Lincoln's Grave Robbers

A gang of counterfeiters plots to steal President Abraham Lincoln's body from its tomb in 1876. Their plan involves holding the corpse for ransom and securing the release of an imprisoned accomplice. The narrative follows both the criminals as they prepare their scheme and the Secret Service agents who work to prevent the theft. Key figures include mastermind James "Big Jim" Kennally, counterfeiter Benjamin Boyd, and Secret Service operative Patrick Tyrrell. This work of nonfiction draws from historical records, court documents, and newspaper accounts to recreate the events in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield, Illinois. The story connects to the widespread counterfeiting operations that threatened the U.S. economy in the post-Civil War era. The book explores themes of loyalty, justice, and the complex intersection of crime and politics in American history. Through its examination of this lesser-known episode, readers gain insight into the social and economic challenges of the Reconstruction period.

Readers find the book engages middle-grade students while teaching lesser-known Civil War era history. Many note it reads like a crime thriller and holds attention through fast pacing and cliffhangers. Likes: - Clear explanations of counterfeiting and 1800s Secret Service operations - Period photographs and primary sources add authenticity - Accessible writing style for ages 10-14 - Short chapters maintain momentum Dislikes: - Some found the large cast of characters hard to track - A few readers wanted more background on Lincoln's presidency - Critics note it oversimplifies some historical context Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (4,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (180+ reviews) Common Sense Media: 4/5 "Perfect for reluctant readers who think history is boring" - School Library Journal reviewer "My students couldn't put it down" - 5th grade teacher on Goodreads "Reads like a heist movie" - Parent reviewer on Amazon

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🔍 The plot to steal Lincoln's body was orchestrated by a gang of counterfeiters who planned to demand $200,000 and the release of their expert engraver from prison in exchange for the president's remains. ⚡ Benjamin Boyd, the imprisoned engraver whose freedom the grave robbers sought, was so skilled that the U.S. Secret Service considered him responsible for producing about half of all counterfeit currency in the Midwest. 🏛️ Lincoln's tomb in Springfield, Illinois had virtually no security when it was built - no guards, no locks, and the door was secured by just a single padlock. 🕵️ The Secret Service, which now protects presidents, was originally created to combat counterfeiting. The 1876 Lincoln grave robbery plot occurred during their early years focusing on counterfeit currency. 🗝️ After the attempted robbery, Lincoln's body was repeatedly moved within the tomb and eventually buried under 10 feet of concrete to prevent any future theft attempts. The final burial location remained secret for decades.