Lincoln's Train, for inaugration and funeral procession

Three Rivers
Hudson~Mohawk~Schoharie
History From America's Most Famous Valleys

My notes on Abraham Lincoln.
Donated by Dick Palmer

Notes on passage of Abraham Lincoln through Syracuse to inauguration in 1861, and in death in 1865

Notes compiled by Richard F. Palmer, Syracuse, N.Y.

Syracuse Standard, Sat., Feb. 16, 1861

Time-Table of President Lincoln’s Special Train

The Time-Table for the Special Train which is to convey Mr. Lincoln from Buffalo to Albany on Monday next, is as follows

Leave Buffalo at 6 a.m.
Arrive Batavia, 6:30 a.m. Leave 6:35 a.m.
Arrive Rochester, 7:40 a.m. Leave 7:50 a.m.
Arrive Clyde, 8:50 a.m. Leave 8:55 a.m.
Arrive Syracuse, 10 a.m. Leave 10:05 a.m.
Arrive Utica, 11:30 a.m.Leave 11:35 a.m.
(No more stops until Albany, arrive there at 2:30 p.m.)

Syracuse Journal, Monday, Feb. 16, 1861

Cars for the President Elect.

The Buffalo Courier says that in the Central Depot there stand side by side three cars designed to have the honor of transporting the President elect on his route to Washington. One is a sleeping car built for the New York Company at Troy, and containing all the comforts which could be imagined for a movable bed chamber.

Another is a regular passenger car, very handsomely fitted up, to say nothing of its beautiful appearance externally. The third is the car built by William Kasson, of Buffalo, for the State Line Railroad. It is fitted with luxurious seats after the plan of the Ray patent, so fixed that the passenger may either sit, recline or lie on its sumptuous velvet cushions.

A vacant space is left in the center for a table. At one end of the car is a large framed engraving of the U.S.. Senate of 1850, and a rack immediately beneath is filled with China urns and dishes of various kinds. Over the State Line and Central roads the President elect will experience almost as much luxury in his travel as was enjoyed by the Prince of Wales last fall.

Syracuse Standard, Friday, April 21, 1865

The Route The President’s Remains Are To Go.

We published on Wednesday morning a dispatch from Washington saying that the remains of President Lincoln were to come by way of New York, &c., and would pass through here on the night of the 26th. On Wednesday afternoon a telegram was sent by Secretary Stanton saying that the remains would go by way of the Pennsylvania Central Railroad. But later, another “official” dispatch was sent by Secretary Stanton, as follows:
{Official}
War Department,
Washington, April 19. - 11 P.M.
To Maj. Gen. Dix:
It has been finally concluded to conform to the arrangements made yesterday for the conveyance of the remains of the late President, Abraham Lincoln, from Washington to Springfield, via by way of Baltimore, Philadelphia, Harrisburg, New York, Albany, Buffalo, Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis and Chicago to Springfield.
(Signed) E.M. Stanton,
Secretary of War

Syracuse Standard, Saturday, April 22, 1865

Photograph Views of the Funeral Assemblage.

Bonta & Curtiss, as also Knapp & Marble, both in the Franklin buildings, on Wednesday when the great multitude were in Hanover Square doing homage to the lamented martyr-President, photographed the scene. Each have a view while the Rev. Dr. Canfield was in act of prayer, and another while Mr. Sedgwick was delivering the eulogy. They are spirited pictures, in which the features of many citizens are remarkbly well defined, and recognizable at a glance. These photographic views will be well worth preserving, as exhibiting the great sentiment of this community upon this peculiarly solemn occasion. Copies may be had at either of the galleries.

Syracuse Courier & Union, Monday, April 24, 1865

The Remains of President Lincoln.

It is now definitely ascertained that the remains of the late President Lincoln will pass through this city on their way westward, on Wednesday night, at fifteen minutes past eleven o’clock, on a special train which will stop here fifteen minutes. Two special trains will run over the New York Central Railroad on this occasion - the first a pilot train, which will run ten minutes head of the second train [which will bear the remains and the escort,] and will make sure that the track is clear and in order.

No train from either direction will be allowed to run within twenty minutes of the time of these special trains. The speed of the special train will average about twenty miles an hour. Superintendent Lapham has issued a special time table for these trains, from which we learn that the train with the remains and escort will run from this city to Rochester as follows: Leave Syracuse at 11:30 on Wednesday night, Warners 11:54. Memphis 12, Jordan 12:14, Weedsport 12:25, Port Byron 12:40, Savannah 1:00, Clyde 1:15, Lyons 1:35, Newark 1:50, Palmyra 2:15, Macedon 2:27, Fairport 2:51, and arrive at Rochester at 3:20 Thursday morning.

Syracuse Standard, April 24, 1865

Remains of President Lincoln.

The train bringing the remains of the late President Lincoln will reach here at fifteen minutes past eleven o’clock, on Wednesday night, and remain 15 minutes only. It is a special train, and ten minute ahead of it is to run a special pilot train, time tables for which are made out, and other trains, in either direction, are not to be within 20 minutes of their time. The following is the time between here and Rochester: Leave Syracuse at 11:30 Wednesday night; Warners, 11:54; Memphis, 12:00; Jordan,12:14; Weedsport, 12:26; Port Byron, 12:40; Savannah, 1:00; Clyde, 1:15; Lyons, 1:35; Newark, 1:50; Palmyra, 2:15; Macedon, 2:27; Fairport, 2:51; and arrive at Rochester at 3:20 Thursday morning.

Batavia (N.Y.) Republican Advocate, Tues., April 25, 1865

The Program for the Transportation of President Lincoln’s Remains from Washington to Springfield.

The Railways over which the remains will pass are declared military roads, subject to the order of the War Department, and the railway, Locomotives, Cars and Engines engaged on said transportation will be subject to the military control of Brig. Gen. McCallum.

The funeral train will not exceed nine cars including baggage and hearse car which will proceed over the whole route from Washington to Springfield.

The remains will leave Washington at 8 a.m. of Friday the 21st; arrive at Baltimore at 10 a.m., leave Baltimore at 3 p.m., and arrive at Harrisburg at 7:20 p.m.; leave Harrisburg at 12 M. the 22d, and arrive at Philadelphia at 6:30 p.m.; leave Philadelphia at 4 a.m. of Monday the 24th, and arrive at New York at 10 a.m.; leave New York at 4 p.m. of the 25th, and arrive at Albany at 11 p.m.; leave Albany at 4 p.m. of Wednesday the 26th, and arrive at Buffalo at 10:10 the same day, and arrive at Cleveland at 7 a.m. of Friday the 28th.

Leave Cleveland at midnight same day and arrive at Columbus at 7:30 a.m. of Saturday the 29th; leave Columbus at 8 p.m. same day and arrive at Indianapolis at 7 .m. of Sunday the 30th; leave indianapolis at midnight of the same day and arrive at Chicago at 11 a.m. of Monday, May 1st. Leave Chicago at 9:30 p.m., of May 2d, and arrive at Springfield at 8 a.m. of Wednesday May 3rd.

At the various points on the route where the remains ae to be taken from the hearse car by state and municipal authorities to receive public honors according to the aforesaid program, the authorities will make such arrangements as they may deem proper.

Syracuse Courier & Union, Tuesday, April 25, 1865

Reception of the Funeral Train.

At the meeting at the City Hall last evening to arrange for demonstrations of respect to the funeral train of the late President, T.B. Fitch, Esq., was called to the chair, and F.A. Marsh appointed Secretary. The firing of minute guns and tolling of bells during the arrival, and departure of the trains, and adorning the depot with National Flags and drapery was thought advisable, and a committee consisting of W. G. Lapham, Z.L. Beebe, H.L. Duguid, C.P. Clark, Wm. A. Sweet and S.P. Rust, was appointed to carry it out and confer with General Green as to any military demonstration to be had.

The committee held a meeting last evening, at Mr. Lapham’s office, and made iniatory preparations. They request that all persons having National Flags (except those in the immediate vicinity of the depot), will bring them today to the office of the Water Works Company, in the rear of the Onondaga County Bank, fronting the depot.

It is desired that the mourning drapery be upon them, and each should be plainly marked, that the committee may make no mistakes in their return. It is also desired that persons having cambric that has been used for mourning drapery likewise bring that to the same place today and loan it for the occasion. The committee will see that all is returned.

Syracuse Courier and Union, Wed., April 26, 1865

Reception of the Funeral Train.

