Author: Historical Librarian


Monday, 28th April 1913 Two Maundering Notes Add Mystery to Crime, The Atlanta Journal

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1—Mary Phagan's own handwriting, as shown in her address she wrote for Sunday School teacher. 2—Written by Lee at suggestion of detectives for purpose of comparison. 3—One of notes found in cellar. 4—Also written by Lee at suggestion of detectives. The Atlanta Journal Monday, April 28th, 1913 (Page 2, Column 4) City detectives, detailed to run down the murderer or murderers of fourteen-year-old Mary Phagan, are endeavoring to clear up the mystery surrounding the authorship of two crudely written and badly composed notes which were found near the corpse of the murdered girl in the basement of the pencil factory.

Monday, 28th April 1913 Pinkertons Take Up Hunt for Slayer

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  Atlanta Georgian Monday, April 28th, 1913 Investigate Story of Wife of Employee That She Saw Strange Negro Around Factory. The Pinkerton Detective Agency was brought into the Phagan murder mystery this afternoon when Leo Frank, superintendent of the National Pencil Company's factory, called upon the local representatives and engaged their services. The operatives went to work at once, following out clews already obtained and developing new ones. Their attention was called to the story of Mrs. Arthur White, wife of one of the employees of the factory, who went to the factory to see her husband Saturday. She noticed

Monday, 28th April 1913 Playful Girl With Not a Bad Thought

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  Atlanta Georgian Monday, April 28th, 1913 "She was just a little, playful girl, without a bad thought in her mind, and she has been made the victim of the blackest crime that can be perpetuated," was the bitter denunciation of the assailant of Mary Phagan by her uncle, D. R. Benton, yesterday. Mary and her mother lived with Mr. Benton at his home near Marietta for several years following the death of Mr. Phagan. Then Mary's mother married J. W. Coleman and the family moved from Marietta to East Point about 1907. Twelve months ago they moved to their

Monday, 28th April 1913 Police Question Factory Superintendent

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  STRAND OF HAIR CLEW IN KILLING OF PHAGAN GIRL Atlanta Georgian Monday, April 28th, 1913 Body of Mary Phagan Is Found in Basement of Old Granite Hotel in Forsyth Street—Mute Evidence of Terrible Battle Victim Made for Life WHITE YOUTH AND NEGRO ARE HELD BY THE POLICE After Being Beaten Into Insensibility Child Was Strangled and Dragged With Cord Back and Forth Across Floor—Incoherent Notes a Clew. Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the National Pencil Company plant, in which Mary Phagan was employed, was taken to police court this morning by Detective Black to tell what he knows in

You Are There: Police Think Negro Watchman Can Clear Murder Mystery; Four Are Now Under Arrest, Atlanta Journal, April 28th, 1913

Police Think Negro Watchman Can Clear Murder Mystery; Four Are Now Under Arrest Mary Phagan Atlanta JournalMonday, April 28th, 1913 Developments in Case Have Come Thick and Fast Monday but No Evidence Has Yet Been Developed Which Fixes the Atrocious Crime — Mullinax Seems to Have Proved Alibi SUPERINTENDENT FRANK AIDS POLICE IN TRYING TO SOLVE THE MYSTERY He Was Closely Questioned for Several Hours Monday but Left Headquarters in Company With His Attorneys and Friends—Crime Was Committed in Metal Room on Second Floor—Sleeping Compartment Found in Factory Basement Detectives expect to wring the secret of Mary Phagan's murder from

Monday, 28th April 1913 Slain Girl Modest and Quiet, He Says

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  Atlanta Georgian Monday, April 28th, 1913 Timekeeper at Pencil Factory Declares Mary Phagan Attended Strictly to Her Work. "She was a quiet and modest little girl," was the tribute paid Mary Phagan to-day by E. F. Holloway, a timekeeper at the National Pencil Company's plant. "I never noticed her talking with any of the employees. She was invariably polite, as though she had been carefully reared in her home. She paid attention strictly to her own work and never was seen conversing with any of the men, so far as I know. "In fact, I don't know that she

Monday, 28th April 1913 Soda Clerk Sought in Phagan Mystery

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  Atlanta Georgian Monday, April 28th, 1913 Weeping Girl Like Mary Phagan Seen Saturday in Company of Soda Jerker. The police late this afternoon began a search for a soda water clerk who was seen talking to a girl answering the description of Mary Phagan Saturday night at 12:10 o'clock, in front of a rooming house at 286 1-2 Whitehall Street. The information was given to the police by L. B. and R. C. King, brothers, who said they passed the Whitehall Street address at that hour and saw the couple. Their attention was called to them, they say, by

Monday, 28th April 1913 Story of the Killing as the Meager Facts Reveal It

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  Atlanta Georgian Monday, April 28th, 1913 (Page 5, Columns 2 And 4) A new turn was given the mystery to-day when strands of blood-matted hair were found in a lathing machine on the second floor of the factory. The discovery made it certain that the crime was committed in the factory by some one who had access to the building, a theory which had been without conclusive support previously. Blood stains leading from the lathe to the door showed the manner in which the fiend had dragged the body of his victim and had taken her to the basement.

Monday, 28th April 1913 Suspect Gantt Tells His Own Story

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  DENIES GUILT BUT IS IDENTIFIED AS MAN SEEN LEADING GIRL Atlanta Georgian Monday, April 28th, 1913 The Georgian will pay $500 reward for EXCLUSIVE information leading to the arrest and conviction of the murderer of Mary Phagan. J. M. Gantt, accused of the strangling of Mary Phagan, was brought to Atlanta this afternoon at 4 o'clock from Marietta, where he had been under arrest in the Sheriff's office since forenoon. Fearing a demonstration from the crowd that had been waiting at the Walton Street station for several hours, Detective Hazlett transferred his prisoner from a Marietta car to a

Monday, 28th April 1913 Where and With Whom Was Mary Phagan Before End?

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Atlanta Georgian Monday, April 28th, 1913 Page 4, Column 2 Detectives to-day are using all their resources to learn where Mary Phagan was every minute of Saturday and Saturday night, whom she saw, with whom she talked, and what she said. There are wide blanks in the story of her movements. These must be filled. 12:10 p. m.—Mary Phagan appeared at the National Pencil Factory at ten or fifteen minutes after 12 o'clock noon, Saturday, and drew the pay due her, $1.60. She chatted a few minutes with friends. The manager is sure she then left the building. She told

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 $1,000 Reward

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The Atlanta Constitution Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Page 4 The assault and murder of 14-year-old Mary Phagan comprise the most revolting crime in the history of Atlanta Homicide is bad enough. Criminal assault upon woman is worse. When a mere child, a little girl in knee dresses is the victim of both there are added elements of horror and degeneracy that defy the written word. This outrage with all its gruesome and pitiful settings occurred in the very heart of Atlanta. It was committed by some human beast with more than jungle cruelty and less than jungle mercy. The detective

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Bartender Confirms Gantts Statement

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Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 3, Column 8) Says Phagan Suspect Left Pair of Shoes In His Place Saturday Evening. Charles W. McGee, of Colonial Hills, a bartender in the saloon of J. P. Hunter at 35 South Forsyth Street, almost directly across from the National Pencil Company plant, corroborated to-day the story told by J. M. Gantt about leaving a pair of shoes in the saloon from Saturday night until Monday morning. "The man I judge to be Gantt from the description came into the saloon, but stayed only a short time," said McGee. "I noticed nothing

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Bloody Thumb Print is Found on Door, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 4, Column 3) Murderer of Mary Phagan Probably Left Factory by the Rear Door A bloody thumb print, found Tuesday afternoon on the rear door to the basement of the National Pencil factory, leads the police to the theory that the murderer of Mary Phagan left the factory building by that door after he had deposited the girl's body in the basement. This theory is still further strengthened by the fact that when the murder was discovered Sunday morning it was found that a staple had been drawn from the fastening on

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Charge is Basest of Lies, Declares Gantt

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 John Milton Gantt, the accusation of a terrible crime hanging over him, from his cell at police headquarters, has made to-day a complete denial of any connection with the Mary Phagan murder in the first formal statement to the public since his arrest in Marietta yesterday afternoon. The statement, which was given to a Georgian reporter, was said by Chief Beavers to be substantially the same as that taken by the police department stenographer last night for the use of the city detectives. This remarkable denial, if it is to be given credence,

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 “Every Woman and Girl Should See Body of Victim and Learn Perils”

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  The Atlanta Constitution, Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 3, Column 6) A middle-aged woman, with signs of care and sorrow stamped on her features, pushed through the mob of people which crowded around the entrance to the Bloomfield undertaking establishment in which lay the body of Mary Phagan. She made her way determinedly, shoving and pushing. Reaching the doorway she was stopped from entering by Policeman Tribble who stood on guard. "You can't go in, ma'am. Nobody's allowed to see the body." "What?" she exclaimed. "Not letting anybody see her?" She stepped back as if aghast. For a moment

You Are There: “Every Woman and Girl Should See Body of Victim and Learn Perils”, Atlanta Constitution, April 29th, 1913

"Every Woman and Girl Should See Body of Victim and Learn Perils" Atlanta ConstitutionTuesday, April 29th, 1913 A middle-aged woman, with signs of care and sorrow stamped on her features, pushed through the mob of people which crowded around the entrance to the Bloomfield undertaking establishment in which lay the body of Mary Phagan. She made her way determinedly, shoving and pushing. Reaching the doorway she was stopped from entering by Policeman Tribble who stood on guard. "You can't go in, ma'am. Nobody's allowed to see the body." "What?" she exclaimed. "Not letting anybody see her?" She stepped back as

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Factory Employee May Be Taken Any Moment

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  Gantt reading murder warrant   Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 A sensational arrest will be made in the Mary Phagan murder mystery within a few hours. It will be based on the firm theory of the police and detectives that the strangled girl was never outside the factory of the National Pencil Company from the time she went in there for her pay Saturday noon until her dead and mutilated body was taken to the morgue early Sunday morning. The detectives do not believe that Arthur Mullinax is guilty of the murder. They do not believe that J.

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Factory Head Frank and Watchman Newt Lee are Sweated by Police

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  Leo M. Frank.   Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Mysterious Action of Officials Gives New and Startling Turn to Hunt for Guilty Man—Attorney Rosser, Barred, Later Admitted to Client. Has the Phagan murder mystery been solved? The police say they know the guilty man. Chief of Detectives Lanford at 2 o'clock this afternoon told The Georgian: "We have evidence in hand which will clear the mystery in the next few hours and satisfy the public." All the afternoon the police have been "sweating" Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the factory where the girl worked, and putting through the

You Are There: Factory Head Frank and Watchman Newt Lee are “Sweated” by Police, Atlanta Georgian, April 29th, 1913

Factory Head Frank and Watchman Newt Lee are "Sweated" by Police Leo M. Frank. Atlanta GeorgianTuesday, April 29th, 1913 Mysterious Action of Officials Gives New and Startling Turn to Hunt for Guilty Man—Attorney Rosser, Barred, Later Admitted to Client. Has the Phagan murder mystery been solved? The police say they know the guilty man. Chief of Detectives Lanford at 2 o'clock this afternoon told The Georgian: "We have evidence in hand which will clear the mystery in the next few hours and satisfy the public." All the afternoon the police have been "sweating" Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the factory

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Former Playmates Meet Girl’s Body at Marietta

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    Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 The little town of Marietta, Georgia, where her baby eyes first opened upon the light of day scarcely fourteen years ago, will to-day witness the sorrowful funeral of Mary Phagan, the sweet young girl who was mysteriously murdered in the National Pencil Factory Saturday night and whose body was later found in the basement where it had been dragged by unknown hands. The casket, accompanied by the girl's stricken family—her mother and stepfather, her sister Ollie, 18 years old, and her three brothers, Ben, Charley and Josh, all young boys, left the Union

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Gantt’s Release Asked in Habeas Corpus Writ, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 2) Petition Made to Judge George L. Bell and Will Be Heard at 4 o'Clock JAMES MILTON GANTT charged with the murder of Mary Phagan is seeking his release upon a writ of habeas corpus. Petition for such a writ was made Tuesday morning to Judge Bell of the superior court and he directed that a hearing be had at 4 o'clock Tuesday afternoon. Judge Gober, attorney for Gantt, made the petition and will argue Tuesday afternoon for the immediate release of the former bookkeeper. Gantt sets forth in his

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Guilt Will Be Fixed Detectives Declare

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Mrs. J. W. Coleman, below, mother of slain Mary Phagan, and Ollie Phagan, sister of the murdered girl . Mrs. Coleman is prostrated by grief over the crime, and warns all mothers of working girls to watch carefully their loved ones. Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Has the murderer of pretty little Mary Phagan slipped the net that the police most carefully spread for him? Is the author of the crime that shocked the city and State with its terrible brutality still at large? Is the mystery, as baffling in its myriad conflicting elements as it is revolting in

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 I Am Not Guilty, Says John M. Gantt

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The Atlanta Constitution Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 "I Was Not in Love With Mary and She Was Not With Me," Asserts Man Accused of Murder. "I did not kill Mary Phagan. I haven't seen her within a month. They accuse me falsely. I'm innocent and will swear it by heaven above." John M. Gantt, the youthful bookkeeper arrested on the charge of murdering Mary Phagan, sat in the detective chief's office at police headquarters last night, looked his questioners squarely in the eyes, and sweepingly denied all accusations. "I went to Marietta to take charge of a farm I have

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 I Feel as Though I Could Die, Sobs Mary Phagans Grief-Stricken Sister

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Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Among all the hearts that are bowed down in sorrow over the murder of Mary Phagan, the 14-year-old factory child found dead in the National Pencil factory Saturday, there is none who feels the suffering and the anguish of the separation so keenly as her sister, Ollie, 18 years old, her companion since childhood. For with her it is the suffering of youth, when the rose-veil of life has been lifted to show its tragic and terrible side in all its fullness for the first time. And it is all the more pitiful for

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Is the Guilty Man Among Those Held?

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    Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Is the murderer of Mary Phagan among the four men who are being held at police headquarters, or is he still at large, either among those still unsuspected or among those who have been severely quizzed by the officers? The men still in custody are: 1—Newt Lee, negro night watchman, who is thought to know much more about the crime than he has told, but who has not been regarded as the perpetrator; 2—Arthur Mullinax, former street car conductor, for whom a strong alibi has been established, and from whom suspicion is

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Keeper of Rooming House Enters Case

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 J. W. Phillips Thinks Couple Who Asked for Room May Have Been Gantt and Girl. Was the young woman who, in company with a young man, applied to John W. Phillips, keeper of a rooming house at Forsyth and Hunter Streets at about 11 o'clock Saturday night for a room, Mary Phagan, the little girl who was found murdered the following morning? And was Gantt the man with her? Phillips was not positive to-day. He saw the young woman in the morgue at Bloomfield's undertaking establishment, and it is understood he positively identified

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 L. M. Frank, Factory Superintendent, Detained By Police, The Atlanta Journal

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Leo M. Frank. Superintendent of the National Pencil company, snapped by a Journal photographer on the way to police headquarters. Mr. Frank is not under arrest, but will be a witness at the coroner's inquest. The Atlanta Journal Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 3) Detectives Building Case on Theory that Frank and Negro Can Clear Mystery Chief Lanford Believes That Testimony of the Superintendent and Negro Night Watchman May Lead to the Arrest of the Person Guilty of the Atrocious Crime That Has Shocked the Whole City—No Further Arrests Expected Soon MRS. FRANK IN TEARS AT POLICE STATION

You Are There: L. M. Frank, Factory Superintendent, Detained By Police, Atlanta Journal, April 29th, 1913

  L. M. Frank, Factory Superintendent, Detained By Police Leo M. Frank. Superintendent of the National Pencil company, snapped by a Journal photographer on the way to police headquarters. Mr. Frank is not under arrest, but will be a witness at the coroner's inquest. Atlanta Journal Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Detectives Building Case on Theory that Frank and Negro Can Clear Mystery Chief Lanford Believes That Testimony of the Superintendent and Negro Night Watchman May Lead to the Arrest of the Person Guilty of the Atrocious Crime That Has Shocked the Whole City—No Further Arrests Expected Soon MRS. FRANK IN

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Loyalty Sends Girl to Defend Mullinax

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  Miss Pearl Robinson, sweetheart of Arthur Mullinax, the man questioned by the police in connection with the slaying of Mary Phagan. Her story cleared Mullinax of any suspicion of complicity in the crime which has shocked Atlanta.   Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Page 4, Column 2 and 3 Brave little Pearl Robinson! Her loyalty and devotion to Arthur Mullinax, one of the four men held in connection with the brutal strangling of Mary Phagan, form the only bright feature in a sordid and revolting crime. What did she care for the stares of the groups of people

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Negro Watchman is Accused by Slain Girl’s Stepfather

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 That Mary Phagan never left the factory after she entered it at 12:15 o'clock Saturday, the day of her murder, and that she was killed and her body dragged into the basement by the negro night watchman, Newt Lee, now in jail, is the firm belief of the child's stepfather, W. J. Coleman, and other members of her family. As for Arthur Mullinax, former street car conductor, held on suspicion, Mr. Coleman told a Georgian reporter he thought him innocent of the crime. He was also very doubtful if J. M. Gantt, ex-bookkeeper

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Nude Dancers Pictures Upon Factory Walls

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Suggestive Illustrations Clipped From Magazines Pasted Up About Scene of Tragedy. Pictures of Salome dancers in scanty raiment, and of chorus girls in different postures adorned the walls of the National Pencil Company's plant. They had been clipped from a theatrical and prize-fighting magazine. A more melodramatic stage setting for a rendezvous or for the committing of a murder could hardly have been obtained. The building is cut up with partitions, which allow of a person passing about from one part to another without attracting the attention of others. While the main entrance

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Pastor Prays for Justice at Girls Funeral

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Mother and Aunt of Mary Phagan Swoon at Burial in Marietta This Morning. A thousand persons saw a minister of God raise his hands to heaven to-day and heard him call for divine justice. Before his closed eyes was a little casket, its pure whiteness hid by the banks and banks of beautiful flowers. Within the casket lay the bruised and mutilated body of Mary Phagan, the innocent young victim of one of Atlanta's blackest and most bestial crimes. The spirit of the terrible tragedy filled the air. An aunt of the strangled

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Pinkertons Hired to Assist Police Probe the Murder of Mary Phagan

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John M. Gantt, former bookkeeper of the National Pencil company, and acquaintance of Mary Phagan, who is under arrest, and was put through a gruelling third degree last night at police station. He maintains his innocence.   The Atlanta Constitution, Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 6) For Hours Detectives Labor With John M. Gantt, Former Employee of National Pencil Company and Alleged Admirer of Pretty Mary Phagan. SISTER OF PRISONER ADMITS SHE DECEIVED ATLANTA DETECTIVES Told Them Gantt Had Not Been Home When He Declared He Was in Bed. Now Admits Story Untrue. Gantt Caught in Marietta, With

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Seek Clew in Queer Words in Odd Notes

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Who Would Be the Most Interested in Saying That the Night Watchman Did Not Do It? While the tendency of the police straight through has seemed to be to doubt that Mary Phagan, the murdered girl, really wrote the small notes found beside her body purporting to give a clew to her murderer, the girl's stepfather, W.J. Coleman, thinks it possible that she may have written one of the scrawls. That one is the note written on the little yellow factory slip—so faintly traced it is almost impossible to read it. It is

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Slayers Hand Print Left On Arm Of Girl

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 Page 2, Column 1 Hope for apprehension of the slayer of Mary Phagan has come to the police with the discovery of distinct finger prints, stamped in blood on the sleeve of the dead girl's jacket. The discovery was made by a Georgian reporter in the course of a minute inspection of the girl's clothes yesterday evening. The finger prints are on the right arm of the light silk dress. The imprints of two fingers are just below the shoulder, staining purple the lavender of the child's dress and penetrating to the arm,

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 State Offers $200 Reward; City Will Follow With $1,000 For Mary Phagans Murderer, The Atlanta Journal

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J. M. Gantt, who was arrested at Marietta and brough to Atlanta Monday, charged with the death of Mary Phagan. The Atlanta Journal Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 5, Column 2) Mayor Woodward Calls Special Meeting of Council So That Reward Can Be Formally Offered—Governor Brown Issued Proclamation Tuesday Morning Governor Joseph M. Brown Tuesday morning offered a reward of $200 for the apprehension and conviction of the murderer or murderers of Mary Phagan, and the city of Atlanta is expected to offer a $1,000 reward at a special meeting that has been called by Mayor James G. Woodward for

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Stepfather Thinks Negro is Murderer, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 5, Column 1) Believes That Newt Lee Bound and Gagged, Then Murdered Mary Phagan W. J. Coleman, step-father of Mary Phagan, believes that she was murdered by Newt Lee, the negro night watchman, but that before the murder she lay bound and gagged in the factory of the National Pencil company, 37 South Forsyth street, from shortly after noon on Saturday until past midnight. As people passed back and forth along the street, as members of the girl's family waited anxiously for her return, he thinks that she lay helpless within the

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Three Handwriting Experts Say Negro Wrote the Two Notes Found by Body of Girl, The Atlanta Journal

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At the top is a photograph of writing done by Newt Lee, the negro night watchman after his arrest. At the bottom is a photograph of two lines of a note found beside the body of Mary Phagan in the pencil factory cellar. Three handwriting experts—Frank M. Berry, assistant cashier of the Fourth National bank; Andrew M. Bergstrom, assistant cashier of the Third National bank and Pope O. Driver, chief bookkeeper and head of mail departments, of the American National bank, unhesitatingly declare that the same hand penned them both. Detectives are satisfied that Lee knows all about the killing

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Was Victim of Murder Lured Off on Joy Ride Before She Met Death?

