Nellie Bly Interviews Reformer — December 10, 1893

In 1891, Dr. Charles Parkhurst, a clergyman elected president of the New York Society for the Prevention of Crime, launched a campaign against Tammany Hall’s political and social corruption. He exposed their connections with the police and their role in shielding crime and vice. Challenging Tammany Hall from the pulpit on February 14, 1892, Parkhurst emphasized the link between the hall’s political influence and police collaboration. Faced with the municipal grand jury’s request for evidence, he personally hired a detective, went undercover with John Erving, and presented documented proof of corruption on March 13, 1892. This effort led to the formation of the Lexow Committee to investigate conditions and the election of a reform mayor in 1894. Nellie Bly interviewed him at the height of his influence.

The New York World December 10, 1893

DR. Parkhurst To Nellie Bly

The President of The Society For Suppression of Crime Explains His Motives and His Methods of Work. A NEW LINE OF ACTION.
He Will Not Pursue Fallen Women, but WILL Make the Police Do Their Duty.
HIS MANY STRANGE EXPERIENCES.
|How the Police Have Foolishly Driven Into His Arms the Very Witnesses He Needed.
READY TO DIE FOR THE CAUSE!
Dr. Parkhurst…