The Spur Question

[RobertLC]

I've always heard those photos attributed to Brady, but don't think I've ever seen anything substantial to verify that. I recall a similar discussion on this forum a couple of years ago, but have not had time to go back to check that thread.

Since Gardner was the government's photographer of choice at that time and Brady's eyesight was failing, it seems doubtful to me that Brady was there taking pictures. Perhaps an associate of his was there or maybe even the Gardner did it.

James Gifford (house carpenter) testified the following at the trial of the conspirators:
"I set a scene for a gentleman there to take a view for the Secretary of War. At the time I left the theatre, the scene was set as it was the night of the assassination."

He also later testified that he was at Ford's on Monday morning when the Secretary of War stopped by to look at the State Box.

So, it appears that things were reset for pictures.

I also seem to remember reading that the pictures were taken on Monday, April 17, not Easter Sunday, April 16. I think Tom Bogar agrees with that in his book.

Bob