Jennifer Sommer

Review of Ford's Theatre Society

This is one of the best places to visit for a tour...

This is one of the best places to visit for a tour. I bought my tickets online ahead of time, although there were free tickets available when I arrived. I just didn't want to miss the opportunity of seeing it, in case it was busy. I also purchased the audio tour, which I always enjoy more than just reading the signs, especially when there are crowds of people involved. Luckily we had wonderful weather that day, so waiting outside for our tour time was pleasant. There was a class also in my time slot and they had a tour guide. My tour was self- guided. Entering was not ideal, as the entire crowd entered and rushed down the stairs to the exhibit, so I missed a few bits as I entered. It was crowded until the class left with the ranger and the crowd spread out. If possible it might be worth it to hang to the rear and wait for the crowd to disperse. There were a couple videos included from the History Channel that were worthwhile to watch. The exhibit covered Lincoln's family life as well as the war years and the day he was shot. I wasn't able to get through the entire exhibit before the play started, so after visiting the Peterson House I returned to see everything I missed. The box office issued me a new ticket, and it was no problem. The play was excellent and answered questions about what happened from the point of view of theater owner Ford and the actors. We exited the theater and went across the street to the Peterson House. A few people were allowed to enter at a time. If you sit at the back of the theater, you can get over there first. The house is set up so you can see where Mary Todd waited and where Lincoln died. After that, there are 4 floors of exhibits including the search for Lincoln's killers and Reconstruction. There are lots of artifacts in both exhibits at the theater and the house. Great for students and adults. I spent about 3 hours in total.