principal Officers" By Ben: Perley Poore, Kessinger Publishing's Legacy Reprints have published, curiously, Vol. 2 of the original 3 vol. set in hardcover. I bought it because I collect such books, and yes, I already have the Arno version. This is a much nicer version and larger than the Arno ones. And they good thing is, it's available again. I like the Poore version better, much better, than the Pitmann version, hand's down! I hope Kessinger publish's Vol. 1 and 2.! Can't see why they wouldn't. Randal Berry ... 2009/06/11 - 17:44:20 ( # 482)

Lincoln's trimmed beard Interesting comments Barry. Thank you. It should also be noted that Lincoln had the second life mask done on February 11, 1865. So, by the time of the inauguration his beard had been trimmed three weeks. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/06/10 - 14:38:26 ( # 483)

Lincoln's Beard According to Harold Holzer Hi all: Harold Holzer helped me to identify a fake "Lincoln in Death" photo last year and commented on Lincoln's beard. "Lincoln wore a shorter beard during that spring . This is indicated in the last known existing photo of Abraham Lincoln taken prior to his assassination. It was taken by photographer Henry F. Warren on the south balcony of the White House on March 6, 1865. As you can see, Lincoln sports more of a goatee rather than a full beard". Mr. Holzer went on to say that Lincoln had his beard trimmed for his 2nd Inauguration which took place on March 4 (just two days before the picture was taken). Best Barry Barry Cauchon ... Toronto - Ontario... 2009/06/10 - 10:09:02 ( # 484)

Spielberg Movie The Lincoln movie it seems, will not be out until 2011. Spielberg has too many other projects, along with money issues and a quarrel between his Dreamworks and Paramount. Jerry Eagon Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - Indiana... 2009/06/09 - 15:07:17 ( # 485)

Did Booth Have a Daughter I was wondering if three are any grounds to believe that JWB sired a daughter whose own daughter became Izola Forrester, a prominent writer. I saw a photo of Ms. Forrester and it is possible to conclude that she got her "grandfather's" eyes. J.C. Marrero ... Raleigh - NC... 2009/06/09 - 14:42:07 ( # 486)

Lincoln document turns up in Hawaii A bit of a mystery as to how this Emancipation Proclamation related memo, signed by Lincoln, came to be in the Kingdom of Hawaii: http://news.aol.com/article/lincoln-document-hawaii/519578 Rock Toews ... Annapolis - Maryland... 2009/06/09 - 10:47:32 ( # 487)

Liam Neeson I was just reading that Liam Neeson's next project will be playing Hannibal in the upcoming "A-Team" movie. Will we ever see him as Lincoln? I'm beginning to think Spielberg has just shelved that project. Anybody have any news regarding the (rapidly becoming) mythical Lincoln film? John Winterbauer ... Petersburg - IL... 2009/06/09 - 06:53:52 ( # 488)

Lincoln's Sesquicentennial I was in a used bookstore over the weekend and found a really nice copy of the official US Government Report (in book form)on the Lincoln Sesquicentennial in 1959. There was a joint session of Congress to mark the occasion. Is anyone in this forum old enough to remember this event? I was only five years old. Anyway, actor Frederick March recited the Gettysburg Address and the keynote speaker was Carl Sandburg. Mr. Sandburg's praise of Lincoln is outstanding. President Eisenhower did not attend the joint session but gave a short speech the night before at a celebration dinner. Interesting stuff! William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/06/08 - 10:24:28 ( # 489)

Lincoln's trimmed beard in 1865 In a previous post I had noted that Lincoln was pictured with a goatee in his coffin. I had thought that perhaps those who prepared his corpse had shaved him that way. Someone on this forum had mentioned in reply that Lincoln himself made the beard change. The August 2009 issue of Civil War Times sheds some light on this subject stating that Lincoln trimmed both his "mane" and facial beard because he was "afraid" in preparation for having another life mask done. It says he remembered how painful the first life mask had been and that he was taking "precautionary action." The short article is the back page of the issue. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/06/05 - 19:27:04 ( # 490)

Michael Burlingame's Mary Todd Lincoln Having been an MTL "partisan" all my reading life, I must say that the new mega-biography of Lincoln presents MTL in an irredeemable light. The documentation (practically a Bill of Particulars) present her as just plain horrible and mean. The best that can be said for her is that she may not have been in control of herself due to mental illness. My main quible is that in recounting her leaving the White House, Mr. Burlingame accuses her of, in effect, grand theft. Her defenders say that the White House was "looted" by souvenier seekers, not by the former First Lady? Can she be acquitted on at least this count? J. C. Marrero ... Raleigh - NC... 2009/06/04 - 08:06:47 ( # 491)

