Mr. Lincoln's Coat

[L Verge]

Great information! Thanks, Reignette. I hope that the lady who produced it can look down and know how much people appreciate her efforts.

[ReignetteC]

First I want to thank you Reignette for a great photo of Lincoln's coat. Next I have mixed feelings on the showing of the coat. One I think all measures should be taken to preserve this coat and its history, but I also agree that removing the coat from the public forever to keep it preserved is wrong. What or who would you be saving it for? I think like any other work of art or other piece of history they are meant to be viewed by the people so they can see actual history. I will admit I have know knowledge about the different processes that are used to preserve pieces of history but I find it hard to believe that in this day and age there are not people who have the ability to preserve history in a way that they can be preserved and viewed at the same time. Then again maybe it is just wishful thinking on my part. Best Gary

Gary,

I am on the same page as you re: "I find it hard to believe that in this day and age there are not people who have the ability to preserve history in a way that they can be preserved and viewed at the same time."

But there may be some hope that the greatcoat may return for temporary display,

Several months ago, when I was in need in reviewing documents at Fords Theatre, Jim Garrett kindly connected me with a member of the NPS. She's been a wonderful resource and has been very helpful. Recently, when I asked her if there was any chance that the original greatcoat would one day be placed on display, she mentioned that "there have been discussions about doing a special exhibit for the 2015 anniversary, but no decisions have been made." (Emphasis added in bold.)

Best,
Reignette

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First I want to thank you Reignette for a great photo of Lincoln's coat. Next I have mixed feelings on the showing of the coat. One I think all measures should be taken to preserve this coat and its history, but I also agree that removing the coat from the public forever to keep it preserved is wrong. What or who would you be saving it for? I think like any other work of art or other piece of history they are meant to be viewed by the people so they can see actual history. I will admit I have know knowledge about the different processes that are used to preserve pieces of history but I find it hard to believe that in this day and age there are not people who have the ability to preserve history in a way that they can be preserved and viewed at the same time. Then again maybe it is just wishful thinking on my part. Best Gary

Gary,

I am on the same page as you re: "I find it hard to believe that in this day and age there are not people who have the ability to preserve history in a way that they can be preserved and viewed at the same time."

But there may be some hope that the greatcoat may return for temporary display,

Several months ago, when I was in need in reviewing documents at Fords Theatre, Jim Garrett kindly connected me with a member of the NPS. She's been a wonderful resource and has been very helpful. Recently, when I asked her if there was any chance that the original greatcoat would one day be placed on display, she mentioned that "there have been discussions about doing a special exhibit for the 2015 anniversary, but no decisions have been made." (Emphasis added in bold.)

Best,
Reignette

Postscript:

Congressman Fred Schwengel, who was instrumental in securing the greatcoat when Ford's Theatre reopened to the public in 1968, said the following during a special ceremony at that time:

“These exalted garments more pertinently belong than in the very immediate environment where they were last worn by the greatest of all Americans.” These pieces of attire speak to us from beyond. They speak of peace and order of mutual respect and understanding.”

RC

[L Verge]

Along the same lines: We tried for years to get the NPS and Ford's Theatre to at least loan Surratt House one of the two carbines that were stored here by Surratt, Atzerodt, and Herold after the aborted kidnap plot in March of 1865. At that time, only one was on display at the Theatre; the other was in storage. We got firm NO's each time.

Since I have not seen the newest exhibit, I don't know if either of the Spencers are on display at Ford's. They certainly pertain more to the history of Surratt House than they do to Ford's.

[Jim Garrett]

Interestingly enough, the NPS has one of the originals on display. They have another Spencer's on display in the new CEL (Center for Education & Leadership), but it is apparently not The other carbine. The NPS is pretty tough about loaning anything out. I think the Smithsonian's policies are more flexible.

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BTW, Today, they are removing the display case that had the overcoat from the lobby.

[ReignetteC]

Interestingly enough, the NPS has one of the originals on display. They have another Spencer's on display in the new CEL (Center for Education & Leadership), but it is apparently not The other carbine. The NPS is pretty tough about loaning anything out. I think the Smithsonian's policies are more flexible.

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BTW, Today, they are removing the display case that had the overcoat from the lobby.

Jim,

So the greatcoat's replica is no longer on display as well? Or is it temporary?

Thanks,
RC

[Jim Garrett]

Interestingly enough, the NPS has one of the originals on display. They have another Spencer's on display in the new CEL (Center for Education & Leadership), but it is apparently not The other carbine. The NPS is pretty tough about loaning anything out. I think the Smithsonian's policies are more flexible.

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BTW, Today, they are removing the display case that had the overcoat from the lobby.

Jim,

So the greatcoat's replica is no longer on display as well? Or is it temporary?

Thanks,
RC

I have not been down to Ford's since it's removal, but my understanding that for the time being, the replica coat has been removed. Hopefully, it will find a home, maybe across the street. The Fords Theatre Society is doing some makeover work for the lobby and gift shop in the lobby.

[Jim Garrett]

The overcoat's display case has indeed been removed and disassembled.

[Gene C]

Do you know what they will put in its place?

[Jim Garrett]

Nothing will be going in it's place. During the high volume times of the year, the case in the lobby has created a traffic issue. They plan to keep the lobby open.

[LincolnMan]

Is there anything special about the coat replica? When was it made? Since it is a museum piece, does it require special care?

[ReignetteC]

Hi, Bill,

Thanks for your question. (Sorry for the delay.)

The replica is very special.

In celebration of the newly reopened Ford's Theatre museum (1990), Brooks Brothers donated a replica greatcoat to the National Park Service.

Before they made the replica, a team of Brooks Brothers' master tailors measured the original greatcoat and had its fabric analyzed by a textile preservation company.

In preparing for my "little book" about the coat, which will be published in 2014, I interviewed the two master tailors who created the replica. They remain proud as ever for their valuable contribution.

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The overcoat's display case has indeed been removed and disassembled.

Jim,

Is the replica on display in its basement?

[Jim Garrett]

The replica is not on display at this time. I don't know if they have put together plans for the 150 yet.

[LincolnMan]

Great posts. Thanks guys!