Leo Frank TV

MISS MYRTICE CATO AND MISS MAGGIE GRIFFIN, Sworn In For The State, 160th To Testify

MISS MYRTICE CATO and MISS MAGGIE GRIFFIN, both sworn for the State, testified that they had seen Miss Rebecca Carson...
Read More

S L ASHER, Sworn In For The Defendant, 200th To Testify

S. L. ASHER, sworn for the Defendant in sur-rebuttal.About two weeks ago I was coming to town between 5 and...
Read More

N SINKOVITZ, Sworn In For The Defendant, 199th To Testify

N. SINKOVITZ, sworn for the Defendant, in sur-rebuttal.I am a pawnbroker. I know M. E. Mc Coy. He has pawned...
Read More

MISS C S HAAS, Sworn In For The Defendant, 198th To Testify

MISS C. S. HAAS, sworn for the Defendant, in sur-rebuttal.I heard Kendley two weeks ago talk about the Frank case...
Read More

M E STAHL, Sworn In For The Defendant, 197th To Testify

M. E. STAHL, sworn for the Defendant, in sur-rebuttal.I have heard George Kendley, the conductor, express his feelings toward Leo...
Read More

T Y BRENT, Sworn In For The Defendant, 196th To Testify

T. Y. BRENT, sworn for the Defendant in sur-rebuttal.I have heard George Kendley on several occasions express himself very bitterly...
Read More

DR JOHN FUNK, Sworn In For The State, 195th To Testify

DR. JOHN FUNK, sworn for the State in rebuttal.I am professor of pathology and bacteriologist. I was shown by Dr....
Read More

DR GEORGE M NILES, Sworn In For The State, 194th To Testify

DR. GEORGE M. NILES, sworn for the State in rebuttal.I confine my work to diseases of digestion. Every healthy stomach...
Read More

DR CLARENCE JOHNSON, Sworn In For The State, 193rd To Testify

DR. CLARENCE JOHNSON, sworn for the State in rebuttal.I am a specialist on diseases of the stomach and intestines. I...
Read More

J N STARNES, Sworn In For The State, 192nd To Testify

J. N. STARNES, sworn for the State in rebuttal.There were no spots around the scuttle hole where the ladder is...
Read More

Sunday, 3rd August 1913 Fixing Hour of Girl’s Death Through Aid of Modern Science The Prosecution’s Greatest Aid

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 3rd, 1913 By Britt Craig. When Mrs. J. W. Coleman, mother of Mary Phagan, related a simple story on the witness stand the first day of the Frank trial of the slain child's frugal meal of cabbage and biscuit which she ate upon leaving home that fateful day, she paved the way for the most thrilling development thus far in the entire case. Her story was as devoid of thrills as any yet told. It was an ordinary recitation of a common meal and told in the mother's plain, simple manner. Had she not broke into tears her

Sunday, 3rd August 1913 Finding of Dead Girl’s Parasol is Told by Policeman Lasseter

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 3rd, 1913 Following Chief Beavers the name of Detective Bass Rosser was then called, but he was not present and Policeman R. F. Lasseter was put on the stand. "Did you go to the National Pencil factory on Sunday morning, April 27?""Yes." "Did you ever see this parasol before?" asked the solicitor, holding up the which was found in the elevator shaft and identified as Mary Phagan's. "Yes, I found it that morning at the bottom of the shaft." "What else did you find? Any other wearing apparel?" "No." "Well, did you find anything else?""Yes, some twine.""You saw

Sunday, 3rd August 1913 Dorsey Pleased With Progress

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 3rd, 1913 Solicitor Will Put Dr. Roy Harris on the Stand Again on Next Tuesday Afternoon. While Solicitor Hugh M. Dorsey declined to make an expression of what he believed would be the outcome of the case against Leo M. Frank, which he has been prosecuting all the week, he expressed himself yesterday afternoon as thoroughly satisfied with the present progress. The solicitor held an extended conference immediately after court adjourned with his assistant, E. A. Stephens, and with Attorney Frank A. Hooper, who is aiding him, and together with the lawyers went over what had been done

Sunday, 3rd August 1913 Detective Waggoner Describes Extreme Nervousness of Frank

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 3rd, 1913 City Detective D. L. Waggoner was called to the stand following Miss Ferguson Attorney Rosser immediately raised the objection that he had been in the court room and the solicitor declared that he did not know whether or not the detective had Waggoner stated that he was present for about 20 minutes Wednesday. "He was not sworn and put under the rule," explained Solicitor Dorsey, "because I did not know that I would need him." The defense made no further objection and the examination began. "How long have you been on the force, Mr. Waggoner?" the

Sunday, 3rd August 1913 Condition of Girl’s Body Described by Dr. J. W. Hurt

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 3rd, 1913 Dr. J. W. Hurt, county physician, who examined the body of Mary Phagan, took the stand following Detective Waggoner. Dr. Hurt not only made an examination on the Sunday morning that the body was found, but he was present several days later when the girl's body was disinterred at Marietta by Dr. Roy Harris. "How long have you been a physician?" asked Solicitor Dorsey after he had put the formal questions to establish the physician's connection with the case. "Since 1884." "What are your duties as county physician?""To attend all inquests and examine the bodies of

Sunday, 3rd August 1913 Chief Beavers Tells of Seeing Blood Spots on Factory Floor

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 3rd, 1913 Police Chief James L. Beavers followed Dr. Hurt upon the witness stand. Mr. Rosser immediately asked him if he had been in the courtroom, as he had not been named by the state when other witnesses were named, sworn and put under the rule. He replied that he had for a short time and Mr. Dorsey explained that in the beginning of the case he had no intention of using him. "Were you present at the National Pencil factory on the Monday following the finding of the dead girl?" asked Mr. Dorsey. "I was there not

Sunday, 3rd August 1913 Break in the Frank Trial May Come With the Hearing Of Jim Conley’s Testimony

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 3rd, 1913 By Britt Craig. Jim Conley isn't a cornfield negro—he's more of the present day type of city darkey—and that's the only difference between him and Newt Lee. Outside of that there is but little variance. However, Jim's ancestors hewd cotton and plowed bottom lands long before Jim had an idea of existing. He's got the good old country strain in him and he's as black as tar. Some folks say he'll make a witness as good as Newt, and others say he won't. That all remains to be seen. One thing is sure: There'll be plenty

Saturday, 2nd August 1913 Women and Girls Thronging Court for Trial of Leo Frank

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 2nd, 1913 Fully one-fourth of the big audience at yesterday afternoon's session of the Frank trial was composed of women and girls. It was the largest crowd of the entire case, and, to the credit of Deputy Sheriff Miner and his force, was handled more effectively than at any preceding session. There were many strange faces. The women sat in conspicuous seats, fighting many times to obtain a location in view of the witness stand and the tables at which sat the state's lawyers and counsel for the defense. Many were small girls, especially one, who did not

Saturday, 2nd August 1913 Stenographer Parry Identifies Notes Taken at Phagan Inquest

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 2nd, 1913 Stenographer Parry, the official court stenographer, was next called to the stand to identify a number of notes he took at the coroner's inquest held in police headquarters shortly after Frank's arrest. He was asked by Solicitor Dorsey: "Did you report the coroner's inquest over the body of Mary Phagan?" "Yes." "Did you take a statement from Leo Frank?""Yes." The solicitor showed the stenographer's notes. "Is that your report?""Yes." "Is it correct?""It is correct to the best of my ability.""You are an expert?""I am a man of twenty-five years' experience."Attorney Rosser took the examination: "Look at

Saturday, 2nd August 1913 Startling Statements Made During Testimony of Dr. Harris

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 2nd, 1913 Making the startling declaration that Mary Phagan had been killed within thirty or forty-five minutes after she had eaten dinner, Dr. Roy F. Harris, state chemist, took the stand during the afternoon session yesterday. It was Dr. Harris who made the autopsy upon the body when it was disinterred in Marietta on May 5. He brought with him into court specimens of predigested cabbage which had been removed from the slain girl's stomach. He also testified to the effect that the girl had suffered violence before death and recited the condition in which he had found

Saturday, 2nd August 1913 Policeman W. F. Anderson Tells of Newt Lee’s Telephone Call

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 2nd, 1913 W. F. Anderson, the policeman who answered the telephone when Newt Lee called police headquarters on the morning of the discovery and who went with the police squad to the scene, was next called to the stand. "About 3 o'clock on the morning of April 26 where were you?" he was asked by the solicitor. "At police headquarters." "Did you have a telephone call about that time?" "A man called from the National Pencil factory and said a woman had been killed. I asked was it a white woman or negro, and he answered that she

Saturday, 2nd August 1913 Negro Lurking in Factory Seen by Wife of Employee

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 2nd, 1913 Mrs. Maggie White, wife of John Arthur White, who was at work on the fourth floor of the National Pencil factory part of the day upon which Mary Phagan was killed, was the first witness the state called to the stand Thursday morning in the Frank trial. The witness told of going to the factory twice on that day to see her husband, and of seeing Frank on both occasions, and also of seeing a negro lurking behind some boxes on the first floor. "How long has your husband been working for the National Pencil factory?"

Saturday, 2nd August 1913 Mary Phagan Murdered Within Hour After Dinner

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 2nd, 1913 DR. H. F. HARRIS GIVES STARTLING EVIDENCE ABOUT TIME OF MURDER Wound on Eye of Girl Victim of Pencil Factory Crime Looked as if It Came From Blow of Fist, Secretary of State Board of Health Tells the Jurymen. WHILE ON THE STAND DR. HARRIS COLLAPSES FROM RECENT ILLNESS Frequent Clashes Take Place During Testimony of N. V. Darley, Assistant Superintendent of National Pencil Factory, Over the Alleged Nervousness of Frank. Within three-quarters of an hour after she had eaten her frugal breakfast of cabbage and bread, Mary Phagan was dead. This startling fact was brought

Saturday, 2nd August 1913 Husband of Minola McKnight Describes Movements of Frank

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 2nd, 1913 Albert McKnight, colored, the husband of Minola McKnight, who made a startling affidavit for the police in regard to circumstances at the Frank home on the night of the murder, followed Febuary to the stand. "What is your wife's name?" the solicitor asked. "Minola McKnight." "What does she do?""Cooks at Mrs. Selig's home.""How long has she held that place?" "For two years.""Where were you about 1 o'clock on the afternoon of April 26?" Saw Frank April 26. "I was at Mr. Frank's home."(The Franks have been living with the Seligs, Mrs. Frank's parents.) "Did you see

Saturday, 2nd August 1913 Gay Febuary Tells Frank Jury About Statement Prisoner Made

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 2nd, 1913 Gay C. Febuary, secretary to Chief Newport A. Lanford, of the detective bureau, and recent figure in the sensational dictagraph episode, was called to the stand to testify to a statement made by Leo Frank on April 26 in Chief Lanford's office. It was during Febuary's testimony that Frank's statement was permitted to be produced before the jury. It was read by Attorney Stephens, an associate of Solicitor Dorsey. Mr. Dorsey questioned Febuary: "You were present at Lanford's office when Frank and Luther Z. Rosser were there?""Yes.""Do you remember having made stenographic report of a statement

Saturday, 2nd August 1913 Frequent and Angry Clashes Between Attorneys Mark the Hearing of Darley’s Testimony

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 2nd, 1913 N. V. Darley, mechanical head of the National Pencil factory and directly in charge of the Georgia Cedar company, an adjunct concern, was put on the stand by the state, after Mrs. White had finished. "How long have you been with the company, and are you still employed here?" asked Solicitor Dorsey. "I've been there about five years, and am still employed there." "Who is your immediate superior?" "I consider Sig Montag my immediate superior," he replied. "What is your relation to Frank?" "We are co-laborers, on an equal basis." "With whom do you more often

Friday, 1st August 1913 William Gheesling, Embalmer, Tells of Wounds on Girl’s Body

