The Spangler Connection

[Craig Hipkins]

This is a fascinating topic that brings up more speculation. I believe that at least two people who were in the theatre that night were aware of the hole in the door. If Booth was not aware of Lincoln's scheduled appearance until noon of that day (as Cliff states) he must have had a collaborator who supplied him with the tool used to make the hole. Booth was an actor, not a carpenter. The tool used to make the hole in the door would in all probability not have been among JWB's personal possessions. He therefore, in all likelihood borrowed it from one of Ford's carpenters. There is, of course, the possibility that he took the liberty of borrowing it without the knowledge of anyone, but this is unlikely.
According to Mr. Bogar, Booth had a drink with both Spangler and Gifford (both known Secessionists) at the Star Saloon. This was shortly before the theatre cleared out for supper. Was this when it was arranged for a hole to be drilled through the door? Knowing that the theatre would be practically empty it would be a perfect opportunity to do this. When else would Booth have been alone to accomplish this bit of devilish carpentry?
Somebody gave Booth the means and opportunity to do this. Prime suspects Spangler and Gifford.

Craig