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The Atlanta Constitution Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 3, Column 2) Evidence obtained by Detectives Black and Rosser Monday afternoon has led the detective department to suspect that little Mary Phagan was lured away by her murderer Saturday afternoon by the pleasures of a joy ride during which she was drugged or made drunk with whisky. This new aspect of the case came from R. B. Pyron, telegraph operator at the signal tower on the Central of Georgia railroad at the Whitehall street crossing. Pyron told the detectives Monday afternoon that about 10 o'clock Saturday night he was standing at

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Where Was Mary Phagan on Saturday Afternoon? The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 4, Column 2) Are there any friends or acquaintances of little Mary Phagan who saw her after she is supposed to have left the offices of the National Pencil company Saturday afternoon, where she went for the little pay that was due her? Is there any one who knows the girl, who can say she was seen in the city of Atlanta or elsewhere following her departure from home shortly before noon on that day? According to Superintendent Leo Frank, the child called for her envelope shortly after 12 o'clock on the

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Who Saw Pretty Mary Phagan After 12 OClock on Saturday?

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The Atlanta Constitution Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 A remarkable fact in connection with the murder of Mary Phagan is that no one has thus far come forward stating they saw her after she drew her pay at the National Pencil factory shortly after 12 o'clock. Several persons have stated that they "believed" they saw her or that they "saw a girl answering her description," but positive statements are lacking. The Atlanta detective department is particularly anxious to trace every movement of the girl from the time she left the factory, and is particularly desirous of obtaining the names of all

Tuesday, 29th April 1913 Witnesses Positive Murdered Girl Was Same Who Created Scene at the Terminal Station on Friday, The Atlanta Journal

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Atlanta Journal Tuesday, April 29th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 2) Gatemen, T. R. Malone and H. P. Sibley, After Viewing Corpse, Declare Mary Phagan, Sobbing Loudly and Displaying Vehement Feelings, Prevented Strange Man From Boarding Train for Washington—Neither of Men Detained by Police Is Mysterious Stranger H. P. SIBLEY, gateman and T. R. Malone, special officer at the Atlanta Terminal station, have identified the dead body of little Mary Phagan as the same girl whom they saw dramatically prevent a man from leaving on train No. 38 for Washington, D. C., Friday morning at 11:01 o'clock. Both men declare a

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Boy Sweetheart Says Girl Was to Meet Him Saturday

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Atlanta Georgian Wednesday April 30th, 1913 G. W. Epps, Jr., 14 years old, of 248 Fox Street, who lives just around the corner from Mary Phagan, and who was her boy sweetheart, testified before the Coroner's Jury this afternoon that Mary Phagan had asked him to come down by the factory and go home with her a few days ago. She told him, he said, that Mr. Frank had been in the habit of going down to the front door and waiting there until she came out and looked suspicious at her and winked. He was asked: Q. When did

You Are There: Boy Sweetheart Says Girl Was to Meet Him Saturday, Atlanta Georgian, April 30th, 1913

Boy Sweetheart Says Girl Was to Meet Him Saturday Atlanta GeorgianWednesday April 30th, 1913 G. W. Epps, Jr., 14 years old, of 248 Fox Street, who lives just around the corner from Mary Phagan, and who was her boy sweetheart, testified before the Coroner's Jury this afternoon that Mary Phagan had asked him to come down by the factory and go home with her a few days ago. She told him, he said, that Mr. Frank had been in the habit of going down to the front door and waiting there until she came out and looked suspicious at her

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Business Men Protest Sensational “Extras”, The Atlanta Journal

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Atlanta Journal Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 3) Following an interview between Mayor Woodward and Chief of Police Beavers and Chief of Detectives Lanford, in which the mayor protested that extras on the Phagan murder case which were based on information alleged to have been given out by the officers and the detectives and which were liable to unduly inflame the public, a petition has been circulated among local business men asking the newspapers not to issue so many sensational extras. The petition states that extras such as have been issued are hurting business and will hurt it

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 City Offers $1,000 as Phagan Case Reward

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 At Special Council Meeting Called by Mayor Only One Man Opposes Action. At a special session of city council to-day, called by Mayor Woodward, to give the city's financial aid to the apprehension of the guilty persons in the Mary Phagan strangling case, $1,000 was appropriated as a reward to the person furnishing information leading to the arrest of the man or men who committed the deed. The appropriation found one opponent in Councilman Thomson, who said the lure of a high award would be likely to result in the arrest and hanging

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 City to Offer $1,000 for Slayers Arrest

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  Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Mayor Woodward Declares the Stain of Blood Must Be Wiped Out. Atlanta, April 29, 1913 To the General Council, City of Atlanta: The general council of the city of Atlanta is hereby called to convene in special session tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock, April 30, 1913, to take cognizance, in an official way, of that most brutal crime that was committed in this city on last Saturday night. I think it proper that the city government should take some befitting action as regards this most deplorable matter, which, as it is, is liable

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Clock Misses Add Mystery to Phagan Case

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Records Purport to Show Watchman Failed to Register Three Times Saturday Night. What does the National Pencil Factory time clock show? It was the duty of Newt Lee, the negro night watchman, to punch it every half-hour. Records brought to the police station purport to show that Lee three times failed to punch the clock. But Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the factory, told a Georgian reporter Sunday afternoon that Lee had punched the clock regularly and that the clock record was all right. Misses Were Not Consecutive. Accepting the evidence of the

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Confirms Lee’s Story of Shirt

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Negro Woman Says Man Accused of Phagan Crime Was Not Home Saturday Night. If Newt Lee, the watchman, went home on Saturday night and discarded a bloody, stained shirt, Lorena Townes, the negro woman with whom he boarded, knows it. Lorena says Lee was not home on Saturday night. Detectives found the blood-stained shirt in an old barrel in Lee's room, and around this point has been built the theory that after committing the crime the man went home, changed his shirt, returned to the factory and then telephoned the police. Supporting this

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Did Murderers Plan Cremation?

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  Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Detectives Believe That They Intended to Burn Body of Little Mary Phagan in the Furnace of Factory. Did the murderers of Mary Phagan lower her body into the darkness of the pencil factory basement with the intention of cremating the corpse in the furnace of that plant? Such is the belief of detectives. The dead girl was discovered only a few feet from the furnace. Her body had been dragged first to the fire box, circled around its base, then abandoned in the desolate recess in which it was found. Investigation revealed that

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Factory Clock Not Punched for Hours on Night of Murder

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  Scenes at the funeral services of victim of Sunday's brutal crime. In one picture is shown casket being borne from church; in another, her brother, Ben Phagan, who is in the navy; and in the bottom one, the beautiful floral offerings covering the newly-made grave.   Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Newt Lee, Negro Watchman, Had a Record for Punctuality in Registering Time Until Night of the Killing—Bloody Shirt Found in His Home by Detectives, but Negro Asserts That He Had Not Seen It for Two Years—Blood Was Fresh, Assert Officers. MORE ARRESTS WILL BE MADE TODAY, SAY

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Gantt Turned Over to Sheriff of Fulton

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  Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 After a hearing before Judge George L. Bell of the superior court in which his attorney George T. gave a scathing denouncement of the police and detective department for what he termed the grilling system. J. M. Gantt, held on a warrant charging the murder of Mary Phagan was taken from the police and turned over to the sheriff to be held in the Tower. Judge Gober stated that he would arrange for a hearing early today before Justice F. M. Powers before whom the original warrant was sworn out. The coroner's inquest

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Girl’s Death Laid to Factory Evils

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Working Conditions Here Wrong, Proved by Phagan Crime, Says McKelway. Dr. A. J. McKelway, president pro tem of the Southern Sociological Congress, declared to-day that if factory conditions in Atlanta were what they should be 14-year-old Mary Phagan never would have been slain. "If social conditions, if factory conditions in Atlanta were what they should be here, if children of tender years were not forced to work in shops this frightful tragedy could not have been enacted," he asserted. Dr. McKelway's remarks came in the course of a conversation in which he discussed

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Great Crowd at Phagan Inquest

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  A new photograph of Mary Phagan   NEW ARRESTS LIKELY; LEO FRANK STILL HELD; CASE AGAINST NEGRO Atlanta Georgian Wednesday April 30th, 1913 Inquest Into Slaying of Factory Girl Begins, and Flood of New Light Is Expected To Be Thrown on the Tragedy—Lee Maintains His Story. The Phagan inquest began to-day at police headquarters. It seemed likely when this edition of The Georgian went to press that a flood of light would be thrown on the murder mystery before the day was over. Notwithstanding what the police said yesterday—that the mystery had been solved—it does not appear at this

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Handwriting of Notes is Identified as Newt Lees

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday April 30th, 1913 F. M. Berry, one of the most important witnesses of the afternoon, identified the handwriting on the notes found near Mary Phagan's body as practically the same as that of Newt Lee, who wrote a test note for the detectives. Mr. Berry said that he had been connected with the Fourth National Bank for 22 years and is at present assistant cashier. During these 22 years he said that he had studied handwriting continually. He was given both notes found by the body of the girl and was asked if they were written

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Hearing for Gantt at 3 P.M. Wednesday, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 (Page 7, Column 1) Judge Gober Says His Client Will Be Taken Before Justice of the Peace Powers J. M. Gantt, held on a warrant charging the murder of Mary Phagan, will given a hearing before Justice F. M. Powers at 3 o'clock Wednesday afternoon. Gantt was Tuesday afternoon transferred from police barracks to the jail on an order issued by Judge Bell. Justice Powers, who issued the warrant for Gantt's arrest, had not been notified of the hearing at 8:30 o'clock Wednesday morning, but it was stated at the office of Judge

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Inquest This Morning.

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  Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Coroner Donehoo last night set the time for the inquest at this morning at 8:45 o'clock. It will be held in Bloomfield's undertaking establishment on South Pryor street. A thorough investigation will be made into the mystery. It will then be determined if the evidence at hand is sufficient to commit Frank and the negro watchman to higher courts. * * * Atlanta Constitution, April 30th 1913, "Inquest This Morning," Leo Frank case newspaper article series  

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Leo Frank’s Friends Denounce Detention

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Leo M. Frank, Superintendent of the National Pencil Company's factory, still held by the police. Frank's lawyer says he has given to the police every detail of his whereabouts to account for his time on Saturday and Sunday. Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the National Pencil Company and one of the central figures in the sensational murder mystery surrounding the death of little Mary Phagan, is well regarded by a host of friends in Atlanta, who scoff at the idea that he can in any way be implicated in the horrible tragedy. His friends

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Leo M. Frank Holds Conference With Lee

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  Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 After Talking With Him an Hour, Factory President Fails to Secure a Confession. Sitting alone in the detectives' office at headquarters, Frank, the factory president, and Lee, the negro night watchman, both suspects held in connection with the Phagan murder, conferred for an hour shortly before midnight. The conference was made at the request of detectives. It was believed Frank would be able to wring a confession from the negro. At midnight, he emerged from the room. "I can't get a thing out of him. He tells the same story over and over."

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Looks Like Frank is Trying to Put Crime on Me, Says Lee

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    Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 A formal statement from Newt Lee, the negro night watchman arrested after he had telephoned the police of the finding of Mary Phagan's mutilated body, was given to the public for the first time to-day. In it he made a sweeping denial of complicity in or knowledge of the crime and said: "It looks like Mr. Frank was trying to put the crime one me." Staggering from the weariness of two days of the "third degree," and bleary-eyed from the persistent attentions of detectives who went to his cell in relays to

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Machinist Tells of Hair Found in Factory Lathe

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday April 30th, 1913 R. P. Barrett, 180 Griffin Street, a machinist at the National Pencil Company, was one of the witnesses of the late afternoon. He was asked: Q. How long have you worked at the National Pencil Company?—A. Seven weeks the last time. I worked there about two years ago. Q. Did you know Mary Phagan?—A. Yes. Q. What did she do?—A. She ran a "tipping" machine. Q. When did you last see her?—A. A week ago Tuesday. Q. Did she work last week?—A. No. Q. You say you worked in the same department with

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Mary Phagan at Home Last Friday, Says Mother, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 (Page 7, Column 1) Mrs. W. J. Coleman, mother of Mary Phagan, says that the girl was at home during Friday and Friday night, and could not possibly have been the one seen at the Terminal station Friday morning by H. P. Sibley, gateman, and T. R. Malone, special officer. Just as a young man with a ticket for Washington reached one of the gates to the tracks at the Terminal station, he was stopped Friday morning by a pretty girl, who pleaded with him not to leave her. The girl finally reached

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Mayor Confers with Chief; Says Extras are Misleading

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The Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 "I don't want a disturbance on the street of Atlanta. The town has been stirred over the Phagan tragedy, and I fear that sensational and misleading extras may cause mischief. I have requested Chief Beavers to use great caution in giving out news." Mayor James G. Woodward made the above explanation of his visit to Chief James L. Beavers, at police headquarters, shortly after 8:30 o'clock last night. The mayor said that he made a tour of the city and found the people in all sections in a highly nervous state. He charged

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Mother Prays That Son May Be Released

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Gantt's Mother, for Whom Mary Phagan Was Named, Weeps for Son. In an easy chair in front of an open fireplace in a little Cobb County farm house, sat an aged mother, with lines of suffering marking her face and her white head bowed in sorrow, praying that her son may be found innocent of the terrible crime for which he is held by the Atlanta police. For two days she sat in the same chair, staring constantly with dry eyes into the embers of the dying fire, seeing in the clouds of

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Murder Analyzed By Dr. MKelway

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  Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 "If Children of Such Tender Years Were Not Forced to Work, Mary Phagan Might Be Living," He Says "If social conditions in Atlanta were of the best—if conditions in factories were of the best and lastly if children of such tender years were not forced to work little Mary Phagan would probably never have been murdered," declared Dr. A. J. McKelway, president pro tem of the Southern Sociological congress speaking at the final meeting held in Wesley Memorial church last night. "Let us take this murder and analyze it. A little child of

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Negro Watchman Tells Story of Finding Girl’s Body and Questions Fail to Shake Him, The Atlanta Journal

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A sketch of pretty Mary Phagan from her latest photograph by Brewerton. The Atlanta Journal Wednesday April 30th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 4) Newt Lee, Negro Who Notified Police of Mary Phagan Murder, Tells Coroner Girl's Body Was Lying Face Up With Head Toward West When He Found It — But Officers Declare They Found It Lying Face Down, Head Toward East, Knew She Was White, Said He, by Her Hair SAYS MR. FRANK DID UNUSUAL THINGS, BUT DOES NOT DIRECTLY IMPLICATE ANYONE Mr. Frank Met Him Outside Office Saturday Afternoon and Let Him Off for Two Hours, After Having

You Are There: Negro Watchman Tells Story of Finding Girl’s Body and Questions Fail to Shake Him, Atlanta Journal, April 30th, 1913

Negro Watchman Tells Story of Finding Girl's Body and Questions Fail to Shake Him A sketch of pretty Mary Phagan from her latest photograph by Brewerton. Atlanta JournalWednesday April 30th, 1913 Newt Lee, Negro Who Notified Police of Mary Phagan Murder, Tells Coroner Girl's Body Was Lying Face Up With Head Toward West When He Found It — But Officers Declare They Found It Lying Face Down, Head Toward East, Knew She Was White, Said He, by Her Hair SAYS MR. FRANK DID UNUSUAL THINGS, BUT DOES NOT DIRECTLY IMPLICATE ANYONE Mr. Frank Met Him Outside Office Saturday Afternoon and

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Negro Watchman Wrote Note Found Beside Dead Girl, Experts Declare, After Seeing Franks Handwriting, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 3) The Journal's Three Handwriting Experts Still Firm in Their Conviction That Newt Lee Wrote Mysterious Notes When Shown Copies Written by Both Frank and Lee in Comparison With Original Note Found Having compared exact reproductions of the notes found near the body of Mary Phagan with specimens of the handwriting of Newt Lee, the night watchman, and of Leo M. Frank, the superintendent of the National Pencil company, three handwriting experts Tuesday morning stuck to their first opinion that the negro's handwriting and that of the notes found near

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Net Closing About Lee, Says Lanford

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Chief of Detectives Lanford was confident this morning that he and his department had completed a strong case to present to the Grand Jury for indictment. He said that the evidence against the negro night-watchman at the National Pencil Factory had grown stronger since yesterday. He declared, however, that there still appeared the strongest indications that another person, in all probability a white man, was involved in some manner in the crime. Many puzzling questions have arisen, since the closing of the net around Lee began. The detectives have been utterly unable to

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Newt Lee on Stand at Inquest Tells His Side of Phagan Case