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 William Gheesling, the undertaker who embalmed Mary Phagan's body, was next called in. "What is your business?" queried Solicitor Dorsey. "I am an embalmer." "How long have you been in that advice?" "Fifteen years, or more." "Did you see the body of Mary Phagan?" "Yes, I first saw it at 15 minutes to 4 on the morning of April 27." "Where was it?" "In the basement of the National Pencil factory." "Describe it." How Body Was Lying. "It was lying on the face, arms crossed, and with a piece of wrapping twine and part of her

Friday, 1st August 1913 Sweeper Swears No Spots Were on Floor Day Before Murder

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 Mel Stanford, a sweeper and plater at the factory, was put on the stand at 12:20. He testified that he had worked there for about two years and was there on Friday, April 25, on the second floor. "What did you do on Friday?" asked the solicitor. "I swept up the entire floor in the metal room." "Were you there Monday, April 28?" "Yes." "See anything at water cooler near girls' dressing room?" "Yes; a spot which had a white substance over it." "Was it there Friday?" "It was not there when I swept the floor

Friday, 1st August 1913 Mrs. Arthur White Takes Stand Today

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 Will Testify She Saw Negro Idling in Shadows of Stairway. Mrs. Arthur White, wife of Arthur White, the witness who will testify that on Saturday morning when she appeared at the pencil factory to see her husband, she saw a negro idling in the shadows of the stairway on the first floor, will be the first called to the stand this morning. A moment before adjournment yesterday afternoon she was summoned to testify, but Judge Roan ordered the session closed before she could reach the witness stand. Mrs. White, it is stated, has already declared that

Friday, 1st August 1913 Leo Frank Innocent, Says Mrs. Appelbaum

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 Acquitted in Same Courtroom, She Is Now Eager Spectator at Big Trial. A little woman, neatly dressed and wearing a dark hat crowned with a flowing aigrette, slipped quietly into the rear of the courtroom at the afternoon session of the Frank trial yesterday afternoon, and sat down near the press table unnoticed. Presently, a reporter looked up from his notes, caught sight of her and instantly walked to where she sat. Soon reporters swarmed around her. The press table and trial proceedings were almost deserted for the moment by the Fourth Estate. She was Mrs.

Friday, 1st August 1913 Defense Not Helped by Witnesses Accused of Entrapping the State

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianAugust 1st, 1913 By JAMES B. NEVIN. Has the State succeeded in thoroughly establishing the fact that little Mary Phagan's tragic death was effected on the second floor of the National Pencil Factory, in Forsyth street? It has not, of course—but it has set up by competent evidence a number of suspicious circumstances, which, if properly sustained later along, will prove damaging in the extreme to Leo Frank. Unless these circumstances, trivial in some aspects, are braced up and backed up, however, by other much stronger circumstances, they will give the jury, in all probability, little concern in arriving

Friday, 1st August 1913 Conley Takes Stand Saturday

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianAugust 1st, 1913 Lawyers Wrangle Over Frank's Nervousness DORSEY WINS POINT AS ROSSER BATTLES TO DEFEND ACCUSED Jim Conley, accuser of Leo Frank, will take the stand Saturday morning, according to all indications Friday, to repeat the remarkable story he told concerning his part in the disposition of the body of Mary Phagan and undergo the merciless grilling of the defense. Solicitor General Dorsey said that he expected to have his case completed by Saturday night and police, believing he will call the negro to-morrow, had him shaved and cleaned up and in readiness for his appearance. Regardless of

Thursday, 31st July 1913 State Balloon Soars When Dorsey, Roiled, Cries ‘Plant’

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 31st, 1913 By JAMES B. NEVIN. Poor John Black! With this unwitting assistance of the Solicitor General and the assistance of Luther Rosser, he furnished all the "punch" there was in Wednesday's story of the Frank trial. Black evidently was undertaking to tell the truth, and was unwilling to tell more or less than the truth, but that didn't help matters much, so far as the State was concerned. When Solicitor Dorsey exclaimed "plant!"—which means nothing more than "faked" or "framed up" evidence for the benefit of the defense—I glanced rapidly at Rosser. I saw precisely what I

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Scott Trapped Us, Dorsey Charges; Pinkerton Man Is Also Attacked by the Defense

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 31st, 1913 FRANK NOT IN OFFICE JUST AFTER 12 ON DAY OF SLAYING, SAYS GIRL The deliberate charge that he had been "trapped" by Pinkerton Detective Harry Scott was made by Solicitor Dorsey at the trial of Leo M. Frank Thursday. Scott played a curious part in the trial, being attacked by both sides. He was given the same fiery baptism that annihilated City Detective Black the day before, but he passed through the ordeal in much better shape than his brother detective. Scott left the stand at 11 o'clock and Miss Monteen Stover was called. The Stover

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Red Bandanna, a Jackknife and Plennie Minor Preserve Order

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 31st, 1913 He Raps With the Barlow Blade and Waves the Oriflamed Kerchief Judiciously. Plennie Minor, chief deputy sheriff, has a man's sized job on his hands and he handles it with the aid of a red bandanna handkerchief and a pocketknife. More formidable armament has been invented, but the oriflammed kerchief and the barlow blade are all that Plennie Miner requires to perform a duty that many would deem arduous, all of which shows that the deputy sheriff is a man of resource and ability. It is his job to keep order in Judge Roan's courtroom, while

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Holloway Accused by Solicitor Dorsey of Entrapping State

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 31st, 1913 Here are the important developments of Thursday in the trial of Leo M. Frank: Harry Scott, Pinkerton detective, is accused of having "trapped" the prosecution by Solicitor Dorsey, when he testifies that Frank was not nervous when he first saw him. He is fiercely grilled by the defense after having testified to finding blood spots on the second floor, wiped over with a white substance. He testifies in addition that Herbert Haas, attorney for Frank, asked him to give him reports on his investigations before he gave them to the police and that he refused. He

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Crimson Trail Leads Crowd to Courtroom Sidewalk

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 31st, 1913 By L. F. WOODRUFF. The sun's heat is broiling. No man can stand it without suffering. And still men stand, not one man, but scores of them, on a blistered pavement gazing on a red brick building as unsightly as a gorgon's head and look at nothing by the hour. They are led there by a trail of crimson, and they are held there by the carmine charm that—since Cain committed his deed of fratricide—has made murder the deed that the law most severely punishes and has made it the act that most interests man. Go

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Collapse of Testimony of Black and Hix Girl’s Story Big Aid to Frank

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 31st, 1913 Although the State's witnesses were on the stand all of Wednesday the day was distinctly favorable for Frank, partly because nothing distinctly unfavorable was developed against him—the burden of proof being upon the State—but most largely because of two other factors, the utter collapse of the testimony of one of the State's star witnesses, City Detective John Black, and the testimony in favor of Frank that was given by another of the State's witnesses, Miss Grace Hix, a 16-year-old factory employee. Girl Helps Frank. Miss Hix testified that the strands of hair found on the lathing

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 Rosser’s Examination of Lee Just a Shot in Dark; Hoped to Start Quarry

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 30th, 1913 By JAMES B. NEVIN. If Mr. Luther Z. Rosser's bite is one-half so dangerous as his growl undoubtedly is disconcerting and awe-inspiring, there will be little save shreds and patches of the prosecution left when the State comes eventually to sum up its case against Leo Frank. Rosser's examination of Newt Lee was one of the most nerve racking and interesting I ever listened to. It reminded me much of a big mastiff worrying and teasing a huge brown rat, and grimly bent eventually upon the rat's utter annihilation. A witness up against one of Rosser's

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 Gantt Has Startling Evidence; Dorsey Promises New Testimony Against Frank

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 30th, 1913 STATE ADDS NEW LINK TO EVIDENCE CHAIN BY BOOTS ROGERS' STORY Sensational testimony by J. M. Gantt, discharged pencil factory employee, was promised Wednesday by Solicitor Dorsey and Frank A. Hooper, who is assisting him. They admitted that Gantt had testimony that had never before been published and would be one of the State's most material and direct witnesses. The defense has heard that Gantt will testify he saw Frank and Conley together on the day of the crime. Gantt was expected to follow Grace Hicks on the stand. The State added another link in the

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 Frank’s Mother Pitiful Figure of the Trial

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 30th, 1913 Defendant Perfect in Poise, His Wife Picture of Contemptuous Confidence. By L. F. WOODRUFF. Arm akimbo; glasses firmly set, changing position seldom, Leo M. Frank sits through his trial with his thoughts in Kamchatka, Terra del Fuego, or the Antipodes, so far as the spectators in the courtroom can judge. He may realize that if the twelve men he faces decide that he is guilty of the murder of Mary Phagan, the decree of earthly court will be that his sole hope of the future will be an appeal to the Court on High. His mind

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 Flashes of Tragedy Pierce Legal Tilts at Frank Trial

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 30th, 1913 By O. B. KEELER. The trouble is, plain human emotions won't stick at concert pitch all the time. And so the Frank trial, after the first twenty minutes, say, becomes much like any other trial. Except in the flashes. You get into the courtroom with some formality. At once you are in the midst of order. It is rather ponderous, made-to-order order. But it is order. Officials stalk about, walking on the balls of their feet, like pussy cats. But they do not purr. They request you to be seated. You must not stand up; you

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 Defense Plans Sensation, Line of Queries Indicates

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 30th, 1913 That a sensation is be sprung by the defense by the production of the mysteriously missing ribbon and flowers from the hat of the murdered girl was repeatedly indicated by Attorney Rosser's line of questioning Tuesday and the afternoon before. Beginning with Mrs. J. W. Coleman, mother of Mary Phagan, the attorney for Frank interrogated every witness who saw the girl alive or dead that day in regard to the ribbon and flowers. Mrs. Coleman said that the ribbon and flowers were on the hat when Mary left home. Newt Lee said that he had seen

Tuesday, 29th July 1913 Tragedy, Ages Old, Lurks in Commonplace Court Setting

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 29th, 1913 Outwardly Quiet and Singularly Lacking in Excitement, Frank Trial is Enactment of Grim Drama. By JAMES B. NEVIN. One of the most commonplace things in the world—crime—is riveting the attention of Atlanta and Georgia to-day. Crime is almost as commonplace as death—and yet death, in a thousand ways, never is commonplace at all. If I were a stranger in Atlanta and should walk into the courthouse where Leo Frank is being tried for the murder of Mary Phagan, doubtless I should be utterly astounded to discover what I had walked into. That pale-faced, slight, boyish-looking party

Tuesday, 29th July 1913 Lee’s Quaint Answers Rob Leo Frank’s Trial of All Signs of Rancor

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 29th, 1913 By L. F. Woodruff A page was ripped from a story of Harris Dickson. "Old Reliable" was paraded in the life in as somber a setting as was ever conceived and the temper of the audience that is following the fortunes of Leo Frank through his struggle for life and liberty was revealed. Some sinister things have been said of the spirit of Atlanta in reference to the trial of the pencil factory superintendent as the slayer of Mary Phagan. It was whispered once that the law would not be allowed to take its course, but

Tuesday, 29th July 1913 Defense Wins Point After Fierce Lawyers’ Clash

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 29th, 1913 STATE TRIES TO SHOW GIRL WAS STRANGLED ON THE SECOND FLOOR Here are Tuesday's important developments in the trial of Leo M. Frank on the charge of murdering Mary Phagan in the National Pencil Factory, Saturday, April 26. Newt Lee, negro night watchman at the pencil factory, leaves the stand after four hours and forty minutes of examination and cross-examination with the essential points of his story unshaken. Efforts to discredit the negro's story result only in showing several discrepancies in the story he told before the Coroner's jury and his testimony on the stand at

Tuesday, 29th July 1913 After Rosser’s Fierce Grilling All Negro, Newt Lee, Asked for Was Chew or Bacca-AnyKind

