Existing comment:
Evidence of the Conspiracy:
Investigation into Lincoln's assassination began immediately after the shooting, under the direction of Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. Investigators were led by Mary Surratt's boarding house, where Booth had often stayed.
Three nights later -- on April 17 -- investigators again visited the Surratt home. Lewis Powell arrived at the house late that night carrying a pickaxe, claiming that he had been hired to dig a ditch. Mary denied this story, but both parties were taken into custody.
Meanwhile, George Atzerodt had aroused suspicions at the Kirkwood Hotel, where he was supposed to assassinate Vice President Andrew Johnson. A search of is hotel room revealed a loaded revolver; a knife, a map of Virginia, and a bankbook belonging to John Wilkes Booth.
John Wilkes Booth's Diary:
When Booth fled Ford's Theatre, he carried with him few items: an appointment book that he used as a diary, a compass, and a Bowie knife. Along his escape route, Booth met up with fellow conspirator David Herold and traveled with him to Mary Surratt's tavern in Maryland. There, they picked up field glasses (binoculars) and a Spencer carbine rifle.
Booth's diary provides unique insight into the mind of Lincoln's killer. Booth expected to be hailed as a hero, but instead he was condemned for his actions. |