The following order has been issued by Brig. Gen. John A. Green Jr.:
Headquarters, 24th Brigade, N.G.}
Syracuse, April 24. }
Special Order,}
No. 4.}
The remains of Abraham Lincoln will pass through the city of Syracuse between the hours of eleven and twelve o’clock at night on the 27th inst., and that the proper military honors may be observed, it is ordered that Capt. Jacob Brand, commanding Battery A, cause to be fired minute guns, commencing when the train of cars containing the body shall enter the city limits and ceasing when the train shall leave the city limits. It is supposed that thirty minutes will cover the time embraced in this order.
By order of
John A. Green, Jr.
Brigadier General.
Milton H. Northrup,
Capt. and Aid-de-camp.
Many of the residents on Railroad street contemplate decorating and illuminating their buildings in the evening.

Spirit of the Times, Batavia, N.Y., Sat., April 29, 1865

Mrs. Lincoln and her Husband's Funeral.

The N.Y. Tribune has "good authority for stating that Mrs. Lincoln was anxious from first to last to be permitted to proceed with the corpse of her husband to Springfield,Ill., by the shortest, possible route, with the least possible parade or dcelay. That she has been a second time overruled is a tribute to her kindness of heart at the expense of others' consideration." So we think we too.

(Mary T. Lincoln didn't even attend the funeral in the White House, let alone any of the funerals along the route of the funeral train (which she was not on). She didn't attend the funeral on Springfield on May 4, either. She remained confined in the White House until May 22; then she departed for Chicago.

Mary Todd Lincoln was a woman of fragile sensitivity, though she also could be strong willed in the own way - redecorating the White House with huge cost overruns while the Civil War was cooking. . . she made lots of trips to NY and Phily on the B&O to buy 'flub dubs for this damned old house " as Abe would say.

But all she wanted was to 'bring him home;' to Springfield ASAP after the assassination. She had had more than enough of Washington and standing on ceremony by then. But she ultimately gave in to the powers that be who planned that long, slow journey back to Illinois for Lincoln and a grieving nation. The dead president had become much more than simply her late husband and father to their children.

(However, I can see her desire to make that funeral trip as short as possible for other unsaid reasons. Embalming back then wasn't the greatest, and even at that I think Lincoln's and little WIllie's caskets had to sit on blocks of ice. With the warmth of spring and aboard a slow moving train, bodies would continue to decompose and give off unpleasant odors, even over all the floral tributes showered upon the procession from DC to Springfield. Sensitivities of the day would not dare mention such publicly but almost eveyone could figure it out.)

Much of Mary's time was spent in negotiations to make sure Abraham was buried in a manner consistent with both his and her wishes. Mary received a lot of "advice" on where President Lincoln should be buried. Benjamin B. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings, submitted a resolution to the Congressional Committee on Obsequies requesting that Lincoln be buried in the rotunda of the Capitol. Other recommendations received by Mary Lincoln included the Congressional Cemetery in Washington and a proposed burial in New York City. Additionally, Robert T. Lincoln and Judge David Davis suggested to Mary that Chicago was the most appropriate place of burial.

BUT, near the end of the war, during a carriage ride with her husband along the banks of the James River, Mary reported that Abraham had said, "Mary you are younger than myself. You will survive me. When I am gone, lay my remains in some quiet place like this."

Thus, Mary agreed to a Springfield burial. The "town fathers" in Springfield wanted President Lincoln to be buried on a piece of property in the heart of town. Mary objected vehemently because Abraham had expressed a desire before he died to be buried in a quiet rural setting. Thus, Mary wanted him buried in the new Oak Ridge Cemetery, a rural cemetery a few miles north of Springfield. Another reason for this, in addition to Mr. Lincoln's expressed wishes, Mary was worried there wouldn't be room for herself and her sons to be buried next to Abraham if the "heart of town" location was selected. Eventually Mary Todd won out, and Oak Ridge it was!

Syracuse Journal, April 27, 1865

The following dispatch was sent from this city by one of the agents of the Associated Press on board the funeral train: -

“Syracuse, Wednesday, April 26.

The funeral cortege arrived at Syracuse at 11:50 P.M. Thus far no accident has occurred. Although it is raining, there are at least thirty five thousand people witnessing the passage of the train at this place. The firemen are drawn up in line, and their torches and the numerous bonfires light up the scene solemn. Bells are tolling, and cannons booming.”

The blunders in this beautiful telegraphic effusion average somewhat less than one a line. The cortege reached here, not at ten minutes before twelve, but at five minutes past eleven; it was not raining at the time of the arrival; there were not thirty-five thousand people witnessing the passage of the train; the firemen were not drawn up in line; there were no torches; and there were no bonfires. The reporters of the Associated Press, during the stay of the train in this city, were comfortably slumbering on the soft couches of the new sleeping cars, and knew about as much of the ceremonies here as they did of contemporary transactions on the planet Saturn.

Syracuse Courier and Union, Thursday, April 27, 1865

Arrival of Mr. Lincoln’s Remains last Evening - Honors to the Dead - Appropriate Decorations at the Central Depot - Minute Guns Fired - Tolling of Bells - Thousands in Attendance.

Notwithstanding the drizzling rain that fell during last evening, and past midnight, thousands of citizens were in attendance at the Depot in this city, to pay the last mark of respect, with those of our sister cities, in the generally arranged obsequies of the late president.

As early as eight o1clock the Depot was thronged by those who were eager to obtain a position as the train came in, and the crowed was so great as to preclude others from entering. The gabble of language was anything but harmonious from so many throats, and those occupying the best positions, from which they could not be driven except by the discharge of a park of artillery, were easily driven under the shelter of the depot1s friendly roof, by a smart shower of rain.

As soon as the funeral train emerged from the Tunnel, about mile east of the city, minute guns commenced to be fired under direction of Capt. Brand, Commanding Batter A, by order of Brig. Gen. John A. Green, Jr., promulgated for the past two days. At the firing of the first gun, the City hall bell and the Church bells were tolled, and this programme was kept up while the funeral train remained in the depot, and until it had passed the city limits Westward.

The train stopped here but about thirty minutes, and the crowd that collected in and about the Depot, as well as along the sidewalks, even at the late hour of a dark and dreary midnight, was immense. The Depot itself was most appropriately draped, inside and out, and presented such an appearance as no other occasion since its erected called for. Festoons of black and white depended from its eastern and western gables, and the entrance of the funeral car at the eastern portico was flanked by two large flags bordered in mourning, and suspended from the St. Charles Hotel and the Sherman House.

Inside the depot, the interior display was most solemn and imposing.

Numerous flags were tastefully drooped from both sides, occupying appropriate distances between the ascending wooden columns to the roof. The intervening spaces were filled with tall tamarack evergreens, the trees having been freshly cut for that purpose in the early part of the afternoon.

Immediately underneath the flags were festoons of white and black crape,looped up in such a manner as to give a solemn effect to the entire drapery.

Taking this in connection with numerous lights that glittered within, and the large multitude gazing upon the solemn scene, nothing like it may ever be expected to be witnessed here again, and most profoundly do we regret the scene we were called to gaze upon last night! Two large and brilliant Reflectors were placed at either end of the Depot, giving a full view of the magnificent Funeral car and its somber decorations, which we give below.

The Funeral Car.

The funeral car by which the remains were carried in the procession is a most superb piece of mechanism. - The main platform is 14 feet long, 8 wide and 15 high. On this platform which is five feet from the ground, is a dais six inches in height, on which the coffin rests. About the dais is an elegant canopy, supported by four columns curving upward at the center and surmounted by a miniature temple of Liberty. The platform is covered with black cloth, which falls at the sides nearly to the ground, and is edged with silver bullion fringe. Festoons of black cloth also hang from the sides, festooned with silver stars and also edged with silver bullion.

The canopy is trimmed in like manner with black cloth festoons and spangled with silver bullion. The corners were surmounted with a rich plume of black and white feathers. At the base of each column are three American flags, slightly inclined, festooned and covered with crape. The Temple of Liberty is represented as deserted, having no emblems of any kind in or around it, except a small flag on the top at half mast. The inside of the car is lined with white satin flutia. From the center of the roof is suspended a large eagle with outspread wings, having in his talons a laurel wreath. The platform round the coffin was strewn with flowers.

The Coffin.

As the Coffin was removed in the car containing it, its splendor and magnificence for the first time became visible to the spectator, and its magnificence could not be surpassed. Its entire cost was about $2,000, and it is probably the most perfect and finished thing of the kind ever manufactured in this country. The material used in the construction is mahogany, which is lined with lead. The inside of the coffin is lined with box-plaited satin, the pillow and lower surface is of the finest description of white silk, and the whole is surrounded with chenille, as in fringe. The inside of the face lid is raised with white satin, the entire center piece is trimmed with black and white silk braid, fastened at the four corners with silver stars.