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 29th, 1913 He Looks Like a Negro, He Talks Like a Negro, and He Has the Will and the Manner of Darkies in Old-Time Slavery Days—Was on the Stand Three Hours Tuesday Morning "All I wanted was a chew of ‘bacca. Yes, sir, dat was all," said Newt Lee after he had testified for three hours Tuesday morning at the Frank trial, had answered question upon question, had experienced all the exquisite delights of a real cross-examination. "I can't say I was tired. Naw, sir, not ‘zactly that I jes' needed the ‘bacca. Soon as I left the

Monday, 28th July 1913 Mary Phagan’s Mother Testifies

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 28th, 1913 Newt Lee Repeats His Story in Court Room Negro Watchman Swears Frank Acted Oddly Day of Crime Here are the important developments in the trial of Leo M. Frank for the murder of Mary Phagan. Jury chosen at 1:30 p. m. Mrs. Coleman, girl's mother, takes stand after recess, at 3:15, and tells of Mary leaving for the factory 11:45 a. m. on April 26. George W. Epps, boy companion of Mary Phagan, repeats his story that he had an engagement to meet her on the afternoon of the fatal day. Newt Lee, night watchman at

Monday, 28th July 1913 Jury Complete to Try Frank

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 28th, 1913 Wife Helps Prisoner Pick Men to Try Him All in Readiness for Real Trial to Begin After Short Recess Events on the opening day of the trial of Leo M. Frank, accused of the slaying of Mary Phagan in the National Pencil Factory, moved with such unexpected swiftness that it was apparent that the trial proper would be under way and the first witnesses called before the close of the first day's session. The jury had been completed by the time recess was taken at 1:30. After a few preliminary clashes between the opposing attorneys which

Monday, 28th July 1913 Frank Jury

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 28th, 1913 Here is the Frank jury complete: A. H. Henslee, 74 Oak street; salesman. F. V. L. Smith, 481 Cherokee avenue, manufacturer's agent. J. F. Higdon, 108 Ormewood avenue. F. E. Winburn, 213 Lucile avenue, claim agent. A. L. Wisbey, 31 Hood street, cashier of the Buckeye Oil Company. W. M. Jeffries, a real estate man, with offices at 318 Empire building. Marcellus Johemming, 161 James street, a machine shop foreman with offices at 281 Marietta street. M. L. Woodward, cashier King Hardware Company, 182 Park avenue. J. T. Osburn, an optician for A. K. Hawkes, was

Monday, 28th July 1913 Frank, Feeling Tiptop, Smiling and Confident, is Up Long Before Trial

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 28th, 1913 Frank was escorted from the Tower to the courthouse shortly after 6 o'clock in the morning, nearly three hours before the trial was schedule to begin. This was done to avoid the curious crowd which it was expected would be about the courthouse and thronging the corridors at 9 o'clock. Frank was up and dressed and freshly shaven when Deputy Sheriff Plennie Miner appeared before his cell at the early hour. "How are you feeling this morning Mr. Frank?" the deputy inquired. "Tip top, only, I'm mighty hungry," replied Frank. Exhibiting the same poised confidence that

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Work of Choosing Jury for Trial of Frank Difficult

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 Veniremen Searchingly Examined by Both State and Defense Slightest Objection Used to Disqualify—Attorneys Shrewdly Gauge Candidates from Every Angle. In the selection of the twelve men to comprise the jury which will try Leo M. Frank for the murder of Mary Phagan, one of the bitterest contests of the great legal battle which begins Monday is anticipated. That counsel for both the defense and State will probe deep into the character of each of the men drawn from the venire of 144 who take the stand for examination for jury service in this

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Venire Whipped Into Shape Rapidly; Negro Is Eligible

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 Within a minute or two after Deputy Sheriff Plennie Minor had called the court to order the examination process was applied to the venire panel of 144 men. From each panel of twelve one or more men were excused after being asked the formal questions and furnished a sufficient reason to bar them. J. H. Jones, Deputy Clerk, called the names. F. W. Stone, No. 82 East Linden street, was excused on account of illness. R. F. Shedden was refused on an excuse of military exemption. Only one man was excused from the

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Trial to Surpass in Interest Any in Fulton County History

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 No murder trial in Fulton County ever has approached the spectacular interest which is in prospect in the Frank case from the first, sharp skirmish between the opposing attorneys, through the long, bitter legal battle, and to the final pleas of the prosecution and the defense. The presence of Luther Z. Rosser and Reuben R. Arnold in the brilliant array of legal talent at once made certain that the trial would be out of the ordinary. Neither has the reputation of making a half-hearted fight when there is anything at stake. This time

Sunday, 27th July 1913 State Bolsters Conley

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 Solves Discrepancies of Time Mistaken Identity To Be Plea Leo M. Frank Goes to Trial for the Slaying of Mary Phagan Monday, With Both Prosecution and the Defense Confident. All Preparations Are Made for Big Crowds—Judge Roan to Be on Bench, Despite Recent Illness—Bitter Battle Expected. Leo M. Frank will go on trial for his life to-morrow forenoon. With the beginning of the great legal battle, hardly more than 24 hours distant, it has been learned that the prosecution has overcome to its own satisfaction the greatest obstacle with which it has been

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Public Demands Frank Trial To-morrow

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 Old Police Reporter Sees No Cause for Delay Either Side Asking Postponement Will Reveal Weakness, as Time Has Been Given for Preparation. Conley Is Center of Interest. Defense Must Break Story of Negro or Face Difficult Situation. State Will Base Case on Chain of Circumstantial Evidence. By AN OLD POLICE REPORTER. The defense in the case of Leo Frank would have made a mistake, if current street comment counts for anything, had it decided to move for a continuance of the case to-morrow. Indeed, the fact that the defense even was suspected of

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Prominent Atlantans Named On Frank Trial Jury Venire

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 The venire of 144 men from which twelve will be selected to decide the fate of Leo M. Frank is considered to be one of the most representative ever drawn from a petit jury box in Fulton County. Prominent among the prospective jurors are Joel Hurt, Dr. E. L. Connally and J. W. Alexander, capitalists: David Woodward, president of the Woodward Lumber Company; George Law, of Law Brothers; R. F. Shedden, of the Mutual Life Insurance Company; Thomas D. Meador, vice president of the Lowry National Bank, and Edwin F. Johnson, advertising man.

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Pinkerton Men Brand Lanford Charges False

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 Emphatic denial of the charges by Chief of Detectives Lanford that he had kept bad faith with the city department in connection with the investigation of the murder of Mary Phagan was made by H. B. Pierce, superintendent of the Pinkerton Detective Agency in Atlanta, Saturday night. Chief Lanford's accusations against the Pinkerton official were mainly that he had withheld evidence from the city police, especially the bloodstained stick and the pay envelope of the Phagan girl, both of which were found by Pinkerton operatives on the first floor of the factory and

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Phagan Case of Peculiar And Enthralling Interest

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 As Leo Frank faces to-day the ordeal decreed by law that for man's life, man's life shall pay, interest in his case that has held Atlanta, Georgia and the South enthralled for three months has diminished not a whit since the Sunday morning the body of the little factory girl was found. Wise judges of news, men who are paid thousands of dollars each year for their knowledge of the fickleness of the public, men who can time to the second the period when interest dies in one thing before the public eye

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Frank Watches Closely as the Men Who are to Decide Fate are Picked

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 This newspaper article is a continuation from the first page of an Atlanta Georgian newspaper. The first page is missing from our archives. If any readers know where to obtain the first part of this article, we would appreciate any help! Thank you! Mary Phagan by strangulation. This was followed by the request of the defense that the State's witnesses be called, sworn and put under the rule. The prosecution opened by announcing its readiness to go on with the trial and called the list of witnesses. Bailiffs brought them down from the

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Frank Fights for Life Monday

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 Dorsey Ready to Avenge Mary Phagan Mystery of Months Is Still Unsolved Most Bitter Legal Battle in History of Atlanta Courts Is Expected—Case Will Probably Last for Weeks. After three months of mystery in the death of Mary Phagan, a climax is at hand more tense, more dramatic, more breathlessly interesting to Atlanta and all Georgia than any situation of fiction. Leo M. Frank, employer of the little girl whose tragic death, April 26, stirred a State, will be brought to trial Monday on the charge that he killed her. Frank's trial is

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Every Bit of Evidence Against Frank Sifted and Tested, Declares Solicitor

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 Solicitor-General Hugh Dorsey, who will prosecute the case against Leo M. Frank, last night gave the Sunday American the following statement: Without going into the merit of the State's case against Leo M. Frank, charged with the murder of little Mary Phagan, the possibility of a mistake having been made is very remote. To say why the State believes Frank to be guilty of this murder would be hurtful, and lay before the defense the evidence we have so carefully guarded. We have employed only the fairest methods and have accepted no evidence

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Defense Claims Conley and Lee Prepared Notes

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 Theory Is That Watchman Surprised Sweeper Attempting to Dispose of Body and Entered Into Pact. An amazing chain of evidence, laying bare the mystery of the two notes found beside the body of Mary Phagan, which have proved the most baffling of all the facts connected with the girl's murder, came to light as in the possession of the defense Saturday. According to the theory of the defense, Conley murdered the girl and was unexpectedly discovered with her body in the basement of the pencil factory by Newt Lee; that the night watchman

Sunday, 27th July 1913 Brewster Denies Aiding Dorsey in Phagan Case

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian (Hearst's Sunday American)July 27th, 1913 Colonel P. H. Brewster has written The Georgian a letter correcting a statement in The Sunday American. The letter quotes the report that Colonel Brewster had aided Mr. Dorsey, and proceeds: "Where such information could have been obtained I can not understand, since it is absolutely false. "I have had nothing whatever to do with the Frank case. My advice has not been even sought as to any question involved in the case, nor have I volunteered it, and I have prepared no briefs on any phase of the case. Mr. Dorsey, the

Saturday, 26th July 1913 Present New Evidence Against Frank

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 26th, 1913 Both Sides Hide Vital Phagan Facts State's Prosecutor Shrouds Identity and Stories of Scores of Witnesses in Secrecy. Prosecution and defense continued their preparations for the Frank trial Saturday, the last-hour hurry of interviewing new witnesses and gathering up the stray ends of evidence giving a fair promise that the trial will start as scheduled next Monday forenoon. That Solicitor Dorsey has nearly a score of important witnesses whose testimony has been carefully guarded from the defense and the general public is well known. These witnesses have come to his office from time to time, and

Saturday, 26th July 1913 Pinkerton Chief Scored by Lanford

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 26th, 1913 Says Pierce Broke His Promise Detective Head Also Asserts Phagan Evidence Private Sleuth Unearthed Was Plant. Chief of Detectives Lanford roundly scored H. B. Pierce, head of the Pinkerton Detective Agency in Atlanta, Saturday for what he termed questionable procedure in connection with the Phagan murder investigation. When application was made by the agency for permission to operate in Atlanta and the matter was under consideration by the Police Board, the promise was made that the Pinkerton's would work in harmony with the city detective department and would co-operate in the apprehension of criminals. This promise,

Saturday, 26th July 1913 Chapter 5 in Phagan Case

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 26th, 1913 The Negro Conley's Confession That He Was Frank's Accomplice and Events Leading Up to Trial. Chapter VI. "He (Leo Frank) told me that he had picked up a girl back there and had let her fall, and that her head had hit against something—he didn't what it was—and for me to move her, and I hollered and told him the girl was dead." With this startling accusation Jim Conley introduced his third confession. Under the rack of a merciless third degree, continued through the long afternoon of May 29, he weakened or became desperate toward the

Friday, 25th July 1913 Witnesses for Frank Called

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 25th, 1913 Despite Judge's Statement All Is In Readiness, Move for Postponement Is Expected. Despite the fact that Superior Judge L. S. Roan stated everything was in readiness for the trial of Leo M. Frank next Monday, that State's Attorney Hugh M. Dorsey has announced he will fight a delay, and that the defense actually commenced summoning witnesses, the impression still prevailed Friday that a motion for continuance would be made by the defense when the case is opened. Attorneys Luther Rosser and Reuben R. Arnold, declined flatly to say whether they would permit the trial to proceed

Thursday, 24th July 1913 Third Chapter in Phagan Mystery

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 24th, 1913 Arrests of Suspects in the Factory Slaying. Sensation as Leo Frank, Manager Was Taken Into Custody. CHAPTER III. Everything that occurred, trivial or important, during those first few days after the body of little Mary Phagan was discovered in the pencil factory basement took on a dramatic aspect. The people were keyed to so high a pitch by the revolting crime that for for a time it seemed to require only a spark to fire them to violent deeds. Let a strange person so much as appear at the police station to confer with Chief of

Friday, 1st August 1913 Frank’s Presence in Office at Time He Says He Was There is Denied by Girl on Stand

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 Following the Pinkerton detective testimony the state introduced Miss Monteen Stover, who worked in the factory when Mary Phagan did. The girl was rather abashed when she first appeared, but turned out to be a witness who could relate exactly what she started out to tell and who did not seem to get confused. "Where do you work?" asked the solicitor of the girl. "Nowhere." "Were you work on April 26?" "No." "When did you last work before the murder?" "On the Monday before the murder," she answered. "Were you in the factory on April 26?"

