Chapter 80: Lincoln’s Initial Funeral Takes Place in Washington

April 19, 1865

While officials lobby to have Abe buried in Washington, Mary insists that he and Willie both belong back in Springfield alongside son Eddie, and her will prevails. Even though she and Tad will stay behind in DC for another six weeks.

A funeral service is held in the East Room, before the casket moves on April 18 past thousands on mourners on the streets of Washington to lay in state at the Capitol Rotunda. Flags are lowered to half mast and his open coffin, flanked by an honor guard, is placed on a catafalque in the East Room. The scene is gloomy, with little light breaking through the surrounding black crepe. Still over 20,000 citizens pass by to pay their respects.

On April 19, the official funeral is held before 600 dignatories, and then another procession carries the casket to the B&O train depot where the nine car “Lincoln Special” train awaits.

On April 21 it departs along with 300 passengers for the thirteen day journey to Springfield. The front of the engine displays an oversized photo of the President while his casket rests in the final car.