The tragical procession

[Jim Garrett]

I ventured to Gettysburg to check out the hearse. The provenance, if accurate is better than most. It was one of 13 (unlucky?) built by William C. Pichner & Son under contract to the US Government. The other twelve were destroyed in a warehouse fire. I wouldn't doubt that it carried Lincoln somewhere. Most likely from the Petersen House to the White House. I was always under the impression that he was taken back to the White House in an Ambulance, but a hearse would certainly have been more appropriate, especially since there was a light rain and army ambulances were open with a canvas top and flimsy side curtains.

The hearse is very well restored. According to museum President Tammy Myers the interior is all original and they even have the original rug that went inside. The hearse has only had five owners.