Lincoln Discussion Symposium

I think the name of this thread says it all! Like many of us, I recently had the pleasure of reading Betty Ownsbey's wonderful book, Alias Paine 2nd addition. Therefore, I am dedicating this thread entirely to the subject of Betty's truly remarkable book, and I am sure many of us (like myself) find it to be a truly vital piece of Lincoln assassination literature.

Reading Alias Paine 2nd addition was especially informative for me because I never read the first addition, and (on Betty's recommendation) I anxiously awaited the release of the 2nd addition. Below are some things I found especially interesting:

# Exceptional detail and information regarding the Branson family. Betty, I had no idea what an important role the Branson family played in Lewis Powell's life. Your attention to detail and ability to explain all aspects and possibilities regarding Maggie and Mary Branson and their family's possible involvement was all new information to me and was of great interest. And the part Joseph Branson Sr. played in it all -- amazing stuff!

# Betty, I also enjoyed your portrayal of Louis Weichmann in Alias. I have always had a particular interest in Weichmann (currently writing a paper on him for school) and it was quite refreshing for me to read his direct relationship with Powell. I really liked that you did not come right out and confirm Weichmann's innocence, Betty, but instead tempt us to imagine Weichmann knew a little more than he lead on...

# Powell's fondness for... well, maybe I am saying too much -you will need to read the book if you want to know more...

Well, these are some things I thought of right now. I will most definitely remember other things in the book I enjoyed and probably some other questions as I go back through the book and refresh myself. I will post them as I think of them.

Thank you so much for your outstanding research, Betty! Alias Paine 2nd addition is truly appreciated!

(03-31-2015 06:42 PM)PaigeBooth Wrote: [ -> ]# Betty, I also enjoyed your portrayal of Louis Weichmann in Alias. I have always had a particular interest in Weichmann (currently writing a paper on him for school) and it was quite refreshing for me to read his direct relationship with Powell. I really liked that you did not come right out and confirm Weichmann's innocence, Betty, but instead tempt us to imagine Weichmann knew a little more than he lead on...

Thanks, Paige, for such an excellent review. I have ordered the book, but it has not yet arrived. What you noted about Weichmann reminded me of what John Surratt said in his lecture. Makes one "wonder."

"I proclaim it here and before the world that Louis J. Weichmann was a party to the plan to abduct President Lincoln. He had been told all about it, and was constantly importuning me to let him become an active member. I refused, for the simple reason that I told him that he could neither ride a horse nor shoot a pistol, which was a fact. These were two necessary accomplishments for us."

BettO's new book is as fantastic as her first book, as usual! I could not put either of them down.Both are a"must read".

Getting the 2nd edition ASAP!

Thank you all for your very kind words - I had a ball researching the new information - and for more on the Branson ladies (particularly some rather suprising info on Mary Branson) see the "Just as I Thought" thread on this forum -

There will be more information forthcoming on the Branson ladies and Lew in the future -

Thanks again!

I cannot word it better than Paige did - a remarkable book, outstanding research and amazing stuff! So much information that is new to me and most likely nowhere else to find - you did the only thorough research on Lewis Powell, didn't you? What I especially appreciate is that you clearly say when something that is most likely cannot be proven. Despite it is well written, like Herb said, one cannot put it down. And I love the layout and images!
Like I recently "said" (posted) to Dave, I take my hat off to doing such an excellent job and research privately, without the support, options and means of an institution and it's professional staff in the background. Kudos, Betty!

I agree with what everyone is saying. As I said in another thread I am reading Betty's second edition book and John Fazio's book at the same time and enjoying them both. Both authors are to be commended for such outstanding research. Before the publication of Betty's first edition all I had specifically on Powell was a 20 page pamphlet written by Leon O. Prior entitled Lewis Payne, Pawn of John Wilkes Booth. Betty's book on Powell had over 200 pages, and I couldn't believe someone could actually accomplish such a feat of incredible research. And the second edition has even more information and illustrations! I also noted Betty has changed the wording in discussing the possible presence/lack of it of Herold at Seward's, and I think this was very well done and thoughtful on Betty's part.

I have both editions of Betty's book. The second I got for her BB info (burial & Branson). I will have to order Mr. Fazio's book due to all the good press it has received on this site. Thanks for all the reviews!

Betty will be giving a talk this month at the Seward House:

http://sewardhouse.org/calendar-of-event...mc_id=1424

That's wonderful, Betty! Best of success (which it sure will be) and joy to you!

I will be there to finally meet BettyO in person!Perhaps we can lunch toether.-Herb Swingle

Fantastic, Herb! I'm looking forward to it and would LOVE to meet you!!

Great-BettyO-see you there!