Lincoln’s Missing Conspirator: the John Surratt Saga
- Duration2h 30m
- Max Travelers15 people
- Free CancellationUp to 24 hrs
- CategoryAdditional fees, Crime Tours
Overview
Most Lincoln assassination tours focus on the events of April 14, 1865 and the death of President
Lincoln. This experience follows the investigation that came afterward. Through a carefully
structured narrative, guests follow the evidence surrounding John Surratt—the only major
conspirator who escaped immediate capture following Lincoln’s assassination. The tour combines
crime scene reconstruction, witness testimony, political intrigue, Confederate espionage, and an
international manhunt to create an immersive historical experience. The storytelling style is inspired
by investigative documentaries and true-crime narratives rather than traditional historical lectures.
Guests are not asked to debate the evidence but are encouraged to think like investigators as the
story unfolds.
What's included
Entrance fee
What's Not included
Gratuities
meals are paid for by the customer
Bottled water
Itinerary
u2022 Introduction to Lincolnu2019s assassination.nu2022 Overview of the conspirators.nu2022 Introduction of John Surratt.nu2022 Establishment of the central mystery.nu2022 Introduction to the investigation framework.
Mary Surrattu2019s Boarding House (Wok and Roll)nConspiracy Headquartersnu2022 Introduction to Mary Surratt.nu2022 Introduction to John Surratt.nu2022 Introduction to Louis Weichmann.nu2022 Boothu2019s visits to the boarding house.nu2022 The kidnapping plot.nu2022 Early evidence gathered by investigators.
Washington Under Suspicionnu2022 Wartime Washington.nu2022 Civil War-era 7th Street.nu2022 Social and political tensions in the capital.nu2022 The city in the days following the assassination.nu2022 The growing search for conspirators.
The Victimnu2022 Abraham Lincolnu2019s presidency.nu2022 The Civil War.nu2022 Why Lincoln became a target.nu2022 The significance of Lincolnu2019s death
The Crime Scenenu2022 Reconstruction of April 14, 1865.nu2022 Boothu2019s movements.nu2022 The assassination.nu2022 Witness accounts.nu2022 Immediate investigative response. EXTERIOR ONLY due to NPS closure of Ford's through Aug. 25, 2026
The Death Watchnu2022 Lincolnu2019s final hours.nu2022 Launch of the manhunt.nu2022 Identification of suspects.nu2022 Arrests and evidence collection.
The Fugitivenu2022 John Surrattu2019s escape.nu2022 Confederate Montreal.nu2022 Confederate intelligence networks.nu2022 George N. Sanders.nu2022 Jacob Thompson.nu2022 Europe and the Papal Zouaves.nu2022 Capture and extradition.nObjective: Expand the story from Washington into an international manhunt.
The Trialnu2022 John Surrattu2019s trial.nu2022 Louis Weichmannu2019s testimony.nu2022 The prosecutionu2019s evidence.nu2022 Defense arguments.nu2022 Hung jury.nu2022 Historical legacy
Good to know
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Accessibility: This walking tour follows city sidewalks and public streets. Portions of the route include uneven sidewalks, curb cuts, and moderate walking distances. Guests who use walkers or other mobility aids are encouraged to contact us before booking so we can discuss whether this experience is suitable for their needs.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.