Sorting out the White House Staff

[kerry]

It originally meant, "A servant who runs in front of his master's carriage." I don't know why anyone would need to do that.

I think Roger's definition is accurate as to the role of Charles Forbes.

In 1864, he was listed as a laborer at the White House in the City Directory. In 1865, he was listed as a messenger.

Forbes was reported to be the driver during Mary's carriage accident.

On January 16, 1865, Mary requested that Forbes be made messenger in the place of William Johnson (who I think had died?)

In 1866, he was referred to as Lincoln's body servant.

He seems to have done a lot of errands for Mary and been a favorite of hers. He may have been a kind of unofficially employed servant. I can't remember what he is listed as on the books, if he is listed. I think he was listed as messenger, not footman, but I could be wrong. After Lincoln's death he was listed as messenger, and then as a clerk in various departments.