Friday, 1st August 1913 Attorneys for Both Sides Riled by Scott’s Testimony; Replies Cause Lively Tilts

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 When court convened on Thursday morning, J. M. Gantt, formerly employed in the bookkeeping department of the National Pencil factory, was placed on the stand for two questions, and he was followed by Harry Scott, Pinkerton detective, who worked as a partner of John R. Black, of the city detectives, in searching for the murder of Mary Phagan. Solicitor Hugh Dorsey had Gantt swear that he was arrested on April 28 and hold until the following Thursday. During Scott's testimony, there were lively tilts of all sorts. At one time Scott became angry with the solicitor

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Detective Black Muddled By Keen Cross-Examination Of Attorneys for Defense

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 31st, 1913 Detective John R. Black, the officer who went in Rogers' machine from the factory to Frank's residence on the Sunday morning that Mary Phagan's body was discovered, was next put up by the state. He took the stand at 11:45 o'clock, and was still there when court adjourned for lunch. In answers to Solicitor Dorsey's questions he said he had been on the police force for six years and previous to that had worked as n cooper for the Atlanta Brewing and Ice company. "Do you know any of the directors of this company?" began the

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 Mother and Daughter in Tears As Clothing of Mary Phagan Is Exhibited in Courtroom

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 30th, 1913 Solicitor Dorsey stood before Detective Starnes at the witness box yesterday afternoon and held to view a lavender frock with a bit of pink ribbon at each shoulder. In the hand that was lowered at his side he held a wee slipper. "Do you recognize this dress?" he put to the witness. "I do." "To whom did it belong?" "To Mary Phagan, the girl who was killed in the National Pencil factory." Mother and Daughter Sob. A moist-eyed woman, gray beginning to fleck her hair and betray her fifty years looked sadly upon the articles in

Friday, 1st August 1913 Holloway Denies Affidavit He Signed for Solicitor

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 NEW TESTIMONY GIVEN AT TRIAL OF LEO M. FRANK BY R. B. BARRETT Machinist at Pencil Factory Tells Jury of Discovery of Murdered Girl's Pay Envelope and of Strands of Hair Near Her Machine in Metal Room on Second Floor. HENRY SCOTT PUZZLES BOTH SIDES OF CASE BY EVIDENCE THURSDAY E. L. Holloway, Who Swore in Affidavit That Elevator Was Closed on Saturday, the Day of the Murder, Admits on Stand That He Was Mistaken—"I've Been Trapped," Cries Dorsey. The first piece of new testimony of any importance which has developed since the beginning of the

Friday, 1st August 1913 Haslett Describes Visit to Home of Leo Frank

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 Detective B. B. Haslett, who went with Detective John Black on Monday morning, April 27, to Leo Frank's home to summon him to police headquarters for a statement Chief Lanford wished him to give, was next called to the stand. "Did you go to Leo Frank's home at any time?" the solicitor asked. "Yes. At 7 o'clock Monday morning we were sent to see Frank and have him come to the detective bureau." "What did you tell him?" "That Lanford wanted to see him." "Do you know whether he was liberated or not?" "Yes." "When you

Friday, 1st August 1913 Finding of Hair and Envelope Described by Factory Machinist

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 R. B. Barrett, a machinist at the National Pencil factory, who declares that he found strands of hair similar to Mary Phagan's on his machine after the murder, and who also told of finding a torn piece of pay envelope in the same room and under the machine where the hair was found, followed Monteen Stover on the stand. He was asked if he had testified before the coroner's and the grand jury, and replied that he had. "What did you see near Mary Phagan's machine?" "A peculiar spot on the floor," he replied. "Was the

Friday, 1st August 1913 E. F. Holloway Testimony

Has Audio

The article below is just a piece of the printed testimony of E. F. Holloway from the Atlanta Constitution. Unfortunately, most of the beginning part of this article is missing from our archives. Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 "Who was the next man?" "Mr. Darley." "Who was the next man or woman?" "Mattie Smith." "Did you turn the building over to Newt Lee?" "Yes." "How many negroes worked in the building?" "Seven or eight." Always Sweeping. "Did you ever hear of a man named Stanford who had a mania for sweeping out and couldn't stop until he had swept the whole

Friday, 1st August 1913 Blood Found by Dr. Smith on Chips and Lee’s Shirt

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionAugust 1st, 1913 Dr. Claude A. Smith, the medical expert who made microscopic examinations of the blood-spotted chips chiseled from the floor of the pencil factory and of the bloody shirt discovered in Newt Lee's home, was next called in. He was asked by Solicitor Dorsey: "What is your business?" "I am city bacteriologist and chemist." He was handed the chips from the pencil factory flooring. "Did you test these chips?" "Yes. Some detectives brought me these specimens and asked me to examine them. They were considerably dirty and stained. On one of them I found blood corpuscles." "Was

Thursday, 31st July 1913 William Gheesling First Witness Today

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 31st, 1913 Harry Scott, Pinkerton Detective Will Also Be Called to Stand During Day William Gheesling, the P. J. Bloomfield undertaking attachee who made the first examination and emblamed the body of Mary Phagan will probably be the first witness called to the stand in the Frank trial this morning. He will be followed by Harry Scott, the Pinkerton detectives who worked with Detective John Black in the murder investigation and who engineered the third degree which resulted in Jim Conley's confession. Dr. Hurt, county physician who made the medical examination upon the corpse and who it is

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Rogers on Stand Describes Visit of Frank to Undertakers

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 31st, 1913 When court convened and before the jury had been brought in Attorney Luther Rosser entered an objection to the drawing of the pencil factory which Solicitor Hugh M. Dorsey had rehung upon the wall after removing the descriptive lines. Objection had previously been made to the lines and the solicitor had caused these to be erased. Attorney Rosser and his colleague Reuben Arnold declared that the dotted lines which shows the state's theory of how the girl's body was carried from the second floor to the basement were not part of the building and hence were

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Mrs. Coleman Is Recalled To Identify Mary’s Handbag

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 31st, 1913 Mrs. J. W. Coleman was recalled to the stand for only a moment's interrogation regarding the mesh handbag which she carried with her upon leaving home on the day of the tragedy. Attorney Rosser asked, "What kind of bag did Mary carry with her that day?" "A mesh bag." The solicitor asked that she describe its size and shape. Her description was that of an ordinary mesh bag, unornamented and manufactured of silver. She also identified the handkerchief and parasol as having belonged to the slain child.

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Idle and Curious Throng Court Despite Big Force of Deputies

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 31st, 1913 In spite of the largest force of deputies that has ever been brought together in Fulton county for a similar purpose, the greatest difficulty is being experienced in keeping out the idle and morbidly curious at the Leo M. Frank trial. A glance around the room is sufficient to show that the deputies have been imposed on. Scores of professional loafers—men who have had no visible means of support for years, and who could have possible interest in the trial—throng the room. Many women, who are in no way connected with the case either through friendship

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Gantt, Once Phagan Suspect, On Stand Wednesday Afternoon

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 31st, 1913 J. W. Gantt, who once was a suspect in the famous case, followed Mrs. Coleman to the stand at the afternoon session. "Have you ever been connected with the pencil company?" "From January 1st, 1918, until April 7, I was employed with that concern as shipping clerk. I was discharged by Mr. Frank for an alleged shortage." "Did you know Mary Phagan?" "Yes—I knew her as a little girl." "Did Leo Frank know her?" "Yes." "How do you know this?" Knew Mary Pretty Well. "On Saturday she came into the office for a time record. Frank

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Defense Riddles John Black’s Testimony

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 31st, 1913 SLEUTH CONFUSED UNDER MERCILESS CROSS-QUESTIONS OF LUTHER ROSSER Just Before He Left the Stand He Confessed That He Was "Mixed Up" and That He Could Not Recall What He Had Testified a Moment Before—Tangled on Finding Bloody Shirt. FRIENDS OF PRISONER HAVE HIGH HOPES NOW OF FAVORABLE VERDICT "Boots" Rogers, Grace Hicks, Mrs. J. W. Coleman and J. M. Gantt on Stand During Day—Mobs of Curiosity Seekers Besieging Doors to Gain Admission to Frank Trial. When Wednesday's session of the Leo M. Frank trial had come to a close, the friends of the accused were filled

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Daintily Dressed Girl Tells Of Daily Routine of Factory

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 31st, 1913 Grace Hicks, a sister-in-law of ‘Boots' Rogers, whom he carried to the factory the morning of April 27 to tell if the dead girl was an employee of the factory was put upon the witness stand by the state after Rogers had been excused. She was a daintily dressed slender girl of 17, and declared that she had worked there for the past five years. To the solicitor's questions she answered that she had known Mary Phagan for about a year at the pencil factory and that the dead girl had worked on the second floor.

Thursday, 31st July 1913 Bearing of Black and Lee Forms a Study in Contrast

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 31st, 1913 By Sidney Ormond Comparisons are odious, but to the close observer of events following the Mary Phagan murder and the trial now in progress one cannot help contrasting the impression made on the jury by Newt Lee, the negro night watchman of the National Pencil factory, and the testimony of John Black, detective, who worked up a large part of the evidence being used against Leo M. Frank by the state. It was only a short while ago that John Black, according to the statement of Lee, was ‘blunblamming' at him night and day in an

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 Three Witnesses Describe Finding Mary Phagan’s Body

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 30th, 1913 NEWT LEE STICKS TO ORIGINAL STORY DESPITE ATTEMPTS TO CONFUSE NEGRO Striking Feature of Day's Proceedings Was the Evident Effort on Part of Luther Rosser to Connect Watchman With Crime, or Show He Knew More Than He Has Told. DORSEY SAYS DEFENSE IS TRYING TO IMPEACH TESTIMONY OF STARNES Mr. Rosser Declared, However, That All He Was Trying to Do Was to Test the Memory of Detective Who Was Among First to Investigate the Murder of Mary Phagan in Factory. During the second day's proceedings of the Leo M. Frank trial the sensation for which the

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 Sergeant Dobbs Resumes Stand At Tuesday Afternoon Session

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 30th, 1913 Sergeant L. S. Dobbs took the stand again at the afternoon session. "Did you help take the girl's body from the basement?" Attorney Rosser questioned. "I was there when the undertakers came," answered the sergeant. "Who cleaned the girl's face?" "Sergeant Brown, I believe." "How?" "With a piece of paper." "How was the body removed?" "In a corpse basket." Here the examination was taken up by the solicitor general. "What is the distance from the ladder to the spot where the body was found?" "About 150 feet." Found Slipper and Hat. "Did you discover anything on

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 Officer Tells About Discovery Of Body of Girl in Basement