The upper third of the lid is thrown back so as to reveal the head and bust. The most rich and costly description of black cloth covers the outside. It is heavily fringed with silver, having four silver medallions on either side, in which are set the handles. All along the sides it is festooned with massive silver tacks, representing drapery, in each fold of which glitters a silver star. The edges are decorated with silver braid, having tassels each five inches in length. Upon each side are four massive handles, also of silver, and at the head and foot are stars of the same material. On the top is a row of silver tacks, extending the whole length a few inches from the edge. In the center is a silver plate, on which is the inscription:
ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
Sixteenth President of the United States,
Born July 12, 1809
Died April 15, 1865

This is enclosed by a shield formed of silver tacks. The whole thing is really beautiful, and finished with excellent good taste and fine workmanship.

Appearance of the Corpse.

Death has fastened into his frozen face all the character and idiosyncrasy of life. he has not changed one line of his grave, grotesque countenance, nor smoothed out a single feature. The hue is rather bloodless and leaden but he was always sallow. The dark eyebrows seem abruptly arched; the beard, which will grow no more, is shaved close, save the tuft at the short, small chin. The mouth is shut, like that of one who had put the foot down firm, and so are the eyes, which look as calm as slumber.

The collar is short and awkward, turned over the stiff elastic cravat, and whatever energy or humor or tender gravity marked the living face is hardened into its pulseless outline. No corpse in the world is better prepared according to appearances. the white satin around it reflects sufficient light upon the face to show that death is really there; but there are sweet roses and early magnolias, and the balmiest of lilies strewn around, as if the flowers had begun to bloom even upon his coffin.

How the Body was Embalmed.

Three years ago, when little Willie Lincoln died, Doctors Brown and Alexander, the embalmers or injectors, prepared his body so handsomely that the President had it twice disinterred to look upon it. The same men, in the same way, have made perpetual these beloved lineaments. There is now no blood in the body, it was drained by the jugular vein and sacredly preserved, and through cutting on the inside of the thigh the empty blood vessels were charged with a chemical preparation which soon hardened to the consistence of stone. The long and bony body is now hard and stiff, so that beyond its present position it cannot be removed any more than the arms or legs of a statue. It has undergone many changes. The scalp has been removed,the brain scooped out, the chest opened, and the blood emptied. All this we see of Abraham Lincoln, so cunningly contemplated in this splendid coffin, is a mere shell, an effigy, a sculpture. He lies in sleep, but it is the sleep of marble. All that made this flesh, vital, sentiment, and effectionate is gone forever.

Here is the transcribed account from the Oswego paper. You will notice that it really doesn't tell you who went, but gives an interesting description. Unfortunately, the very bottom of the newspaper page had suffered from bleed-through from the previous page, thus rendering some of the words illegible on the microfilm. That took a lot of sizing up & down & switching from positive to negative to read what I could. Even so, enjoy this observer‚s account of a truly moving moment in our history.

Oswego Daily Palladium
April 27, 1865
pg 2, col 6 - pg 3, col 1

THE FUNERAL TRAIN AT SYRACUSE.
Fitting Honor to the Illustrious Dead
Syracuse, April 27, 1865-12 1/2 am

Dear Pall: -- The Funeral train has passed! All that remains on earth of Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States during the severest trial our country has ever known, has just left the city on its way to Springfield, Illinois. The hour is a solemn one, and suggests serious thought. Four years ago last February, Abraham Lincoln passed through this city on his way to Washington to assume his duties as President. The train stopped a few minutes to gratify the curious crowds; the President elect made a short speech, half serious, half factious; and the train passed on with its distinguished passenger who was to guide the Ship of State throughout the rough breakers of secession and civil war, into the quiet harbor of peace. Tonight his body, cold in deaths embrace, stricken down by an assassin's foul shot, has passed through the city on its way to the grave. But I will not indulge in reflections.

The regular train which left Oswego at four o'clock, brought a goodly number of passengers who wished to pay their respects to the honored dead. Pursuant to the resolution of Tuesday evening, introduced by Ald. Parker, His Honor the Mayor and Common Council came up on the four o'clock train. Our party was received on our arrival by His Honor, Wm. D. Stuart, Mayor of the City, and by him conducted to comfortable quarters at the Syracuse House. We found a large number of public and private buildings draped in mourning, and preparations in progress for such demonstrations as were consistent with the lateness of the hour and the short time that the train would remain at the depot. The special train which left Oswego at 6 o'clock, brought five coaches filled with citizens of Oswego and other places along the line of the road. There seemed to be a large representation from the rural district about this city, and the streets during the evening until the arrival of the train were literally filled with men, women and children. The depot was very beautifully and appropriately draped in black and white, and trimmed with American Flags, while on either end, the outside were [sic] large lights with powerful reflectors which shed a brilliant light for a long distance up and down the Railroad. The train was due at 11:15. At 11:05, a pilot train consisting of an engine and one coach, made its appearance and passed by. Fifteen minutes later, at 11:20, the train conveying the body of the President entered the depot. There was an immediate rush made for the coach containing the coffin, but a guard was stationed to prevent any entrance.

A Brass Band played a dirge, a large choir of ladies and gentlemen sang, minute-guns were fired by a squad of men near the depot; and although the crown was so dense that one could not control his movements, I observed that many involuntarily uncovered their heads when the train entered the depot. The scene was truly solemn and impressive. I can not give you an adequate description of the train. The engine was a model for size and beauty. The train consisted of seven coaches and provided with sleeping apartments, saloon, parlors, &c., for the accommodation of the escort. The entire train was handsomely draped in black and white crape [sic], festooned with gold rosettes and tassels. In a black walnut coach, the one next to the rear, lay the coffin containing the remains of our late President. On the rear platform of this coach stood Adjutant General Townsend, directing the guard in their duty in preventing the entrance of the curious, respectful, serious crowd of persons, who were disappointed in not being able to catch one glimpse of the face or coffin of the President. I had a desire to enter the car, and accordingly thinking that an effort could result in nothing worse than a failure, assayed to pass the guard by a gentle push and a pleasant smile, and he gave way. I stepped upon the platform where Gen. Townsend stood and he moved aside for me to pass and I entered the car -- being the only man in that crowd numbering thousands who was so fortunate to gain admission. When I stepped upon the floor of the car and saw the coffin, I experienced a sensation indescribable. The full weight of the circumstances causing the Nation such grief arose vividly before me and my feelings were indeed awful in the extreme. The coffin was closed and I did not see the face of the dead. It was covered on the top and sides with beautiful wreaths and bouquets of white flowers. Passing along to the front end of the car, I viewed a table covered with black cloth on which were piled immense [illeg.] bouquets and wreath of white flowers [illeg.] a card attached bearing an appropriate inscription, and in some cases [illeg.] of the one whose hands had prepared the token of respect. The one [illeg.] inscribed ”To the memory of our much loved and honored President; Whom God loveth He [illeg.]

After remaining 15 minutes, the train moved on its way and the people went to their homes. It was a sad event in our Nation's history which caused them to assemble. The train was in charge of Major General Slocum.
Yours, B.

Syracuse Standard, Thursday, April 27, 1865

Departure of the Funeral Train for the West.

Albany, April 26. - The remains were conducted to the New York Central Depot by a large procession of civilians and military, amid the tolling of bells and firing of minute guns, with the solemn sound of music, and at about four o’clock we started on our mournful journey. The pilot engine is the “C. Vibbard,” with one car attached, and the engine which draws the train is the “Edward H. Jones.” The latter is draped in a handsome manner, by the master mechanic of that name, who will accompany the train to Utica, with Peter Arthur as the running engineer.

Three coaches and a baggage car were also furnished by the New York Central Railroad Company. These are appropriately costumed under the direction of Joseph Homes, the Superintendent of the Car Department at West Albany, partly from designs of J. F. Lawrence. Mr. Jones sends a mechanic named James Coyle, as far as Buffalo, provided with tools to make repairs should any become necessary.

There are three new and elegant sleeping cars furnished by the New York Central Railroad Company, by W. Wagener, General Superintendent, to be conducted by L.T. Chamberlain. The conductor of the entire train is Homer P. Williams. H.W. Chittenden, General Superintendent of the New York Central Railroad, accompanies the train to Buffalo.

Syracuse Journal, April 27, 1865

Last night was a night memorable to every living inhabitant of Syracuse - a night memorable to every man and woman and child who shall hereafter be a living inhabitant of Syracuse.

For it linked the name of our city with the most marvelous and the most mournful pageant opf history. Slowly and solemnly, to the sound of tolling bell and saluting gun, and amid the grief of a people, there passed through our town last night the remains of him whom not one age, one nation or one race alone delight to honor, but whom all ages, all nations and all races shall hold in eternal remembrance.

The route of this national procession, from the political Metropolis of the Republic to that remote Capital of the west, will forever possess a sad charm in the eyes of posterity. The cities that stud that long and mournful line, will forever glow with a melancholy brilliancy - a reflection of the lustrous fame of Abraham Lincoln, shining through all the annals of time.