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    Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Describes finding of body of slain girl and events at Pencil Factory before and at time of discovery of crime Newt Lee, watchman at the National Pencil Company's factory, who notified the police of the discovery of Mary Phagan's body, told his complete story on the stand at the coroner's inquest to-day. Lee was on the stand for more than an hour and was plied with questions intended to throw light on the tragedy. He replied to questions in a straightforward way, and in detail his story is substantially the same as

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Newt Lees Testimony as He Gave It at the Inquest

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    Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Newt Lee, the negro night watchman, was questioned as follows: Q. What is your name? A. Newt Lee. Q. Where do you live? A.  Rear of 40 Henry Street. Q. What do you do? A. Night watchman at the National Pencil Company. Q. What kind of work do you do? A. Watch and sweep up the first floor. Q. What time do you go to work? At what time? A. Six o'clock. If it is not quite 6 o'clock I go around and see if the windows are down. If it is

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Policeman Says Body Was Dragged From Elevator

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 R. M. Lasseter , the policeman on the morning watch past the pencil factory, was called at 3 o'clock in the afternoon. He was questioned as follows: Q. Were you in the pencil factory Saturday night or Sunday morning?—A. I was there at 4:45 Sunday morning. Q. What did you find?—A. A parasol. Q. Where did you find it?—A. At the bottom of the elevator shaft. I found there also a big ball of red wrapping twine that never had been opened. (Here the witness was shown the cord that had strangled the

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Reward of $1,000 is Appropriated by City, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 (Page 7, Column 1) Money Will Be Paid for Information Leading to Arrest of Girl's Murderer At a special session called at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning, the city council of Atlanta voted for the appropriation of $1,000 as a reward for information leading to the arrest of the party or parties guilty of the brutal murder of little Mary Phagan. In the building of the National Pencil company's factory on Forsyth street, last Saturday afternoon or night. Immediately afterward the aldermanic board met and concurred in the appropriation. The only objection made to

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Reward of $1,000 Urged by Mayor

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Brown Offers $200 for Capture of Slayer—C. C. Jones Also Gives $100. Governor Joseph M. Brown to-day offered a reward of $200 for the apprehension and conviction of the murderer of little Mary Phagan and Mayor James G. Woodward issued a call for a special meeting of Council for tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock, urging a $1,000 reward. Governor Brown's decision was reached on receipt of the following letter from Solicitor Hugh M. Dorsey: "From the best information obtainable, it is my belief that the circumstances surrounding the death of little Miss Mary

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Says He Punched Time Clock on Wrong Number, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 (Page 7, Column 2) Harry Denham's Story Indicates Miss Annie Howell Wasn't in Factory The time clock at the National Pencil company's factory, where Mary Phagan was murdered, shows that employee No. 141 registered off at 3:07 p.m. last Saturday, . This is the number of Miss Annie Howell, of 664 East Fair Street, and at first the detectives thought she might be able to throw some light on the mystery. It developed later, however, that this must have been a mistake. Harry Denham, one of the men employed in the factory, claims

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Sergeant Brown Tells His Story of Finding of Body

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday April 30th, 1913 Sergeant R. J. Brown, the second witness at the inquest, corroborated Anderson's story of the finding of the body. Brown, who was in charge of the morning watch, was one of the four men who answered the call of the negro night watchman, Newt Lee. Brown was interrogated as follows: "How did you get to the factory?" "Call Officer Anderson answered the phone call, and Anderson, Sergeant Dobbs, myself and a man named Rogers—we call him ‘Boots'—went in Mr. Rogers' car to the factory." "Who met you when you got there?" "We got

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Shot Fired Near Lee May Break His Nerve

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  Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Walter Graham Discharges a Derringer in His Cell at the Police Station. Will Newt Lee, the negro night watchman accused of the murder of Mary Phagan, be unnerved today as a result of the firing of a double-barreled derringer in a nearby cell last night. Will his nerves become so shattered at the thought of death that he will confess, admitting the crime, or implicating others? This is what the police will determine today in further third degree work with Lee. Walter Graham, a young white youth of 76 Marietta street, smuggled a

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Sisters New Story Likely to Clear Gantt as Suspect

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  A photographic study of the victim in the strangling mystery showing the sad expression in her eyes. Another picture of the Phagan girl in a studious pose. The child was strikingly pretty and the pictures here shown are from photographs prized by grief-stricken relatives in Marietta. Mary Phagan and her young aunt, Mattie Phagan, who was one of the girl's best friends and is heart-broken over the tragedy.   Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 F. C. Terrell, 284 East Linden Avenue, told a Georgian reporter to-day that his wife had declared to him that she did not tell

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Tells Jury He Saw Girl and Mullinax Together

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday April 30th, 1913 Edgar L. Sentell, the man who identified Mullinax as being the man he saw with Mary Phagan Saturday night was the first witness to take the stand when the coroner's jury convened at 2:30 o'clock. The witness said that he worked at Kamper's grocery store, starting to work there last Thursday. He was questioned as follows: Q. How late did you work Saturday night? A. To about 10:30 o'clock. Q. What is your work? A. I drive a wagon. Q. What time did you get in with your wagon Saturday night? A. About

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Tells of Watchman Lee Explaining the Notes

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday April 30th, 1913 Sergeant L. S. Dobbs was the third witness. He said he answered the call to the pencil company plant Sunday morning. Q.—Did you find an umbrella? A.—No. Lassiter did. Q.—Did you find the notes there? A.—One of them. He then identified the two notes. Q.—Were you at the plant when Lassiter found the umbrella? A.—No; he found them about 7 o'clock. Q.—Where did you find the body? A.—About 150 feet from the elevator shaft. Q.—Did you examine the body? "Yes. When I turned the body over I found the face full of dirt,

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Use of Dictaphone on Frank and Negro is Denied by Police, The Atlanta Journal

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Leo M. Frank The Atlanta Journal Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 (page 7, Column 2) They Decline to Say, However, Whether Conversation Between Superintendent and Watchman Was Overheard WAS MARY PHAGAN SEEN AT 5 P. M.? J. L. Watkins Says He Saw Her Near Her Home—Chemist's Tests Shows No Blood Under Negro's Finger Nails A report that there was a Dictaphone in the room in which Leo M. Frank talked with Newt Lee, the negro night watchman, at police headquarters Tuesday night in a supposed effort to wring a confession from the negro, was denied Wednesday by both Chief of Detectives

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Went Down Scuttle Hole on Ladder to Reach Body

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday April 30th, 1913 Previous to Watchman Newt Lee's testimony, three police officers, who were called to the pencil factory when Mary Phagan's body was found, testified. Their testimony, with the exception of such parts as were unfit to print, follows: W. T. Anderson, police call officer on duty Sunday morning, was first witness. "We went over in an automobile to the pencil factory and the negro took us into the cellar where the body was found," he said. Anderson told of the location of the scuttle hole, from which a ladder led to the basement, and

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 While Hundreds Sob Body of Mary Phagan Lowered into Grave

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  Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 While relatives hysterically wept, while hundreds of friends, with wet eyes and bowed heads, mourned, while little circles of grim visage men talked in hushed voices of all that remained of little 14-year-old Mary Phagan, victim of Saturday night's atrocious crime, was lowered into a grave at the city cemetery at Marietta yesterday morning. "The Lord hath given, the Lord hath taken, blessed be the name of the Lord," said Rev. T. T. G. Linkous, pastor of the Christian church at East Point, as tears streamed down his cheeks. And the grave-diggers grasped

You Are There: While Hundreds Sob Body of Mary Phagan Lowered into Grave, Atlanta Constitution, April 30th, 1913

While Hundreds Sob Body of Mary Phagan Lowered into Grave Atlanta ConstitutionWednesday, April 30th, 1913 While relatives hysterically wept, while hundreds of friends, with wet eyes and bowed heads, mourned, while little circles of grim visage men talked in hushed voices of all that remained of little 14-year-old Mary Phagan, victim of Saturday night's atrocious crime, was lowered into a grave at the city cemetery at Marietta yesterday morning. "The Lord hath given, the Lord hath taken, blessed be the name of the Lord," said Rev. T. T. G. Linkous, pastor of the Christian church at East Point, as tears

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Witness Saw Slain Girl and Man at Factory Door

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday April 30th, 1913 J. G. Spier followed Newt Lee on the stand. He lives at Cartersville, Georgia Q. Were you about the National Pencil Company plant? A. Yes, sir; we walked over to the Terminal station from the Kimball House. I was with a friend. I left the Terminal station at 10 minutes of 4, then walked back there, going back Forsyth Street. I passed the pencil factory about 10 minutes after 4 o'clock. I noticed a young girl and a young man, a Jew of about 25, talking. Q. Were they excited? A. My impression

Wednesday, 30th April 1913 Writing Test Points to Negro

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, April 30th, 1913 Experts Declare Note Written by Lee Resembles That Found Near Slain Girl. Handwriting experts said to-day that they were able to determine a resemblance between the handwriting of Newt Lee, the negro watchman in the National Pencil factory, and that in the mysterious notes found by the body of Mary Phagan in the basement of the factory. They were of the opinion that the negro wrote both notes, as they asserted that many of the peculiarities in the handwriting of Lee were found in the messages that lay in the dirty basement. The

Thursday, 1st May 1913 City Offers $1,000 Reward for Capture of Phagan Slayers

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  Atlanta Constitution Thursday, May 1st, 1913 Atlanta's city council met at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning, adopted a resolution appropriating $1,000 as a reward for information which may lead to the arrest and conviction of the party or parties responsible for the death of Mary Phagan, and immediately afterwards the aldermanic board met and approved the action of council. The resolution went to Mayor Woodward before noon and he immediately attached his signature to it giving it official approval. The money is now available. * * * Atlanta Constitution, May 1st 1913, "City Offers $1,000 Reward for Capture of Phagan

Thursday, 1st May 1913 Detectives Eliminate Evidence in Conflict with Theory that Phagan Girl Never Left Factory, The Atlanta Journal

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The big picture in the center shows the head of the detective department, Chief Newport A. Lanford. To his left is John R. Black, city detective, who was largely instrumental in convicting the Druid Hills murderers. On the extreme left at the top is Detective Pat Campbell, and below him is J. N. Starnes. To the right of the chief is Harry Scott, of the Pinkertons, who are working on the mystery. The top picture at the extreme right is City Detective S. L. (Bass) Rosser, and below is Detective W. F. Bullard. Atlanta Journal Thursday, May 1st, 1913 (Page

You Are There: Detectives Eliminate Evidence in Conflict with Theory that Phagan Girl Never Left Factory, Atlanta Journal, May 1st, 1913

The big picture in the center shows the head of the detective department, Chief Newport A. Lanford. To his left is John R. Black, city detective, who was largely instrumental in convicting the Druid Hills murderers. On the extreme left at the top is Detective Pat Campbell, and below him is J. N. Starnes. To the right of the chief is Harry Scott, of the Pinkertons, who are working on the mystery. The top picture at the extreme right is City Detective S. L. (Bass) Rosser, and below is Detective W. F. Bullard. Detectives Eliminate Evidence in Conflict with Theory

Thursday, 1st May 1913 Did Murderer Seek to Burn Slain Girls Body, and Did the Watchman Interrupt Him? The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Thursday, May 1st, 1913 (Page 7, Column 2) A new theory based upon an assumption of the innocence of the negro night watchman, Newt Lee, is that the murdered body of Mary Phagan was taken to the basement of the National Pencil factory primarily for the purpose of burning it, early Sunday morning, and that the slayer was hid in the basement when Newt Lee discovered the child's body face up with its head toward the back door. This theory will permit explanation of several details which tend now to keep the mystery thick. It assumes that

Thursday, 1st May 1913 Frank Not Apparently Nervous Say Last Men to Leave Factory

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  Miss Ella Maud Eubanks, stenographer for Leo M. Frank   Atlanta Constitution Thursday May 1st, 1913 Following Mechanic Barrett's declaration that there were two men at work Saturday at noon on the top floor of the factory building, Coroner Donehoo ordered detectives to accompany the machinist to the plant and bring the two employees to police headquarters. They were brought immediately into the inquest. Their names were given as Harry Denham and J. Arthur White. Denham was first placed on the stand. His examination began immediately upon arrival. "Did you see the blood on the lathing machine?" "I saw

Thursday, 1st May 1913 Frank Tried to Flirt With Murdered Girl Says Her Boy Chum

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  At the left top is Detective Black, of the city, and at the right Detective Scott, of the Pinkertons. Below is a scene of the inquest. At the bottom is a sketch by Henderson of the negro, Newt Lee, whose straightforward story at the inquest has tended to lift suspicion from him.   Atlanta Constitution Thursday, May 1st 1913 Mary Phagan Was Growing Afraid of Advances Made to Her by Superintendent of the Factory, George W. Epps, 15 Years Old, Tells the Coroner's Jury. BOY HAD ENGAGEMENT TO MEET HER SATURDAY BUT SHE DID NOT COME Newt Lee, Night

You Are There: Frank Tried to Flirt With Murdered Girl Says Her Boy Chum, Atlanta Constitution, May 1st, 1913

Frank Tried to Flirt With Murdered Girl Says Her Boy Chum At the left top is Detective Black, of the city, and at the right Detective Scott, of the Pinkertons. Below is a scene of the inquest. At the bottom is a sketch by Henderson of the negro, Newt Lee, whose straightforward story at the inquest has tended to lift suspicion from him. Atlanta ConstitutionThursday, May 1st 1913 Mary Phagan Was Growing Afraid of Advances Made to Her by Superintendent of the Factory, George W. Epps, 15 Years Old, Tells the Coroner's Jury. BOY HAD ENGAGEMENT TO MEET HER SATURDAY BUT

Thursday, 1st May 1913 Girl Was Dead Ten Hours Before Her Body Was Found

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    Atlanta Constitution Thursday, May 1st, 1913 Mary Phagan had been dead ten hours or more before her body was discovered in the basement darkness of the factory building. This is the opinion of expert embalmists of Bloomfield's undertaking establishment, who made a thorough examination of the corpse immediately after it had been removed to the shop, less than thirty minutes following the discovery. This disclosure may shift the investigation of detectives to new channels. * * * Atlanta Constitution, May 1st 1913, "Girl Was Dead Ten Hours Before Body Was Found," Leo Frank case newspaper article series  

Thursday, 1st May 1913 Has a New Explanation

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  Atlanta Constitution Thursday, May 1st, 1913 A letter to the editor of the Atlanta Constitution Editor Constitution: I notice with interest the reward your most worthy paper, is offering for the brutal murderer of Mary Phagan. To say words of praise for you would only be adding to what many others have said, and it would only be another testimonial of your love for your city and state, which you have always shown, and which you show now in trying to avenge the death of this pure girl. I truly hope the murderer will be caught and convicted, and

Thursday, 1st May 1913 Newt Lee Tells His Story During Morning Session

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  J. A. White Harry Denham. The two mechanics who were the last workmen to leave the National Pencil company on Saturday afternoon. Leo M. Frank was in the building when they went out. Photo by Francis B. Price, Staff Photographer.   Atlanta Constitution Thursday May 1st, 1913 Was the man who first assaulted and then brutally killed Mary Phagan last Saturday night hiding in the basement of the National Pencil company when the watchman, Newt Lee, came down and discovered the girl's mutilated body early Sunday morning? This is the question that rose to everyone's mind, following the testimony

Thursday, 1st May 1913 Pretty Young Sweetheart Comes To the Aid of Arthur Mullinax

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    Atlanta Constitution Thursday May 1st, 1913 Pearl Robison, the pretty 16-year-old sweetheart of Arthur Mullinax, came nobly to his defense with testimony that corroborated that suspect's alibi. She was placed on the stand late in the afternoon. "Do you know Arthur Mullinax?" "I am well acquainted with him." "Do you go with him?" "Yes!" "Were you with him Saturday?" "Yes! At supper and to the theater." "What time did you get home?" "About 10:30 o'clock." "Was he with you at that time?" "He was." "Did he go in when you returned home?" "No. He left for his home."

Thursday, 1st May 1913 State Enters Phagan Case; Frank and Lee are Taken to Tower

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    Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 1st, 1913 Watchman and Frank Go on Witness Stand This Afternoon—Dorsey, Dissatisfied, May Call Special Session of Grand Jury To-morrow. Coroner Donohuoo late to-day issued a commitment against Leo M. Frank, superintendent at the National Pencil Company, and Newt Lee, night watchman, charging them with being suspected in connection with the death of Mary Phagan and remanding them to the custody of the sheriff. They were later taken to the Tower. Arthur Mullinaux , held since Sunday, was released. Frank's commitment read as follows: To Jailor: You are hereby required to take into custody

You Are There: State Enters Phagan Case; Frank and Lee are Taken to Tower, Atlanta Georgian, May 1st, 1913

State Enters Phagan Case; Frank and Lee are Taken to Tower Atlanta GeorgianThursday, May 1st, 1913 Watchman and Frank Go on Witness Stand This Afternoon—Dorsey, Dissatisfied, May Call Special Session of Grand Jury To-morrow. Coroner Donohuoo late to-day issued a commitment against Leo M. Frank, superintendent at the National Pencil Company, and Newt Lee, night watchman, charging them with being suspected in connection with the death of Mary Phagan and remanding them to the custody of the sheriff. They were later taken to the Tower. Arthur Mullinaux , held since Sunday, was released. Frank's commitment read as follows: To Jailor:

Thursday, 1st May 1913 Terminal Official Certain He Saw Girl

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  Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 1st, 1913 O. H. Clark, in charge of the check room at the Terminal Station, is convinced that the girl who created a scene there last week, when the man she was with attempted to board a train, was Mary Phagan. Clark came out to-day with a story that substantiates, in part at least, the story told by the two station guards who watched the couple's peculiar actions. Clark asserts that the incident occurred on Saturday rather than Friday, and the man, when he finally abandoned his trip at the girl's expostulations, went to the

Friday, 2nd May 1913 Dorsey Puts Own Sleuths Onto Phagan Slaying Case

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    Atlanta Georgian Friday, May 2nd, 1913 200 Witnesses To Be Called When Inquest Into Slaying of Factory Girl Is Resumed Next Monday—Detectives Are Busy. Coroner Declares Inquiry Will Not Be Made Hastily—Every Clew To Be Probed Thoroughly. Lee and Frank Are in Tower. Grand Jury Meets, but Considers Only Routine Matters—Was No Truth in Report That Militia Had Been Ordered to Mobilize. Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey this afternoon engaged private detectives to run down clews which have not as yet been fully developed by the men already working on the Phagan case. The detectives are to investigate

You Are There: Dorsey Puts Own Sleuths Onto Phagan Slaying Case, Atlanta Georgian, May 2nd, 1913

Dorsey Puts Own Sleuths Onto Phagan Slaying Case Atlanta GeorgianFriday, May 2nd, 1913 200 Witnesses To Be Called When Inquest Into Slaying of Factory Girl Is Resumed Next Monday—Detectives Are Busy. Coroner Declares Inquiry Will Not Be Made Hastily—Every Clew To Be Probed Thoroughly. Lee and Frank Are in Tower. Grand Jury Meets, but Considers Only Routine Matters—Was No Truth in Report That Militia Had Been Ordered to Mobilize. Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey this afternoon engaged private detectives to run down clews which have not as yet been fully developed by the men already working on the Phagan case.