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 30th, 1913 Sergeant L. S. Dobbs, one of the policemen who answered Lee's call to the factory, was put on the stand, after Lee was dismissed. He told of the call at about 3:20 a. m. on April 27, and of how he and Officers Anderson and Brown, with "Boots" Rogers, an ex-county policeman, and Britt Craig, of The Constitution, went to the factory and found the body. The officer declared, among other things, that Lee was not frightened or trembling when they got there, that they had difficulty in telling at first whether the girl was white

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 First Two Days of Frank Trial Only Skirmishes Before Battle

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 30th, 1913 During the two days' progress of the Frank trial public interest has centered around the case and all eyes seemed turned to it. To date, the interest has really been in watching the struggle between the skilled attorneys who are fighting for position and whose clashes over the preliminary witnesses are merely the skirmishes of the pickets before two mighty armies come together. Thus far the interest, while to a certain extent centered on the maneuvering, has been mostly of the future tense. Every one is looking forward to what is to come. A fierce skirmish

Wednesday, 30th July 1913 Clash Comes Over Evidence Of Detective John Starnes

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 30th, 1913 When Sergeant Dobbs was called from the stand Detective J. M. Starnes, prosecutor of Frank and a detective attached to police headquarters was called in. He has been associated with the solicitor general throughout the Phagan investigation. The defense and prosecution clashed in perhaps their most spectacular battle over an attempt of Attorney Rosser to force the detective into recalling the exact words of a portion of his testimony at the coroner's inquest. An argument was advanced by both Attorneys Dorsey and Hooper and each member of Frank's counsel Attorneys Arnold and Rosser. The apparent motive

Sunday, 27th July 1913 All in Readiness for Frank’s Trial Monday Morning

Has Audio

Atlanta Constitution July 27th, 1913 Greatest Legal Battle in the History of Dixie Is the Prediction of Atlanta Attorneys ATTORNEYS FOR STATE HOLD FINAL CONFERENCE Representatives of Leo Frank Still Non-Committal About Report That Postponement May Be Asked Practically every detail for the trial of Leo M. Frank has now been completed and with the state declaring its readiness and determination to go to trial and the defense maintaining its same silence in regard to the much mooted matter of postponement every thing awaits the calling of the case at 9 o'clock Monday morning in the criminal branch of superior

Saturday, 26th July 1913 Frank’s Lawyers Ready for Trial

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 26th, 1913 They Have Started Summoning Witnesses and Are Quoted as Having Agreed to Go to Trial. That Attorneys Reuben R. Arnold and Luther Z. Rosser, representing Leo M. Frank, charged with the Mary Phagan murder, have decided to go to trial Monday when the case is called was information made public Friday from an apparently reliable source. Coupled with this, and apparently making the trial doubly sure, is the news that the defense has started summoning its witnesses and making final preparations for the actual trial. Solicitor Hugh M. Dorsey reiterated Friday his statement in regard to

Thursday, 24th July 1913 Phagan Mystery Club Examined by Experts

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 24th, 1913 Report Says That It Has Been Sent to Northern City to Be Put Under Microscope. That the bloody club found in the National Pencil factory after the murder of Mary Phagan is in some northern city undergoing microscopic examination after having been inspected by local experts, is a rumor that prevailed at police headquarters yesterday. Upon being examined by an Atlanta expert, who, it is said, declared that it would be impossible to determine whether or not the blood spots were from animal or human, the weapon was sent north for more minute examination. Frank's lawyers

Thursday, 24th July 1913 Let the Frank Trial Go On

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 24th, 1913 Leo Frank should be placed on trial Monday for the murder of Mary Phagan. The crime was committed April 26; Frank was arrested April 28; he was indicted Mary 23 and his trial set for June 30. At the suggestion of the judge in whose court the trial is to take place, a postponement was agreed on, and the date of the trial moved up to July 28. Now attempts are being made to secure another postponement. The only reason given to the public is that the weather is hot and it would be disagreeable to

Thursday, 24th July 1913 Frank Trial Delay up to Roan

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 24th, 1913 STATE READY AND WILL FIGHT A DELAY Solicitor Disappointed When Court Fails to Draw Jury Panels at Time Planned. With the belief growing that a serious effort is being made to delay the trial of Leo Frank, set for next Monday, Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey Thursday renewed his protest against further postponement in a vigorous statement, declaring the prosecution is ready with a complete case against the National Pencil Company factory head, accused of killing Mary Phagan. The trial date rests entirely with Judge Roan, who is in Covington. The drawing of the jury venire

Wednesday, 23rd July 1913 Second Chapter in Phagan Mystery

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 23rd, 1913 The Discovery of the Body of the Slain Factory Girl and Start of Hunt for Slayer. CHAPTER II. His heart pounding in superstitious fright, Newt Lee, the night watchman, forced himself to approach the strange object on the pile of debris in the pencil factory basement. A step nearer and he could make out what appeared to be a human foot. He recoiled and was on the point of precipitate flight. But he must look closer, he thought. Perhaps, after all, it was only the ghastly prank of some of the factory employees who had manufactured

Wednesday, 23rd July 1913 Lanford Ridicules Bludgeon Evidence

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 23rd, 1913 Scouts New ‘Proof' of Defense Detective Chief Scoffs at Claim of Evidence That Club Used by Negro Was Found. Chief of Detectives Newport Lanford Wednesday morning ridiculed the story that the defense of Leo M. Frank has in its possession a bloody club, alleged to have been found by two Pinkerton detectives on May 10 in the National Pencil Factory, and with which, it is reported, the defense will contend Mary Phagan was slain by James Conley, the negro sweeper. Asserting that he knows nothing whatever of the alleged bloody club, Chief Lanford declared that, if

Wednesday, 23rd July 1913 Conley is Confronted with Lee Dorsey Grills Negroes in Same Cell at Jail

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 23rd, 1913 TRACE FOUND HERE OF NEGRO SAID TO HAVE SEEN PHAGAN SLAYING Sister of Will Green Tells Police He Slept at Home at Hour Girl Was Slain; Jim Conley, Factory Sweeer Again Grilled. The two negro principals in the Phagan case—Newt Lee and Jim Conley—were put on the grill together in the cell of the former in the county jail by Solicitor Dorsey and his assistant, Frank G. Hooper, late Wednesday afternoon. Present at the cross-examination were J. M. Gantt, former pencil factory employee, and Detectives Starnes and Campbell, the officers who have had charge of Conley

Tuesday, 22nd July 1913 Story of Phagan Case by Chapters

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 22nd, 1913 Slaying of Factory Girl, South's Most Baffling Crime Mystery, Reviewed in Detail. CHAPTER I. Will the veil of mystery be lifted when the curtain rises next Monday on another scene in Atlanta's darkest tragedy? A vast audience, shocked by the horror of Mary Phagan's fate on a Saturday of last April and held through the succeeding weeks in the thrall of the baffling crime drama, in keen suspense awaits this question's answer. Will Fulton County's Solicitor General be able to point his finger at Leo M. Frank and exclaim, "That is the man who strangled Mary

Tuesday, 22nd July 1913 Grand Jury Defers Action on Conley

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 22nd, 1913 TALK OF POSTPONING FRANK TRIAL TILL FALL Protest of Solicitor Dorsey Wins Presents Evidence Showing Indictment of Negro Would Hinder Frank Prosecution. Here are the important developments of Monday in the Phagan case: The decision of the Grand Jury of Fulton County not to bring at this time an indictment against James Conley. The information that there is a strong probability of another postponement of the trial of Leo M. Frank. The Grand Jury's refusal to reopen its investigation of the Phagan murder mystery was a decided victory for the Solicitor after that body had overridden

Tuesday, 22nd July 1913 Defense Asks Ruling on Delaying Frank Trial

Has Audio

Atlanta GeorgianJuly 22, 1913 Hearing of Crawford Case May Conflict Conference Planned to Decide Which Shall Take Precedence. Ready to Draw Venire. Reuben R. Arnold, of counsel for Leo M. Frank, announced Tuesday that he proposed to seek a conference of the attorneys in the Frank case and in the Crawford will hearing to determine which case should be postponed next Monday, the date set for the beginning of the trial of Frank on the charge of slaying Mary Phagan. Mr. Arnold, Luther Z. Rosser, chief of counsel for Frank, both also are attorneys in the Crawford will case, and

Monday, 21st July 1913 Protest of Solicitor Dorsey Wins

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, July 21, 1913 Presents Evidence Showing Indictment of Negro Would Hinder Frank Prosecution. Here are the important developments of Monday in the Phagan case: The decision of the Grand Jury of Fulton County not to bring at this time an indictment against James Conley. The information that there is a strong probability of another postponement of the trial of Leo M. Frank. The Grand Jury's refusal to reopen its investigation of the Phagan murder mystery was a decided victory for the Solicitor after that body had overridden his request that no session be called to take

Monday, 21st July 1913 Grand Jury Meets to Consider Conley Case

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, July 21, 1913 Protest of Solicitor Will Be Heeded Foreman Declares Inquisitorial Body Will Not Ride "Roughshod" Over Dorsey. With Solicitor Dorsey reaffirming his certainty that Jim Conley will not be indicted before the tral of Leo M. Frank and declaring that he will fight with all his vigor any movement in that direction, the Grand Jury members gathered in the Thrower Building Monday morning in response to the call of Foreman Beatie to decide whether they will reopen their investigation of the Phagan murder mystery. A strong probability that no action would be taken during

Monday, 21st July 1913 Four Women Caught In Vice Net Escape From Martha Home

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, July 21, 1913 Four young women, three of whom had been caught in Chief Beavers' vice dragnet last week, escaped from the Martha Home during chapel exercises Sunday night. The women were Effie Drummond, who after being caught in a raid on Mrs. Lula Bell's place at Peters and Fair streets, declared she was a minister's daughter from North Carolina, and had been the victim of a white slaver; Maude Doughetry, apprehended at the same house; Beatrice Renfro, companion of A.N. Trippe, a Whitehall street clerk, arrested on complaint of Tripp'e wife, and Myrtle Bell, who

Monday, 21st July 1913 Doctor And Girl Are Taken On Vice Charge

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, July 21, 1913 Dr. M. W. Lewis, a prominent physician of Carrollton, was arrested Monday morning and placed under $1,000 bond on a charge of disorderly conduct. He is charged with registering as man and wife at the Hotel Scoville, on Mitchell street, with Miss Effie McColman, who is held as a witness in the case. The trial will be held before Recorder Broyles Tuesday afternoon. The arrest was deloyed until the physician had finished a difficult operation at a sanitarium. According to the charges, Dr. Lewis arrived in Atlanta Monday morning with Miss McColman, registering

Sunday, 20th July 1913 Mincey Story Declared Vital To Both Sides in Frank Case

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 20, 1913 By AN OLD POLICE REPORTER. The most important and interesting development of the week in the Phagan case was the Mincey affidavit, directing suspicion more surely in the direction of James Conley than ever before, if the affidavit is that of a credible witness. If what Mincey says is true—if his evidence can be made to "stand up" in court—then he is far and away not only the most important witness yet discovered, but his testimony will serve to clear up the mysterious Phagan case in its most obscure phases. Solicitor General Hugh

Sunday, 20th July 1913 Mincey Ready to Tell Story to Grand Jury

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 20, 1913 Man Who Says He Heard Negro Confess Now Is at Rising Fawn, Georgia W.H. Mincey, the school teacher who made an affidavit declaring Jim Conley confessed to him on the afternoon of the murder of Mary Phagan that he killed a girl, will appear before the Grand Jury to repeat his startling story when that tribunal convenes Monday to consider the Phagan matter, it was reported Saturday night. Mincey, who is now at Rising Fawn, Georgia, has expressed his willingness to come to Atlanta for this purpose. His evidence, which has proved the

Sunday, 20th July 1913 Dorsey Fights Movement to Indict Conley

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 20, 1913 Solicitor Is Bombarded With Letters to Proceed Against Negro as Slayer of Mary Phagan. THE GRAND JURY IS CALLED Hottest Battle of Famous Case To Be Waged Behind Closed Doors of Inquisitory Body. Solicitor Dorsey is fighting vigorously the movement in the Grand Jury to indict Jim Conley Monday for the murder of Mary Phagan, despite the bambardment of letters from many citizens and by the sentiment of some of its own members. It is for the consideration of these letters and petitions, asking the reopening of the Phagan matter, that the meeting

