Lincoln Museum at Ford's Theatre

The Lincoln Museum opened in the former Ford’s Theatre on February 12, 1932, and the National Park Service took control of the building in 1933. Unfortunately, its hefty price tag during the Great Depression and lack of interesting artifacts failed to entice visitors. Those who did attend criticized the office-building backdrop, saying it hindered their understanding of where Lincoln spent his last moments. Such disappointment renewed interest in the theatre’s renovation.