Friday, 2nd May 1913 Frank and Lee Held in Tower; Others Released

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  This snapshot was taken just as the factory superintendent got out of auto in which he was transferred Thursday afternoon from the police station to the county jail.   Atlanta Constitution Friday, May 2nd, 1913 Grand Jury May Take Up Phagan Investigation Following Conference Between Dorsey, Beavers and Lanford. MULLINAX AND GANTT ARE GIVEN FREEDOM Coroner's Jury Will Resume Hearing on Monday, Following the Subpoenaing of 200 Witnesses. Thomas B. Felder, member of the firm of Felder, Anderson, Dillon & Whitman, has been engaged to assist the solicitor general in the prosecution of the murderer of Mary Phagan. He

You Are There: Frank and Lee Held in Tower; Others Released, Atlanta Constitution, May 2nd, 1913

  Frank and Lee Held in Tower; Others Released This snapshot was taken just as the factory superintendent got out of auto in which he was transferred Thursday afternoon from the police station to the county jail. Atlanta Constitution Friday, May 2nd, 1913 Grand Jury May Take Up Phagan Investigation Following Conference Between Dorsey, Beavers and Lanford. MULLINAX AND GANTT ARE GIVEN FREEDOM Coroner's Jury Will Resume Hearing on Monday, Following the Subpoenaing of 200 Witnesses. Thomas B. Felder, member of the firm of Felder, Anderson, Dillon & Whitman, has been engaged to assist the solicitor general in the prosecution

Friday, 2nd May 1913 Police Still Puzzled by Mystery of Phagan Case

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    Atlanta Georgian Friday, May 2nd, 1913 200 Witnesses To Be Called When Inquest Into Slaying of Factory Girl Is Resumed Next Monday—Felder to Aid State. The exact facts in the Phagan case as this edition of The Georgian goes to press can be stated as follows: First. The Coroner's inquest is not yet ended. It has been adjourned until Monday afternoon next; and until it is ended the State is not likely to take hold of the case except in so far as Solicitor General Dorsey may deem it necessary to acquaint himself with facts that may aid

Friday, 2nd May 1913 Solicitor Dorsey is Making Independent Probe of Phagan Case, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Friday, May 2nd, 1913 (Page 1, Column 5) Outside of Solicitor's Activity There Have Been No Developments Since the Suspects Were Transferred to Tower GROUNDLESS RUMORS DENIED BY OFFICIALS Chief Lanford's Busy Running Down Tips—Coroner's Inquest Will Be Resumed on Monday Afternoon at 2 The Atlanta Journal has published every fact and development in connection with the mysterious murder of Mary Phagan. The Journal will continue to print news of further developments and additional evidence as the investigation proceeds. No fact has been suppressed nor will any news relating to the hunt for solution of the crime

You Are There: Solicitor Dorsey is Making Independent Probe of Phagan Case, Atlanta Journal, May 2nd, 1913

Solicitor Dorsey is Making Independent Probe of Phagan Case Atlanta JournalFriday, May 2nd, 1913 Outside of Solicitor's Activity There Have Been No Developments Since the Suspects Were Transferred to Tower GROUNDLESS RUMORS DENIED BY OFFICIALS Chief Lanford's Busy Running Down Tips—Coroner's Inquest Will Be Resumed on Monday Afternoon at 2 The Atlanta Journal has published every fact and development in connection with the mysterious murder of Mary Phagan. The Journal will continue to print news of further developments and additional evidence as the investigation proceeds. No fact has been suppressed nor will any news relating to the hunt for solution

Saturday, 3rd May 1913 Analysis of Blood Stains May Solve Phagan Mystery

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    Atlanta Georgian Saturday, May 3rd, 1913 Three Former Employees at Pencil Factory Are Summoned to Testify. Expected That Frank and Watchman Will Be Questioned Further. It was reported to-day that three young women, former employees of the National Pencil Factory, will be important witnesses for the Coroner's jury in the Phagan case on Monday. Dr. Claude Smith, city bacteriologist, was asked by the police to-day to make a chemical analysis of the bloodstains on the shirt found in the back yard of the home of Lee. The garment was given to Dr. Smith by Detective Rosser. The detectives

You Are There: Analysis of Blood Stains May Solve Phagan Mystery, Atlanta Georgian, May 3rd, 1913

Analysis of Blood Stains May Solve Phagan Mystery Atlanta GeorgianSaturday, May 3rd, 1913 Three Former Employees at Pencil Factory Are Summoned to Testify. Expected That Frank and Watchman Will Be Questioned Further. It was reported to-day that three young women, former employees of the National Pencil Factory, will be important witnesses for the Coroner's jury in the Phagan case on Monday. Dr. Claude Smith, city bacteriologist, was asked by the police to-day to make a chemical analysis of the bloodstains on the shirt found in the back yard of the home of Lee. The garment was given to Dr. Smith

Saturday, 3rd May 1913 Detectives Confer With Coroner and Solicitor Dorsey, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Saturday, May 3rd, 1913 (Page 1, Column 5) Following Meeting Lasting Two Hours, Officials Investigating Murder Mystery Visited Scene of Tragedy NO CHANGE IN PLANS FOR INQUEST MONDAY Progress Has Been Made In Developing Evidence, It Is Said, but its Nature Has Not Been Divulged The three central figures in the investigation of the Phagan murder case—the solicitor general, the coroner and the chief of detectives—held a conference Saturday morning, which lasted for more than two hours. The officials discussed the evidence in the case and the many theories which have been advanced, but refused to divulge

You Are There: Detectives Confer With Coroner and Solicitor Dorsey, Atlanta Journal, May 3rd, 1913

Detectives Confer With Coroner and Solicitor Dorsey Atlanta JournalSaturday, May 3rd, 1913 Following Meeting Lasting Two Hours, Officials Investigating Murder Mystery Visited Scene of Tragedy NO CHANGE IN PLANS FOR INQUEST MONDAY Progress Has Been Made In Developing Evidence, It Is Said, but its Nature Has Not Been Divulged The three central figures in the investigation of the Phagan murder case—the solicitor general, the coroner and the chief of detectives—held a conference Saturday morning, which lasted for more than two hours. The officials discussed the evidence in the case and the many theories which have been advanced, but refused to

You Are There: Leo M. Frank and the Night Watchman, Newt Lee, Reiterate Declarations of Innocence in Phagan Crime., Atlanta Constitution, May 3rd, 1913

  Atlanta Constitution Saturday, May 3rd, 1913 Leo M. Frank and the Night Watchman, Newt Lee, Reiterate Declarations of Innocence in Phagan Crime. Leo M. Frank yesterday morning in his cell in the Tower reiterated his plea of innocence to a reporter for The Constitution. "I swear I'm not guilty," he declared. "I could not conceive of such a hideous murder, much less commit it. I am accused unjustly. The report that I have made a confession is totally and basely false. I have no confession to make." Newt Lee, the suspected night watchman, also repeats his statement that he

Saturday, 3rd May 1913 Not Guilty, Say Both Prisoners

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  Atlanta Constitution Saturday, May 3rd, 1913 Leo M. Frank and the Night Watchman, Newt Lee, Reiterate Declarations of Innocence in Phagan Crime. Leo M. Frank yesterday morning in his cell in the Tower reiterated his plea of innocence to a reporter for The Constitution. "I swear I'm not guilty," he declared. "I could not conceive of such a hideous murder, much less commit it. I am accused unjustly. The report that I have made a confession is totally and basely false. I have no confession to make." Newt Lee, the suspected night watchman, also repeats his statement that he

Sunday, 4th May 1913 Dr. John E. White Writes on the Phagan Case

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  Dr. John E. White   Atlanta Georgian Sunday, May 4th, 1913 Draws a Lesson From the Shocking Occurrence of a Week Ago, and Urges Confidence in the Courage of the Law. By DR. JOHN E. WHITE. Pastor of the Second Baptist Church of Atlanta. The proper study of mankind is man, but the conditions for this study are only occasionally favorable. Dressed up in his everyday clothes, thinking his ordinary thoughts, and his human impulses suppressed to the requirements of conventional life, a man throws very little light on the problem of humanity. The individual exhibits mankind neither at

Sunday, 4th May 1913 Girl in Red Dress May Furnish Clue to Phagan Mystery, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Sunday May 4th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 5) A 17-year-old miss, blonde and who weighs about 140 pounds, and who was in in Marietta last Wednesday afternoon wearing a dark red dress and a leghorn hat, may furnish the vital clue in the mystery of the murder of Mary Phagan. Who is she? Where does she live? Is it true that she was the last friend of Mary Phagan's to see the murdered girl alive on Saturday afternoon, April 26? She alone can answer. It is but a matter of hours until her identity is revealed. If

You Are There: Girl in Red Dress May Furnish Clue to Phagan Mystery, Atlanta Journal, May 4th, 1913

Girl in Red Dress May Furnish Clue to Phagan Mystery A 17-year-old miss, blonde and who weighs about 140 pounds, and who was in in Marietta last Wednesday afternoon wearing a dark red dress and a leghorn hat, may furnish the vital clue in the mystery of the murder of Mary Phagan. Who is she? Where does she live? Is it true that she was the last friend of Mary Phagan's to see the murdered girl alive on Saturday afternoon, April 26? She alone can answer. It is but a matter of hours until her identity is revealed. If she

Sunday, 4th May 1913 Gov. Brown on the Phagan Case

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  Let the Law Take Its Course, He Says ‘Guilty Will Be Punished, Innocent Free' Atlanta Constitution Sunday, May 4th, 1913 I desire to commend, with all the emphasis at my command, the Hearst newspapers' timely suggestion to the people of Atlanta and Georgian that they remember the sanctity and majesty of the law of the land, and the sure operation of justice through the courts, in contemplating a recent horrible and unspeakable murder in our midst. I desire to offer the Hearst newspapers a word of praise in that they—leading newspapers of the South—while being brave enough to print

Sunday, 4th May 1913 Grand Jury to Take Up Phagan Case To-morrow

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    Atlanta Georgian Sunday, May 4th, 1913 The uncertainty that has marked every phase in the case of Mary Phagan probably will be somewhat removed when the new Fulton County Grand Jury for the May term of the Superior Court meets to-morrow. Definite action by that body is anticipated after the Coroner's jury, which also resumes its sessions to-morrow, has reached a decision. The action, it is believed, will be the result of the efforts of a small army of private detectives retained by the authority of Solicitor General Dorsey. The number of the detectives could not be determined,

You Are There: Grand Jury to Take Up Phagan Case To-morrow, Atlanta Georgian, May 4th, 1913

Grand Jury to Take Up Phagan Case To-morrow The uncertainty that has marked every phase in the case of Mary Phagan probably will be somewhat removed when the new Fulton County Grand Jury for the May term of the Superior Court meets to-morrow. Definite action by that body is anticipated after the Coroner's jury, which also resumes its sessions to-morrow, has reached a decision. The action, it is believed, will be the result of the efforts of a small army of private detectives retained by the authority of Solicitor General Dorsey. The number of the detectives could not be determined,

Sunday, 4th May 1913 Impostors Busy in Sleuth Roles in Phagan Case

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  Atlanta Constitution Sunday, May 4th, 1913 Representing Themselves as Pinkertons, Two Men Are Interviewing Leading Witnesses in Mystery. DETECTIVES WORRIED BY PLANTED EVIDENCE Men Working on Case Believe That Some Interests May Be Trying to Fix the Crime on Suspects. What interests are promoting the planting of evidence in the Mary Phagan mystery? This question confronted police headquarters yesterday. Further evidence of mysterious forces underhandedly at work on the baffling case was revealed when it became known that imposters, representing themselves to be Pinkerton detectives had been questioning leading witnesses. This new disclosure, coupled with past discoveries of obviously

Sunday, 4th May 1913 Old Police Reporter Analyzes Mystery Phagan Case Solution Far Off, He Says

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    Atlanta Georgian Sunday, May 4th, 1913 Problem of Slaying in Pencil Factory One That Never May Be Cleared, Declares Crime Expert. BY AN OLD POLICE REPORTER. Perhaps as many of the great murder mysteries of history have been solved through the efforts of police reporters—men assigned by newspapers to "cover" criminal cases—as have been solved by detectives. At any rate the police will always admit that police reporters have had a large part in unraveling the knotty problems. In a case of this sort the police reporter's analysis is particularly good, for he is simply seeking the truth.

Sunday, 4th May 1913 Slayer of Mary Phagan May Still be at Large

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    Atlanta Georgian Sunday, May 4th, 1913 The mystery of the death of pretty Mary Phagan enters upon its second week to-day with the police authorities admitting that they are still without a conclusive solution. So far as the public has been permitted to learn, the detectives are not even certain that they have in custody the person or persons responsible for her death. In the light of present developments, the police believe that no more arrests will be made, but they admit that the entrance of another theory might entirely change the aspect of the case. The detectives

Sunday, 4th May 1913 The Case of Mary Phagan

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    Atlanta Constitution Sunday, May 4th, 1913 At the top is a sketch made by Henderson from the last photograph taken of little Mary Phagan, the 14-year-old girl of tragedy. Below is a photograph of her mother and step-father, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Coleman, and her sister, Miss Ollie Phagan. The other picture was taken at the funeral. Could you walk for hours in the heart of Atlanta without seeing a person you know? What did Atlanta detectives do to keep murderer from "planting" evidence against suspects? Are all the men who have been held as suspects marked

You Are There: The Case of Mary Phagan, Atlanta Constitution, May 4th, 1913

The Case of Mary Phagan At the top is a sketch made by Henderson from the last photograph taken of little Mary Phagan, the 14-year-old girl of tragedy. Below is a photograph of her mother and step-father, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Coleman, and her sister, Miss Ollie Phagan. The other picture was taken at the funeral. Could you walk for hours in the heart of Atlanta without seeing a person you know? What did Atlanta detectives do to keep murderer from "planting" evidence against suspects? Are all the men who have been held as suspects marked men for the

You Are There: Coroner’s Inquest Resumed 2:30 p. m.; Frank Will Testify, Atlanta Journal, May 5th, 1913

Coroner's Inquest Resumed 2:30 p. m.; Frank Will Testify Atlanta JournalMonday, May 5th, 1913 Factory Superintendent Was Expected to Be the Chief Witness, Though 200 Others Had Been Subpoenaed NEW GRAND JURY URGED TO PROMPT INVESTIGATION A Thousand Violations of Law Against Vice Do Not Equal Crime of Mary Phagan's Murder, Says Judge Ellis The jury empanelled a week ago by Coroner Paul Donehoo resumed its probe into the mystery of the murder of little Mary Phagan on Monday afternoon shortly after 2:30 o'clock. Although police headquarters was crowded by nearly 200 witnesses, mostly employees at the National Pencil factory,

Monday, 5th May 1913, Coroner’s Inquest Resumed 2:30 p.m., Leo Frank Will Testify, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Monday, May 5th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 7) Factory Superintendent Was Expected to Be the Chief Witness, Though 200 Others Had Been Subpoenaed NEW GRAND JURY URGED TO PROMPT INVESTIGATION A Thousand Violations of Law Against Vice Do Not Equal Crime of Mary Phagan's Murder, Says Judge Ellis The jury empanelled a week ago by Coroner Paul Donehoo resumed its probe into the mystery of the murder of little Mary Phagan on Monday afternoon shortly after 2:30 o'clock. Although police headquarters was crowded by nearly 200 witnesses, mostly employees at the National Pencil factory, where Mary Phagan

Monday, 5th May 1913 Coroners Jury Likely to Hold Both Prisoners

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Hugh Dorsey, Solicitor General, on left, and Judge W. D. Ellis. The former is hard at work on the Phagan case. The latter has charged the Grand Jury to probe the slaying thoroughly. Atlanta Georgian Monday, May 5th, 1913 In the following story will be found the developments in the Phagan case up to the time the inquest was resumed Monday afternoon: It is said, but without authority, that a great deal of very important evidence has been accumulated, but that it will not be presented at the Coroner's inquest. Instead, it will go directly into the hands of Solicitor

Monday, 5th May 1913 Crowds at Phagan Inquest

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    Grand Jury Instructed to Probe Deeply Atlanta Georgian Monday, May 5th, 1913 Evidence Secured by Detectives May Not Be Presented at Coroner's Inquest—Lee and Frank to Testify. Many Other Witnesses Are Ready. The Phagan inquest began at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon at police headquarters. There was a great throng of witnesses in attendance. A large force of police was on hand to keep the crowd of curiosity seekers in order. Frank and Lee were taken from the Tower to police headquarters in charge of Deputy Sheriff Minor. A small crowd congregated about the jail in anticipation of the transfer

Monday, 5th May 1913 Frank on Witness Stand

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  Atlanta Georgian Monday, May 5th, 1913 Makes Statement Under Oath; Nervous, But Replies Quickly Phagan Inquest, Starting Late Monday Afternoon, Attracts Throng—200 Girls and Women Summoned As Witnesses, at Police Station. The Coroner's inquest into the Phagan mystery did not really begin until 3 o'clock on Monday afternoon, instead of 2 o'clock, the hour set for the hearing. Leo M. Frank and Newt Lee left the jail in charge of Chief of Police Beavers, Detectives Lanford and Starnes and entered the patrol wagon for the trip to police headquarters. A curious crowd waited around the jail doorway to get

You Are There: Frank on Witness Stand, Atlanta Georgian, May 5th, 1913

Frank on Witness Stand Atlanta GeorgianMonday, May 5th, 1913 Makes Statement Under Oath; Nervous, But Replies Quickly Phagan Inquest, Starting Late Monday Afternoon, Attracts Throng—200 Girls and Women Summoned As Witnesses, at Police Station. The Coroner's inquest into the Phagan mystery did not really begin until 3 o'clock on Monday afternoon, instead of 2 o'clock, the hour set for the hearing. Leo M. Frank and Newt Lee left the jail in charge of Chief of Police Beavers, Detectives Lanford and Starnes and entered the patrol wagon for the trip to police headquarters. A curious crowd waited around the jail doorway

Monday, 5th May 1913 Judge Charges Grand Jury to Go Deeply Into Phagan Mystery

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  Atlanta Georgian Monday, May 5th, 1913 Judge Ellis, in his charge to the May Grand Jury, took up the Mary Phagan case. The address is published in full in this issue of The Georgian. What Judge Ellis said specifically about the Phagan case follows: The Mary Phagan case calls for your immediate and vigorous attention. The power of the State is behind you. What appears to be an awful crime has been committed, and the welfare of the community, the good name of Atlanta, public justice and the majesty of the law demand at the hands of this Grand

Monday, 5th May 1913 Judge W. D. Ellis Charges Grand Jury to Probe into Phagan Slaying Mystery

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  Atlanta Georgian Monday, May 5th, 1913 Urges Enforcement of Laws Regulating Locker Clubs and Against Sunday Tippling, Questionable Houses and Carrying Concealed Weapons Judge W. D. Ellis, of the Superior Court, delivered the following address to the new Grand Jury, and touched upon the Phagan case: "Under our system of judicial procedure, we have in the Superior Court of this county six terms each year. Grand juries are drawn and impaneled at each term, but the duties of making investigations into matters of a general nature, such as the inspection of the offices, the books, papers and records of

Monday, 5th May 1913 Phagan Girl’s Body Exhumed

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  Atlanta Georgian Monday, May 5th, 1913 The reason for the delay in beginning the Coroner's inquest was that Coroner Donehoo was in Marietta up to 2:30 o'clock. The body of Mary Phagan was exhumed by direction of the Coroner who went to Marietta for the purpose. An examination of the contents of the stomach will be made for the purpose of determining whether the child had been poisoned before she was attacked on the day of her death. It will probably be several days before this examination can be completed. The examination was done very quietly, and few people

Monday, 5th May 1913 Sleuths Believe They Can Convict Phagan Murderer

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    Atlanta Constitution Monday, May 5th, 1913 Detectives Are of Opinion They Have in Their Possession All Evidence That Is Needed by the Jury. INFORMATION SECURED FROM MYSTERIOUS GIRL Coroner's Jury Will Resume Inquest at 2 O'Clock This Afternoon — Factory Girls Will Be Witnesses. Detectives working on the case of Mary Phagan, the 14-year-old murdered girl whose body was found in the basement of the National Pencil company at daybreak Sunday morning a week ago, believe that today they have in their possession evidence which will lead to the conviction of the girl's murderer, according to the statement

You Are There: Sleuths Believe They Can Convict Phagan Murderer, Atlanta Constitution, May 5th, 1913

Sleuths Believe They Can Convict Phagan Murderer Atlanta ConstitutionMonday, May 5th, 1913 Detectives Are of Opinion They Have in Their Possession All Evidence That Is Needed by the Jury. INFORMATION SECURED FROM MYSTERIOUS GIRL Coroner's Jury Will Resume Inquest at 2 O'Clock This Afternoon — Factory Girls Will Be Witnesses. Detectives working on the case of Mary Phagan, the 14-year-old murdered girl whose body was found in the basement of the National Pencil company at daybreak Sunday morning a week ago, believe that today they have in their possession evidence which will lead to the conviction of the girl's murderer,

Monday, 5th May 1913 Women Inspectors Urged to Protect Factory Girls

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Atlanta Constitution Monday, May 5th, 1913 Dr. Holderby took occasion during his Sunday morning service at Moore Memorial church to refer to the recent horrible Phagan tragedy, which has shocked the entire community, and urged the people not to discuss the matter with their children. He said: "It is unaccountable to me why people should be so hysterical and become so frightened because one demon has perpetrated a crime. "This unspeakable crime is bad enough, and every effort should be made to find the guilty party—and every effort is being made by the detective departments—and this should satisfy the public.

