Introduction
Historical sites and buildings worldwide serve as custodians of significant events in human history. When visiting such places, a person can feel how the fate of people was realized here and what determined their future lives. It is often the case that one event can forever capture a place in history, both positively and negatively. One of such places is the Ford Theater, which was designed in 1861 by architect John Kellogg and opened to the public for the first time on August 27, 1861 (Hutchinson 28).
The Ford Theater, located in Washington, D.C., hosted a variety of productions, including plays, operas, and speeches. However, the theater was not only famous for its brilliant theatrical performances but also for historical events. The paper’s main idea is to highlight the significance of the Ford Theater as the site of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, who had visited it many times, and to stress the importance of visiting this place today as a theater and museum.
The Significance of Ford Theater to History
The Ford Theater remained in US history as the site of the assassination of one of the country’s best presidents. Initially, the theater gave people hope and inspiration through its theatrical performances. After the assassination of Lincoln, it was perceived as a dark period in United States history. It now serves as both a theater and a museum where people can engage in both activities, have fun, and learn the history of their ancestors.
The assassination of the president was planned, and the killer knew the president would be at the theater. As Gunderson states, “on the morning of April 14, he learned that President Lincoln would be at Ford’s Theatre that night. He saw his chance” (11). It was John Wilkes Booth, a famous actor and Confederate sympathizer. This historical event turned the theater into a museum of American history where every American can recall the greatness and wisdom of Abraham Lincoln.
Abraham Lincoln’s Significance to Ford Theater
President Abraham Lincoln frequently visited the theater and considered it a preferred holiday destination. According to Hutchinson, “The president and his wife had attended both theatres often in the past – even though Ford’s was known to have ‘success’ sympathies” (29). It is essential to emphasize that this theater is one of the president’s favorites. The Ford Theater was well known not only for its theatrical performances and operas, but also for Lincoln’s association with it. After his assassination, the theater was closed and later turned into a museum dedicated to Lincoln’s life and legacy. Therefore, visitors can tour the theater and learn about Lincoln’s life events and his impact on American history.
Importance of Visiting Ford Theater Today
One of the main reasons to visit Ford’s Theater today is the opportunity to see the historic theater and the museum. The theater has been restored to its original appearance, and visitors can see where Lincoln was sitting when he was shot and where Booth leaped onto the stage (Meltzer and Mensch 32). The museum displays artifacts and exhibits related to the assassination and its aftermath, including the gun used by Booth, Lincoln’s top hat and gloves, and other items related to the event.
Beyond its historical significance, Ford’s Theatre remains a premier venue for live performances, featuring a diverse range of events including plays, musicals, and concerts. This gives visitors a chance to enjoy the same type of entertainment that President Lincoln once experienced. One can visit it by taking a tour of the theater and museum. It is operated by the National Park Service, which makes it accessible to the public and provides a wealth of resources and information about the theater’s history and the events that took place there.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is essential to emphasize that the Ford Theater is a vital place to visit for individuals interested not only in art but also in the history of their country and the details surrounding the Abraham Lincoln assassination. Visiting Ford’s Theater today is a meaningful way to remember and honor this president and to reflect on the impact of his death on the nation and its people.
Works Cited
Gunderson, Jessica. The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln: A Day That Changed America. Capstone, 2021.
Hutchinson, Robert. What Really Happened: The Lincoln Assassination. Simon and Schuster, 2020.
Meltzer, Brad, and Mensch, Josh. The Lincoln Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill America’s 16th President–and Why It Failed. Flatiron Books, 2020.