Edwin Booth - Strange Historical Coincidence

I just read this today in a Reader's Digest, it's a bit of historical trivia, something that others may or may not be aware of. But, did you know that Edwin Booth saved the son of President Abraham Lincoln from death? Then, several months later (in Apr 1865), Edwin's brother John, murdered the president. President Abraham Lincoln's son was Robert Lincoln. He wrote about Edwin saving him in a letter in 1909:

The incident occurred while a group of passengers were late at night purchasing their sleeping car places from the conductor who stood on the station platform at the entrance of the car. The platform was about the height of the car floor, and there was of course a narrow space between the platform and the car body. There was some crowding, and I happened to be pressed by it against the car body while waiting my turn. In this situation the train began to move, and by the motion I was twisted off my feet, and had dropped somewhat, with feet downward, into the open space, and was personally helpless, when my coat collar was vigorously seized and I was quickly pulled up and out to a secure footing on the platform. Upon turning to thank my rescuer I saw it was Edwin Booth, whose face was of course well known to me, and I expressed my gratitude to him, and in doing so, called him by name.Source: Wikipedia
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Robert Lincoln recognized Edwin right away, because he was a famous actor. Anyway, I just thought that was interesting, as far as trivia goes.

Edwin Booth with daughter Edwina, circa 1864

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Edwin Booth - Strange Historical Coincidence

Rebecca Prominent Member

eric8476 Active Member

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Edwin Booth - Strange Historical Coincidence

Rebecca Prominent Member

eric8476 Active Member

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