The Assassination of President Lincoln
Few historic figures draw more attention and intrigue than Abraham Lincoln. This man of humble roots rose to become the architect of one of our country's most pivotal eras, reuniting a broken nation and standing strong for freedom. 150 years later, the story of the assassination of President Lincoln continues to fascinate. Many of the sites along John Wilkes Booth's escape route still exist. Though most are private property, many are marked and you can retrace Booth's steps if you know where to look.
A tour of these sites throughout the region can bring this story to life for you and your family:
- Ford's Theatre. With an informative museum and host to many special events, this is the perfect place to begin your journey in the steps of one of the most notorious assassins in American history. A fantastic program, History on Foot, analyzes the events and timeline surrounding the Lincoln's assassination and brings to life the investigation into the Lincoln Assassination Conspiracy and the horrible events of April 14 and 15, 1865. The Ford's Theatre website has a special section that invites you to explore Lincoln and his legacy.
- Petersen House. Tour the home where Lincoln was brought after the shooting and where he eventually died.
- Surratt House Museum. See where the conspiracy to shoot Lincoln was forged and learn about the woman executed for conspiring to kill the president.
- Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House Museum. Learn the story behind the medical assistance John Wilkes Booth received shortly after the shooting.
While Ford's Theatre in Washington D.C. is the site of the assassination, the complete story unfolds across the entire Capital Region. Fairfax County puts you within easy reach of all the sites, and you won't find a more perfect time to embark on a unique adventure into this turbulent era of our nation's history.