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 Bowen Still Held by Houston Police in the Phagan Case

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    Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 Atlanta Police Do Not Believe He is Implicated in Tragedy—Letters From Women and 50 Photographs of Girls Found in Prisoners Trunk. The Atlanta police and State officials say they place little importance in the arrest of Paul P. Bowen, the former Atlanta youth who is being held by the Houston authorities. In Bowen's trunk was found a mass of clippings telling of the Phagan killing, and at least 50 photographs of girls and young women. Several times while he was being questioned, Bowen is said to have contradicted himself. Bowen stoutly maintains

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 Brother Declares Bowen Left Georgia in August

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 Paul P. Bowen, arrested in Houston, Texas, on suspicion of complicity in the murder of Mary Phagan, could not have been connected with the Atlanta mystery, according to members of his family here. Albert Bowen, a brother, said Paul Bowen has been in the West since last August, when he went to Arkansas to work for the Rock Island Railraod. He has never been back to Georgia since, he declared, but has spent the time in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas. On April 21, Albert Bowen declared, he received a letter from Paul written

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 Frank’s Testimony Fails to Lift Veil of Mystery

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    Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 Factory Superintendent's Statements on the Witness Stand Considered Distinctly Favorable to Him. Leo M. Frank's testimony before the Coroner's inquest threw no new light upon the Phagan case. Indeed, if it did anything it strengthend the belief in the minds of many persons that the mystery is far from solved. Frank's testimony was distinctly favorable to him. He was on the witness stand for several hours. He answered every question in a straight-forward manner. He was not more nervous than any other man in the room. He never halted for a word

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 How Frank Spent Day of Tragedy

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 Factory Superintendent Explains Every Hour of the Saturday Phagan Girl Was Slain. Here is told how Frank passed the whole day of the Saturday when Mary Phagan was killed. The following is taken from Frank's testimony: 7 o'clock a. m.—Arose, and dressed at home. 8—Left home for factory. 8:20—Arrived at factory. 8:50 or 9—M. D. Darley and others entered there. 10—Went over to office of Sig Montag, factory manager, on Nelson Street. 11—Went back to the factory office. 12—Stenographer and office boy left him alone in office. 12:10 p. m.—Mary Phagan came for

You Are There: How Frank Spent Day of Tragedy, Atlanta Georgian, May 6th, 1913

How Frank Spent Day of Tragedy Atlanta GeorgianTuesday, May 6th, 1913 Factory Superintendent Explains Every Hour of the Saturday Phagan Girl Was Slain. Here is told how Frank passed the whole day of the Saturday when Mary Phagan was killed. The following is taken from Frank's testimony: 7 o'clock a. m.—Arose, and dressed at home. 8—Left home for factory. 8:20—Arrived at factory. 8:50 or 9—M. D. Darley and others entered there. 10—Went over to office of Sig Montag, factory manager, on Nelson Street. 11—Went back to the factory office. 12—Stenographer and office boy left him alone in office. 12:10 p.

Tuesday, 6th May 1913, Leo Max Frank’s Complete Story of Where He Was and What He Did on Day of Mary Phagan Murder, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 (Page 11, Column 1) For Three Hours and a Half, Mr. Frank Was on the Stand, Answering Questions About His Movements Every Hour and Minute of the Day—He Was Calm and Unruffled When Excused From Stand and Returned to the Tower HE TELLS OF VISIT OF LEMMIE QUINN TO HIS OFFICE TEN MINUTES AFTER MARY PHAGAN RECEIVED WAGES Introduction of Quinn Gives the Factory Superintendent an Important Witness, in Confirmation of His Statements. Only Three Witnesses Examined by Coroner at Session Monday Afternoon For three hours and a half, Leo M. Frank, general

You Are There: L. M. Frank’s Complete Story of Where He Was and What He Did on Day of Mary Phagan Murder, Atlanta Journal, May 6th, 1913

L. M. Frank's Complete Story of Where He Was and What He Did on Day of Mary Phagan Murder Atlanta JournalTuesday, May 6th, 1913 For Three Hours and a Half Mr. Frank Was on the Stand, Answering Questions About His Movements Every Hour and Minute of the Day—He Was Calm and Unruffled When Excused From Stand and Returned to the Tower HE TELLS OF VISIT OF LEMMIE QUINN TO HIS OFFICE TEN MINUTES AFTER MARY PHAGAN RECEIVED WAGES Introduction of Quinn Gives the Factory Superintendent an Important Witness, in Confirmation of His Statements. Only Three Witnesses Examined by Coroner at

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 Newest Clews in Phagan Case Not Yet Public

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 Body of Slain Girl Exhumed and Bloodstains on Factory Floor Analyzed. NEW THEORY ANNOUNCED Solicitor Believes Victim May Have Been Thrown, Still Alive, Down Elevator Shaft. Solicitor General Dorsey, Chief of Detectives Lanford, Chief of Police Beavers, and all men working under them in the Phagan case seem thoroughly satisfied with the progress they are making in the great mystery. They are actively engaged in many unknown directions—as they say, "piling up evidence to strengthen the case." What evidence the officials have other than that which has already been made public they refuse

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 Paul Bowen, Held in Houston, Known Here But Left Atlanta in October, Hasn’t Been Back, The Atlanta Journal

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    Atlanta Journal Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 (page 1, column 5) Negative Alibi Seems Established for Young Man Held in Texas City as Suspected Murderer of Mary Phagan in Atlanta — Police There Say "Strong Evidence," but Nothing Shows Young Man Was Around Here April 26 BROTHER, IN NEWNAN, SAYS PAUL HAS BEEN IN HOUSTON SIX WEEKS; OUT WEST SINCE OCTOBER Two Friends, Young Men in Atlanta, Report Recent Letters From Him—Brother Has Had One—So Has Father—Detectives Say Quinn Changed His Story—Newt Lee Declares Murder Must Have Occurred During the Afternoon A negative alibi established for Paul P. Bowen

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 Phagan Case and the Solicitor Generals Power Under Law—Dorsey Hasnt Encroached on Coroner

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  Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 By A GEORGIA LAWYER. It is absurd to say, as some people have been saying in Atlanta of late, that Solicitor General Dorsey "has taken the Phagan case from the Coroner," or has "butted in" on the Coroner's business in some way. It would be equally sensible to say that the commanding general in a battle had "butted in" on a captain's business, when, as the battle progressed, the general gave directions of one sort and another to the captain as to its conduct. The truth of the matter is, Solicitor General Dorsey

Tuesday, 6th May 1913, Pictures of Fifty Girls Found in Search of Bowens Trunk, The Atlanta Journal

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Atlanta Journal Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 5) BY KENNETH TODD. Formerly reporter on The Atlanta Journal, now the special correspondent in Houston, Texas. (Special Dispatch to The Journal.) Paul P. Bowen, a round-faced youth of twenty years, was arrested in Houston by detectives Monday night in connection with the murder of Mary Phagan in Atlanta several days ago. Information furnished the department by Mrs. A. Blanchett, of Texas City, led to the arrest. Bowen and Mrs. Blanchett occupied adjoining rooms at the St. Jean hotel Sunday night, according to the story she told detectives. She saw young

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 Pistol Toting is Condemned by Judge Ellis in His Charge

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    Atlanta Constitution Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 The instructions given the new Fulton county grand jury by Judge William D. Ellis in his charge at the empanelling of that body Monday morning placed especial stress upon the call of the Mary Phagan case for the "immediate and vigorous attention" of the grand jury. He also urged the jury to investigate the locker and social clubs of Atlanta and to "find true bills against all who conduct clubs which are run for the purpose of selling liquor." In this connection he also urged that the grand jury declare war upon

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 Probe Phagan Case Grand Jury Urged

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  Atlanta Constitution Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 Crime Calls for Your Immediate Attention, Declares Judge Ellis, in His Charge. "The Mary Phagan case calls for your immediate and vigorous attention. The power of the state is behind you. What appears to be an awful crime has been committed, and the welfare of the community, the good name of Atlanta, public justice and the majesty of the law demand at the hands of this grand jury and of all officers of the law the most searching investigation and the prompt bringing to trial of the guilty party." Such was the charge

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 Story of Paul Bowens Arrest as Told by Associated Press, The Atlanta Journal

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Atlanta Journal Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 5) The actions of a man giving his name as Paul P. Bowen, observed by a woman boarder at the hotel where he was stopping, and the story she told the police, caused his arrest here last night. Bowen is held on suspicion, the charge being based on telegrams from the Atlanta, Georgia, police, saying that Bowen may be wanted in connection with the murder of Mary Phagan in Atlanta. From Bowen's trunk the police obtained a woman's vest which they say was blood-stained, copies of Atlanta newspapers and photographs which

Tuesday, 6th May 1913 Third Man Brought into Phagan Mystery by Frank’s Evidence

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    Atlanta Constitution Tuesday, May 6th, 1913 Lemmie Quinn, Foreman of the Department in Which the Little Girl Worked, Was in His Office Just a Few Minutes After She Received Her Pay on the Day of the Murder, He Tells the Coroner's Jury at Inquest on Monday Afternoon. LEO FRANK INNOCENT NEW WITNESS TELLS ATLANTA DETECTIVES Quinn Declares That Officers Accused Him of Being Bribed to Come to the Aid of Superintendent — Frank Is on Stand for Four Hours Answering Coroner's Questions—Body of Mary Phagan Exhumed and Stomach Will Be Examined. The Mary Phagan murder mystery assumed a

Wednesday, 7th May 1913 Bowen Given Liberty, Makes Full Statement, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Wednesday, May 7th, 1913 (Page 18, Column 5) P. P. Bowen, who was arrested here yesterday on suspicion in connection with an Atlanta case and who was released last night, made this statement today: "My father is S. C. Bowen. He lives at Newnan, Georgia I told the detectives that they had made a mistake at the time they arrested me, and knew that they would soon find this to be so, if they investigated my references and letters. Of course, I was scared when they entered my room. I did meet them at the door with

Wednesday, 7th May 1913 Detective Chief Fired for Arresting Bowen as a Phagan Suspect

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Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, May 7th, 1913 Former Atlantan, Who Was Taken Into Custody in Houston, Texas, Early on Monday Night, Released After an Investigation by Chief of Police Department, Who Says He Is Convinced of His Innocence. BOWEN WAS IN CHINERO ON DAY OF THE MURDER HE TELLS DETECTIVES His Father, Cal Bowen, of Newnan, Georgia, Received a Message Last Night From His Son, Declaring That He Had Been Fired — Bowen Is Well Connected in Georgia and His Friends Are Indignant Over His Arrest. Paul P. Bowen, former Atlantan, who was arrested in Houston, Texas, Monday night on suspicion

You Are There: Detective Chief Fired for Arresting Bowen as a Phagan Suspect, Atlanta Constitution, May 7th, 1913

Detective Chief Fired for Arresting Bowen as a Phagan Suspect Atlanta ConstitutionWednesday, May 7th, 1913 Former Atlantan, Who Was Taken Into Custody in Houston, Texas, Early on Monday Night, Released After an Investigation by Chief of Police Department, Who Says He Is Convinced of His Innocence. BOWEN WAS IN CHINERO ON DAY OF THE MURDER HE TELLS DETECTIVES His Father, Cal Bowen, of Newnan, Georgia, Received a Message Last Night From His Son, Declaring That He Had Been Fired — Bowen Is Well Connected in Georgia and His Friends Are Indignant Over His Arrest. Paul P. Bowen, former Atlantan, who

Wednesday, 7th May 1913 Employee of Lunch Stand Near Pencil Factory is Trailed to Alabama

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, May 7th, 1913 Detectives Figure Strangling Was a Typical Mediterranean Crime—Solicitor Dorsey Grills Watchman Lee in Effort to Get New Points. A new and sensational interpretation was given the Phagan mystery Wednesday afternoon when it was revealed that Pinkerton detectives are trailing a Greek now missing who was employed in a restaurant near the National Pencil factory before the crime was committed. The reasons that the city detectives give for the adoption of the new theory are: The slaying of Mary Phagan was not a negro crime, as the only negro who has been suspected in

Wednesday, 7th May 1913 Fourteen Houston Policemen Fired on Bowen’s Account, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Wednesday, May 7th, 1913 (Page 18, Column 5) BY KENNETH TODD. HOUSTON, Tex., May 7.—Although young Paul P. Bowen, arrested in Houston Monday as a suspect in the Mary Phagan case, has been released by the chief of police, the release was ordered against the wishes of the chief of detectives and the latter has been summarily discharged for opposing his superior in spite of the telegram from Chief Beavers, of Atlanta, to Chief Davison, of the local department. Bowen was released twenty-four hours after the message was received. Chief of Detectives Peyton stubbornly refused to let

Wednesday, 7th May 1913 Lee is Quizzed by Dorsey for New Evidence

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, May 7th, 1913 Important Light is Trown on Case Also by Girl Companion of Mary Phagan. With new evidence in hand, Solicitor Dorsey went to the jail at 3 o'clock Wednesday afternoon to question Newt Lee, the night watchman, exhaustively. He plied the negro with questions for forty-five minutes. Before closeting himself with the negro the Solicitor said he had never questioned Lee himself, and he hoped to leave the jail late today with valuable information. Detective Rosser was reported to have found a 14-year-old girl who had important information bearing on the case. This girl

Wednesday, 7th May 1913 Officials Plan to Exhume Body of Victim Today

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  Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, May 7th, 1913 For Second Time in Less Than Week Physicians to Make Examination at the Graveside of Mary Phagan. REFUSE TO TELL WHY ACTION WILL BE TAKEN Search for Finger Prints and New Wounds Is Reported Reason—Inquest Resumed Thursday—Strange Man Sought. Mary Phagan's body will be exhumed today for the second time. Bertillion and medical experts will make examinations for finger prints and wounds which may have been overlooked before. Coroner Donehoo and Dr. H. F. Harris, of the state board of health, will be in charge. Between 9 and 10 o'clock is the scheduled

Wednesday, 7th May 1913 Phagan Girls Body Again Exhumed for Finger-Print Clews

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    Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, May 7th, 1913 Third Time Unfortunate Victim's Remains Have Been Exhumed—Dorsey Says Officials Are Not Looking for Finger Prints, but Other Clews. The body of Mary Phagan was exhumed early Wednesday for the second time in two days. The unofficial explanation is that the exhumation is made for the purpose of making a microscopic and minute examination of every wound on the body for finger prints and other clews as well. Solicitor Dorsey let it be known that the police are not working on the idea that the finger prints would be helpful in solving

Wednesday, 7th May 1913 Solicitor Dorsey Orders Body Exhumed in the Hope of Getting New Evidence

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  Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, May 7th, 1913 Inquest, To Be Resumed Thursday, Will Bring Out Important Facts Not Yet Made Public—Medical Experts To Be Called by Coroner. New mystery was added to the Mary Phagan case on Wednesday, when the authorities for some reason not yet disclosed, did not follow out the order given by Solicitor Dorsey for the exhumation of the remains. It was said by Solicitor Dorsey that he had given this order in the hope that new clews might be discovered. A difference of opinion as to the advisability of the exhumation evidently has arisen, but the

You Are There: Solicitor Dorsey Orders Body Exhumed in the Hope of Getting New Evidence, Atlanta Georgian, May 7th, 1913

Solicitor Dorsey Orders Body Exhumed in the Hope of Getting New Evidence Atlanta GeorgianWednesday, May 7th, 1913 Inquest, To Be Resumed Thursday, Will Bring Out Important Facts Not Yet Made Public—Medical Experts To Be Called by Coroner. New mystery was added to the Mary Phagan case on Wednesday, when the authorities for some reason not yet disclosed, did not follow out the order given by Solicitor Dorsey for the exhumation of the remains. It was said by Solicitor Dorsey that he had given this order in the hope that new clews might be discovered. A difference of opinion as to

Wednesday, 7th May, 1913, Two New Witnesses in Phagan Mystery to Testify Thursday, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Wednesday, May 7th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 5) Detectives Said to Attach Much Importance to Testimony That Two Girls Will Give When Inquest Resumes INQUEST WILL BE ENDED THURSDAY, SAYS DONEHOO Paul P. Bowen Has Been Released by Houston Officials—Chief Detective and 14 Policemen Are Discharged Two new witnesses, whom the detectives have recently located, are expected to give testimony of importance at the final session of the Phagan inquest Thursday. One of the witnesses is Miss Grace Hix, of 100 McDonough road, daughter of James E. Hix. Miss Hix worked at the same machine with Mary

You Are There: Two New Witnesses in Phagan Mystery to Testify Thursday, Atlanta Journal, May 7th, 1913

Two New Witnesses in Phagan Mystery to Testify Thursday Atlanta JournalWednesday, May 7th, 1913 Detectives Said to Attach Much Importance to Testimony That Two Girls Will Give When Inquest Resumes INQUEST WILL BE ENDED THURSDAY, SAYS DONEHOO Paul P. Bowen Has Been Released by Houston Officials—Chief Detective and 14 Policemen Are Discharged Two new witnesses, whom the detectives have recently located, are expected to give testimony of importance at the final session of the Phagan inquest Thursday. One of the witnesses is Miss Grace Hix, of 100 McDonough road, daughter of James E. Hix. Miss Hix worked at the same

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Another Clew in Phagan Case is Worthless

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  Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Pinkertons Find No Foundation for Report of Lunch Room Helper's Disappearance. Harry Scott, of the Pinkertons, said Thursday that the information obtained by his agency to the effect that a Greek helper in a restaurant had disappeared following the killing of Mary Phagan had proved baseless so far as he was able to determine. "It was a blind clew," he said. "We were unable to find that any one was missing from the restaurant. Neither were we able to locate the supposedly missing person in Anniston, Ala., where our information said he was."