Laurie Verge Condolences to Laurie Verge, Director of the Surratt House Museum for the loss of her mother today.(June 3, 2009) You can send cards or notes to: Laurie Verge c/o Surratt House Museum P.O. Box 427 9118 Brandywine Road Clinton, MD 20735 Randal Berry Randal Berry ... 2009/06/03 - 22:11:08 ( # 492)

Dr. Donald My condolences to the Donald family. I will miss him very much. When he spoke of Lincoln he held me spellbound. I can't imagine what being a student of his must have been like. Heaven I guess..we know you'll be there Dr. Donald. Kurt Cruppenink ... Westville - IL... 2009/06/02 - 16:08:52 ( # 493)

Ft. McNair / Arsenal Penitentiary Hello Everyone, First of all, what a great forum ! My name is John E. Elliott and as Barry mentioned in his previous message, we are partnering on a research project relating to the Arsenal Penitentiary. During the course of this endeavor, I've been able to correspond with some really neat people such as Barry and Laurie Verge. My hope is to contribute something worthwhile to Lincoln enthusiasts as well provide an update on the future renovation project of Building 20. The name of the book written by Mrs. McClellan is "The Silent Sentinel on the Potomac". It offers some old photos of the Arsenal as well as some old maps and diagrams. I found it insightful and would recommend it to those interested in the history of Ft. McNair. Regards, John E. Elliott John Elliott ... San Antonio - Texas... 2009/05/31 - 23:58:22 ( # 494)

Ft. McNair Hi all: Laurie is correct. I have been working on an indepth study of the Fort McNair/Conspirator Hanging story. My partner on this is John Elliot from San Antonio. He has made great headway in digging out a lot of interesting facts and photos regarding the site. Recently he visited Fort McNair and took lots of great photos of Building 20 (both inside and out) and the surrounding area. He spoke to a number of very helpful people working there and confirmed that there are plans for a major restoration of the 3rd floor where the trial took place. Currently it is a series of offices. The folks at Fort McNair have been very helpful in supplying him solid info. Our current interest is in Building 21 which stands to the southwest of Building 20. Our suspicion is that this could be the building that Gardner took his last photo of the executions called the "Rooftop View". We are working on getting one of our contacts to go up to the roof of that building a take a photo for us. It could be a very telling shot if the angles line up and the Washington Monument and Smithsonian Institute line up with the original picture. Stay tuned. Barry Barry Cauchon ... Toronto - Ontario... 2009/05/31 - 16:52:59 ( # 495)

A. Lincoln's Boots: I am currently considering the accurate replication of one pair of President Lincoln's boots made to his exact measure as my gift to Ford's Theatre. I am proposing to recreate the boots using the extensive and thorough measurements documented by bootmaker Peter Kahler at the White House. Any subsequent pairs are not under consideration at this time. If I am successful, when President Lincoln finally reincarnates, The US National Park Service will have a new pair of boots waiting for him. Michael Anthony Carnachi ... Sebastopol - California... 2009/05/30 - 04:15:42 ( # 496)

Ft. McNair Phyllis I. McClellan is the author of the book Laurie mentioned. I just ordered a copy from Amazon. On the subject of books, have you read "The Avenger Takes His Place" by Howard Means? It's a study of Andrew Johnson's early days as president. I've, honestly, never been too interested in Johnson but this book is a real eye-opener and is very well done. I recommend it highly if you haven't picked it up. John Winterbauer ... Petersburg - IL... 2009/05/29 - 18:45:47 ( # 497)

Lincoln's boots Mr. Carnacchi: Since you are a bootmaker, do you plan to make replicas of the Lincoln boots in question? If so, as a Lincoln presenter, I would be interested in perhaps obtaining a pair. Fred Priebe ... Belleville - Michigan... 2009/05/29 - 15:02:03 ( # 498)

Ft. McNair Definitely take a look at the modern photo of the old Penitentiary at Ft. McNair. There is very little left of the what was there in 1865. The wall of the fort as well as the back portion of the building attached to that wall disappeared many moons ago as did the wing that jutted out - shown at the extreme left of the 1865 photo near the crack in the glass plate. The first and second story windows on the main block is all that is really recognizable today. There is ongoing restoration of the building (now designated as Bldg 20 or Grant Hall). I have been told that the trial room may be re-created. A young gentleman who contacted Barry Cauchon is keeping abreast of this work. Ft. McNair and West Point have long had a "contest" going as to which post was the oldest still in use in the U.S. About 5-10 years ago, there was an interesting little book done on the history of the site. I don't remember the author, but the title is Silent Sentinel. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/05/29 - 13:12:41 ( # 499)

