Lincoln’s Casket Opened 35 Years After His Assassination
Lincoln’s Casket Opened 35 Years After His Assassination — Here’s What Really Happened
More than three decades after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, officials made the extraordinary decision to open his coffin during security work at his tomb in Springfield.
Rumors had circulated for years — including fears that grave robbers might have tampered with his remains after an earlier attempted theft in 1876. To settle doubts and confirm the president’s identity, witnesses were present when the casket was unsealed in 1901.
What they found stunned those in attendance.
Despite the passage of 35 years since his 1865 assassination, Lincoln’s body was reportedly remarkably well preserved, largely due to extensive embalming and the sealed conditions of the burial vault. Observers described his recognizable facial features, beard, and even parts of his clothing as still visible.
The moment helped put conspiracy theories to rest and led to the decision to rebury Lincoln in a more secure tomb to prevent future disturbances.
The true story is both eerie and fascinating — a rare glimpse into history that continues to captivate generations.