Syracuse Standard, Thursday, April 27, 1865

The Funeral Train in Syracuse.

The old Central Depot never looked so well inside as it did last night. On the south side national flag, draped in mourning, hung as at each alternate brace, festooned down to the post quite close, because the train comes in on this side; and along the face of the building are festoons of black and white. On the north side the same number of national flags hung more freely, richly draped, and in front of each was a graceful festoon of black and white pendant from the high beams overhead.

All along both sides evergreens were placed so as to show off the flags and drapery to best advantage. In addition to the gas lights there were locomotive head lights on either side at both ends, raised about ten feet from the ground, which gave a fine effect to flags and decorations of mourning. Also, on the outside of both ends of the building were head lights, so that the train was plainly visible.

The committee are entitled to much credit for the taste displayed and the work accomplished, especially Messrs. W.G. Lapham, C.P. Clark and S.P.Rust, who gave it their personal attention. All along Railroad street the dwellings and places of business were draped with black and white. Several buildings were also illuminated, and in front of the Standard Office was a head light.

About six o1clock a drizzling rain set in, growing to quite a shower, but nevertheless at half-past eight the crowd began to assemble, and long before eleven there was a jam - men, women and children, all anxious to have a glimpse of the car that contained the remains of the lamented President who had fallen a martyr for his love of country. The rain came by fits and starts but rain could not drive the anxious people from the desired sight.

Promptly at 11:05 the Pilot train arrived - locomotive No. 4, T.Harrett, engineer, Wm. Evarts conductor - which made the anxiety to see still greater. the depot was filled, and the street for considerable distance both east and west of it, and the railroad tracks were literally covered . As the Pilot arrive the bell began to toll and minute guns to fire.

The funeral train, drawn by locomotive Major Priest, (89) J. Vrooman, engineer, H.P. Williams conductor, arrived at 11:15, and so great was the anxiety to be close at hand, that it seemed almost impossible to get the crowd back for it to pass through into the depot. The engine was beautifully trimmed in mourning as were the baggage car and coaches, but we have not time this morning to attempt description. The Hearse car was the eighth in the train, and the rear one, containing the committee from Washington, both were the same that started from Washington. They are magnificent coaches elaborately and tastefully trimmed.

As the train came to a halt the Band played a dirge. There was a general rush toward the Hearse car, for therein lay the mortal remains of the now immortal Lincoln. It was with much difficulty that the Police and Veteran Reserve Squad could stay the tide of Pressure, and yet everyone forbore words of complaint.

When the Band ceased its dirge, choristers to the number of sixty or seventy, under direction of Mr. Durston, sang an appropriate anthem, and then the Band again took up the dirge till the departure, up to which time the crowd continued as dense; but all was quiet, orderly, solemn. At 11:20 the Pilot train - locomotive 202, R. Simons, engineer; N. C. Griffin, conductor - left. Meantime locomotive 248, handsomely decorated, hitched to the funeral train J. Brown, engineer, Samuel Hildreth, conductor - and at 11:30 started, the great mass uncovering as it passed along. It was a scene never to be forgotten. There must have been full fifteen thousand people present.

R.W. Chittenden, Esq., General Superintendent, and Z.C. Priest, Assistant Superintendent, were on the train. Mr. Chittenden went forward with it.

Palmyra Courier, Friday, April 28, 1865

The Funeral Train.

The funeral train, carrying west the body of the late President, passed this station at 2:15 Thursday morning. The train stopped at this station ten minutes, and a large number of our citizens (including a few ladies) were at the Depot. Of course there was nothing to be seen but the Hearse and nine cars, which were viewed with solemn interest. The funeral train was preceded by a pilot engine, in order to guard against any possibility of accident. The remains of the President were not exposed to view until they reached Buffalo where they laid in state three hours.

Spirit of the Times, Batavia, N.Y.,Sat., April 29, 1865

The Funeral Train at Batavia.

Punctual to the minute the train bearing the remains of the late President arrived at Batavia Thursday morning. Although the hour was pretty early, thousands had assembled at the depot long before the appointed time, longing to catch a glimpse of what bore all that was early of the Chief Magistrate. The depot was most tastefully draped in mourning, the large National flag hung in mournful festoons on the east end of the building, clothing it in mourning habiliments.

Those who had observed the drapery on most of the depots through which the train passed, conceded that the Batavia station was more elaborately finished than than other, with the exception of Syracuse, upon which extra work had been spent. The credit of the decorations is due to Messrs N.T. Smith and E.P. Ferren, who, with the assistance of some ladies, deserve many thanks for their labors in draping the depot with such exquisite tastefulness.

The evening previous a delegation from Buffalo arrived, consisting of the following gentlemen; Hon. Millard Fillmore, Hon, James Sheldon, Hon. I.A. Verplanck, Hon. P. Dorsheimer, Hon. I.G. Masten, John Wilkeson, Hon. F.P. Stevens, S.H. Fish, Henry Martin, S.S. Jewett, who with the Batavia delegation joined the train on its arrival here.

Upon a platform erected in front of the depot a large choir of ladies and gentlemen were stationed, who sang two touching funeral dirges, the entire crowd standing with uncovered heads, while the cars remained at the station.

Two exquisite bouquets took the place of the engine flags, and another still surmounted the sand box. The hand rails were neatly adorned with festoons of black and white, tasteful rosettes, The cab was draped with the national colors.

But the chief attraction of all, was the funeral car, which has borne the remains thus far from Washington, and is designed to bear them to the hero’s western home was built by B. P. Lamason of Alexandria, for the United States Military Railroad, and was intended for the use of the President and other dignitaries when traveled over the military road.

It contains a parlor, sitting room and sleeping apartment, all of which ae fitted up in the most approved modern style. Around the top of the state-room small panels are fixed, upon which are painted the coats-of-arms of each State. The car has sixteen wheels, eight on each side.

Black curtains have been placed at all the windows. Inside and out, the car robed in black, the mourning outside being festooned in two rows, above and below the window, while between each window is a slip of mourning connecting the upper with the lower row. A deep silver fringe also the edge of the roof, and he festoons of crape are looped over each window with a silver star and a large silver tassel.

Spirit of the Times, Batavia, N.Y., April 29, 1865

The train was drawn by the engine “Dean Richmond,” Leonard Ham, engineer, which was very tastefully draped. It had a full length portrait of the President underneath the headlight in front, which was surrounded by the graceful folds of two national flags thrown over the upper part of the engine, each trimmed with black and white crape. Two exquisite bouquets took the place of the engine flag and another still surmounted the sand box. The hand rails were neatly adorned with festoons of black nd white tasteful rosettes. The cab was draped with the national colors.

Batavia (N.Y.) Republican Advocate, Tues., May 2, 1865

A Solemn Pageant.
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Reception of the Remains of President Lincoln.
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The proceedings held in connection with the remains of our late lamented chief magistrate, from the time of starting from Washington, to their arrival at their final resting place in Springfield, will make a new era in the history of our country.

This illustrious man is mourned as no man has been mourned since the days of Washington. From the time of leaving the National capital, it was the great and absorbing topic of the country. At every city where the remains were to be viewed, thousands an tens of thousands - aye, hundreds of thousands in some instances, flocked to see them.

Harrisburg, Philadelphia, New York, Albany and Buffalo, were the prominent points and the only ones east of Buffalo, where the remains were to be seen. And in those places the densest crowds were collected, all anxious to obtain a view of the remains of the Patriot Statesman.

The funeral train arrived at Batavia at 5:18 on Thursday morning, and at that early hour there cold not have been less than two thousand people present - bought from the several towns in this county. The Depot had been previously draped in mourning in a most artistic manner, under the supervision of Messrs. John Fisher, Jerry Hassle and A.R. Warner, Committee, and Mr. E. Ferren and Nathan T. Smith, two gentlemen of excellent taste and judgment.
A stand had been erected for the choir, and other preparations prior for the occasion made. Minute guns were fired, bells tolled, and on the arrival of the train, dirges were chanted by the choir under the direction of Myron H. Beck, Esq. Other suitable and impressive strains were sung, producing a most solemn effect.

On the arrival of the train, the vast multitude stood with uncovered heads, every countenance manifesting the profoundest sorrow.

A beautiful bouquet of flowers was presented by Mrs. John Fisher, and placed on the coffin.

The following description of the Funeral Car, &c., we take from the Democrat:
The Funeral Car.

The Funeral Car is a beautiful specimen of the builder’s art, and was designed and constructed by Mr. B.P. Lamerson, for Mr. Lincoln’s use, but the present sad occasion is the first time this splendid car has been put in motion. Of a deep chocolate color, the panels relieved with a delicate tracery of small pure white lines, the car would seem almost specially designed for its present use. There are twelve windows with plate glass panes on each side, and the entire exterior of the car is of the richest character.

