The Spangler Connection

[RJNorton]

Eva, in the past, I have held out some belief that John Surratt may have pulled a fast one and was really in Washington helping JWB on April 14, 1865, not Elmira, NY. However, due to numerous discussions on this issue, and the thoughts and arguments of Laurie and others, I have pretty much come to the belief that Surratt was indeed in Elmira. Thus, IMO, Mr. Rhodes was mistaken in his testimony. IMO Booth himself did the carpentry at Ford's Theatre.

I am undecided on the shavings and probably lean to the "fire starter" theory. However, long ago, and as usual I cannot remember where, I think I did once read that some of the shavings were painted similar to the door at Ford's. I am sure I saw something like that somewhere.