Why was Mrs. Surratt hanged as a conspirator in the assassination of Lincoln?

Question

Lewis Payne, a friend and possible co-conspirator with Booth, lived in her boarding house, and sometimes the conspirators gathered there, but what evidence was there that she knew anything about their plans?

Answer 1

There was no effective evidence at the time. She was more put to death because ofthe general uproar at the time because of the death of the president. I have seen on the history channel where they've said she never would have died if that had happened today.

Answer 2

Given the depth of public despair over the assassination of Lincoln, it was really only necessary for people to believe she should have known about the plot. In fact, it is difficult to imagine that she had no idea what was happening under her roof. And, if you accept that she knew, then you would alos believe she had the power to intervene and save Lincoln's life.