Ford's Theatre: Where Lincoln Was Shot

The assassination of President Abraham Lincoln is a pivotal moment in American history. Every year, especially around the anniversary of this tragic event (April 15th), interest surges in understanding the details surrounding his death. This article explores the place where it happened: Ford's Theatre.

Ford's Theatre: Where Lincoln Was Shot - A Night of Tragedy

On April 14, 1865, just days after the Confederacy surrendered, President Abraham Lincoln, his wife Mary Todd Lincoln, and two guests, Major Henry Rathbone and his fiancee Clara Harris, attended a performance of "Our American Cousin" at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. The mood across the nation was one of jubilation and hope for the future. No one could have predicted the horrifying events that were about to unfold.

Ford's Theatre: Where Lincoln Was Shot - Booth's Entry and the Fatal Act

John Wilkes Booth, a renowned actor and Confederate sympathizer, meticulously planned Lincoln's assassination. He was familiar with Ford's Theatre, having performed there many times. Using this knowledge, Booth gained access to the President's private box, known as the State Box, on the second balcony level.

At approximately 10:15 PM, during a particularly loud and humorous scene in the play, Booth silently entered the State Box. He aimed a single-shot Deringer pistol at the back of Lincoln's head and fired. The shot rang out through the theatre, momentarily masked by the laughter of the audience.

Ford's Theatre: Where Lincoln Was Shot - Chaos and Escape

Major Rathbone, seated beside Lincoln, immediately lunged at Booth, attempting to apprehend him. A struggle ensued, and Booth slashed Rathbone's arm with a knife. Despite the injury, Rathbone continued to fight, but Booth managed to break free and leap from the box onto the stage below.

As Booth landed, he reportedly shouted "Sic semper tyrannis!" (Thus always to tyrants!), the state motto of Virginia, and made his escape through a rear door. The theatre erupted in chaos and confusion as the audience realized what had transpired.

Ford's Theatre: Where Lincoln Was Shot - The Aftermath and Lincoln's Death

Doctors rushed to Lincoln's aid, but the wound was mortal. He was carried across the street to the Petersen House, a boarding house where he was placed in a back bedroom. Throughout the night, cabinet members, friends, and family gathered, waiting anxiously for news.

Abraham Lincoln died at 7:22 AM on April 15, 1865, at the Petersen House. His death plunged the nation into mourning and drastically altered the course of Reconstruction.

Ford's Theatre: Where Lincoln Was Shot - Today

Today, Ford's Theatre is a national historic site managed by the National Park Service. It stands as a solemn reminder of this tragic event and the legacy of Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can tour the theatre, see the State Box where Lincoln was shot, and visit the Petersen House across the street. The Ford's Theatre museum showcases artifacts related to the assassination and Lincoln's life.

Visiting Ford's Theatre offers a profound and moving experience, allowing individuals to connect with a crucial moment in American history and reflect on the life and legacy of one of the nation's most beloved presidents. The theatre serves as a place for remembrance, education, and contemplation of the enduring impact of Lincoln's assassination on the United States.

Question and Answer:

  • Q: Where was Abraham Lincoln shot? A: Abraham Lincoln was shot at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.

  • Q: What play was Lincoln watching when he was shot? A: He was watching "Our American Cousin."

  • Q: Who shot Abraham Lincoln? A: John Wilkes Booth shot Abraham Lincoln.

  • Q: Where did Lincoln die after being shot? A: He died at the Petersen House, across the street from Ford's Theatre.

  • Q: Can you visit Ford's Theatre today? A: Yes, Ford's Theatre is a national historic site and museum open to the public.

Keywords: Where Lincoln was shot, Ford's Theatre, Abraham Lincoln assassination, John Wilkes Booth, Petersen House, Lincoln assassination site, Ford's Theatre history, Washington D.C. history, American history, April 14 1865, lincoln, booth.

Summary: Abraham Lincoln was shot by John Wilkes Booth at Ford's Theatre while watching "Our American Cousin" and died at the Petersen House. Ford's Theatre is now a museum open to the public.