Stealing Lincoln’s Body

Delve into the fascinating tale of intrigue and desperation with "Stealing Lincoln’s Body," authored by Thomas J. Craughwell and published by Harvard University Press in 2008. This captivating account unfolds during the tumultuous night of the 1876 presidential election, when a band of cunning counterfeiters hatched a daring plot to steal the embalmed body of President Abraham Lincoln. Their outrageous plan? To hold the revered leader’s remains for ransom.

In this 288-page narrative, Craughwell vividly portrays the interplay between hapless con men, relentless federal agents, and the resilient citizens of Springfield, offering readers a unique glimpse into late-nineteenth-century America. Join him on this thrilling adventure filled with unexpected twists and historical insights that will keep you turning the pages. "Stealing Lincoln’s Body" is a must-read for history buffs and anyone intrigued by the extraordinary events that shaped the United States.