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Black Testifies Quinn Denied Visiting Factory

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    Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 John Black, city detective, followed Scott. Q. Tell about the shirt.—A. Sergeant Bullard and I went out to the rear of 40 Henry Street and searched Newt Lee's room. Q. What did you find?—A. Lots of things. Q. Tell about finding the shirt?—A. We found it in the bottom of an old barrel. Q. Was the shirt on the top or in the bottom of the barrel?—A. In the bottom. Q. When was this?—A. On Wednesday after the murder. Q. Did you see the shirt Lee wore Sunday morning?—A. Yes. Q. What

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Boots Rogers Tells How Body Was Found

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"Boots" Rogers, former county policeman who drove the police to the Pencil Factory when the first news of the Phagan slaying reached headquarters. Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 W. W. Rogers was the first witness. He lives at 104 McDonough Road, and operates an automobile for himself. He said he took a party of officers to the National Pencil plant at five minutes past 3 o'clock Sunday morning, April 27. He corroborated statements of officers regarding the finding of Mary Phagan's body and the notes beside it, and of the body being face downward. Q. Who telephoned Frank of

You Are There: “Boots” Rogers Tells How Body Was Found, Atlanta Georgian, May 8th, 1913

"Boots" Rogers, former county policeman who drove the police to the Pencil Factory when the first news of the Phagan slaying reached headquarters. "Boots" Rogers Tells How Body Was Found Atlanta GeorgianThursday, May 8th, 1913 W. W. Rogers was the first witness. He lives at 104 McDonough Road, and operates an automobile for himself. He said he took a party of officers to the National Pencil plant at five minutes past 3 o'clock Sunday morning, April 27. He corroborated statements of officers regarding the finding of Mary Phagan's body and the notes beside it, and of the body being face

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Didnt See Girl Late Saturday, He Admits

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  Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Man Who Said Mary Phagan Passed His Place Testifies He Was Wrong. J. L. Watkins, who testified that he saw Mary Phagan Saturday afternoon, April 26, between 4 and 5 o'clock, was called to the witness stand. He was accompanied to the inquest by a girl, Daisy Brown, who he said was the girl he mistook for Mary Phagan. He said he became convinced of his mistake when detectives came out to his place and had Daisy Brown to dress as she was Saturday afternoon. Then he discovered, he said, that she was

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Frank Answers Questions Nervously When Recalled

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    Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Frank was slightly nervous when he was answering the questions. He was asked: Q. What kind of an elevator floor have you in the factory on the office floor?—A. A solid sliding door. Q. Where was the elevator Friday night and Saturday?—A. I didn't notice it. Q. What protection would there be from a person from falling into the shaft if the door was open?—A. There is a bar across the shaft. Q. Where was the elevator Saturday?—A. I did not notice it. Q. Where was it Sunday?—A. On the office floor.

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Frank of Nervous Nature; Says Superintendent Aide

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    Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 The inquest was resumed at 2:40. Only a small crowd was present. Miss Hattie Hall, stenographer for the Pencil Company, was called. She said she had been connected with the company since December 4. From a pile of papers taken from the factory records, Miss Hall identified a number that were written by herself. She said she did not think she could identify Frank's writing. Miss Hall selected eight letters that she had written. She said she didn't know how long it had taken her to write the letters. Miss Hall looked

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Frank Will Take Stand at Inquest

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  Atlanta Constitution Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Mrs. Mattie White Tells Detectives That on Afternoon of Killing She Saw Negro in Factory. Leo M. Frank will probably be the first witness to take the stand in the Mary Phagan murder inquest to be resumed this morning at 9:30 o'clock in police headquarters. He will be examined thoroughly along lines which neither the chief of detectives, coroner nor solicitor general will disclose. He was resting comfortably at midnight, and, according to reports from the Tower in which he is imprisoned, he is in fit condition to undergo the ordeal. In the

You Are There: Frank Will Take Stand at Inquest, Atlanta Constitution, May 8th, 1913

Frank Will Take Stand at Inquest Atlanta ConstitutionThursday, May 8th, 1913 Mrs. Mattie White Tells Detectives That on Afternoon of Killing She Saw Negro in Factory. Leo M. Frank will probably be the first witness to take the stand in the Mary Phagan murder inquest to be resumed this morning at 9:30 o'clock in police headquarters. He will be examined thoroughly along lines which neither the chief of detectives, coroner nor solicitor general will disclose. He was resting comfortably at midnight, and, according to reports from the Tower in which he is imprisoned, he is in fit condition to undergo

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Girl Employe on Fourth Floor of Factory Saturday

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    Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Miss Corinthia Hall, one of the employees at the National Pencil factory, was a witness. She lives near Kirkwood, at 19 Weatherby Street, and has worked at the factory for three years. She knew Mary Phagan. Miss Hall was at the factory at 11:45 Saturday, April 26. She went to get another girl's coat. She went to the fourth floor and stopped in at the office and asked Mr. Frank if she could go to the fourth floor. She was accompanied by a young woman who had recently married and whose coat

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Grand Jury to Sift the Evidence in the Phagan Case Within the Next Few Days

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    Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Late this afternoon the police and detectives engaged on the Phagan case said they were satisfied with the progress being made before the Coroner's Jury. Apparently all other clews have been abandoned, and the present line of police activity would seem to center around Lee and Frank. Whatever evidence the police have they refuse to disclose. The entire mystery will be taken up by the Grand Jury within the next few days. * * * Atlanta Georgian, May 8th 1913, "Grand Jury to Sift the Evidence in the Phagan Case Within the

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Greeks Make Protest

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  Atlanta Constitution Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Object to Flaring Headlines Over Phagan Mystery. One hundred of the most prominent members of the Greek community in Atlanta gathered in their community hall on Whitehall street last night and protested vigorously against the use of the word Greek in an afternoon paper in connection with the Phagan mystery. The article in question stated that the Pinkertons had said that the murder of Mary Phagan was done in the Mediterranean style and that a certain Greek restaurant employee was being shadowed or words to that effect. "We protest must vigorously against such

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Inquest Scene is Dramatic in its Tenseness

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  Miss Hattie Hall, Superintendent Leo M. Frank's stenographer, who testified to-day at the Phagan inquest.   Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Crowd in Small, Smoke-Filled Room Breathlessly Follows the Phagan Slaying Inquiry. FATHER WEEPS SILENTLY Jurors, Officials and Detectives Manifest Intense Interest in Replies of Witnesses. In a small, crowded and smoke-filled room at police  headquarters, Coroner Donehoo on Thursday morning began what it is thought will be the last session of the jury impaneled to inquire into the death of Mary Phagan, strangled to death in the basement of the National Pencil Factory April 26. The situation

Thursday, 8th May 1913 J. L. Watkins Says He Did Not See Phagan Child on Day of Tragedy, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Thursday, May 8th, 1913 (Page 8, Column 5) J. L. Watkins, called to the stand after Miss Hall, the stenographer, was excused, clarified his former testimony that he had seen Mary Phagan on the street near her home on Saturday afternoon, April 26, by declaring that he is convinced now he was mistaken about it. "Mr. White, on last Thursday, did you not swear before this inquest that between 4 and 5 o'clock on the afternoon of Saturday, April 26, you saw Mary Phagan walking along Bellwood Avenue toward her home?" asked the coroner . "Yes, that's

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Lee Repeats His Private Conversation With Frank

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    Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Newt Lee followed Black on the stand. Q. Tell the jury of your conversation with Frank in private—A. I was in the room and he came in. I said, Mr. Frank, it is mighty hard to be sitting here handcuffed. He said he thought I was innocent, and I said I didn't know anything except finding the body. "Yes," Mr. Frank said, "and you keep that up we will both go to hell!" I told him that if she had been killed in the basement I would have known it, and he

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Lemmie Quinn Grilled by Coroner Paul Donehoo But He Sticks to His Statement, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Thursday, May 8th, 1913 (Page 8, Column 1) Lemmie A. Quinn was called to the stand. He lives at 31B Julliam street, he said, and is foreman of the metal department at the National Pencil factory. Mary Phagan worked in his department, he said. The last time he saw her was on the Monday preceding the murder, he said. She left the plant about 2 o'clock P.M. that Monday, said he. That was earlier than usual, but she left because the metal with which she worked had run out and she wanted to hurry to the matinee.

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Leo Frank is Again Quizzed by Coroner

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    Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Newt Lee Called to Stand for Further Examination—Coroner Will Put Case in Hands of Jury by 7 o'clock, It is Predicted. Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the National Pencil Factory, and Newt Lee, night watchman, both of whom are being held in connection with inquiry into the death of Mary Phagan, were recalled to the witness stand late Thursday afternoon at the inquest. Frank was given a more searching examination as to movements on the day of the tragedy than he underwent his first day on the stand and an apparent endeavor

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Miss Daisy Jones Convinces Jury She Was Mistaken for Mary Phagan, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Thursday, May 8th, 1913 (Page 8, Column 3, Row 3) Miss Daisy Jones, identified by J. L. Watkins as the girl whom he had mistaken for Mary Phagan on the afternoon of April 26, , appeared before the coroner's jury dressed exactly as she was on that afternoon, and testified that she had been just where Watkins said he saw Mary Phagan at the hour when Watkins thought he saw the girl, and that she had crossed a vacant field just as Watkins described Mary Phagan as having done. In short, with Mr. Watkins' new testimony, she

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Miss Hattie Hall, Stenographer, Left Pencil Factory at Noon, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Thursday, May 8th, 1913 (Page 8, Column 2) Miss Hattie Hall, a stenographer, was called to the stand after Quinn was excused. When Miss Hall was excused, shortly before 12:30 o'clock, she was told to return at 2:30 o'clock, as she probably would be recalled then. Miss Hall's testimony revealed nothing not already known, and was vague upon a number of points already testified to by others. It bore mainly upon the period when she was in the office of the National Pencil company on the morning of Saturday, April 26. According to her, she was there

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Mr. Frank’s Treatment of Girls Unimpeachable, Says Miss Hall, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Thursday, May 8th, 1913 (Page 8, Column 4) Miss Corinthia Hall, an employe in the factory, was the first of the young women employed there to testify before the coroner from their viewpoint regarding Mr. Frank's attitude and demeanor toward them. She declared his conduct toward the young women in the factory to be irreproachable. She works in the varnish department on the fourth floor of the pencil factory, and lives at 19 Waverly street, Kirkwood, she told the coroner. She has been working at the factory about three years, she said. About 11:45 o'clock on the

You Are There: Phagan Inquest in Session; Six Witnesses are Examined Before Adjournment to 2:30, Atlanta Journal, May 8th, 1913

Phagan Inquest in Session; Six Witnesses are Examined Before Adjournment to 2:30 Lemmie Quinn, foreman, who testified that he visited the factory and talked to Mr. Frank just after Mary Phagan is supposed to have left with her pay envelope. He was given a searching examination by the coroner Thursday, but stuck to his statement. Atlanta JournalThursday, May 8th, 1913 Lemmie Quinn, the Factory Foreman, Was Put Through a Grilling Examination, but He Steadily Maintained That He Visited the Factory Shortly After the Time Mary Phagan is Supposed to Have Left With Her Pay Envelope FRANK'S TREATMENT OF GIRLS IN

Thursday, 8th May 1913, Phagan Inquest in Session; Six Witnesses are Examined Before Adjournment to 2:30 O’Clock, The Atlanta Journal

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Lemmie Quinn, foreman, who testified that he visited the factory and talked to Mr. Frank just after Mary Phagan is supposed to have left with her pay envelope. He was given a searching examination by the coroner Thursday, but stuck to his statement. The Atlanta Journal Thursday, May 8th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 5) Lemmie Quinn, the Factory Foreman, Was Put Through a Grilling Examination, but He Steadily Maintained That He Visited the Factory Shortly After the Time Mary Phagan is Supposed to Have Left With Her Pay Envelope FRANK'S TREATMENT OF GIRLS IN FACTORY DESCRIBED AS UNIMPEACHABLE BY ONE

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Pinkerton Detective Tells of Call From Factory Head

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Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Harry Scott, the Pinkerton detective who has been working on the case since the day of the crime, took the stand when Schiff concluded his testimony. Scott testified that Frank called him up Sunday afternoon before there was any talk of his arrest and asked the Pinkertons to begin work on the case and find the slayer. Scott testified as follows: Q. How are you interested in the Phagan case?—A. I was retained by the National Pencil Company to find the guilty man. Q. Who retained you?—A. I received a call from Mr. Frank

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Police Still Withhold Evidence. Frank To Be Examined on New Lines

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  Luther Z. Rosser, attorney for Leo M. Frank, who was one of the interested listeners to the testimony presented Thursday at the Coroner's inquest into the death of Mary Phagan.   Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Witnesses Are Quizzed in Detail, but Nothing Important Brought Out. Officials Say They Are Satisfied With Case as It Is Being Developed. Whatever evidence the police officials may have directly to connect any of the suspects with the killing of Mary Phagan, it was not produced at the early session of the Coroner's inquest Thursday. What this evidence is the officials refuse

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Quinn, Foreman Over Slain Girl, Tells of Seeing Frank

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    Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 L. A. Quinn, foreman of the department of the pencil factory in which Mary Phagan worked, testified as follows: Q. What is your business?—A. Machinist. Q. Did you know Mary Phagan?—A. Yes. Q. What is your department?—A. Metal department. Q. What department was she in?—A. Same. Q. When did you see Mary Phagan last?—A. The Monday before the murder. Q. Do you know her associates?—A. I know some who talked with her—girls. Q. Any boys in that department?—A. Henry Smith and John Ramey. Q. Were they thrown together?—A. All were working in

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Stains of Blood on Shirt Fresh, Says Dr. Smith

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    Atlanta Constitution Thursday, May 8th, 1913 City Bacteriologist Makes His Report After Examination of Garment of Negro Which Was Found in Trash Barrel. LEE'S CELLMATE MAY TESTIFY AT INQUEST Witness Spent 24 Hours in Same Cell With Phagan Prisoner — Body of Girl Exhumed for Second Time. DAY'S DEVELOPMENTS IN PHAGAN MYSTERY Dr. Claude Smith, city bacteriologist, completes examination of negro's blood-stained shirt, and finds that the blood stains are new. Body of Mary Phagan was exhumed shortly after noon on Wednesday for the purpose of making a second examination. Mrs. Mattie Smith, wife of one of the

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Stains on Shirt Were Not Made While Shirt Was Being Worn, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Thursday, May 8th, 1913 (Page 8, Column 5) A number of new witnesses had been summoned for the inquest, and the indications were said to be that the session (promised as final in the coroner's investigation) might last all day. It became known, before the inquest convened, that several witnesses whom the detectives have discovered would not be introduced there at all. The evidence that they can furnish, whatever it may be, will not become public until some later time, it was said. It was stated further Thursday morning that the report by Dr. Claude A. Smith,

Thursday, 8th May 1913 Stenographer in Factory Office on Witness Stand

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Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 8th, 1913 Miss Hattie Hall, the stenographer who worked at the National Pencil Factory Saturday morning, April 26, testified as follows: She lives at 69 Luckie Street and works for the National Pencil Company, in Montag Bros.' office. Saturday morning, April 26, she went to Montag Bros.' office on Nelson Street, arriving there at approximately 8 o'clock. She left there between 10:30 and 11. She had talked with Frank over the phone several times during the morning. "The regular stenographer at the plant was off, I think on account of sickness," she said, "and I went

Friday, 9th May 1913 Best Detective in America Now is on Case, Says Dorsey

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  Miss Nellie Pettis, at top, who testified against Frank at the inquest. At the bottom, Mrs. Lillie Pettis, her sister-in-law, former employee at the pencil factory.   Atlanta Georgian Friday, May 9th, 1913 Solicitor Dorsey Says He Has Secured Powerful Aid in Search for Slayer of Girl—Woman Says She Heard Screams in Pencil Factory. Shelby Smith, chairman of the Fulton commission, declared Friday afternoon that the board would back Solicitor Dorsey in any and all expense he might incur in the state's exhaustive investigation into the Phagan murder mystery. Smith said; "We have instructed Dorsey to obtain the best

You Are There: Best Detective in America Now is on Case, Says Dorsey, Atlanta Georgian, May 9th, 1913

Best Detective in America Now is on Case, Says Dorsey Miss Nellie Pettis, at top, who testified against Frank at the inquest. At the bottom, Mrs. Lillie Pettis, her sister-in-law, former employee at the pencil factory. Atlanta GeorgianFriday, May 9th, 1913 Solicitor Dorsey Says He Has Secured Powerful Aid in Search for Slayer of Girl—Woman Says She Heard Screams in Pencil Factory. Shelby Smith, chairman of the Fulton commission, declared Friday afternoon that the board would back Solicitor Dorsey in any and all expense he might incur in the state's exhaustive investigation into the Phagan murder mystery. Smith said; "We

Friday, 9th May 1913 Character Witnesses are Called in the Case by City Detectives, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Friday, May 9th, 1913 (Page 6, Column 5) Tom Backstock, of 21 Hightower street, a youth of about sixteen or seventeen years, testified that he worked at the pencil factory about a year ago. He didn't know Mr. Frank personally, he said, but knew him when he worked at the factory. "Did you have any opportunity to observe his conduct with the women there?" the lad was asked. "I saw him ‘pick' at the girls," was the reply. "Who were they?" the coroner asked. "I couldn't tell their names now," he said. "I didn't work there long

Friday, 9th May 1913 Coroner Donehoo Points Out the Law to the Jurors, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Friday, May 9th, 1913 (Page 6, Column 5) The coroner's charge to the jury was in part as follows: "You have heard the statement of the county physician. You have seen what caused death. You have seen the body and have heard the evidence in the case. "It is your duty to inquire diligently as to how Mary Phagan came to her death. That was your oath. In case of unnatural death, you were to determine at whose hands death came. "You have heard the county physician say strangulation caused death. In determining who is guilty of

