Tours of the Trial Room

[RJNorton]

Laurie asked me to post this account from a Surratt member who visited the first open house at Ft. McNair's trial room this past Saturday.

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Laurie,

What a wonderful day I had on Saturday visiting at Ft. McNair. Kasey was in the middle of studying for year-end exams but her dad went with me.

For so long I have looked at pictures of that trial room. To actually be standing in the exact spot was absolutely awesome. People were meandering in and out with a lot of interest but we had the opportunity to spend as much time as we wanted and talk to the historians giving the presentation. I think we were fortunate to have a tour that was actually better than a large bus tour. The military personnel on duty were most gracious and helpful.

The two historians there were very informative and gave opportunity for questions and personal conversation. Both of them gave the impression that Mary Surratt was aware of the attempted kidnapping but was totally unaware of any conspiracy. One of them suggested that Mary was stressed from holding down two jobs. Said she was operating the boarding house in the city and working the farm at the same time, having to maneuver between the two locations. I do not recall that these two over lapped one another.

I know that five of the nine judges (?) recommended clemency for Mary Surratt. Has there ever been a compilation or book giving background on the judges and what if anything they had to say about the trial after it was over?

It was a wonderful day and I thank you for alerting me to the open house. I even think that Kasey's Dad is "hooked". Myrtle Raines