The edge of the roof is tastefully and richly hung with deep silver fringe, as well as the ends of the porches. Above the window is a heavy row of crape festoons, looped over each window by a silver star and a large silver button tassel. Pendant between each window hangs a deep fold of crape, edged with silver fringe.

The interior of the car is hung in black tapestry, which completely conceals the rich walnut paneling and the closets, sleeping berths and other appliances of comfort. The platform upon which the coffin stood is covered with black, and all around the deep and solemn aspect of the interior is somewhat brightened and relieved by silver stars and tassels.
The Coffin at Buffalo.

The coffin was a costly piece of workmanship and beautiful, if the term may be applied to anything so suggestive of sorrow and grief. it had a black velvet covering, heavily fringed around the top with silver, and had upon its lids and sides heavy silver mountings, and silver nails in ornamental designs. Upon the lid was also a plate, bearing the simple inscription of the birth and death of “Abraham Lincoln.” At the head of the coffin was placed a beautiful floral ornament in the form of a harp presented by the St. Cecilia Society.

At the foot was placed an exquisite chaplet of white flowers, presented by the ladies of the Unitarian Church. Mr. Lincoln having worshipped at their church on his way to Washington to his first inauguration, and expressing himself cheered and sustained by the words of their beloved pastor. It was deposited by four members of the church, Mesdames Haws, Sprague, Savary, and Miss Langdom, and bore the form of an anchor,with the inscription:
Truth, crushed to earth, will rise again;
The eternal years of God are here;
While Error, wounded, writhes in pain,
And dies among its worshippers.

It is estimate by good judges that not less than one hundred thousand persons viewed the remains while lying in state at Buffalo.

New York Tribune, Friday, April 28, 1865

Our Dead President
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The Funeral Progress Westward.
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Scenes Along the New York Central
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The Arrival at Buffalo.
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Albany, Wednesday Afternoon. - The following named gentlemen accompany the remains of the late President through the State of New York by invitation of Gov. Fenton; Judges Davies and Porter of the Court of Appeals; the Hon. Chauncey M. Depew, Secretary of State; Gens. Alexander W. Harney and George S. Batchellor; E. Merritt and S.E. Marvin, Staff Officers; Col. L.L. Doty of the Military Bureau; George Dawson of The Albany Journal, and William Cassidy of the Argus and Atlas.

Gov. Fenton himself could not attend the party, owing to the fact that the Legislature is on the eve of adjournment.

A delegation from Utica was also on board the train.

For a long distance after we left the dense assemblage at the railroad station, thousands of people were passed, quiet observers of the fleeting train - the men lifting their hats in view of the hearse-car containing the remain of the truly lamented dead.

Far beyond the city limits we only see here and there a national flag with the appropriate mourning badge before some solitary house, the occupants being on the door step or piazza. Two small boys are on a hill top holding in their hands miniature draped flags, and standing with heads uncovered. Small groups on a hillside occasionally appear. At the cross roads are men and women on country wagons. A party of about thirty young girls with a few mail companions are in line on a lever green at the opening of a wood. They all bow their heads in final adieu. The scenery is beautiful, animated at various points with human feelings. Flags at half mast continue top be seen at housed draped with mourning.

Schenectady, 4:45. - Here the people are gathered in large numbers in the streets, on car-tracks, in railroad coaches, at the windows, on the porches, house-tops, in the trees - every elevated position having an occupant.

The station is beautifully draped, and badges and flags on private residences are draped in mourning. There is here a company of soldiers on each side of the track. Ladies were seen shedding tears. The signal men bear in their hands white square flags, bordered with black.

Amsterdam, 5:25. - Here another large crowd is gathered at the station, at door fronts, and along the road. The scene is picturesque. The emblems of mourning everywhere appear. Draped flags are thrown out and the bells are tolled.

Fonda, 5:55. - We stopped for a few minutes. Many persons were gathered; minute guns were fired.

Palatine Bridge, 6:25. - Here the roads and both sides of the hills, and the bridge, were lined with spectators of all ages and of both sexes. In fact, every inhabitant of that locality seemed to be abroad. The depot was elaborately draped in front with National flags, nearly associated with black cloth. the roof of the building was festooned with long pieces of black and white, the drapery elevated on the posts and gracefully drooping. Minute guns were fired, while a dirge was performed by an instrumental band. The interest of the living scene was enhanced by the natural beauty of the romantic locality. There are individual demonstrations all along the line.

Fort Plain, 6:32.- A large National flag, edged with mourning, is displayed, held at the four corners by as many lads. The scholars of he Academy, with their teachers and a few others of the neighborhood, are ranged in line - the men with heads uncovered.

St. Johnsville. 6:47. - We stopped here for thirteen minutes in order to lunch. A fine collation has been provided at the railway station. The waiters are 22 young ladies, dressed in black skirts with white waists, and black scarfs on the left arm. They are admired as much for their attention as for their personal appearance. They are volunteers for this occasion. The officers in charge of the remains, in acknowledgment of their kindness, extend to them the privilege of passing through the funeral car to see the coffin.

Little Falls, 7:35. - We here have an interesting and affecting scene. As at the previous places, many persons were assembled. the mournful music of an instrumental band, blended with that of the village bells and minute guns, added their heavy brass to the sacred concert. The scenery here is represented to be of a romantic character, but its beauty was clouded in the partial darkness of night. A note, of which the following is a copy, was presented in behalf of the ladies.

Little Falls, April 26, 1865. The ladies of Little Falls, through their Committee, present these flowers and the shield, as an emblem of the protection which our beloved President ever proved to the liberties of the American people.

The Cross of his ever faithful trust in God, and the Wreath was the token that we mingle our tears with those of of an afflicted nation.
Mrs. S.M. Richmond Miss Minnie Hill
Mrs. E.W. Hopkins Miss Helen Brooks
Mrs. Power Green Miss Maria Brooks
Mrs. Jas. H. Buchlin Miss Mary Shaw
Committee.

These artistically arranged flowers were then brought forth. There was a surging of the multitude in that direction, and, in consequence, there was some difficulty with the bearers of the delicate and expressive tribute of affection in reaching the hearse-car; but the floral emblems were deposited on the coffin, the band, meanwhile, performing a dirge. Women and men were moved to tears at this solemn exhibition of heartfelt regard.

Herkimer, 7:50. - The crowd here was very large. On both sides of the road the people in a body impulsively moved toward the hearse-car, when Mr. Lafflin, mounting the platform of the car, addressed the assemblage, saying:
“The body of our departed friend is in the second car from the rear, and if the citizens will retain their present positions they will be able to see the car when the train again moves.”

This appeal partially produced the desired effect. Standing by the station near the track, plainly visible in the glare of many lights, were thirty six young ladies, representing the States, dressed in white, with heavy black shashes. On their heads were crowns of flowers, and in their hands small national flags draped with crape. The scene was truly beautiful.

Utica, 8:45. - The depot buildings are heavily draped and the flags at half-mast. House fronts bear symbols of mourning.

It is slightly raining and not a few umbrellas are hoisted. There are minute guns, funeral music and the tolling of bells.

It is said that there are at least 25,000 persons here. This does not appear to be an under-estimate. The soldiery have much difficulty in keeping the masses off the track, as at various other places. The ”moral” object of interest is the hearse-car, and thither persons of both sexes are pressing.

The guests having been entertained by the Utica escort, which accompanied the remains from Albany, take leave, and amid the excitement the solemn music of the band is again heard; minute guns are fired and the bells tolled. The instrumental band performing a plaintiff air, pass the hearse-car, and soon is heard the rumbling of the moving train.

An application had previously been made for the remains to be exposed to public view, but a telegram from Major-Gen. Dix informed the Hon. Roscoe Conkling that the arrangements made at Washington did not admit of such a deviation.

Oriskany, 9:36. - The people are here assembled, and have kindled a bonfire. Other places were passed during the night.

Syracuse, 11:15. - The depot was heavily draped with American flags, on each side through the entire length. Each flag was trimmed with black and decorated the sides f the building. Evergreen trees were placed at intervals of about 10 feet along both sides of the depot. In addition to the ordinary gas-lights, four large locomotive lamps illumined the interior, and four others illuminated the track east and west. The hotels in the vicinity of the depot and nearly all the private residences along the street through which the railroad extended, were appropriately draped and illuminated. The bells of the city tolled and minute guns were fired while the funeral train was within the limits of the city.

A large police force was in attendance to preserve order, and a company of Veteran Reserves were in attendance to pay honors to the illustrious dead.

A band of music played a dirge as the train entered the depot, and a choir of 100 voices sang appropriate hymns during the stoppage of the train.

The crowd of citizens was immense, nd large delegations came in from Oswego and the surrounding towns. Thousands were standing for hours in the depot and adjoining streets, waiting for the arrival of the funeral train.