Friday, 9th May 1913 Detective Harry Scott’s Testimony as Given Before Coroner’s Jury, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Friday, May 9th, 1913 (Page 6, Column 1) An unexpected turn was given to the coroner's inquest into the mysterious murder of Mary Phagan, Thursday afternoon, when Harry Scott, the Pinkerton detective who has been representing that agency in its work on the case, was called to the stand by the coroner. Mr. Scott was in the room at the moment. One new detail that he revealed was in a reply to a direct question from the coroner, when he stated that Herbert Haas, attorney for Leo M. Frank and attorney for the National Pencil factory, requested

Friday, 9th May 1913 Detective John Black Tells the Jury His Views on the Phagan Case, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Friday, May 9th, 1913 (Page 6, Column 1) Detective John Black followed Detective Scott on the stand. He was questioned about the finding of the bloody shirt at Newt Lee's home. He said that on the Tuesday afternoon after the murder he went with Detective Fred Bullard to Newt Lee's house at 40 Henry street. They searched the premises, he said, and found the bloody shirt in a clothes barrel in Lee's room. The shirt was near the bottom of the barrel and was covered with scraps of old clothes, he said, the barrel apparently being used

Friday, 9th May 1913 Frank and Lee Ordered Held by Coroner’s Jury for Mary Phagan Murder

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Leo M. Frank, factory superintendent, who, with Newt Lee, the negro night watchman, was held for the grand jury. Atlanta Constitution Friday, May 9th, 1913 Sensational Statements Made at Inquest by Two Women, One of Whom Had Been an Employee, Who Declared That Frank Had Been Guilty of Improper Conduct Toward His Feminine Employees and Had Made Proposals to Them in the Factory. EVIDENCE IN BAFFLING MYSTERY THUS FAR, IS CIRCUMSTANTIAL, IS ADMISSION MADE BY DETECTIVES Frank and Lee Both Go on Stand Again and Are Closely Questioned in Regard to New Lines of Evidence and Forced to Reiterate Testimony

Friday, 9th May 1913 Here is Testimony of Witnesses Given at the Final Session of Coroner’s Jury in Phagan Case, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Friday, May 9th, 1913 (Page 6, Column 1) Full Story of Hearing Thursday Afternoon When Frank, Newt Lee, Detectives Black and Scott and Several Character Witnesses Were Placed on the Stand The verdict of the coroner's jury that Mary Phagan came to her death by strangulation and its recommendation that both Mr. Frank and Lee be held for investigation by the grand jury was rendered at 6:30 o'clock, PM, Thursday afternoon and marked by the conclusion of one of the most remarkable inquests ever held in this state. Deputy Plennie Minor carried the news of the coroner's

Friday, 9th May 1913 Investigation Just Begun Says Detective Lanford, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Friday, May 9th, 1913 (Page 20, Column 4) General satisfaction was expressed Friday morning by the detectives working on the Phagan case at the action of the coroner's jury. Chief of Detectives Lanford, however, declares that the work of his department is just now getting under way. "We are going to continue right on with the investigation," said the officials, "and try to dig down to the truth of this matter." "We have a theory as to who committed the crime, but we are ready to change it if we can possibly unearth any evidence, which will

Friday, 9th May 1913 Newt Lee Tells of the Talk He Had in the Police Station, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Friday, May 9th, 1913 (Page 6, Column 2) Newt Lee, the negro night watchman, was recalled and asked to tell about any conversation he had with Mr. Frank at the jail or the police station. Lee said he has not talked to Mr. Frank at the jail, but that he had talked with him at the police station. Mr. Frank came into the room, where he was, Lee said, and asked, "How are you feeling, Newt?" "Not so good, Mr. Frank?" Lee said was his answer. Lee said that he then told Mr. Frank that it was

You Are There: Newt Lee Tells of the Talk He Had in the Police Station, Atlanta Journal, May 9th, 1913

  Newt Lee Tells of the Talk He Had in the Police Station Atlanta Journal Friday, May 9th, 1913 Newt Lee, the negro night watchman, was recalled and asked to tell about any conversation he had with Mr. Frank at the jail or the police station. Lee said he has not talked to Mr. Frank at the jail, but that he had talked with him at the police station. Mr. Frank came into the room, where he was, Lee said, and asked, "How are you feeling, Newt?" "Not so good, Mr. Frank?" Lee said was his answer. Lee said that

Friday, 9th May 1913 Superintendent Frank is Once More Put on Witness Stand, The Atlanta Journal

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Atlanta Journal Friday, May 9th, 1913 (Page 6, Column 2) Leo M. Frank general superintendent of the National Pencil factory, was recalled to the stand. He was questioned regarding the elevator. The coroner wanted to know what kind of a door there is to the shaft on the office floor. The witness replied that it is a heavy door solid, that slides up and down. "Where was the elevator on Saturday, April 26?" he was asked. "I didn't notice." "Where was it on Friday night?" "I didn't notice." "Was the door open on Saturday?" "I didn't notice." Asked whether it

Friday, 9th May 1913 With Two Men Held in Tower, Mystery of Murder Deepens, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Friday, May 9th, 1913 (Page 1, column 7) Belief That the Detectives Had Positive Evidence, Which They Were Withholding, Dissipated by Admissions SCOTT AND BLACK REFUSED TO NAME MAN SUSPECTED Case Now Goes to the Grand Jury but No Action Is Expected for a Week—Search for Evidence Will Continue Coroner Paul Donehoo and the six jurors who investigated the murder of little Mary Phagan in the National Pencil factory on April 26, concluded Thursday the most thorough and exhaustive probe of a violent death ever conducted in this county and probably in the state. The jury recommended

Friday, 9th May 1913 Woman’s Handkerchief Brought to Officers

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  Atlanta Constitution Friday, May 9th, 1913 The detectives are investigating today a clew in the Phagan case brought to Atlanta Thursday by W. A. Smith, of Jonesboro, an employee of the Central of Georgia railroad, which was to the effect that he had just completed a thirty-hour chase, covering a trip of more than 100 miles, after two men who talked and acted suspiciously in his presence at the Jonesboro station Tuesday afternoon. The men, he said, escaped and the only tangible evidence which Smith showed the detectives was a lady's blood-stained handkerchief with a hole—apparently chewed—in the middle

You Are There: Girl Will Swear Office of Frank Deserted Between 12:05 and 12:10, Atlanta Constitution, May 10th, 1913

Girl Will Swear Office of Frank Deserted Between 12:05 and 12:10 Monteen Stover. Little girl, former employee of National Pencil company, who swears Frank was not in office between 12:05 and 12:10 o'clock. Atlanta ConstitutionSaturday, May 10th, 1913 Testimony Considered Important by Officers Because Frank at the Inquest Stated on Stand That He Did Not Leave Between Noon on Saturday and 12:25. When Quinn Came to See Him. SHE WENT TO FACTORY TO GET PAY ENVELOPE - POSITIVE OF THE TIME New Evidence, Just Submitted to Detective Department, Leads Chief Lanford to Believe That Mary Phagan Was Murdered in the

Saturday, 10th May 1913 Girl Will Swear Office of Frank Deserted Between 12:05 and 12:10

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Monteen Stover. Little girl, former employee of National Pencil company, who swears Frank was not in office between 12:05 and 12:10 o'clock. Atlanta Constitution Saturday, May 10th, 1913 Testimony Considered Important by Officers Because Frank at the Inquest Stated on Stand That He Did Not Leave Between Noon on Saturday and 12:25. When Quinn Came to See Him. SHE WENT TO FACTORY TO GET PAY ENVELOPE - POSITIVE OF THE TIME New Evidence, Just Submitted to Detective Department, Leads Chief Lanford to Believe That Mary Phagan Was Murdered in the Basement — Woman Says She Heard Screams on Saturday Afternoon.

Saturday, 10th May 1913 Guard of Secrecy is Thrown About Phagan Search by Solicitor

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    Atlanta Georgian Saturday, May 10th, 1913 Names of Witnesses Withheld by Dorsey to Prevent "Manufacturers of Public Opinion" Getting in Touch with Them—Satisfied with Progress. Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey declared Saturday afternoon that he was very well satisfied with the progress made in the investigation of the Phagan murder mystery and made the significant remark that he would not reveal the names of new witnesses so that manufacturers of public opinion could not get to them. The Solicitor held a conference with Dr. H. F. Harris, of the State Board of Health, who examined the girl's body.

You Are There: Guard of Secrecy is Thrown About Phagan Search by Solicitor, Atlanta Georgian, May 10th, 1913

Guard of Secrecy is Thrown About Phagan Search by Solicitor Atlanta GeorgianSaturday, May 10th, 1913 Names of Witnesses Withheld by Dorsey to Prevent "Manufacturers of Public Opinion" Getting in Touch with Them—Satisfied with Progress. Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey declared Saturday afternoon that he was very well satisfied with the progress made in the investigation of the Phagan murder mystery and made the significant remark that he would not reveal the names of new witnesses so that manufacturers of public opinion could not get to them. The Solicitor held a conference with Dr. H. F. Harris, of the State Board

Saturday, 10th May 1913 Public Now Knows All Facts in Murder Case, Say Detectives, The Atlanta Journal

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Atlanta Journal Saturday, May 10th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 1) Pinkertons Declare the State Has No Evidence of Importance That Hasn't Been Given to the Newspapers IDENTITY OF SOLICITOR'S DETECTIVE A MYSTERY Chief Lanford Believes He Is One of Sheriff's Capable Deputies—Gantt Questioned, Newt Lee Has Lawyer The probe into the mystery of little Mary Phagan's death two weeks ago still goes on. The small army of professional, amateur, city, state and private detectives which took up the chase of the murderer soon after the horrible details of the crime became known still pursues the investigation with unabated vigor. Solicitor

You Are There: Public Now Knows All Facts in Murder Case, Say Detectives, Atlanta Journal, May 10th, 1913

Public Now Knows All Facts in Murder Case, Say Detectives Atlanta JournalSaturday, May 10th, 1913 Pinkertons Declare the State Has No Evidence of Importance That Hasn't Been Given to the Newspapers IDENTITY OF SOLICITOR'S DETECTIVE A MYSTERY Chief Lanford Believes He Is One of Sheriff's Capable Deputies—Gantt Questioned, Newt Lee Has Lawyer The probe into the mystery of little Mary Phagan's death two weeks ago still goes on. The small army of professional, amateur, city, state and private detectives which took up the chase of the murderer soon after the horrible details of the crime became known still pursues the

Sunday, 11th May 1913 Caught Frank With Girl in Park, He Says

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Atlanta Georgian Sunday, May 11th, 1913 Robert T. House, a Special Policeman, Gives New Evidence to City Detectives. In the evidence obtained Saturday in the Mary Phagan case, one piece that the detectives regard as the most important bore on Frank's alleged conduct when he was in company with a young girl in Druid Hills Park. The new evidence came from Robert F. House, a special policeman, who is in the employ of the Druid Hills Land Company. House declared that he had ejected a man from the park at one time from whom he obtained damaging admissions. House visited

You Are There: Caught Frank With Girl in Park, He Says, Atlanta Georgian, May 11th, 1913

Caught Frank With Girl in Park, He Says Atlanta GeorgianSunday, May 11th, 1913 Robert T. House, a Special Policeman, Gives New Evidence to City Detectives. In the evidence obtained Saturday in the Mary Phagan case, one piece that the detectives regard as the most important bore on Frank's alleged conduct when he was in company with a young girl in Druid Hills Park. The new evidence came from Robert F. House, a special policeman, who is in the employ of the Druid Hills Land Company. House declared that he had ejected a man from the park at one time from

Sunday, 11th May 1913 City Detectives Theory of Phagan Murder Outlined, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Sunday, May 11th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 7) The Journal Presents First Complete Statement of Case Solicitor and His Investigators Seek to Build HOW DETECTIVES THINK CRIME WAS COMMITTED They Maintain That Mary Phagan Was Left Unconscious in Factory Near Midday and Killed Later in Afternoon For the first time since the lifeless body of pretty fourteen-year-old Mary Phagan was found in the basement of the National Pencil factory, this morning two weeks ago, The Journal is enabled to make public the theory of the city detectives and others investigating the murder mystery as to how the

You Are There: City Detectives’ Theory of Phagan Murder Outlined, Atlanta Journal, May 11th, 1913

City Detectives' Theory of Phagan Murder Outlined Atlanta JournalSunday, May 11th, 1913 The Journal Presents First Complete Statement of Case Solicitor and His Investigators Seek to Build HOW DETECTIVES THINK CRIME WAS COMMITTED They Maintain That Mary Phagan Was Left Unconscious in Factory Near Midday and Killed Later in Afternoon For the first time since the lifeless body of pretty fourteen-year-old Mary Phagan was found in the basement of the National Pencil factory, this morning two weeks ago, The Journal is enabled to make public the theory of the city detectives and others investigating the murder mystery as to how

Sunday, 11th May 1913 Frank is Awaiting Action of the Grand Jury Calmly

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    Atlanta Georgian Sunday, May 11th, 1913 Leo M. Frank, calmly and without any apparent fear or apprehension, is awaiting the decision of the 24 men who will determine this week whether or not an indictment shall be returned against him in connection with the killing of Mary Phagan. Yesterday—which was very much like the other days that he has been confined in the Tower—he read, said a few words now and then to the guards, greeted members of his family as they came to see him and discussed various subjects with them in a quiet, matter-of-fact manner, not

Sunday, 11th May 1913 Grand Jury to Consider Phagan Case This Week, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Sunday, May 11th, 1913 (Page 2, Column 2) Interest in the investigation of the mysterious murder two weeks ago of little Mary Phagan centered Saturday in the grand jury. Two men, Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the pencil factory, where the tragedy occurred, and Newt Lee, negro night watchman, have been ordered held by a coroner's jury, but no intimation has been given as to the time when bills against the two men will be presented to that body. The jury is not due to hold a session until next Friday, but the solicitor general or the

Sunday, 11th May 1913 Mary Phagans Death Only Assured Fact Developed

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    Atlanta Georgian Sunday, May 11th, 1913 BY JAMES. B. NEVIN. Mary Phagan is dead. She was murdered. Leo Frank, and Newt Lee are in jail, upon the findings of a Coroner's jury, held as suspects for investigation by the Grand Jury. Here is a case of cause and effect involving the most elusive series of connecting events that ever came under my observation of criminals and crime, through fifteen years of varied newspaper experience in a number of American cities. It is not my purpose here to try this case. Such comments as I may set down are

Sunday, 11th May 1913 Mystery of 14-Year-Old Mary Phagans Tragic End Adds One to Long List of Atlantas Unsolved Crimes

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  Atlanta Constitution Sunday, May 11th, 1913 BY GORDON NOEL HURTEL. The mystery surrounding the murder of Mary Phagan, the young factory girl who met a tragic and a terrible death in the heart of a city whose streets were thronged with holiday crowds, may add another chapter to Atlanta's record of unsolved and unpunished crimes. Can such things be? is asked. Can murder, red-handed, find a victim in the midst of a populous city when the sun is smiling in God's skies of blue and where the protecting power of the law and the vengeance of justice are near,

Sunday, 11th May 1913 Officer Swears He Found Frank With Young Girl

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Robert House Atlanta Constitution Sunday, May 11th, 1913 Robert House, Now a Special Policeman, Tells the Atlanta Detectives of an Incident of Over a Year Ago. SEES FRANK IN TOWER AND RECOGNIZES HIM Three More Pinkertons Are Put on the Phagan Case, Under the Supervision of Harry Scott. Detectives have procured in Robert P. House, a special policeman, a witness who has testified that he once apprehended Leo M. Frank, the suspect in the Mary Phagan mystery, and a young girl in a desolate spot of the woods in Druid Hills Park. The policeman declares he obtained admission from Frank

You Are There: Officer Swears He Found Frank With Young Girl, Atlanta Constitution, May 11th, 1913

Officer Swears He Found Frank With Young Girl Robert House Atlanta ConstitutionSunday, May 11th, 1913 Robert House, Now a Special Policeman, Tells the Atlanta Detectives of an Incident of Over a Year Ago. SEES FRANK IN TOWER AND RECOGNIZES HIM Three More Pinkertons Are Put on the Phagan Case, Under the Supervision of Harry Scott. Detectives have procured in Robert P. House, a special policeman, a witness who has testified that he once apprehended Leo M. Frank, the suspect in the Mary Phagan mystery, and a young girl in a desolate spot of the woods in Druid Hills Park. The

Sunday, 11th May 1913 Weak Evidence Against Men in Phagan Slaying

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  Solicitor General Hugh Dorsey, in a characteristic pose, examining a witness. On Solicitor Dorsey is placed dependence for the solving of the puzzling Phagan slaying case. He is making every effort to unravel the mystery.   NO REAL SOLUTION OF PHAGAN SLAYING MYSTERY EVIDENCE AGAINST MEN NOW HELD IN BAFFLING CASE WEAK, SAYS OLD POLICE REPORTER Atlanta Georgian Sunday, May 11th, 1913 Detectives in Coroner's Jury Probe Admit They Have Nothing on Which to Convict Anyone in Mysterious Tragedy of Atlanta. TESTIMONY BROUGHT OUT NO INCRIMINATING POINTS BY AN OLD POLICE REPORTER. The most sensational testimony offered at the

Monday, 12th May 1913 Burns Called into Phagan Mystery; On Way From Europe

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  Leo M. Frank, the pencil factory superintendent, held in the Phagan mystery, in a new photograph. Mrs. Frank yesterday visited her husband in the Tower, where he is a prisoner pending the action of the Grand Jury.   Atlanta Georgian Monday, May 12th, 1913 Famous American Detective Cables He Will Return Immediately In Response to Col. Felder's Plea For His Services to Capture Slayer. William J. Burns, the world-famed detective, probably will take charge of the Phagan case. The man who unearthed the dynamite outrages and brought the McNamara brothers to justice, will in all probability come to Atlanta

You Are There: Burns Called into Phagan Mystery; On Way From Europe, Atlanta Georgian, May 12th, 1913

Burns Called into Phagan Mystery; On Way From Europe Leo M. Frank, the pencil factory superintendent, held in the Phagan mystery, in a new photograph. Mrs. Frank yesterday visited her husband in the Tower, where he is a prisoner pending the action of the Grand Jury. Atlanta GeorgianMonday, May 12th, 1913 Famous American Detective Cables He Will Return Immediately In Response to Col. Felder's Plea For His Services to Capture Slayer. William J. Burns, the world-famed detective, probably will take charge of the Phagan case. The man who unearthed the dynamite outrages and brought the McNamara brothers to justice, will

Monday, 12th May 1913 Find Guilty Man, Franks Lawyer Told Pinkertons

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  Atlanta Constitution Monday, May 12th, 1913 "You Are Employed to Hunt Down Murderer, It Matters Not Who He Is," Luther Rosser Informs Detectives. GRAND JURY TO PROBE MYSTERY NEXT WEEK Solicitor Dorsey States That He Wants All the Evidence Ready to Submit to Jurors Before Opening Hearing. Officials of the Pinkerton National Detective agency, who were brought into the Phagan case through Leo M. Frank, recently went to authorities of the National Pencil company. It is stated, and in the presence of Leo M. Frank's counsel, Luther Z. Rosser, said: "We want to make our position clear. The Pinkertons

Monday, 12th May 1913 Phagan Case is Delayed

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    Atlanta Georgian Monday, May 12th, 1913 Not Likely to Go to Grand Jury This Week More Time Taken to Strengthen Evidence Evidence in the Phagan case may not be presented to the Grand Jury this week. This was the intimation given by Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey Monday morning, as he began the process of elimination of the unimportant matter contained in the great mass of evidence collected by the Coroner's jury and police officials. The postponement of its presentation to the Grand Jury is to permit the collection in systematic form of all the essential details of

Monday, 12th May 1913 Rumor That Frank Married in Brooklyn Not True, Says Eagle, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Monday, May 12th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 7) At Request of The Journal, One of Numerous Reports About Man Held in Phagan Case Is Investigated TWO ‘NO BILLS' NECESSARY TO FREE PRISONERS Solicitor's "Famous" Detective Has Left City-Character Witnesses Not Likely to Be Used At the request of The Atlanta Journal, the Brooklyn Eagle, one of the most conservative and reliable newspapers in the whole country, has investigated the most serious of numerous rumors which are being persistently circulated about the character of Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the National Pencil company, who is held in connection

You Are There: Rumor That Frank Married in Brooklyn Not True, Says Eagle, Atlanta Journal, May 12th, 1913

Rumor That Frank Married in Brooklyn Not True, Says Eagle Atlanta JournalMonday, May 12th, 1913 At Request of The Journal, One of Numerous Reports About Man Held in Phagan Case Is Investigated TWO ‘NO BILLS' NECESSARY TO FREE PRISONERS Solicitor's "Famous" Detective Has Left City-Character Witnesses Not Likely to Be Used At the request of The Atlanta Journal, the Brooklyn Eagle, one of the most conservative and reliable newspapers in the whole country, has investigated the most serious of numerous rumors which are being persistently circulated about the character of Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the National Pencil company, who

Monday, 12th May 1913 The Phagan Case Day by Day

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  Atlanta Constitution Monday, May 12th, 1913 The history of the baffling Phagan mystery, daily recorded, is briefly as follows: Sunday April 26—Girl's body found in basement of pencil factory. Newt Lee, negro night watchman, who made discovery, arrested. Arthur Mullinax, street car employee, also arrested. Both held on suspicion. Monday—Leo M. Frank, factory superintendent, detained, but later released. J. M. Gantt, former bookkeeper of pencil concern and friend of dead girl, arrested in Marietta. Negro elevator boy also taken into custody. Pinkertons enter case. Tuesday—Bloody shirt found at negro watchman's home. Planted evidence theory advanced. Mary Phagan's body buried.

