Autographs
“J.(ohn) T. Ford” of Ford's Theater Document Signed
JOHN T. FORD. Manager of Ford's Theater where Lincoln was Assassinated on the evening of April 14, 1865.
July 26, 1883-Dated, Invoice Autograph Endorsement Signed, "J. T. Ford," at Baltimore, MD, 1 page, 7” x 8.25”, Fine. The invoice has been printed on pictorial stationery of Coolahan & Evans, Furnishing Undertakers, for $87.00 for "Funeral Expenses of Miss Mary McGinn". At the lower left is an Autograph Note Signed: "Wm. E. Starn - Corpus Christie". The document reads, in full: "To Mr. Jno. T. Ford, City Hall, This bill is for the funeral of one of the victims at Tivoli. ($50)" Beneath this, Ford has penned: "The City will pay $50 on account of this bill." Part of Ford's handwriting is somewhat dampstained and along the left portion of the "J" of the signature. Overall this document remains in fine condition. Rare.
On the night of July 25, 1883, Maryland's worst maritime disaster claimed the lives of 63 people (34 women, 23 children, six men) when a wooden pier at the old Tivoli picnic grounds collapsed. Tivoli was an excursion resort on the Patapsco River, ten miles from Baltimore. John T. Ford had served as a Baltimore city council member and was acting Mayor of the city for two years.