Sunday, 20th July 1913 Counsel of Frank Says Dorsey Has Sought to Hide Facts

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 20, 1913 Attorneys Rosser and Arnold, in a Statement to the Press, Make Bitter Attack on Solicitor for His Conduct of Phagan Case. Call Attention to Secrecy Maintained by Prosecution, and Declare Action of State's Attorney Has Inflamed Public Opinion. Luther Z. Rosser and Reuben R. Arnold, attorneys for Leo M. Frank, who will be tried July 29 on the charge of killing Mary Phagan, joined Saturday in a bitter attack upon the policy of Solicitor Hugh M. Dorsey, whose procedure in the case, they said, had inflamed public opinion and had placed the Solicitor

Sunday, 20th July 1913 Attorney for Conley Makes a Statement

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 20, 1913 "Not Necessary to Indict Negro to Close His Mouth," Declares William Smith. William M. Smith, attorney for Jim Conley, the negro now being held as a material witness in the Phagan murder case and whose indictment for complicity in the crime will be considered by the Grand Jury Monday, brought to the office of The Sunday American Saturday night a statement in behalf of his client. In a letter accompanying the statement, Mr. Smith conveyed a doubt as to whether this newspaper would print what he had to say. The attorney's statement in

Saturday, 19th July 1913 Natural Crank, Mayor’s Shot at Broyles

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 19, 1913 "Dyspeptic, Fanatic, Stoneheart, Monomaniac" Are Other Terms in "Final" Retort. Mayor Woodward Saturday said he was finally dismissing Recorder Nash R. Broyles from his mind with the statement: "He is a natural dyspeptic, crank and a fanatic. If he ever had a heart it was turned to stone. Therefore, it is natural that he should become a monomaniac over the subject of using his czar-like authority in his own petty sphere. I don't care anything more about him." Mayor Woodward again went over the head of Recorder Broyles Friday when he reduced the

Saturday, 19th July 1913 Dorsey Resists Move to Indict Jim Conley

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 19, 1913 GRAND JURY SPLIT BY LATEST MOVE Public Opinion Forces Consideration of Move to Indict Conley for Phagan Slaying. Solicitor Dorsey is fighting vigorously the movement in the Grand Jury to indict Jim Conley Monday for the murder of Mary Phagan, despite the bombardment of letters from many citizens and by the sentiment of some of its own members. It is for the consideration of these letters and petitions, asking the reopening of the Phagan matter, that the meeting has been called. That it will result in the indictment of the negro is thought

Friday, 18th July 1913 Woodward-Broyles Breach Widens

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Friday, July 18, 1913 REVERSAL OF VERDICTS IS DENIED BY JUDGE Apologizes Also to Porcine Family for Likening Woodward's Legal Knowledge to Theirs. Recorder Nash Broyles penned a polite note of apology to the whole hog family Friday. With the same hand he picked up the cudgels with which again to belabor his honor, Mayor Woodward. The Mayor, quoth the recorder, was the author of a ridiculous and absurd falsehood and it was a regrettable libel upon Mr.Hog to have to submit to a comparison with Atlanta's Mayor. As for the Mayor, he declared he was tired

Friday, 18th July 1913 Detectives Working to Discredit Mincey

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Friday, July 18, 1913 POLICE HALT GRILLING OF CONLEY Detective Bent on Questioning Negro Is Barred From Cell by Chief Lanford. With Pinkerton detectives taking the trail in search of W.H. Mincey, whose startling accusations against Jim Conley stirred the police department and won the negro another "sweating" from Solicitor Dorsey, the Mincey affidavit Friday became the storm center about which the prosecution and defense in the Frank case waged their battle. Despite the degree of indifference with which the detectives and prosecuting officials affected to look upon the remarkable statements of Mincey, it became known Friday

Thursday, 17th July 1913 Youth Accused in Vice Ring on Trial

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 17, 1913 Joe North, Alleged White Slaver, Declines to Talk Before Hearing in Recorder's Court. Joe North, alleged white slaver, arrested on the statement of Effie Drummond, a young woman who told the police he lured her into a rooming house, will be tried before Recorder Nash Broyles at 2:30 o'clock Thursday afternoon and every effort made to get from him the names of other persons in the "vice ring," to which Chief of Police James L. Beavers says North owes allegiance. North was arrested Wednesday night after a search of very nearly a week.

Thursday, 17th July 1913 Woodward Enemy to Society, Says Recorder Broyles

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 17, 1913 *Editor's Note: Some words in the middle of this article are missing due to scanning blur near a page fold. Recorder Replies to Mayor's Charges of "Czar-Like" Police Court and Scores Him Severely "KNOWS MUCH LAW AS HOG DOES ECONOMY," HE SAYS The Judge Says, "Never Argue With an Ignorant Man, for You Can't Convince Him He's Wrong" Recorder Nash R. Broyles, in replying to Mayor James G. Woodward's criticism of his heavy sentences, quotes the philosopher who says, "Do not argue with an ignorant man, for you can never convince him that

Thursday, 17th July 1913 Mayor Asked to Probe Action of Police

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 17, 1913 Declaring that police officers placed him under arrest while he was attempting to convey a woman in the throes of an epileptic fit to a hospital and forced him to be the companion to a negro in riding in the patrol wagon to the police station, Mongin F. Smith, vice president and secretary of the Eagle Stamp Works, Thursday afternoon carried a trenchant complaint of police stupidity to Mayor Woodward for investigation. "The young woman whom we were endeavoring to place in a hospital was Miss Mabel Parker, a performer at the Old

Thursday, 17th July 1913 Mayor and Broyles in War of Words

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 17, 1913 WOODWARD SCORED BY BROYLES "Can't Convince Ignorant Man He's Mistaken," Says Judge, Quoting Epictetus. WHAT BROYLES THINKS OF THE MAYOR. He's ignorant. He's a menace to civilization. He knows as much law as a boy does political economy. WHAT WOODWARD THINKS OF RECORDER. He's a petty czar. My office is bigger than his. If he wants to run my office, let him come up and give me orders. "Do not argue with an ignorant man, for you can never convince him he is wrong." Recorder Nash R. Broyles, quoting Mr. Epictetus, the late

Thursday, 17th July 1913 Dorsey Blocked Indictment of Conley

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 17, 1913 *Editor's Note: This article ran in other editions of the Georgian with slight variations in the headline. GRAND JURY AGREED NOT TO ACT Solicitor Bitterly Opposes Plan of New Body to Reconsider Slaying Case. That the most strenuous opposition of Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey was all that prevented the last Grand Jury from reopening its investigation of the Phagan mystery with a view of indicting the negro Jim Conley became known Thursday. It was admitted by persons acquainted with the events in the Grand Jury room that the Solicitor's determined stand only

Wednesday, 16th July 1913 State to Fight Move to Indict Jim Conley

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, July 16, 1913 Grand Jury Foreman Admits That Action Against the Negro Is Considered. The reported proposal by some of the members of the Grand Jury to meet for an investigation of Jim Conley's connection with the murder of Mary Phagan has precipitated a sharp struggle in which Solicitor Dorsey has declared himself bitterly opposed to any action looking toward the indictment of the negro as a principal in the crime or even as an accessory after the fact, as the negro admits himself to be. The fight has resolved itself into a contest to determine

Wednesday, 16th July 1913 Dorsey Adds Startling Evidence

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, July 16, 1913 *Editor's Note: This article also ran in the Final (Box Score) Edition under the headline "State Finds New Frank Evidence." Solicitor Declares Prosecution's Plans Are Unchanged—Doesn't Expect Conley Indictment. That affidavits as sensational and direct against Leo M. Frank, accused of murdering Mary Phagan, as the Mincey statement was against the negro, Jim Conley, are in the hands of the State and will be substantiated by witnesses at the trial, July 28, was admitted by Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey Wednesday morning. The Solicitor and Frank A. Hooper, associated with him in the

Tuesday, 15th July 1913 Woodward Aids Chief in Vice Crusade

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 15, 1913 Mayor Woodward entered the fight which Chief Beavers is waging against vice in Atlanta Tuesday when he told of a negro dive and blind tiger which he said had been reported to him Tuesday morning by a man whose name he refuses to make public. This man, Mayor Woodward declared, had told him he had seen policemen passing through an alley in the direction of the blind tiger, though none of them had actually been seen to enter the place. Chief Beavers ordered an investigation. Captain Poole has been given particular instructions to

Tuesday, 15th July 1913 White Men Fined in War on Negro Dives

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 15, 1913 A crusade against white men frequenting negro dives has been started by Recorder Nash Broyles. He fined three men, who gave their names as Kirk, Smith and Little and A.B. Arnold, of Macon, who forfeited $50.75. The five white men were arrested in a raid on a place at 76 Chestnut street, early Sunday morning. Helen Lester, who runs the dive, was held for the higher courts in bonds of $500. "The mingling of whites and blacks does more to stir up race trouble than anything else," declared the Recorder. * * *

Tuesday, 15th July 1913 Police Close 2 Rooming Houses

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 15, 1913 Chief Beavers Opens Real Fight on Doubtful Places—Several Under Watch. Active steps against doubtful rooming and boarding houses were taken by Chief of Police Beavers Tuesday morning. He declared that he intends to close every "shady" rooming house in the city against which he can obtain evidence. He intimated that he has the addresses of a number of boarding houses where, it is alleged, young girls and men visit and where the roomers are in reality inmates of the place, and his campaign is to be directed especially against these. They will be

Tuesday, 15th July 1913 Holloway Corroborates Mincey’s Affidavit

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 15, 1913 RECALLS HE WAS TOLD STORY OF CONLEY Watchman Remembers of Visit of Witness to Factory on Day of Crime. Further corroboration of several of the important details in the remarkable affidavit of W.H. Mincey, insurance agent and teacher, who swore he heard Jim Conley confess killing a girl, came Tuesday in a statement by E.F. Holloway, day watchman at the National Pencil Factory. Holloway substantiated in every particular the story of Mincey's visit to the factory the Tuesday following the crime and recalled the general trend of the conversation, which was practically as

Monday, 14th July 1913 Vice Pickets Posted at Hotels

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, July 14, 1913 Revocation of License Will Be Asked if Law Is Violated. Girl Sentenced. The vice inquiry Monday morning resulted in a close surveillance of hotels which, it is alleged, harbor young girls for immoral purposes. If the law is violated, the police authorities say, the police committee of Council will be requested to revoke the license of the hotel involved. Chief Beavers has detailed men to watch for violations of the law following information given by Corinne Wilson and Dora Rosthstein , sentenced to the Reform School Saturday afternoon. The new information, it is

Monday, 14th July 1913 Prosecution Attacks Mincey’s Affidavit

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, July 14, 1913 MRS. CRAWFORD BEGINS FIGHT FOR HER FREEDOM STATE STILL CONFIDENT OF CASE Story of Negro Who Says He Was Eyewitness of Slaying Disbelieved by Solicitor. Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey and Attorney Frank A. Hooper, engaged in the prosecution of Leo M. Frank, were induced Monday to break the silence they have maintained grilling the negro Jim Conley last week. They made their first public comments on the sensational developments of the last few days in the Phagan murder mystery. Both declared emphatically that neither the affidavit of W. H. Mincey, insurance solicitor,

Monday, 14th July 1913 Mincey’s Own Story

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, July 14, 1913 *Editor's Note: This article also appeared in the Night Edition under the headline "Mincey Tells of Confession." Tells How Conley Confessed Killing Girl ‘I AM SEEKING ONLY TO DO MY DUTY FOR TRUTH AND JUSTICE' The Georgian Secures Remarkable Statement From Chief Witness for Defense in the Trial of Frank. Declares Belief in Conley's Guilt. On Thursday, July 10, The Georgian published the exclusive story of an affidavit in the possession of the lawyers for Leo M. Frank, accused of the murder of Mary Phagan, made by W.H. Mincey, an insurance agent, the

