I love researching!

[BettyO]

(12-08-2012 12:23 AM)ReignetteC Wrote:  I feel the same way, Dave. Researching is a lot of fun (just wish I had a few extra hours in the day for it).

Nevertheless, I got my hands on something new tonight . . . and I'm still on cloud nine.

After a long commute home from NYC, I was ready to collapse on the sofa and watch the latest episode of "American Greed." But there, in the mail, was a small envelope from the University of Iowa Library. In the envelope was a flash drive of documents pertaining to the late Congressman Fred Schwengel.

Tonight I learned that Congressman Schwengel, who was instrumental in securing funds for the restoration of Ford's Theatre, hoped that the restored theatre would officially reopen on April 14, 1965.

A letter from Schwengel to Congressman Ben Jensen (July 7, 1961) states in part:

"It is our hope that this project may go forward promptly in order that the completed restored Ford's Theatre may be opened to the public on April 14, 1965. This would be a most fitting tribute to Abraham Lincoln on the anniversary of that fateful day, April 14, 1865."

Now I need to research the cause behind the delay, as Ford's Theatre officially reopened in January of 1968.

Lastly, plaudits for the friendly and helpful research teams at our government and academic institutions. They are the best!

How absolutely facinating!

I'm so very glad for you - and yes, it's the little things like that which make my day! Research teams at institutions whether government or private are grand, I totally agree.

ReignetteC, you may want to contact Laurie Verge who could give you a good contact for Ford's Theatre. I am very good friends with Frank Hebblewaith who used to be the curator of Ford's but he is long gone to another NPS facility....