The train was received by the assembled multitude with uncovered heads, and with every manifestation of heartfelt sorrow.

A small bouquet was handed to the delegate from Idaho (the Hon. W.H. Wallace), upon which were the appropriate words, “The last tribute of respect from Mary Virginia Raynor, a little girl 3 years of age, - Dated Syracuse, April 26, 1865.” It was placed on the President’s coffin by Gen. Aken.

Warners, 11:54. - Torchlights are burning on each side of the train. Many hundreds of people are gathered in groups here, as at previous places, with uncovered heads. A.L. Dick, General Superintendent of Telegraph, is on the train.

Memphis, 12 o’clock midnight. - The train passes onward. Many spectators here bearing torchlights. Bonfires blazing.

Jordan, 12:14 - Large fires and throngs of citizens are seen.

Weedsport, 12:26. - Large crowds of citizens are gathered here and bonfires are blazing.

Port Byron, 12:40. - The Depot Agent, A.M. Green, has draped the depot with mourning. Two large American flags are flying at half-mast, and numerous chintz lanterns light up the depot.

Savannah, 1 a.m. - Many spectators are gathered here and bonfires blaze one each side of the depot.

Clyde, 1:15 a.m. - The depot is trimmed with mourning. There is a large demonstration here. Guns are fired, bells tolled.

Lyons, 1:20. - A very large number of persons is gathered at the station to view the train as it passes along. The train moves onward.

Newark, Palmyra, Macedon and Fairport are successively passed. Bonfires are seen blazing, flags draped with mourning, and many spectators gathered together.

Rochester, 3:20 a.m. - As we enter Rochester minute guns are fired and the bells tolled.

On the north side of the railroad station were drawn up in line the 54th Regiment N.G., 1st company of Veterans Reserves and hospital soldiers, and a battery attached to the Twenty-fifth Brigade, and the 1st company of Union Blues. The Independent and Newman’s regimental band played a funeral dirge.

On the south side were Mayor with 25 members of the Common Council of Rochester, together with Gen. John Williams and staff, Major Lee, commanding the post, with is corps of assistants, and Gen. Martindale and staff.

We stop 10 minutes at Rochester. The people are abroad in full force. The streets in the vicinity of the stopping place are crowded. Houses are seen draped with the usual emblems and draped flags. We soon pass the intermediate stations are at

Batavia, 5 a.m. - Large masses of people appear on the road. Our party has been increased by the addition of ex-President Fillmore and Messrs. J.A. Verplanck, J. Gallastin, James Sheldon, S.S. Jewett, Henry Martin, Philip Dorsheimer, J.P. Stevens, E.S. Prosser, John Wilkinson, Henry Morrison, N.K. Hopkinson, on behalf of the Mayor of Buffalo, who was prevented from being personally present, to tender the hospitalities of the city to the party accompanying the remains of the late president.

Marked attention was extended by Mr. H.N. Chittenden, General Superintendent, and Mr. E. Foster, Jr., and Z. C. Priest, Assistant Superintendent of the Eastern Division, and Messrs. W. G. Lapham and J. Tillinghast, Sperintendents of the Western Division; also by J.P. Dukehart, connected with the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, who is in charge of the train as through conductor from Washington to Springfield, with Homer P. Williams and Samuel Holdreth as assistants.

Buffalo, 7 a.m. - We are now at Buffalo. Not the slightest accident has happened on the way from Washington, owing to the admirable arrangements, and the faithful and experienced officers in charge of the train. We were met at the depot by large concourse of people, the men with uncovered heads.

The funeral party were entertained at breakfast at Bloomer’s dining saloon, by the city authorities.

The procession was formed between 7 and 8 o’clock, and proceeded toward St. James Hall, under a civil and military escort, in company with the party which had followed the remains from Washington.

The coffin was prominently in view of the very many persons who lined the streets through which the cortege passed.

The hearse was heavily covered with black cloth, surmounted with an arched roof and tastefully trimmed with white satin and silver lace. An extensive display of the military and civilians was omitted in view of the fat that Buffalo had a funeral procession on the day the obsequies took place at Washington.

The procession reached the young Men’s Association building at 9:35 a.m. the body was taken from the funeral car and carried by soldiers up into St. James Hall and deposited on the dais in the presence of the accompanying officers, the guards of honor, and the Union Continentals, commanded by N.K. Hall.

The remains were placed under a crape canopy, extending from the ceiling to the floor. The space was lit by a large chandelier. In the gallery outside the canopy was the Buffalo St. Cecilia Society, and Amateur American Music Association, who, as the remains were brought in sang with deep pathos the dirge, “Rest Spirit, rest,” affecting every heart and moving many to tears.

The Society then placed an elegantly-formed harp, made of choice white flowers, at the head of the coffin as tribute rom them to the honored dead. Shortly after this the public were admitted. Ex-President Fillmore was among the civilians escorting the remains to St. James Hall. Also Company D, 74th Regiment, Capt. S.G. Bowles.

This Company acted as an escort to President Lincoln four years ago from and to the depot, on his way to Washington. They will escort his remains from Buffalo to Cleveland.

The Rev. Dr. Gurley, who officiated at the funeral in Washington, accompanies the funeral party to this city.

The following named members of Congress reached Buffalo, with the train: Senators James W. Nye of Nevada and George Williams of Oregon, accompanied by George T. Brown, the Sergeant-at-Arms of the Senate; Representatives E.B. Washburne and S.M. Collum, Robert C. Schenek, Illinois; Charles E. Phelps, Maryland; James B. Sherman, California; Samuel Hooper, Massachusetts; William A. Newell, New Jersey; White Forrie, Michigan; Sidney Clark, Kansas; Killion V. Whaley, Western Virginia; Burt Van Horn, New York; and ex-Representatives Isaac N. Arnold of Illinois; Joseph Bailey, Pennsylvania; W.H. Wallace of idaho; Augustus Frank and John Ganson of New York; with M. Gordway the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Representatives.

Second Dispatch.
Buffalo, Thursday, April 27, 1865.

Gustavus A. Newell of New Jersey, has been invited to accompany the remains to Springfield.

The following are the names of the Army and Navy officers in the funeral party: Brig. Gen. E.D. Townsend of the Adjutant General’s Department, representing the Secretary of War; Maj. Gen. David Hunter, U.S. Vols.; Rear-Admiral Davis, U.S.N.; Brevet Major Gen. J. G. Barnard, U.S. Vols.; Brig. Gen. Ramsey, Ordinance Department; Brig. Gen. Eaton, Commissary-General of Subsistence; Capt. Taylor, U.S.N.; Brig. Gen. Howe, Chief of Artillery; Brig. Gen. Caldwell, Brig. Gen. McCallum, Superintendent of U.S. Military Railroads; Brig. Ekin, Quartermaster’s Department; Major Field, U.S. Marine Corps.

As erroneous statements have been in the press, it is necessary to say on the authority of the embalmer and undertaker, that no perceptible change has taken place in the body of the late President since we left Washington. The Washington physicians removed a part of the brain only for the autopsy but this was replace, so that no part of the body whatever is now deficient.

The remains were visited through the day from 9:30 this morning until 8 o’clock this evening by an immense number of persons. The arrangements generally are pronounced to be better than elsewhere on the route. Great credit is therefore due to the Committee who perfected them.

The hospitalities were everywhere liberally extended, both by the corporate authorities and individual citizens.

During the morning there was placed at the foot of the coffin an anchor of while camelins, from the ladies of the Unitarian Church of Buffalo. A cross of white flowers was also laid upon the coffin. At the request of Major General Dix and others, the officers of the St. Cecilia Society this afternoon repeated the dirge, which was sung, with, if possible, more solemn and touching effect than in the morning.

The procession, with the remains, left St. James Hall at about 8:45, escorted to the depot by the military, followed by a large crowd. The depot was surrounded by persons anxious to get a last view of the coffin. The train left at about 10 o’clock for Cleveland.

Syracuse Herald, Feb. 12, 1914

Has Pictures of Death Bed Scene of the President.

Mrs. J.B. Martin of No. 410 Montgomery street has a copy of Frank Leslie’s illustrated newspaper, dated New York, April 29th, 1865, giving a full description of the assassination of President Lincoln, and the poem, “Abraham Lincoln,” by Edmund Clarence Stedman. The paper also contains a double page picture of the deathbed scene of Lincoln, giving a picture of every member of the cabinet and their names.

Dr. Betts Recalls Funeral Train.

The Rev. Dr. F.W.. Betts writes:
“Childhood memories ae very unreliable in matters of detail, but impressions made when we are young last when we are older. I remember Lincoln’s funeral car as though I had seen it a little while ago. It must have been in the evening when it passed through the village where we lived. The main four corners of the village was a hundred yards from the station. The station was over a bridge on the further side of the track."