Pictures Thanks, Jerry. Just looking at that picture I'd never guess the building actually dates to 1853-1854. On a totally different topic, back in 2006 on this forum, someone asked about the site of the execution of the Lincoln conspirators in 1865. Laurie replied with a brief discussion of Ft. McNair. Among the things she said was that the "scaffold that executed the four prisoners would today stand near the back of the tennis courts." Well I recently happened upon a picture of the tennis courts taken from a very similar angle as to what Alexander Gardner used on July 7, 1865. The location of the executions looks extremely different today from what it did in 1865. If anyone is interested, I've added this photo to my web page at http://home.att.net/~rjnorton/Lincoln3.html The tennis courts photo is adjacent to the photo of the executions near the bottom of the page. Roger Norton ... 2009/05/29 - 03:34:51 ( # 500)

Lincoln's Boot Size Michael: Thank you for that information on Lincoln's boot size and your expert work done in that area. William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/05/27 - 13:07:54 ( # 501)

Fox Hill Home Roger; I remember reading about the Fox Hill Home in Batavia some time ago. I also believe it was pictured on a TV show about Mary Lincoln a year or so ago on a PBS special. To see a picture of this place, visit - http://www.flickr.com/photos/34748725@N00/3369275864/ Jerry Eagon Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/05/27 - 12:12:32 ( # 502)

Michael Burlingame Hello, Please join me in welcoming Michael Burlingame to Illinois. Michael is to be the new Naomi B. Lynn Distinguished Chair in Lincoln Studies at the University of Illinois-Springfield. Congratulations Michael! Kim Bauer ... Decatur - IL... 2009/05/27 - 09:03:21 ( # 503)

Fox Hill Home Over the weekend I received a letter that I found quite interesting. The letter was from a woman who had been sent to Fox Hill Home during the 1970's. Fox Hill Home was a residential therapeutic facility for adolescent girls. While there, the lady (who was then 16 years old) said she was told Mary Todd Lincoln died in the very building where the girls lived. Apparently the folks in charge of the girls used this "fact" as a veiled threat in case anyone misbehaved. Turns out the girls were being told only half the truth. Of course Mary Todd Lincoln did not really die in that building, but she was a resident there for several months in the summer of 1875 when the building was called Bellevue Place. By the mid-1960's Bellevue Place had been converted to a facility for troubled girls and was then called Fox Hill Home. During the 1980's and 1990's the building was renovated and again renamed Bellevue Place. It was converted into apartments and condominiums. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Roger Norton ... 2009/05/26 - 11:12:27 ( # 504)

Lincoln's Boot Size: According to President Lincoln's foot tracings and measurements documented by bootmaker Peter Kahler, the boot last used to make Mr. Lincoln's left boot had an overall stick length of 12 and the boot last used to make his right boot had a stick length of 12 1/4. Using a modern day boot last, the stick lengths annotated above are approximately equal to size 12 1/2. Michael Anthony Carnacchi ... Sebastopol - California... 2009/05/26 - 01:46:03 ( # 505)

Lincoln's Boots Michael: Based on your examination of Lincoln's boots can you tell us what size shoe he wore? Were the shoe sizes the same then as now? In other words, is today's size 13, for instance, the same as size 13 then? William Nash ... Sterling Heights - Michigan... 2009/05/25 - 07:26:27 ( # 506)

only boots Thanks for the clarification, Michael. You may be interested in this recollection of Lincoln written by his son, Robert: "His footgear and that of people like him at that time was boots, and it happens that he was very particular about his boots. In my knowledge of him he never owned a pair of shoes." (from J Ill St Hist Soc. Summer 1980, pp132ff). Good luck! John Sotos ... 2009/05/25 - 02:53:30 ( # 507)

President Lincoln's Boots: Out of respect for President Lincoln, I am seeking the approval of the US National Park Service so that the record of his boots and what we have learned about him through them, is accurately preserved. I am the first professional bootmaker to examine and evaluate these boots and I am working with other bootmakers, historians, and leather tanneries. Some of my findings will directly conflict with the current historical record at Ford's Theatre and I will have to show compelling evidence to the curator and conservator with a submission to amend the record. If I publish my compilation of data without NPS approval, my extensive research will amount to nothing more than one person's opinion and the history of Abraham Lincoln's boots will remain contested by our descendents. I am seeking to set the record straight before the evidence in his boots decomposes with time. Michael Anthony Carnacchi ... Sebastopol - California... 2009/05/24 - 04:22:25 ( # 508)

