Deringer
John Wilkes Booth killed Lincoln with this small, single-shot pistol. Why would Booth use a weapon with only one bullet?
Explore exhibits on Lincoln’s presidency, Civil War milestones and the assassination conspiracy led by John Wilkes Booth.
In our museum, you can view exhibits that follow Abraham Lincoln from the beginning of his presidency to the moments leading up to his assassination. Learn about his life in the White House, the struggles he faced during the Civil War, and his meetings with abolitionist Frederick Douglass. You will also learn about actor John Wilkes Booth, the roots of his hatred toward Lincoln, and the group of people who joined his conspiracy to dismantle the United States government.
The museum features artifacts related to the assassination, including the weapons Booth used.
After visiting the museum, you can continue the story in our Aftermath Exhibits to learn about the fate of the conspirators and how the nation mourned Lincoln's death.
tips for your visit
- Museum is self-guided.
- Some entries do not include the museum.
- Audioguides are available for $5.
- A museum visit takes ~30 minutes.
