What Was The Role of David Herold

[Art Loux]

Shortly before his hanging Herold was quoted saying he “consented to see that Powell undertook his work” and then to guide Booth and Powell through Maryland. See “The Assassins Executed,” Boston Daily Advertiser, July 8, 1865.The reporter has garbled Herold’s words for certainly no one needed to “see” or assure Powell did his work. Whatever his assignment this article implies it was with with Powell. His sighting on 14th Street by stableman Fletcher is consistent with Herold coming from Seward’s house.

John, my purpose in providing this quote is not to rebut your article, but merely to note that there was a contemporaneous indication that Herold was with Powell. Atzerodt's refusal to cooperate caused Herold to seek out Booth after the Herndon House meeting. Perhaps Booth directed Herold to follow Powell then.