Monday, 14th July 1913 Girl Bares New Vice System

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, July 14, 1913 Young Woman From the Country Says She Was Lured to Resort on Peters Street. Raid Frees Victim of Alleged Gang From a Resort on Peters Street. Five White Men and Dozen Negroes Arrested in Raid Are Convicted in Court. *Editor's Note: This article was also published under the headlines "Police Hunt Vice Band's Leader" and "17 Caught in Vice Drag Fined," the latter article containing the following six paragraphs in brackets. The sub-headlines for each article are listed above in the same order. There is also a continuation of the article on a

Sunday, 13th July 1913 Seek Negro Who Says He Was Eye-Witness to Phagan Murder

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 13, 1913 Fugitive, Reported to Have Been Traced to Birmingham, Declares That He Witnessed the Attack on the Girl Slain in the Pencil Plant. LAYS CRIME TO BLACK WITH WHOM HE HAD GAMBLED Loser at Dice, He Declares, Planned to Rob Victim as She Came From Getting Pay—Tried to Prevent the Crime and, Failing, Fled. Report that a negro who has declared that he witnessed the attack by another negro upon Mary Phagan, which resulted in her death in the National Pencil Factory on the afternoon of April 26, has been apprehended in Birmingham, became

Sunday, 13th July 1913 Indictment of Conley Puzzle for Grand Jury

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 13, 1913 *Editor's Note: Some text is blurred in the original document, and illegible text is marked by "". The text box insert is transcribed at the bottom of this post. Old Police Reporter Declares True Bill Against Negro Might Alter Entire Frank Prosecution. RULES OF EVIDENCE CITED Mincey Affidavit May Have Important Bearing on Defense of Pencil Factory Manager. By An Old Police Reporter. Persistent rumors have been abroad of late that the present Grand Jury may indict James Conley for the murder of Mary Phagan. This is interesting, for if the Grand Jury

Sunday, 13th July 1913 Affidavits to Back Mincey Story Found

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 13, 1913 Attorney Leavitt Declares Tale That Conley Admitted Killing Girl Will Stand Test. NEWT LEE STILL HELD IN JAIL Solicitor General Hugh Dorsey Promises to Present a Bill Against Him as Suspect. That several negro women overheard Jim Conley when he ran the insurance agent, Mincey, away with the alleged statement that he had just killed a girl and didn't want to kill anyone else, and that the affidavits from the women are in the hands of the attorneys for the defense, was stated Saturday by Attorney J.H. Leavitt, who aided in obtaining the

Saturday, 12th July 1913 Says Women Heard Conley Confession

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 12, 1913 *Editor's Note: This article also ran with the headlines "Says Women Overheard Conley Confess" and "Says Women Heard Conley Confess" in the Final and Home Editions, respectively. The headline used here is from the Night Edition. AFFIDAVITS SUPPORT MINCEY STORY Attorney Leavitt Declares Tale That Negro Admitted Killing Girl Will Stand Test. That several negro women overheard Jim Conley when he ran the insurance agent, Mincey, away with the alleged statement that he had just killed a girl and didn't want to kill any one else, and that the affidavits from the women

Saturday, 12th July 1913 Parents Are Blamed for ‘Slavery’

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 12, 1913 *Editor's Note: The second portion of this article is not available. Acting Recorder Sends Girls to Reform School and Binds Two Men Over. Probe into vice conditions resulted in a startling climax Saturday afternoon when Acting Recorder Preston sentenced two girls, Corinne Wilson and Dora Rothstein to the Cincinnati Reform School and bound over two men, W.W. Suttles and C.A. Dollar, under $200 bond each, making eight vice cases tried Saturday, with the prospect of five more trials for Monday. The trial was featured by the statements of the Acting Recorder, who declared

Saturday, 12th July 1913 Five Caught in Beavers’ Vice Net

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 12, 1913 *Editor's Note: The second part of this article is not available. Police, Spurred by Chief, Raid Boarding House—Additional Arrests Due Soon. As the result of the increased activity by the detective and police departments, following the grilling given the detectives Friday afternoon by Chief Beavers, five new arrests were made by a squad of officers shortly after noon Saturday, in a raid on a boarding house at No. 164 1-2 Peters Street. The persons under arrest gave their names as Lulu Bell, Maud Wilson, Mrs. Lee Berkstein and L.W. Berkstein. Effie Drummond, a 22-year-old

Saturday, 12th July 1913 Dragnet for ‘Slavers’ Is Set

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 12, 1913 Arrest of Additional Men Named by Girl Victim of the "Ring" Due Soon. With rapid-fire developments featuring the day's investigation of the "vice ring" said to exist in Atlanta, Chief of Police Beavers announced at noon that he is accumulating new evidence through which he hopes to be able soon to break up the gang. The new evidence, he intimtaed , is startling, and is expected to result in arrests of several men and women within 24 hours. The principal developments of the day, through which Chief Beavers is obtaining his new evidence

Saturday, 12th July 1913 Conley Kept on Grill 4 Hours

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 12, 1913 After Gruelling Third Degree, Officials Refuse to Deny or Affirm Negro Confessed. Habeas corpus proceedings to release Newt Lee collapsed in the court of Judge Ellis Saturday morning. By agreement, Bernard L. Chappell, representing Lee, withdrew his application for a habeas corpus; Solicitor Dorsey promised to present a bill against Lee as a suspect in the Phagan murder case, with the expectation that a "no bill" would be returned. This appeared satisfactory to the attorneys for Lee, as well as to the State. Luther Z. Rosser, Reuben R. Arnold and Herbert J. Haas,

Friday, 11th July 1913 Slaying Charge for Conley Is Expected

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Friday, July 11, 1913 Speedy Indictment of Negro Is Likely Following Publication of Mincey Affidavit. The speedy indictment of Jim Conley on the charge of murdering Mary Phagan was the strong possibility discussed in court circles Friday following the sensational turn given the strangling mystery by The Georgian's publication Thursday of the accusation of William H. Mincey, an insurance solicitor, that he had heard the negro boast on the afternoon of the crime of killing a girl. For nearly two months a self-confessed accessory after the fact of the murder of the little factory girl, Conley has

Friday, 11th July 1913 Mincey’s Story Jolts Police to Activity

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Friday, July 11, 1913 *Editor's Note: The following column ran in the final edition of the Georgian with the title "Georgian's Story Stirs Officials to Action," and contains the following bracketed text in lieu of the first two paragraphs and preceding sub-headline. [Mincey Affidavit Leads to Another Cross-Examination of Phagan Case Suspect. [As a result of the publication by The Georgian exclusively Thursday of the sensational affidavit of W.H. Mincey, the insurance agent, which declared that Jim Conley had confessed on the afternoon of the Phagan murder, that he had killed a little girl, the negro sweeper

Friday, 11th July 1913 Girl Tells Police Startling Story of Vice Ring

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Friday, July 11, 1913 THREE NEW VICE WAR ARRESTS Man Prisoner Declares He Will Bare the Whole System if Brought to Trial. As a result of statements made to Chief Beavers Friday morning by Hattie Smith, the young girl who has been held for the Grand Jury in connection with the vice war, Detective Rosser at noon arrested three persons—two men and a woman—who were named by the Smith girl as contributing to her downfall and being involved in her white slavery charges. The persons under arrest are Paul Estes, 52 Queen Street; Hoyt Monroe, Edgewood, and

Thursday, 10th July 1913 Says Conley Confessed Slaying

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 10, 1913 *Editor's Note: Articles with the titles "Tells of Conley Confession" and "Says Conley Confessed" also appeared in other editions of the Georgian. NEGRO MADE BOAST OF KILLING A GIRL, AGENT DECLARES Attorneys for Frank Will Put Main Reliance of Defense on the Startling Affidavit Made by W. H. Mincey and Now in Their Possession. That Jim Conley, negro sweeper at the National Pencil Factory, made a virtual confession to him that he attacked and killed Mary Phagan is the startling allegation made in an affidavit by William H. Mincey, until recently a solicitor

Thursday, 10th July 1913 Chief Expects Arrests in Vice Probe

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 10, 1913 MEN NAMED BY GIRL ARE SOUGHT Chief Beavers Declares New and Startling Arrests Are Near. Alleged Procuress Held With the principals in the sensational vice case, Hattie Smith, a 17-year-old girl victim; Mrs. Lena Barnhart, a flashily-dressed woman, alleged white slave procuress; Lige Murray, negro ally, and Clyde Cox, the youth who was arrested in the hotel raid, all bound over to the higher courts, the police Thursday turned the full flare of a searching investigation directly on the hotels and alleged immoral resorts, with the result that new arrests and startling developments

Thursday, 10th July 1913 Beavers’ War on Vice is Lauded by Women

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 10, 1913 Georgia Suffragists Adopt Resolution Indorsing Chief's Course in Atlanta. Chief of Police Beavers' fight against vice was enthusiastically indorsed at the Thursday morning session of the convention of the Georgia Woman Suffrage Association. The following resolution, introduced by Mrs. Margaret T. McWhorter, was adopted: The Georgia Woman Suffrage Association realizes the high civic ideals which actuate Chief of Police James L. Beavers, of Atlanta, and we wish to place ourselves on record as indorsing every move which he has taken for good government and clean morals, and especially do we commend his action

Thursday, 10th July 1913 Beavers in Speech Warns Policemen to Keep Out of Dives

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 10, 1913 Chief of Police Beavers caused a stir Thursday morning when he went before the day watch and addressed the men on their conduct. His talk resulted from the recent scandal in which several policemen were found guilty of visiting a resort in the rear of 127 Auburn Avenue. "Any man who hangs around a negro dive has no place on the police force of Atlanta," the Chief said, addressing the men. "If you get positive evidence that any of your brother officers are engaged in discreditable practices and frequenting disreputable places, it is

Wednesday, 9th July 1913 Sensations in Story of Girl Victim

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, July 9, 1913 Accused Prisoners in White Slave Inquiry Held for Higher Court. That sufficient evidence had been produced in court to make a case against one of the city's most prominent business men was the statement of Recorder Broyles Wednesday afternoon at the trial of the persons involved in the latest vice scandal. Lena Barnhardt, alleged white sliver and procuress, was bound over to the higher court under a bond of $500. Hattie Smith, who claimed in court to be a white slave victim of the Barnhardt woman, was placed under $100 bond for the

Wednesday, 9th July 1913 New Evidence in Phagan Case Found

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, July 9, 1913 iGrl Called to Tell of Negro She Saw in Pencil Factory—Lee Stays in Jail. A sensation in the Phagan murder mystery developed Wednesday afternoon when Solicitor Dorsey summoned Miss Mattie Smith under a special subpena to question her in regard to a negro she saw in the National Pencil Factory the morning of the Saturday that Mary Phagan was murdered. Miss Smith told a Georgian reporter that she saw a negro there that morning and believed it was between 9 and 10 o'clock. She thought she might be asked to identify Conley. If

Wednesday, 9th July 1913 Girl Springs Sensation in Phagan Case

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, July 9, 1913 PART OF PAY ENVELOPE FOUND Discovered Shortly After Tragedy by Detectives, but Find Was Kept Secret. *Editor's Note: The following headlines also appeared: (Night Edition): NEW PHAGAN EVIDENCE FOUND PART OF PAY ENVELOPE HELD BY POLICE (Extra Final Edition): PHAGAN PAY ENVELOPE FOUND Two sensational developments marked the Phagan case Wednesday. One was the testimony of Miss Mattie Smith, an employee of the National Pencil factory, that she had seen a negro sitting on the first floor of the factory betwen 9 and 10 o'clock, at a time when Conley had denied being