Thanks, Rich Forgot to thank you, Rich, for the update on Clark's whereabouts! John Sotos ... 2009/05/23 - 23:37:23 ( # 509)

new boot data To Michael: Your data sound most interesting. They could settle several questions, and I look forward to seeing an article! However, I am struck that the National Park Service has to "approve" data. Why? John Sotos ... 2009/05/23 - 15:20:39 ( # 510)

William Clark John Sotos, I understand what you mean when you say William Tilton Clark "dissapeared forever" but in fact we know where he is now. He is buried in Lowell Cemetery in Lowell, Mass. Just in case anyone is looking for him as I was. My question was posted on this board a while back and kindly answered by Mary Kauffman. Rich Rich Smyth ... Milford - PA... 2009/05/23 - 10:10:23 ( # 511)

Lincoln's Boots / No Doubt I am the bootmaker that recently examined Abraham Lincoln's boots. They are definitely Mr. Lincoln's boots and anyone that would like to argue against this should first be able to read his tracings and measurements documented by bootmaker Peter Kahler as I can. Because I am in the process of compiling my research data for approval by the National Park Service, I am limited to what I can say here. I will share the fact that the right boot has a very specific and defining leather crease that exactly matches the boot that President Lincoln is wearing in the photographs taken by Alexander Gardner on August 9 and November 8, 1863. It is my intention to publish my findings in detail with photographs and an explanation of how each measurement gathered by Mr. Kahler corresponds to the President's feet. You can tell a lot about a man by the boots that he wears. Michael Anthony Carnacchi ... Sebastopol - California... 2009/05/23 - 03:40:35 ( # 512)

Boot doubts (1) All of Lincoln's clothes were removed from Clark's room to the White House. Why not the boots? (2) The boots do not fit a tracing made of Lincoln's feet in 1864. (3) By the late 1860s, Clark had lost his job and needed money. He and another man pledged the boots to secure a loan from a man named Hatch. Clark and the other man promptly disappeared, forever. The Hatch family gave the boots to the government (presumably took a big tax deduction!). John Sotos ... 2009/05/22 - 18:04:29 ( # 513)

Boots Gabor Boritt's article on "Lincoln's toe" appeared in a 1989 Lincoln Lore if anyone is fortunate enough to have these issues. If you do find it, please share pertinent points. I thought the NPS provenance for the boots was pretty clear-cut. In corresponding with the bootmaker, I found it interesting that he thought he could determine if the NPS boots were the same ones that he wore at Gettysburg. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/05/22 - 15:20:33 ( # 514)

Lincoln's boots John; Could you elaborate on that? Why wouldn't they be Lincoln's boots? Are there other boots he might have worn that night? I thought these were found by William Clark and given by him to someone else, per the article. Is that not the case? Jre Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/05/22 - 13:16:42 ( # 515)

Probably not Lincoln's boots It is far from certain that those are Lincoln's boots. Gabor Boritt discusses the very serious doubts on this matter in a 1989 essay called "How big was Lincoln's toe?" John Sotos ... 2009/05/22 - 12:08:29 ( # 516)

Lincoln's Boots Laurie; I found the boot article & pictures extremely interesting. I saw the boots while in Washington D.C. two years ago, and wondered then if anyone had ever examined them closely. It's so amazing what experts can determine by studying common items such as a pair of boots. Thanks for putting us on to that! Jerry Jerry Eagon ... Elkhart - IN... 2009/05/22 - 09:22:32 ( # 517)

Mr. Lincoln's Boots Several months ago, I was contacted at Surratt House by a bootmaker in California who was very interested in Mr. Lincoln's feet and boots. He also appeared to be very well-versed in the long history of bootmaking. Knowing that Dr. Houmes, a contributor to this site, was knowledgeable in that field, I put them in touch with each other. The bootmaker made contact with Ford's Theatre's curator and secured permission to examine the pair of Lincoln's boots in their holdings - believed to be the pair left behind at the Petersen House. The Washington Post did a story on the investigation and it ran in the May 14 edition. If interested, the article by Michael Ruane can be found at http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/13/AR2009051303627.html. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/05/21 - 16:30:17 ( # 518)

