Flags at Half Mast - 08/08/2013

Annual Recognition of the Funeral Service of Ulysses S. Grant

During his weeks at the Cottage, many old friends - and enemies! - came to say farewell to General Grant. They were a diverse and unlikely lot, having nothing in common except their love for Ulysses S. Grant. The visitors included a former Confederate general, the director of a mental hospital, a businessman from Troy NY, the ex-slave who had been the General's cook during the siege of Petersburg, a Medal of Honor winner, a reputed Mexican bandit, a representative of the Catholic Church who had once accused Grant of hating Catholics, and Mark Twain. Keeping a close eye on all of the guests was the General's body guard, Union veteran Sam Willett of Argyle NY. Sam learned all he could about the General's guests and today, as we recall the General's funeral, he will share their stories with you.  Sam Willett will be portrayed by Steve Trimm.