Learn history as Michael Robinson takes on the persona of Washington DC’s Superintendent of Police Almarin Cooley Richards. Superintendent Richards was involved in the election of 1860 as a member of the “Wide Awake”, a group of enthusiastic Lincoln supporters. During the inauguration of 1861 he rode alongside the new President’s carriage as a parade marshal. A good Republican, he received a patronage position as a financial clerk at the post office shortly thereafter and became an Alderman for the 3rd Ward in 1862. When President Lincoln needed a new Chief of Police in 1864 he rewarded Richards’ loyalty with that position. So it was that he attended the play “Our American Cousin” when he learned that General Grant and President Lincoln would be there and was present when Lincoln was shot!

Please enjoy the show and bring your questions for Michael Robinson! Mr. Robinson has thoroughly researched early Washington to bring you this realistic portrayal of an eyewitness to history. We will meet in the Octagon Room of the St. Paul’s Methodist Church, directly across from the Town Hall parking lot. Enter the Octagon Room from the Mitchell Street doors. Gather at 7:00 p.m. for cookies, coffee, and conversation followed at 7:30 by the program.