Lincoln's Grave Robbers

How does counterfeiting factor into the plot? Discuss how it motivates Big Jim Kennally to come up with the plan to steal Lincoln’s body and how counterfeiting draws Tyrrell and the Secret Service in, as well.

Examine how characters on both sides of the law display great determination and perseverance as they pursue their opposing ends. Refer to examples from the text as you develop your response.

Kennally’s first, aborted attempt to steal Lincoln’s body was largely ignored by both officials and the public. Discuss the contemporaneous events and attitudes that contributed to this negligence.

Patrick Tyrrell joined the Secret Service when the agency was still in its nascent form. Describe the challenges he faced and how he overcame them, and analyze his contributions to the field.

Discuss the pros and cons of the Secret Service using a “roper” like Lewis Swegles—who had a criminal record—in a sensitive operation like the Lincoln Monument stakeout.

While planning the heist to steal Lincoln’s body, Mullen notes, “What is the use of the monument without the corpse!” (35). Discuss Lincoln’s cultural and historical legacy at that time period and why this made his grave a target.

Compare and contrast the figure of Lewis Swegles with the two other criminals he supposedly teams up with for the heist—Mullen and Hughes. Include an analysis of their lives before, during, and after planning the heist.

How does Hughes’s and Mullen’s taste for drama and flamboyance complicate their escape from Springfield and add to their legal jeopardy?