“On the near side of the track was a board fence without a gate or passage way. On this fence the village people, many of them leaned or stood as the train went past. Little and big, young and old, stood with bared heads. the solemnity of the scene sunk deep into my childhood mind and faded and perhaps it has had much to do in the development of the reverence for Lincoln which has become one of the ruling passions of my mature life.”

Old Brakeman Tells of Train.
An interesting reminiscence is that of Frank M. Tuck of Clyde.

“I well remember forty-nine years ago when the Lincoln funeral train passed through Syracuse. I was a brakeman on a freight train that day that life Rochester for Syracuse. We had orders to come to s top when we met the pilot engine which ran ten minutes ahead of the funeral train, and remain standing until the funeral train had passed. All depots were draped in mourning.

“Charles Simonds was the engineer of the pilot engine, No. 202. Engine No. 84 drew the funeral train, Jack Duff engineer. Our train met the funeral train at Memphis about 9:45 p.m. (Ed. note: Funeral train passed through Memphis at midnight. Engineer was George Brown). I also remember Feb. 18th, 1861, the day President Lincoln passed through Clyde on his way to his inaugural with the same engine, No. 84, and the same engineer, Jack Duff.”

Says Brown was Engineer.

George Brown of No. 250 West Brighton avenue is the son of John H. Brown the engineer that drew the inaugural train from Rochester to Syracuse. After that Mr. Brown enlisted in the army, 149th Regiment, Company E, in the year 1862. He was wounded July 20th, 1864 at Peach Tree Creek just before the battle of Atlanta and was honorably discharged March 28th 1865.

He was also the engineer that drew Abraham Lincoln’s funeral train from Syracuse to Rochester and his wife and mother made the flags to drape the engine. The fact that Mr. Tuck and Mr. Brown agree so nearly in their account, but give different names of the engineer, make it probable that Engineer John H. Brown may have been nicknamed by his railroad friends, “Jack Duff,” and that it was he whom Mr. Tuck speaks of in his letter.

F.H. DeWolfe’s Recollections.
F.H. DeWolfe writes:

“The passing of the Lincoln funeral train through Syracuse is one of the most vivid memories of my life. As a small lad I was taken by my parents to the old New York Central station which occupied the whole space of what is now Vanderbilt Square. Upon our arrival there we found the whole space filled with human beings, all eager to get close to the track upon which the train was to arrive.

“I can remember that we climbed up on a baggage platform at the south side of the building and from there we could see over the heads of the people.

“Our wait for the train was a long one but when the pilot engine with the caboose attached arrived, it was a very solemn moment, and upon the arrival of the funeral train, it seemed as though every person was awe stricken.

“The car containing the remains was lighted and we could see people passing through. To a young cousin of mine had fallen the honor to go into the car with her father and place a bouquet upon the coffin, and this, of course, has always remained one of her cherished memories.

“A few days later, the day of Lincoln’s funeral at Springfield, there was a great procession of people here in Syracuse. Almost everybody was in line and all stores, offices and houses were draped with black and white. I do not believe there ever was before or since such a feeling of loss as at the time of the death of Lincoln.”

Syracuse Post-Standard, Thurs., Feb. 12, 1914

Flags on Engine of Lincoln’s Funeral Train Made Here
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Mrs. John H. Brown Sews them at Request of Husband.
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Latter Piloted Martyr on Way to Presidential Chair and to His Grave
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Mrs. John H. Brown, who lives with her son, George Brown, at 250 West Brighton avenue, is one of the residents of Syracuse who has reason to give especial attention to the observance of Lincoln’s birthday. Mrs. Brown and her mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Waterbury, made the flags which were used in decorating the engine which drew the funeral train from Syracuse to Rochester, and of which her husband was the engineer.

Not only did Mr. Brown serve as the engineer of the funeral train between this city and Rochester, but he was the engineer on the train between the same points early in the spring of 1861 when Abraham Lincoln was on his way to Washington to take the presidential chair.

It was not long after he had handled the Lincoln inaugural train that Mr. Brown enlisted in the 149th Regiment, Company E, and received an honorable discharge on March 28, 1864. He was wounded at Peach Tree Creek and just before the battle of Atlanta on July 20, 1864. After his discharge he returned to his home on South West street, this city, and resumed his duties as an engineer on the western division of the New York Central on April 4, 1865.

He was selected to president at the throttle in handling the Lincoln funeral train on the night of April 26, 1865, on account of having engineered the inaugural train four years earlier, together with the fact that he had served in the war. As soon as he knew he was to have the train he asked his wife and her mother to make the flags which he used in decorating the engine. They had only a short time in which to perform the work.

Early in the evening of the night that the funeral train passed through Syracuse Mrs. Brown and her mother went to the engine house to see the locomotive with its decoration made possible by their handiwork. Mrs. Brown said yesterday that it was one of the proudest days of her life. She is well and active at the age of 75 years. Her husband died six years go at No. 122 Hatch street.

Syracuse Post-Standard, Feb. 12, 1914

Floral Star, A Lincoln Tribute, Preserved Here
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Taken from Casket on Funeral Train April 26, 1865, and presented to Lieutenant-Governor T.G. Alvord at Request of Mrs. Lincoln - Now in Possession of Mrs. J.A. Cheney.
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In an interesting collection of relics Mrs. James A. Cheney, who lives at No. 105 West Adams street, inherited from her father, Lieutenant-Governor Thomas G. Alvord, known as “Old Salt,” is a floral star presented to him on he night of April 26, 1865, when the body of Abraham Lincoln passed through Syracuse on its way from Washington, D.C. to Springfield, Ill.

The star was taken from the coffin and given to mr. Alvord at the request of Mrs. Lincoln. He sent it to New York, where it was placed in a state of preservation, and has remained in the family ever since without being disfigured in any way. In its transportation to New York the center of the star was broken and one artificial flower was placed to complete the piece.

Mr. Alvord was serving as lieutenant-governor at the time of Lincoln’s assassination and death, and on the night the funeral cortege passed through Syracuse Mr. Alvord and his daughter drove to the station from their home the First Ward.

Mrs. Cheney said yesterday that nothing ever transpired in her life that left a greater impression than the tribute Syracuse paid President Lincoln on this occasion. The train arrived from the east at 11:15 p.m. and left at 11:30. A great crowd gathered at the old station in Vanderbilt Square and business places and residences along East Washington street were draped with black and white bunting and American flags. Arrangements were made for the arrival of the funeral train by W.G. Lapham, superintendent of the western division of the New York Central, C.P. Clark and S.P. Rust.

An impressive scene was the placing of the bouquet on the casket, which bore a card reading” The last tribute of respect from Mary Virginia Raynor, a little girl 3 years of age, Syracuse, April 26, 1865.”

Syracuse Herald, Thursday, Feb. 12, 1914

Served Generals on Train
When Funeral Cortege Reached St. Johnsville
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Mrs. Emma Randall Taber of Rome relates an interesting incident in connection with the Lincoln funeral train. She writes:

At the time of Lincoln’s death we were living in the little town of St. Johnsville on the New York Central road. Although a small town, St. Johnsville had the largest restaurant on the Central road from New York to Buffalo. During the Civil War the traffic on the railroad was very heavy and all trains stopped at our town, where the passengers patronized this restaurant, which was run by a man whom we all called Colonel Cook. Some days three and four hundred people would have dinner there.

One day an order came to serve dinner to the officers who were on President Lincoln’s funeral train. This order caused much excitement in our little village, everyone wishing for a sight of the great men. Our wish was granted by Mr. Cook inviting several of the young women to assist in serving the guests. We were asked to wear white dresses with black sashes, and of course each one tried to look her very best.

The train arrived about 4 P.M. I was assigned to serve five generals, and you may be sure I put forth my best effort to serve them well. During the dinner one of the generals asked my name, wishing me to write it down for him, which I did, and thought no more of it. At the close of the dinner a message came saying that the young women who had served the guests so well were invited to go through the funeral car.

This was considered a great honor, and we were escorted through a guard of soldiers to the car. Just inside the car was a small casket and when I asked one of the officers about it he said it contained the remains of Willie Lincoln, who died in 1862. We passed on into the center of the car, where, surrounded by several of his faithful generals who looked sad and careworn, was the casket containing the body of our beloved president. The car was draped in black, festooned with silver stars. It was too dark for me to read the inscriptions on the casket but one of the generals read it for me. “Abraham Lincoln, sixteenth president of the United States,” etc.

As we left the car some one called my name and upon turning I found it was the general who has asked my name at dinner. He gave me a small package and upon opening it I found one of the silver stars which had been among the decorations in the car.

