34 Facts About Mary Surratt

Who Was Mary Surratt?

Mary Surratt is a name that often comes up in discussions about the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Her involvement in one of the most significant events in American history has made her a subject of intrigue and debate.

1. Mary Surratt was born Mary Elizabeth Jenkins in 1823 in Maryland.
2. She married John Harrison Surratt in 1840, and they had three children together.
3. The Surratt family owned a tavern in Surrattsville, Maryland, which is now known as Clinton.
4. After her husband's death in 1862, Mary moved to Washington, D.C., and opened a boarding house.

The Boarding House and Conspiracy

Mary's boarding house became a central location for the conspirators planning Lincoln's assassination. This connection led to her arrest and trial.

5. John Wilkes Booth, Lincoln's assassin, was a frequent visitor to Mary Surratt's boarding house.
6. Mary Surratt's son, John Surratt Jr., was also involved in the conspiracy and fled the country after the assassination.
7. The boarding house was located at 541 H Street in Washington, D.C.
8. Authorities arrested Mary Surratt on April 17, 1865, just days after Lincoln's assassination.

The Trial and Execution

Mary Surratt's trial was one of the most controversial in American history. She was tried by a military tribunal rather than a civilian court.

9. The trial began on May 9, 1865, and lasted for about seven weeks.
10. Mary Surratt was the first woman executed by the United States federal government.
11. She was hanged on July 7, 1865, at the Washington Arsenal.
12. Four other conspirators were executed alongside her: Lewis Powell, David Herold, George Atzerodt, and Mary Surratt.

Controversies and Debates

Mary Surratt's guilt has been a topic of debate among historians. Some believe she was innocent or at least not deserving of the death penalty.

13. Some historians argue that Mary Surratt was unaware of the assassination plot.
14. Others believe she played a more significant role than she admitted.
15. Her son, John Surratt Jr., was eventually captured but was acquitted in a civilian trial.
16. The debate over her guilt continues to this day, with new evidence and interpretations emerging over time.

Legacy and Historical Impact

Mary Surratt's story has left a lasting impact on American history and culture. Her life and trial have been the subject of books, movies, and scholarly research.

17. The Surratt House Museum in Clinton, Maryland, is dedicated to her memory and the history of the Lincoln assassination.
18. The 2010 film "The Conspirator," directed by Robert Redford, dramatizes her trial and execution.
19. Mary Surratt's case has been cited in discussions about the use of military tribunals for civilians.
20. Her story is often used to illustrate the complexities of justice and the impact of historical events on individuals.

Personal Life and Character

Despite her infamous role in history, Mary Surratt had a personal life and character that are often overlooked.

21. Mary was known to be a devout Catholic, attending church regularly.
22. She was described as a kind and hospitable woman by those who knew her.
23. Her daughter, Anna Surratt, pleaded for her mother's life but was unsuccessful.
24. Mary Surratt's final words were reportedly, "Please don't let me fall."

Historical Context

Understanding the historical context of Mary Surratt's life helps to shed light on her actions and the events surrounding her.

25. The Civil War had a significant impact on Mary Surratt's life and decisions.
26. Her family's tavern was a known meeting place for Confederate sympathizers.
27. The political climate of the time was highly charged and divisive.
28. The assassination of Lincoln was part of a larger plot to destabilize the Union government.

Modern Interpretations

Modern historians and scholars continue to explore Mary Surratt's life and the events surrounding her.

29. Some modern historians view her as a scapegoat used to quickly close the case on Lincoln's assassination.
30. Others believe that her execution was a necessary act of justice.
31. New evidence and interpretations continue to emerge, adding complexity to her story.
32. Mary Surratt's life and trial are often used in educational settings to discuss the broader implications of justice and historical interpretation.

Cultural Representations

Mary Surratt's story has permeated popular culture, influencing how she is remembered and understood.

33. She has been portrayed in various films, books, and plays, each offering a different perspective on her life.
34. Her story continues to captivate the public imagination, serving as a reminder of the complexities of history and justice.

Mary Surratt's Legacy

Mary Surratt's story remains a gripping chapter in American history. Her involvement in the Lincoln assassination plot, whether as a conspirator or an innocent bystander, continues to spark debate. Her trial and execution marked the first time a woman was executed by the U.S. federal government, setting a controversial precedent.

Her boarding house in Washington, D.C., now a museum, stands as a reminder of those tumultuous times. Historians and enthusiasts still visit to piece together the puzzle of her life.

Mary Surratt's legacy is a blend of mystery, tragedy, and historical significance. Her story teaches us about the complexities of justice, the impact of political turmoil, and the human elements behind historical events. Whether viewed as a villain or a victim, Mary Surratt's place in history is undeniable.