Vandalia Michael, you're right! Actually, Vandalians are right, that site is slighted and it's too bad because the Old Vandalia State House is a must see in my eyes. They do a fantastic job there of introducing people to the early legislative years of Lincoln and it's a great building. Baringer's book was among the box of Lincoln books I inherited from my great uncle when I was nine. That box started me on my obsession & that book remains one of my favorites. I agree, it's absolutely worth picking up! He also wrote, along with several other books, "A House Dividing" which is an excellent book on the 1858 time frame. Can't go wrong with Baringer! For the record, the courthouses in Mt. Pulaski and Lincoln are also worth the drive to see. Those sites are out of the way and, sadly, not many people visit them. You're really missing something if you don't! John Winterbauer ... Petersburg - IL... 2009/05/21 - 06:41:56 ( # 519)

New Salem or Vandalia What is interesting if you talk to a Vandalia person, he or she will say that Vandalia is slighted. After all that is where Lincoln first gained his political experience in the legistlature. Barringer's "Lincoln's Vandalia" is a great book to check out if you are interested in that same time period in Lincoln's life. It is 60 years old, so it might be hard to find. Michael Burkhimer ... Audubon - PA... 2009/05/20 - 17:39:36 ( # 520)

New Salem John, It seems that with the recent scholarship of Douglas Wilson in "Honor's Voice" and the re-examination of Herndon's sources in "Herndon's Informants", there is little more that can be gleaned from those transformational years in Lincoln's life. The only "new" stuff I have read focuses on the archaeology of New Salem yielding arcana like the fact that the tavern was originally located closer to the road than it is in the current park. I am going to be at New Salem this summer and am looking forward to it--it has been two years since I was last there. The docents who volunteer there make it seem like you were "time-warped" into the 1830s! I wish I lived closer to the Lincoln sites in Illinois. I agree that the Benjamin Thomas book may be the best we have, and it is absolutely the best. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/05/20 - 15:08:14 ( # 521)

New Salem Alan's question about New Salem-related books sent me to my bookshelves. Aside from some of the earliest histories by T.G. Onstot, R.D. Miller & Thomas Reep there are very few books dealing exclusively with the New Salem years (Miller & Onstot are actually county histories). Benjamin Thomas' small book from the 60's (I think)is still the standard after all these years. John Walsh with "The Shadows Rise" might be the next best study of that time in Lincoln's life. Others have added considerably in chapters of larger works (Douglas Wilson & Bob Mazrim come to mind). Also an older book "Mentor Graham: The Man Who Taught Lincoln" was interesting, can't recall the author offhand...Duncan? I just found this lack of study odd when you consider the importance of 1831-37 in Lincoln's life. Does anyone have thoughts on why this is? Is it just too little interest or do people feel that vein's been mined out? As I live down the road from New Salem and grew up nearby, it's my favorite era of Lincoln's life and I never get tired of learning more about those six years! John Winterbauer ... Petersburg - IL... 2009/05/20 - 08:38:17 ( # 522)

NG Lincoln special Last night I watched a segment of a Lincoln program on the National Geographic Channel. Oh boy! Did no one at NG do his/her homework?! They portrayed Lincoln with a beard while living in New Salem and as a young Springfield lawyer. That came MUCH later. Whew! Brent C. Greer ... Easley - SC... 2009/05/19 - 18:34:45 ( # 523)

Dr. Donald Having heard David Herbert Donald speak on several occasions, I would like to add my voice to those grieving his loss. The Lincoln field is better for having him walk amongst us and now we face a void to be filled. Laurie Verge ... Clinton - MD... 2009/05/19 - 16:22:10 ( # 524)

David Herbert Donald Dr. Donald and Benjamin Thomas--two of the greatest biographers of Lincoln that ever graced the earth.He will be missed as a writer and as a commentator on Lincoln documentaries. Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/05/19 - 11:54:41 ( # 525)

David Herbert Donald A giant among the firmament has passed from among us. Professor Donald died Sunday. A finer man and Lincoln scholar this world will never produce. I will miss him. Kim Bauer ... Decatur - IL... 2009/05/19 - 09:02:42 ( # 526)

David Herbert Donald The sad news, just breaking in the Springfield SJ-R. David Herbert Donald has died. A very, very sad day for Lincoln scholarship. John Winterbauer ... Petersburg - IL... 2009/05/19 - 08:21:36 ( # 527)

