Friday April 14 1865 page 5 by ric Gustafson
William Crook was waiting for his replacement to relieve him. The twenty six year old policeman and bodyguard for President Lincoln had had a busy day. It was now 7:00 pm and the Lincoln's were eating dinner with their sons. Afterwards, he walked with the President back to the War Department. Lincoln wanted to find out if General Sherman had sent a telegram about General Johnston's surrender.
Crook was worried about the President's safety at the play tonight. The afternoon paper had announced that the President was attending the play this evening. General Grant turned down their invitation after reading the announcement in the paper. Mary convinced Major Henry Reed Rathbone and his fiancé Clara Harris to join them.
Crook's replacement John Parker finally arrived. The thirty four year old former machinist had served in the Union Army and became a policeman in September 1861. In 1864, he became a White House bodyguard.
Crook tells Parker that the presidential carriage will pick up Rathbone and Harris. Since the carriage would be full, Parker will have to walk to Ford's Theatre.
Crook leaves after telling Lincoln to have a good evening and enjoy the play.
research help: ' Lincoln's Last Days' by Bill O'Reilly and Dwight Zimmerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
No comments:
Post a Comment