Alcatraz East Exhibit – Sic Semper Tyrannis: The Plot to Kill Lincoln

n 1865, Abraham Lincoln became the first U.S. President to be assassinated. Not only did the case shock the nation then, but it remains a heavily studied event to this day. Alcatraz East Crime Museum is spotlighting the assassination with a new temporary exhibit called “Sic Semper Tyrannis: The Plot to Kill Lincoln.” The exhibit will open July 7, 2023, the anniversary of the execution of four co-conspirators, and will run through September 14, 2023, featuring information and artifacts for guests to explore.

The new temporary exhibit will be included in the regular admission price. In addition to information about the assassination and conspirators, some items will be on display, including a Lincoln funeral relic, Lillie Leg Irons, and an 1864 Lincoln Re-Election Display. This exhibit will give patrons a chance to explore the conspiracy that took place leading up to the assassination of President Lincoln and the aftermath of the tragedy.

Nine co-conspirators were involved in the plot to kill Lincoln alongside John Wilkes Booth. Their plans also included assassinating the Secretary of State and the Vice President in hopes of taking down the United States government, but these additional attacks did not go as planned. Four of the co-conspirators were hanged publicly on July 7, 1865 following a military tribunal. The additional participants in the conspiracy were sentenced to varying prison or hard labor terms.

Be sure to check out this temporary exhibit during your next visit to Alcatraz East.