Surratt House - Chapter from "Lincoln's Choice" by J.O. Buckeridge added

[Arizona Trooper]

I just got back from a business trip near Washington DC. While there I drove by the Surratt House in Clinton Md. Booth passed this way after assassinating Lincoln. He had Spencer carbine (#24304) when he was captured near Bowling Green, Va., and may have had it stashed at Surratts. Booth's other Spencer, #34617, was hidden at Lloyd's Tavern and later recovered by federal troops.

[Two Flints]

Arizona Trooper,

Thanks for the post,

Boy, wouldn't it be interesting to find out how Booth came into possession of his two Spencers.

I show a listing for a Spencer Carbine serial # 34,608 as belonging to Co. I, 3rd Michigan Volunteer Cavalry.  As you noted, Booth's Spencer Carbine serial # was 34,617. Booth's Spencer serial # 24,304 has a closest listing to Spencer Carbine serial # 24,643, which was assigned to Co. F, 19th NY Volunteer Cavalry.

Anyone have additional information?

Two Flints

[major]

Two Flints
Do the records you have access to show any Spencers issued to the 9th NYVC?
Terry

Terry don't see any...its late here and my eyes are tired, I'll check again tomorrow.  Many Spencers were issued to the 19th NY Volunteer Cav.  Do you have a serial #?

Two Flints

[Two Flints]

This is the final chapter in the J.O. Buckeridge book, Lincoln's Choice.  I know that many individuals question the historical accuracy of this book, but nevertheless, I still think it's a good read and and I find it very interesting.  Two Flints

[major]

Two Flints
I don't have any serial numbers for them.  The reason I asked is because I just finished reading a book of letters from a trooper in the 9th NYVC.  In one of his final letters he stated that the all the Cavalry was equipped with Spencers.  And since his life centered around the 9th I assume that he was referring to his Regiment.
But thanks for looking for me.
Terry

[Two Flints]

Hi Major,

Spencers were issued to the following units from New York:  The 6th, 8th, 18th, & 19th NY Volunteer Cavalry, and the 1st NY Mounted Rifles.  Sorry I couldn't be of more help.

Two Flints