• Abraham Lincoln's Bodyguard Was In The Bar Drinking

  Contributed by Dr. Larry Petton on Aug 21, 2023 (message contributor)

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  Scripture:  Esther 1, Proverbs 20:1, Ephesians 5:18

  Tags:  Murder, Wine, Alcohol, Drunk, Drinking, American History, Alcholism  (view more)  (view less)

  Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

John Parker was seated outside the president’s box, in the passageway beside the door. From where he sat, Parker couldn’t see the stage, so after Lincoln and his guests settled in, he moved to the first gallery to enjoy the play. Later, Parker committed an even greater folly: At intermission, he joined the footman and coachman of Lincoln’s carriage for drinks in the Star Saloon next door to Ford’s Theatre.

John Wilkes Booth entered the theater around 10 p.m. Ironically, he’d also been in the Star Saloon, working up some liquid courage. When Booth crept up to the door to Lincoln’s box, Parker’s chair stood empty.

"Wine is a mocker,

Strong drink is a brawler,

And whoever is led astray by it is not wise" (Proverbs 20:1).

- Precept Austin