Thanks Thanks to all of you who answered my inquiries regarding Lincoln's legal career and his time in New Salem. I appreciate your willingness to respond and share your thoughts. Alan Gephardt Alan Gephardt ... Baltimore - Maryland... 2009/05/18 - 16:42:47 ( # 528)

Lincoln in New Salem Alan, This work does not focus exclusively on Lincoln's time in New Salem but it does give an excellent (one of my favorite book's on Lincoln) understanding of Lincoln as a man in/for his times. The book: Ken Winkle's "The Young Eagle: The Rise of Abraham Lincoln" Kim Bauer ... Decatur - IL... 2009/05/18 - 15:54:05 ( # 529)

Lincoln in New Salem Hi Alan, I have a book here that I bought a long long time ago called: Abraham Lincoln, Citizen of New Salem. The author is Paul Horgan with illustrations by Douglas Gorsline. I liked it very much. If you want to know more email me: sn.sa@uol.com.br Sebastiao Albano ... Cruzeiro, SP - Brasil... 2009/05/15 - 17:00:19 ( # 530)

Lincoln & New Salem Alan, Concerning Lincoln and New Salem: "The Sangamo Frontier: History & Archaeology in the Shadow of Lincoln" (more on life on the frontier than Lincoln himself, but valuable) "Living in the Shadow of Greatness" "New Salem: Early Chapter in Lincoln's Life" (Old, but still available) "Lincoln and New Salem" (by Thomas Reep--old, and not always reliable) "The Early Life of Abraham Lincoln" (Tarbell's volume) "Menard-Salem-Lincoln Souvenir Album" (old, but sometimes available on alibris.com) "Honor's Voice" (excellent analysis of the forces that shaped Lincoln, with a lot of info on the N.S. years) "Herndon's Informants" (ditto the above) Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/05/15 - 13:57:11 ( # 531)

Almanac Trial Alan: John Evangelist Walsh did a pretty interesting book on his famous "Almanac Trial." It was called Moonlight. I like Walsh a great deal - he was a reporter for the New York Times, and has written interesting books on the Wright brothers ("One Day At Kill Devil Hill") and a REALLY great book, back in the 1990s, called "The Shadows Rose." It was this work, along with investigative work done by John Y. Simon and Douglas Wilson that has reinvigorated the story, and the historical likelihood, of the Ann Rutledge "myth" having a strong basis in fact. Anyway, I recommend Walsh's "Moonlight." Lonnie ... Chevy Chase - MD... 2009/05/15 - 13:28:13 ( # 532)

Lincoln in New Salem Hello All: same question regarding Lincoln's life in New Salem. I have Benjamin Thomas' book. Any other recommendations? Alan Gephardt ... Baltimore - Maryland... 2009/05/15 - 12:12:13 ( # 533)

Lincoln the Lawyer Alan, if you haven't read it already, I highly recommend "An Honest Calling: The Law Practice of Abraham Lincoln" by Mark E. Steiner. I thought this was an exceptional study of Lincoln's law practice. There are probably more books out there but that popped into mind immediately. What does everyone else recommend? John Winterbauer ... Petersburg - IL... 2009/05/15 - 11:52:06 ( # 534)

Lincoln as lawyer Alan, Brian Dirck has a book out about Lincoln's law career and of course there are the primary materials in the Lincoln Legal Papers Project. http://www.papersofabrahamlincoln.org/ Most of the recent biographies of Lincoln utilize the papers to give a fuller portrait of his life. Hope this helps. Best Rob Rob Wick ... 2009/05/15 - 11:29:19 ( # 535)

Lincoln's legal career Alan, One of the books on Lincoln's law career that I have always liked is an older one by John Duff--"A. Lincoln, Prairie Lawyer". The Lincoln legal papers project has all of the extant records of Lincoln's career, access to which (I think) can be had online. Also, there is another quite recent book on Lincoln's career as a lawyer: I just can't think of the title. I can't Joe Di Cola ... Queen Creek - AZ... 2009/05/15 - 10:50:45 ( # 536)

Lincoln Legal Career Who is knowledgeable about books on Lincoln's career as a lawyer in Illinois? What is (or are) the best book(s) on the subject? Alan Gephardt ... Baltimore - Maryland... 2009/05/14 - 17:14:52 ( # 537)

Napoleon Rich, Yes, and if you go to the slide show at http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2008/08/21/garden/20080821-LATTIMER_index.html and go to Slide #2 it says that Lattimer's daughter decided to keep this particular piece and not put it up for auction. Roger Norton ... 2009/05/14 - 15:26:56 ( # 538)