You Are There: The Phagan Case Day by Day, Atlanta Constitution, May 12th, 1913

The Phagan Case Day by Day Atlanta ConstitutionMonday, May 12th, 1913 The history of the baffling Phagan mystery, daily recorded, is briefly as follows: Sunday April 26—Girl's body found in basement of pencil factory. Newt Lee, negro night watchman, who made discovery, arrested. Arthur Mullinax, street car employee, also arrested. Both held on suspicion. Monday—Leo M. Frank, factory superintendent, detained, but later released. J. M. Gantt, former bookkeeper of pencil concern and friend of dead girl, arrested in Marietta. Negro elevator boy also taken into custody. Pinkertons enter case. Tuesday—Bloody shirt found at negro watchman's home. Planted evidence theory advanced.

Tuesday, 13th May 1913 Frank’s Life in Tower

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    Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, May 13th, 1913 Of the many prisoners confined in the Tower, Leo M. Frank stands far above them all as the central figure in the public eye while the exhaustive investigation into the death of Mary Phagan continues. Hundreds of curious persons apply daily at the prison in a futile effort to see the man now being held in the Phagan mystery. The jailers are beset with thousands of questions pertaining to his life during the two weeks that he has spent behind the bars. Only Frank's attorney, his immediate relatives and a few friends

Tuesday, 13th May 1913 Mother Thinks Police Are Doing Their Best

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Mary Phagan's mother, Fannie Phagan Coleman (center), with her family in Atlanta, 1902. She holds Mary (right) and another child. Mary Phagan's older sister, Ollie Mae, stands at front left. Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, May 13th, 1913 Mrs. J. W. Coleman, mother of little 14-year-old Mary Phagan, prostrated with grief for sixteen days following the tragic slaying of her child, took up her household duties Tuesday for the first time, resigned to the calamity that has befallen her home, and relying on the law to avenge the death of her child. "It was such a beautiful morning," said Mrs. Coleman to

You Are There: Mother Thinks Police Are Doing Their Best, Atlanta Georgian, May 13th, 1913

Mother Thinks Police Are Doing Their Best Mary Phagan's mother, Fannie Phagan Coleman (center), with her family in Atlanta, 1902. She holds Mary (right) and another child. Mary Phagan's older sister, Ollie Mae, stands at front left. Atlanta GeorgianTuesday, May 13th, 1913 Mrs. J. W. Coleman, mother of little 14-year-old Mary Phagan, prostrated with grief for sixteen days following the tragic slaying of her child, took up her household duties Tuesday for the first time, resigned to the calamity that has befallen her home, and relying on the law to avenge the death of her child. "It was such a

Tuesday, 13th May 1913 My Son Innocent, Declares Mother of Leo M. Frank

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    Atlanta Constitution Tuesday, May 13th, 1913 "I Am Confident That He Will Be Proven Not Guilty of This Terrible Crime," She Tells Reporter HAS NOT SEEN HER SON SINCE HE WAS MARRIED W. J. Burns Secured to Take Charge of Phagan Mystery Investigation—Engaged by Friends of Murdered Girl ANOTHER ARREST EXPECTED IN PHAGAN MYSTERY CASE It was reported on good authority this morning that officers working upon the Mary Phagan murder would make a new arrest today or tomorrow which is expected to throw an entirely new light upon the case. None of the officials have discussed this

You Are There: My Son Innocent, Declares Mother of Leo M. Frank, Atlanta Constitution, May 13th, 1913

My Son Innocent, Declares Mother of Leo M. Frank Atlanta ConstitutionTuesday, May 13th, 1913 "I Am Confident That He Will Be Proven Not Guilty of This Terrible Crime," She Tells Reporter HAS NOT SEEN HER SON SINCE HE WAS MARRIED W. J. Burns Secured to Take Charge of Phagan Mystery Investigation—Engaged by Friends of Murdered Girl ANOTHER ARREST EXPECTED IN PHAGAN MYSTERY CASEIt was reported on good authority this morning that officers working upon the Mary Phagan murder would make a new arrest today or tomorrow which is expected to throw an entirely new light upon the case.None of the

Tuesday, 13th May 1913 Mystery Within a Mystery Now Baffling Newspaper Men Working on the Phagan Case

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    Atlanta Constitution Tuesday, May 13th, 1913 By Thomas Byrd Magath A veil of mystery so dense as to completely shut off the light from all newspaper men surrounds the identity of the detective who has been employed by Solicitor General Dorsey. So far nothing can be learned except that the mysterious detective has worked on the case only one week and is now not in Atlanta, but some distance away working on another case. "This detective, one of the best in the country," quotes Mr. Dorsey, "did not give up the case because of inefficiency for," says the

Tuesday, 13th May 1913 New Theory is Offered in Phagan Mystery

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Solicitor Dorsey in his office; a snapshot of the Phagan case prosecutor taken by a Georgian photographer. Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, May 13th, 1913 Detectives Not Centering All Their Efforts on Frank and Lee Now. Detectives in Phagan mystery are not centering all their efforts upon Frank and Lee. New theories have been advanced, new clews examined and every possible theory is being investigated. It was because of these rumors on the streets to-day that a report was spread that an entirely new lead was being followed by Solicitor Dorsey that might eliminate both Frank and Lee. Solicitor Dorsey paid very

Tuesday, 13th May 1913 Solicitor Dorsey is Working New Theory in Phagan Mystery, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Tuesday, May 13th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 7) He Will Not Disclose Its Nature, but He, Lanford and Beavers Declare No Arrests Are Contemplated SOLICTOR WOULD WELCOME HELP OF BURNS But Says He Knows Nothing of Effort to Bring Him Here, Miss Ross, a New Witness, Talks With Dorsey A new theory about the mysterious murder of Mary Phagan has been presented to Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey in such a convincing manner by an unknown criminologist that the chief prosecuting officer of Fulton county has turned the Phagan investigation towards working out the new idea. While

You Are There: Solicitor Dorsey is Working New Theory in Phagan Mystery, Atlanta Journal, May 13th, 1913

Solicitor Dorsey is Working New Theory in Phagan Mystery Atlanta JournalTuesday, May 13th, 1913 He Will Not Disclose Its Nature, but He, Lanford and Beavers Declare No Arrests Are Contemplated SOLICTOR WOULD WELCOME HELP OF BURNS But Says He Knows Nothing of Effort to Bring Him Here, Miss Ross, a New Witness, Talks With Dorsey A new theory about the mysterious murder of Mary Phagan has been presented to Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey in such a convincing manner by an unknown criminologist that the chief prosecuting officer of Fulton county has turned the Phagan investigation towards working out the

Wednesday, 14th May 1913 Clue is Sought in Handwriting of Mary Phagan

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    Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, May 14th, 1913 Reporter of The Constitution Is Summoned by Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey for Conference. OFFICIALS INVESTIGATE THEORY OF MYSTERY Much Interest Is Created by the Report That a New Arrest May Be Made in the Near Future. The handwriting of Mary Phagan is likely to play a prominent part in the investigation of her murder. Rumors came Tuesday from the solicitor general's office that new clues had been discovered in the form of notes or letters, and that much energy was being concentrated in investigation along that line. Handwriting experts have been

You Are There: Clue is Sought in Handwriting of Mary Phagan, Atlanta Constitution, May 14th, 1913

Clue is Sought in Handwriting of Mary Phagan Atlanta ConstitutionWednesday, May 14th, 1913 Reporter of The Constitution Is Summoned by Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey for Conference. OFFICIALS INVESTIGATE THEORY OF MYSTERY Much Interest Is Created by the Report That a New Arrest May Be Made in the Near Future. The handwriting of Mary Phagan is likely to play a prominent part in the investigation of her murder. Rumors came Tuesday from the solicitor general's office that new clues had been discovered in the form of notes or letters, and that much energy was being concentrated in investigation along that

Wednesday, 14th May 1913 Friends Say Franks Actions Point to Innocence

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A young Leo Frank (top center) and friends enjoy a day at the beach in New York. Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, May 14th, 1913 If Leo M. Frank is guilty of any connection with the murder of Mary Phagan, his actions in the Tower belie the time-honored theories of the greatest criminologists the world has ever produced, visitors to the prisoner declare. Famous psychologists, working on the supposition that the great weight of guilt upon the mind of a murderer will, if given time, finally overbalance the calm exterior with which he faces his accusers, have made excellent use of what

Wednesday Evening, the 14th Day of May 1913, New Theory Fails to Change Course of Murder Probe, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Wednesday, May 14th, 1913 (Page one, Column one) "A Local Celebrity" Is Working Out the New Theory and He Had Not Reported to the Solicitor on Wednesday GIRL'S HANDWRITING GIVES IMPORTANT CLUE Grand Jury to Take Up Case May 22 or 23, Says Solicitor, Criminal Court Postpones Session at Dorsey's Request At 2:10 o'clock, Wednesday afternoon Solicitor Dorsey announced that the grand jury would take up the Phagan case on Thursday, the 22nd, or Friday, the 23rd, unless something intervened to make it inadvisable. At that time bills will be presented against Leo M. Frank and the

You Are There: New Theory Fails to Change Course of Murder Probe, Atlanta Journal, May 14th, 1913

New Theory Fails to Change Course of Murder Probe Atlanta JournalWednesday, May 14th, 1913 "A Local Celebrity" Is Working Out the New Theory and He Had Not Reported to the Solicitor on Wednesday GIRL'S HANDWRITING GIVES IMPORTANT CLUE Grand Jury to Take Up Case May 22 or 23, Says Solicitor, Criminal Court Postpones Session at Dorsey's Request At 2:10 Wednesday afternoon Solicitor Dorsey announced that the grand jury would take up the Phagan case on Thursday, the 22d, or Friday, the 23d, unless something intervened to make it inadvisable. At that time bills will be presented against Leo M. Frank

Wednesday, 14th May 1913 Secret Hunt by Burns in Mystery is Likely

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William J. Burns Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, May 14th, 1913 Probably Will Not Reveal Presence in City as He Investigates Phagan Case. Colonel Thomas B. Felder said Wednesday that Detective William J. Burns had not arrived, as yet, in New York from his European trip, but that as soon as he did he undoubtedly would start at once for Atlanta to work upon the Mary Phagan strangling mystery. Colonel Felder is acquainted with the day and the hour on which the famous sleuth will reach this city, but for the purposes of the investigation he is withholding the information. "There was

You Are There: Secret Hunt by Burns in Mystery is Likely, Atlanta Georgian, May 14th, 1913

Secret Hunt by Burns in Mystery is Likely William J. Burns Atlanta GeorgianWednesday, May 14th, 1913 Probably Will Not Reveal Presence in City as He Investigates Phagan Case. Colonel Thomas B. Felder said Wednesday that Detective William J. Burns had not arrived, as yet, in New York from his European trip, but that as soon as he did he undoubtedly would start at once for Atlanta to work upon the Mary Phagan strangling mystery. Colonel Felder is acquainted with the day and the hour on which the famous sleuth will reach this city, but for the purposes of the investigation

Thursday, 15th May 1913 Burns Investigator Will Probe Slaying

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Atlanta Georgian Thursday, May 15th, 1913 Noted Detective, Himself, to Take Up Case June 1—One of His Experts Coming Soon. Colonel Thomas B. Felder, noted Atlanta lawyer, Thursday issued the positive statement that William J. Burns would take charge of the Phagan investigation immediately upon his return from Europe, June 1. In the meantime a criminal investigator will be sent from the Burns Agency's New York office to prosecute the investigation. Colonel Felder gave out the following dispatch received from Raymond J. Burns, son of William J. Burns, in New York, which tells of the father's determination to take up

You Are There: Burns Investigator Will Probe Slaying, Atlanta Georgian, May 15th, 1913

Burns Investigator Will Probe Slaying Atlanta GeorgianThursday, May 15th, 1913 Noted Detective, Himself, to Take Up Case June 1—One of His Experts Coming Soon. Colonel Thomas B. Felder, noted Atlanta lawyer, Thursday issued the positive statement that William J. Burns would take charge of the Phagan investigation immediately upon his return from Europe, June 1. In the meantime a criminal investigator will be sent from the Burns Agency's New York office to prosecute the investigation. Colonel Felder gave out the following dispatch received from Raymond J. Burns, son of William J. Burns, in New York, which tells of the father's

Thursday, Evening Edition, the 15th Day of May 1913, No Phagan Trial Before Last of June Declares Solicitor, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Thursday, May 15th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 1) If Indictments Are Returned by Grand Jury When Bills Are Presented There Will Be No Immediate Trial WM. J. BURNS COMING, SAYS THOS. B. FELDER He Calls Upon the Public to Subscribe a Fund to Pay the Expense of Bringing Great Detective to Atlanta Should the Fulton county grand jury, when it meets next Thursday or Friday, return a true bill against either one or both of the men held by the coroner's jury in the Mary Phagan murder investigation, the state will not attempt to bring them to

You Are There: No Phagan Trial Before Last of June Declares Solicitor, Atlanta Journal, May 15th, 1913

No Phagan Trial Before Last of June Declares Solicitor Atlanta JournalThursday, May 15th, 1913 If Indictments Are Returned by Grand Jury When Bills Are Presented There Will Be No Immediate Trial WM. J. BURNS COMING, SAYS THOS. B. FELDER He Calls Upon the Public to Subscribe a Fund to Pay the Expense of Bringing Great Detective to Atlanta Should the Fulton county grand jury, when it meets next Thursday or Friday, return a true bill against either one or both of the men held by the coroner's jury in the Mary Phagan murder investigation, the state will not attempt to

Thursday, 15th May 1913 Victim of Murder Prepared to Die, Believes Dorsey

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    Atlanta Constitution Thursday, May 15th, 1913 Identification Slip Carried by Mary Phagan in Her Pocketbook Causes Theory That the Victim Had Been Threatened With Violence. Either threatened with death or warned by some dread premonition of an untimely end, Mary Phagan is believed by Solicitor Dorsey to have prepared for her tragic fate by writing the identification slip discovered hidden in a compartment of the metal pocketbook which she carried daily. The slip was given the solicitor Wednesday morning by a reporter for The Constitution. The reporter also made an authorized statement of the source from which it

You Are There: Victim of Murder Prepared to Die, Believes Dorsey, Atlanta Constitution, May 15th, 1913

Victim of Murder Prepared to Die, Believes Dorsey Atlanta ConstitutionThursday, May 15th, 1913 Identification Slip Carried by Mary Phagan in Her Pocketbook Causes Theory That the Victim Had Been Threatened With Violence. Either threatened with death or warned by some dread premonition of an untimely end, Mary Phagan is believed by Solicitor Dorsey to have prepared for her tragic fate by writing the identification slip discovered hidden in a compartment of the metal pocketbook which she carried daily. The slip was given the solicitor Wednesday morning by a reporter for The Constitution. The reporter also made an authorized statement of

Friday, 16th May 1913 $1,000 Offered Burns to Take Phagan Case

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Atlanta Georgian Friday, May 16th, 1913 Subscriptions From Persons Who Withhold Names Increases the Fund—Other Rewards. The fund inaugurated to bring W. J. Burns, the renowned detective, to Atlanta to clear the Phagan mystery was augmented Friday by contributions which bring the total close to the thousand mark. More than six substantial subscriptions from persons who asked that their names be withheld have been received. The fund thus far made public is: The Georgian, $100. The Constitution, $100. Homer George, $10. The Georgian will be glad to receive contributions to the Burns' fund, and repeats its offer of $500 reward,

Friday, 16th May 1913 Books and Papers in Phagan Case in Grand Jurys Hands, The Atlanta Journal

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The Atlanta Journal Friday, May 16th, 1913 (Page 1, Column 1) Two Employes of Pencil Company Appeared Before Grand Jury Friday in Answer to Subpenas FELDER RAISING FUND TO PAY W. J. BURNS The Journal Subscribes $100, Mr. Felder Declares a Burns Investigator Will Be Put On the Case at Once By means of a subpoena duces tecum Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey Friday obtained possession of a number of books and papers of the National Pencil company. The subpoena was served on Herbert G. Schiff and M. B. Darley, two officials of the pencil company, by Deputy Sheriff Plennie

You Are There: Books and Papers in Phagan Case in Grand Jury’s Hands, Atlanta Journal, May 16th, 1913

Books and Papers in Phagan Case in Grand Jury's Hands Atlanta JournalFriday, May 16th, 1913 Two Employes of Pencil Company Appeared Before Grand Jury Friday in Answer to Subpenas FELDER RAISING FUND TO PAY W. J. BURNS The Journal Subscribes $100, Mr. Felder Declares a Burns Investigator Will Be Put On the Case at Once By means of a subpoena duces tecum Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey Friday obtained possession of a number of books and papers of the National Pencil company. The subpoena was served on Herbert G. Schiff and M. B. Darley, two officials of the pencil company,

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