I had a sister living in London, England, at this time, and of course I sent her the papers, as they contained the news of our serving the dinner to the officers and also about my being presented with the silver star. She wrote back immediately saying she would like the silver star, so I sent it to her.

The next spring I went to England and while visiting my sister saw the star in her library, mounted on black velvet and bearing below the words in white letters, “From the funeral car of President Lincoln, United States of America.”

About a month after I returned home my sister died at Margate, and after a time I lost trace of her husband and was never able to get back the star, which was a great regret to me, as my children would give much to have it now.
___

Mrs. Taber says she had friends in Syracuse, Utica and Little Falls who remember these circumstances, one of them being Mrs. Amelia Collins of Syracuse, who was present at the time of the presentation of the star. Mrs. Taber said she did not know whether Mrs. Collins was alive now or not.

Saw Funeral Train Pass Through Oneida
____
J.C. Mitchell Tells How Old 12-Pound Cannon
Spread the Sad News

J.C. Mitchell of No. 607 West Newell street, whose father was a soldier in the Civil War, and had died in November, 1864, has a lasting and distinct recollection of the passing of Lincoln’s funeral train, although it was in Oneida and not in Syracuse that he saw it.

“Durhamville,” he says, “was the proud possessor of an old 12-pounder at the time of President Lincoln’s assassination, and on the day of the passing of the train, four horses were hitched to the gun and it was drawn to Oneida through the mud which was awful at that time of year.

“Myself and a lot of other boys of my own age tramped behind through the mud, most of us bare footed. Our point of vantage at Oneida was on top of a pile of railroad ties directly opposite the station, where we sat and shivered until the train drew in.

“The funeral car stopped directly in front us and we had an unobstructed view of the interior of the car. Long years have passed but that scene will never leave my memory. The casket draped with flags, the soldiers at each corner standing guard made a lasting impression. But I always wondered how the boys ever managed to fire that old gun as many times as they did in the short time the train was there.”
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Mrs. John L. Bauer of No. 218 Fitch street tells the following story:

“I was a very small girl forty-nine years ago when word reached Syracuse that the Lincoln funeral train would pass through the city and stop for a few minutes in the old station. My father and I left home very early in the evening and reached the station before the crowd began to gather. Father at once took a position on the edge of the raised platform next to the tracks upon which he train would pass.

“Soon throngs of people filled the platform and station and also the windows and doors of buildings adjoining. It seemed at times as if we would be pushed down upon the tracks. After a long time the train pulled slowly into the depot. The funeral car stopped directly in front of us.

“The car was lighted and because of the high platform we were able to look in at the open window. The coffin had been placed in the middle of the car and was covered with black drape, edged with gilt fringe. There were flowers, but I gave them little attention. I saw only the draped coffin and some of the soldier guards and the funeral drapery all along the outside of the train.

“Long afterwards after I was married and had little children of my own, I learned that one of my neighbors, Addison Cornwell, had been one of the guards of honor who had accompanied the remains of the martyred president from Washington to Springfield. He told us that upon arriving arriving at their destination, the soldier guards had divided the pall and fringe among them. He gave me a small piece of each as a souvenir and i still have them in my possession.”

Breathless Silence as Train Arrived.

A correspondent who signs himself “J.V” writes: ”That memorable night, standing near the corner of the Globe Hotel, watching the sad throng that surrounded the old depot (now Vanderbilt Square), from where I had seen men shackled and taken back to bondage, I saw the scene changed and the great liberator and man honored and respected by all, silent in death, was to pass through to his last resting place. The pilot engine came slowly through the surging crowed, followed later by the funeral train. the tolling bell of the locomotive as it slowly entered the depot amid breathless silence, seemed to speak its mission as it bore our beloved president to his home again.”

Day of Mourning for All
Mrs. S. Manchester of No. 130 Englewood avenue writes:

“I well remember the morning after Lincoln’s assassination. I was the first one to cary the news to my two sisters whose husbands were in the army and the day was one of mourning for us all. When the funeral car came through our city my husband went down to see the last of our dear martyred President and I stayed at home with my four little children but I could hear the bells tolling - it seemed as though they rang all night long.”

Has Pictures of Death Bed Scene of the President.

Dr. Betts Recalls Funeral Train.
The Rev. Dr. F.W.. Betts writes:

“Childhood memories ae very unreliable in matters of detail, but impressions made when we are young last when we are older. I remember Lincoln’s funeral car as though I had seen it a little while ago. It must have been in the evening when it passed through the village where we lived. The main four corners of the village was a hundred yards from the station. The station was over a bridge on the further side of the track."

Old Brakeman Tells of Train.
An interesting reminiscence is that of Frank M. Tuck of Clyde.

Says Brown was Engineer.

F.H. DeWolfe’s Recollections.
F.H. DeWolfe writes:

“I can remember that we climbed up on a baggage platform at the south side of the building and from there we could see over the heads of the people.

Baldwinsville Gazette, Feb. 13, 1964

Paper Reveals Lincoln Funeral Train Story

An account of the Abraham Lincoln funeral train through New York State, in the possession of the late Miss Sophia Voorhees, was submitted for publication this week by her sister, Miss Lesley Voorhees.

Miss Rachel A. Nichols, the daughter of Francis R. Nichols, sends the following account of Lincoln’s funeral to the Manning Manse Messenger, which is published quarterly by the Manning Association, 201 Brattle Building, Harvard Square, Cambridge, Mass., June, 1931. Miss Nichols was a teacher in the Primary school, Baldwinsville. Her father lived near Warners.

“When father heard that the funeral train with the body of Abraham Lincoln would go through on the New York Central on its way to Springfield, Illinois, and that it would pass our little town at midnight, he sent word to all the men and boys, far and near, to get an old broom, and come to his barn.

“They came. He had raised a crop of flax. They wound the brooms with the flax, and when the train came, stood not more than two rods apart on both sides of the track for nearly two miles. When the train was in the distance they dipped the brooms in kerosene, and when lighted they made a wonderful illumination. they thought the engineer slowed up when he saw it.

“All the women and children of the whole country-side were down to the track. As the funeral car had glass sides, all saw distinctly the coffin with the flowers on it, and many were the tears shed as it passed. It was a memorable night, never to be forgotten during the lives of those who were there, a last memorial to a beloved President.

“In the next issue of the New York Tribune, it said, ‘There were many demonstrations along the route of the funeral train in many cities passed through, but none exceeded the great illumination seen west of Syracuse, New York.”

The above was part of a correspondence between Miss Nichols and Miss Mildred E. Manning, of Downer’s Grove, Ill., whose grandmother, Sarah Warner, who married Rockwell Manning in 1834 and lived in Waterloo, N.Y., before his removal to DuPage County, Illinois, in 1849, and built the “Manning House of the Middle West.” Susan Warner was Miss Nichols’ aunt.

Baldwinsville (N.Y) Gazette, March 12, 1964

Cleverley Recalls Cannon Firing at Jordan Tree

Olin Cleverley, Warners resident, called The Gazette by telephone recently to remind residents of an incident that occurred at Jordan near the New York Central tracks at the time that the Abraham Lincoln funeral train passed through enroute between Washington, D.C., and the martyred president’s final resting place in his home state of Illinois.

The story had been passed down through the years in Jordan that a group of crack artillerymen home on leave at Jordan fired a cannon as the Lincoln train passed through that community and that the ball from the cannon lodged in an elm tree on the Otis farm.

When that tree was taken down, a piece of the tree containing the old cannonball was saved and kept in the old Jordan High School for many years.

What brought the story to mind, Mr. Cleverley stated, was the recent article appearing in The Gazette which was a story appearing in the papers of the late Miss Sophia Voorhees of Baldwinsville which had described how residents living along the New York Central tracks at Warners had attached flax to sticks and soaked the flax in kerosene. When the Lincoln train passed through, the flax was lit and formed a colorful avenue of light in the darkness between which the funeral train passed.

From: “My Memories of Eighty Years” by Chauncey M. Depew. New York, Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1924

(P. 64) The tragedy of the assassination of Mr. Lincoln followed was followed by the most pathetic incident of American life - his funeral. After the ceremony at Washington the funeral train stopped at Philadelphia, New York, and Albany. In each of these cities was an opportunity for the people to view the remains. I had charge in my official capacity as secretary of state of the train after it left Albany. It as late in the evening when we started, and the train was running all night through central and western New York. Its schedule was well known along the route. Wherever the highway crossed the railway track the whole population of the neighborhood was assembled on the highway and in the fields.

Huge bonfires lighted up the scene. Pastors of the local church of all denominations had united (P.65) in leading their congregations for greeting and farewell for their beloved president. As we would reach a crossing there sometimes would be hundreds and at others thousands of men, women, and children on their knees, praying and singing hymns.

This continuous service of prayer and song and supplication lasted over the three hundred miles between Albany and Buffalo, from midnight until dawn.