Mounting Block Behind Ford's?

[Jim Garrett]

I can't find the reference to the horse spinning, but Peanut John's testimony on April 24th..." There was no box there as I know he mounted from the ground." In another statement, Burroughs states the horse was about 4 feet from the back door.

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(08-23-2012 04:25 PM)BettyO Wrote:  Laurie -

You are correct. A "mounting block" was principally for ladies (or gents who may have trouble mounting) but also utilized for entering and exiting a carriage. No need for one in the alley - it'd be like putting a traffic light in an alley today; not enough traffic to warrant it....

As far as the spinning horse, Jim, if one is an experienced equestrian, and Booth certainly was, that nervous, spinning mare would have been conquered by JWB soon enough. Simply pull the near rein (left) tighter than the other; turning her head, and she'll stop spinning long enough to mount.

Yes Betty, I think we have both tried to mount up on an uncooperative steed. You are right. One quick pull on the near rein and you are up and on in one spin. I think I also remember an account that Peanut John had fallen alseep on a carpenter's bench while still holding the rins. When JWB came through the door, Burroughs was startled awake. That was why JWB had to smack him in the head to get him to let go.