Where was Booth on April 3rd, 1865?

[J. Beckert]

(03-04-2013 10:08 PM)Houmes Wrote:  

(03-04-2013 08:53 PM)GARY POPOLO Wrote:  I have to agree with Mr. Beckert that the signature looks to be JWB's. But not being a hand writing expert I would not bet money on it. Maybe if we had more copies of JWB signature we might be able to make a more accurate choice? Then again everyone sees things differently. Guess we will have to agree to disagree with one another. Still I don't know for sure where JWB was on April 3, 1865

For comparison, check the John Lattimer Heritage auction catalog. Lot 61205 is the Aquidneck House hotel register sheet from 1865 with the signature " JWBooth & Lady." Then check lot 61200, in a signed stage script, where he signs his name "JW Booth." The script was later owned by his younger brother, Joseph A. Booth, so it's safe to say it is legit and appears very, very similar.
There's also a letter (Lot 61198) to Michael O'Laughlen's younger brother, dated August 8,m 1854, signed "John W Booth."
Booth signed his name in different ways in different times, apparently at whim.

I think the "W" in particular, is extremely similar to Booth's "fancy" signatures on his letters and autographs. The way he connects the "J" to the top of the "W" is very, very distinctive.