Early Life and Career
In Itawamba County, Mississippi, Finis Langdon Bates was born August 22, 1848. He was a distinguished American lawyer whose life was entangled in the legends of John Wilkes Booth. Bates became famous for his writing, especially his controversial Booth book, and his legal career.
Writing: John Wilkes Booth’s Escape and Suicide
In 1907, Bates published “The Escape and Suicide of John Wilkes Booth,” which claimed that Booth had escaped and lived as David E. George. In 1903, George confessed to being Booth on his deathbed in Enid, Oklahoma, Bates said. Bates’s detailed portrayal contradicted history and attracted readers, adding to Booth’s reputation.
Personal Life and Family
After marrying Bertie Lee in 1869, Finis L. Bates had several remarkable descendants. He later married Madge Young in 1890. Bates’s family life was distinguished by important connections; most famously, he was the grandfather of the acclaimed actress Kathy Bates, recognised for her parts in films such as “Misery” and “Titanic.”
His grandchildren, Kathy, Patricia, and Mary Bates, are descended from Langdon Doyle Bates, his son. Bates’s granddaughter’s acting legacy cements him in culture beyond his professional accomplishments.
The Booth Mummy
David E. George’s embalmed body became a local attraction in Enid, Oklahoma. Bates kept the mummy as proof that George was Booth and displayed it in numerous places. The Booth mummies was displayed at Coney Island, adding to the mystery of his fate. Bates’s identification of the mummy as Booth was a crucial part of his legacy, generating arguments and fascination with the Lincoln assassination story.
Legacy and Impact
Historical curiosity and dispute around Bates’s book and its assertions. His theories about Booth’s escape are hypothetical and unsupported, but they demonstrate the intricacies of historical narratives and the Booth enigma. Bates’s work contributes to conspiracy theory and historical discourse.
Death and Burial
At 75, Finis L. Bates died in Memphis, Tennessee, on November 29, 1923. He was buried in Memphis’ Elmwood Cemetery, where many famous people are buried. Historians and the public are fascinated by Bates’s professional and family legacy.
FAQ
Did Finis L. Bates have notable relatives?
The grandfather of “Misery” and “Titanic” actress Kathy Bates was Finis L. Bates.
Bates’s book about John Wilkes Booth’s primary claim?
According to Bates’ novel, John Wilkes Booth escaped after assassinating President Lincoln and lived as David E. George, who admitted to being Booth before his death in 1903.
Where is Finis L. Bates buried?
Elmwood Cemetery in Memphis, Tennessee, holds Finis L. Bates.
What impact did Bates’ Booth assertions have on history?
Many were fascinated by Bates’s assertions about John Wilkes Booth’s demise, but there was no evidence to change historical narratives.
How is Bates’ family involved in entertainment?
Kathy Bates, Bates’s granddaughter, is a successful actress who brings fame to the family.
When did Finis L. Bates die?
Memphis, Tennessee, resident Finis L. Bates died at 75 on November 29, 1923.
