Definitive Sources

[Dennis Urban]

Many fine books have been referenced throughout this string including several of my personal favorites which I have reread several times. I do prefer first hand information whenever available. Thus, I will mention that the trial transcripts by Ben Perley Poore are a wonderful source of first hand information (albeit that some folks minds were clouded and thus their testimony was suspect). These transcripts are available for download at the Surratt House Museum website. Of the several different versions available, Poore's is considered by many to be the most complete and most accurate. I particularly use the alphabetized witness list which identifies the exact location of each witness' testimony. I go back to this time and time again to read those incredible first hand accounts. Well worth the time to peruse. It's almost addictive.