Lincoln's Funeral Train Procession: Passing Through Baltimore

History: Seven days after President Abraham Lincoln's assassination and five days before the perpetrators of his death would see justice, his funeral procession made its way into Baltimore on April 21, 1865. The train carrying Lincoln's body arrived at Camden Station at 10 a.m. and was placed in a hearse, pulled by four horses wearing black plumes.

In the pouring rain, thousands of Baltimoreans lined the streets displaying collective grief at the sight of the hearse. The procession routed through Eutaw, Baltimore, Gay, Chew and Caroline Streets, until it reached Lombard Street three hours later at the Merchants Exchange Building for the viewing. 10,000 people arrived to view Lincoln's body – the last time seen in Baltimore. The outpouring of grief shown throughout Baltimore during Lincoln's funeral procession was unprecedented, but symbolic of the effect Lincoln's actions had during his Presidency.

Around 3 p.m. on April 21, 1865, Lincoln's funeral procession ended and arrived at the Calvert Street Station. Lincoln's casket was placed on a train bound for Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The Calvert Street Station was the last place President Lincoln's body was physically in Baltimore- Lincoln's funeral procession continued through several eastern cities during his 1,700 mile journey to Springfield, Illinois – but his spirit for reconstructive change continued long after the last shots of the Civil War.

More to Explore: Baltimore is always a great place to spend time with family and friends as there are limitless attractions, museums, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Numerous events bring people together with a wide variety of interests. While at Camden Station, discover the Sports Legends Museum and its temporary Lincoln exhibit, The Civil War and Camden Station, enjoy a ball game at Camden Yards, and see the Babe Ruth Birthplace. The National Aquarium and Maryland Science Center are favorite places for families, just around the corner. Or, conjure your creative vision at the American Visionary Art Museum, and then grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants at Harbor Place, the Gallery or along Pratt Street.

Photo Credits:

1. "Photograph of President Abraham Lincoln’s hearse that was used throughout his funeral Procession."
2. "Painting of President Abraham Lincoln’s funeral procession in New York City."
3. "Advertisement of a book about the Assassins of President Abraham Lincoln; John Wilkes Booth on the cover."
4. "Photograph of President Abraham Lincoln’s funeral train"
5. "Photograph of President Abraham Lincoln’s final resting place in Springfield, Illinois." Prints courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.