John Parker

[RJNorton]

Several prominent historians have suggested that Parker was there with the Lincolns more as an escort to and from the theater rather than to provide actual protection. However, if that be the case, why was Parker charged with neglect of duty? In part, the citation read:

"In this, that Said Parker was detailed to attend and protect the President Mr. Lincoln, that while the President was at Ford's Theatre on the night of the 14 of April last, Said Parker allowed a man to enter the President's private Box and Shoot the President."

Wouldn't the citation mean negligence was involved?

Another White House policeman, Tom Pendel, wrote that he asked Parker (as Parker was departing the White House to head to Ford's), "John, are you prepared?" Another officer, Alphonso Dunn, overheard the conversation and said, "Oh Tommy, there is no danger." Pendel replied, "Dunn, you never know what might happen." My take on this conversation was that presidential protection "went with the territory" of Parker's assignment that night.

William H. Crook said of Parker, "Had he done his duty, I believe President Lincoln would not have been murdered by Booth. Parker knew he had failed in duty. He looked like a convicted criminal the next day. He was never the same man afterward."