Tuesday, 8th July 1913 State Sure Lee Will Not Be Released

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 8, 1913 Dorsey Confident That Move, Which May Confront Frank With Conley, Is Futile. Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey said Tuesday he was confident the State would be able to defeat any attempt to get Newt Lee out of the Tower, where he has been confined since April 27, first as a suspect in the Mary Phagan murder case and later as a material witness. He said he had advised Lee's attorney not to take the action, as the negro was regarded as an important witness in making a complete chain of evidence against Leo

Tuesday, 8th July 1913 Refused by Brown, Mangham Now Asks Slaton for Pardon

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 8, 1913 The Prison Commission again has taken up the application of J. J. Mangham for a pardon. A recommendation is expected to be made to Governor Slaton in the next day or two. Mangham is the Griffin cotton mill man given four years for embezzlement and one year on a misdemeanor charge. The application came up some time ago and was sent to Governor Brown by the commission without any recommendation. The Governor returned it with the statement that the board should make a recommendation. That great influence will be brought to bear on

Tuesday, 8th July 1913 Police Hunt Principals in Expose

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 8, 1913 Search Records of Guests for the Leaders of System Named by Girl Victim. A general rounding up of hotel registers by detectives for the identification of notorious men and women added the latest sensation in the vice investigation instituted following the startling disclosures of Hattie Smith, the pretty 17-year-old girl, who claims to be the victim of the "system." The first move was made Tuesday morning when the manager of the Cumberland Hotel was subpenaed to appear in Police Court with his register that afternoon. The register will be examined by the Smith

Tuesday, 8th July 1913 Grants Right to Demand Lee’s Freedom

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 8, 1913 Negro's Counsel Secures Chance to Argue for Habeas Corpus Writ Wednesday. Reuben R. Arnold, of counsel for Leo M. Frank, communicated with Sheriff Mangum Tuesday afternoon directing him under no circumstances to permit the removal of Frank to appear Wednesday as a witness in the habeas corpus hearing to free Newt Lee. "There is no law on earth to bring Frank to court under an order as a witness," said Arnold. Attorney Rosser, chief of counsel, was absent from the city Tuesday. Attorney C. J. Graham, of the firm of Graham & Campbell,

Tuesday, 8th July 1913 Girl Tells of Life in Slavers’ Hands

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 8, 1913 Hattie Smith Warns Young Women of Atlanta Against the Wiles of Procurers. The startling expose of vice conditions by Hattie Smith, the prety 17-year-old girl, one of the alleged victims of the "system," resulted Tuesday in an aggressive war n the downtown hotels. Chief Beavers declared he would stamp out vice if he had to detail a special officer at every one of the hotels in question. Several additional arrests will be made before noon, it is believed. The Smith girls repeated her story with many additional details of the "system" which is

Tuesday, 8th July 1913 Attitude of Defense Secret

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 8, 1913 Attorneys for Accused Man Can Keep Him From Facing Accuser if They Wish. That Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the National Pencil Factory, and James Conley, Frank's accuser in the Mary Phagan murder mystery, would be brought face to face Tuesday was the strong possibility presented by the contemplated application for a writ of habeas corpus in behalf of Newt Lee, negro night watchman at the factory. The plan of bringing Conley and Frank together may meet an insurmountable obstacle when it comes to getting the permission of Frank's attorneys. The law allows

Monday, 7th July 1913 Operations of Slavers in Hotels Bared

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, July 7, 1913 Victim Tells Beavers Names of Women and Man Engaged in Traffic in Girls. A new and sensational expose of vice conditions said to be prevalent in Atlanta was made Monday morning by Hattie Smith, a pretty 17-year-old girl, who was arrested in a hotel which was raided Sunday night. If the statements of the Smith girl, who made a confession of her own guilt to the Chief, are true, Atlanta is in the clutches of one of the best organized vice systems in existence. Certain downtown hotels, the girl claims, are the rendezvous

Monday, 7th July 1913 Lee’s Attorney is Ready for Writ Fight

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, July 7, 1913 Habeas Corpus Move to Free Negro in Phagan Case Due to Start Monday. Habeas corpus proceedings in behalf of Newt Lee, negro night watchman at the National Pencil Factory, were promised Monday by the negro's attorney, Bernard L. Chappell. Settlement of this phase of the Phagan murder mystery will determine definitely the status of the negro. It is known that the State regards Lee as a material witness in building up its case against Frank. The attitude of Mr. Chappell is that his client knows no more about crime than he already has

Sunday, 6th July 1913 Phagan Case Centers on Conley; Negro Lone Hope of Both Sides

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 6, 1913 *Editor's Note: See insert article, "Decisions Which May Aid Defense of Frank", at the conclusion of this post. Frank Expects Freedom by Breaking Down Accuser's Testimony, and State a Conviction by Establishing Truth of Statements. BY AN OLD POLICE REPORTER. The developments in the Phagan case have been of late highly significant and interesting. During the past week, it became evident that the very heart and soul of both the prosecution and the defense is to center largely about the negro, James Conley. He is at once apparently the hope and the despair

Sunday, 6th July 1913 New Move in Phagan Case by Solicitor

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 6, 1913 Dorsey Will Endeavor to Force Defense to Disclose Their Documentary Evidence. ACT IS COUNTERSTROKE Frank's Attorneys Said to Have Affidavits Exonerating Frank and Indicating Conley's Guilt. A sensational turn in the Phagan murder mystery, according to one of the attorneys for the defense, will develop next week when Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey issues a subpena duces tecum on Attorneys Luther Z. Rosser and Reuben Arnold, citing them to produce all the affidavits they have secured that bear on the crime. The movement is in the nature of a counterstroke to block the

Sunday, 6th July 1913 Application to Release Lee is Ready to File

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, July 6, 1913 Negro's Lawyer Says He Will Offer Habeas Corpus When Solicitor Dorsey Returns. On account of the absence from the city of Prosecuting Attorney Hugh M. Dosey , Bernard L. Chappell, attorney for Newt Lee, announced Saturday that he would not file a writ of habeas corpus until Monday. He claims in the petition for the release of the negro that Lee is being held unlawfully and without any charge against him. Solicitor Dorsey left for his country place at Valdosta, Georgia, Saturady morning. He will return Monday. Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey will

Saturday, 5th July 1913 Unbiased in the Flanders Case, Says Slaton

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 5, 1913 New Governor Declares He Will Take Action After Hearing All Sides. Governor Slaton has formed no opinion in the famous McNaughton-Mattie Flanders murder case, and says he will make no decision until he has heard all sides. The new Governor says he has not talked to the former Governor about the case. He will hear, he said, all arguments without prejudice. It is known that the hopes of McNaughton's friends for commutation of sentence, if not pardon, have been greatly strengthened now that Governor Slaton is in the executive office. The statement, made

Saturday, 5th July 1913 Liberty for Newt Lee Sought

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 5, 1913 Writ to Free Watchman From the Tower Will Be Filed—State to Oppose Liberation. The prosecution will fight an entirely new angle in the Phagan case Saturday morning when Barnard L. Chappell, attorney for Newt Lee, the negro night watchman, files a writ of habeas corpus for the release of the negro from the Tower, where he is being held without any charge against him. Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey will ask the courts to hold the negro as a material witness for the State, or may charge him with being an accessory. He

Saturday, 5th July 1913 Drop Ninth in Police Scandal

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 5, 1913 Charges Preferred Against Another Patrolman and Suspension Is Near. Atlanta's police scandal was revived Saturday by the preferring of charges against another member of the police force. His suspension by Chief of Police James L. Beavers is expected to follow within a few hours. The subject of the accusations is the ninth policeman involved in the scandal. Chief Beavers would not make public the man's name until formal order of suspension was made. The charges against the majority of the policemen are they they frequented the notorious negro resort in the rear of

Saturday, 5th July 1913 Application for Lee’s Release Delayed

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, July 5, 1913 Watchman's Lawyer Says He Will Await Return of Dorsey Before Filing Habeas Corpus. On account of the absence form the city of Prosecuting Attorney Hugh M. Dorsey, Bernard L. Chappell, attorney for Newt Lee, announced Saturday that he would not file a writ of habeas corpus until Monday. He claims in the petition for the release of the negro that Lee is being held unlawfully and without any charge against him. Solicitor Dorsey left for his country place at Valdosta, Georgia, Saturday morning. He will return Monday. Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey will

Friday, 4th July 1913 New Testimony Lays Crime to Conley

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Friday, July 4, 1913 Frank Defense Locates Witness Who Points to the Negro Sweeper as Slayer. A new witness, said to have the most damaging evidence yet produced against Jim Conley, the negro sweeper in the National Pencil factory, entered the Phagan case Thursday and made an affidavit, the contents fo which are carefully guarded by attorneys for Leo M. Frank, charged with causing the death of the factory girl. The identity of the witness is as much a secret as the exact nature of his testimony. It was learned, though, that the affidavit was made in

Thursday, 3rd July 1913 Writ Sought In Move to Free Negro Lee

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 3, 1913 Attorney for Watchman Declares Client Knows Nothing of the Actual Crime. Bernard L. Chappell, attorney for Newt Lee, negro night watchman at the pencile factory, held in the Phagan case, stated Thursday morning that he would swear out a writ of habeas corpus for the release of the negro. Attorney Chappell stated that he had come to the conclusion that there was nothing the negro knew about the crime except finding the body, and that the State had no right to keep him without some charge or as a material witness. Lee was

Thursday, 3rd July 1913 Attempt by Colyar To Disbar Felder Is Halted; Tries Again

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, July 3, 1913 A petition filed Tuesday with the Clerk of the Superior Court by A. S. Colyar, Jr., asking for the disbarment of Colonel Thomas B. Felder from the practice of law in Georgia, has been withdrawn by Colyar on information that he first must submit his petition to the court for the determination of whether his grounds are sufficient to warrant an investigation and trial by jury. Colyar said Wednesday he would apply for a rule nisi. Until this is done there can be no action on his petition. The petition includes as reasons

Wednesday, 2nd July 1913 Findings in Probe are Guarded

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, July 2, 1913 No Indication Given of Results of Investigation of Reports of Disorderly Houses. The result of the Grand Jury's sensational vice probe of a few weeks ago will be made known Wednesday when the presentments are returned to Superior Judge W. D. Ellis, who two months ago charged that an extensive investigation be made. Save when an indictment was returned against Police Commissioner W. P. Fain, which charged him with keeping a disorderly house and beating one of the women inmates, no inkling of the general trend of the probe got beyond the closed

Tuesday, 1st July 1913 “No” Bill Is Returned Against A. S. Colyar

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 1, 1913 Grand Jury Declines to Indict Colyar for Reply to Attack of Colonel Felder charging A. S. Colyar, of Nashville, with libel, the Fulton county grand jury at its session on Tuesda ymorning refused to indict the Tennessean, returning a "no bill" in the case. Mr. Colyar has been in the limelight recently as a principal in the sensational dictograph episode, and has been engaged in a heated controversy with Colonel Thomas B. Felder. The Tennessean was charged specifically with libelling Mr. Felder in a card published over his signature in The Journal of

Tuesday, 1st July 1913 May Indict Conley in Phagan Case

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 1, 1913 JURY LIKELY TO GO OVER DORSEY'S HEAD Indictment of Negro Sweeper Would Be Severe Blow to Prosecution of Frank. That the Fulton County Grand Jury will go over the head of Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey and indict Jim Conley, the negro sweeper, for the murder of Mary Phagan, in connection with Leo M. Frank, was a probability which came to light Tuesday. While the report was not verified, its origin was such as to throw a bomb into the camp of the prosecution, as it will mean the indictment of the star

Tuesday, 1st July 1913 May Indict Conley as Slayer

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 1, 1913 Grand Jury Reported as Seriously Considering Connection of Negro With the Crime. A well founded rumor Tuesday was to the effect that the Grand Jury had Jim Conley's connection with the Mary Phagan murder mystery under serious consideration with a view of finding an indictment against the negro on the charge of causing the death of the little factory girl. Announcement was made after the close of Tuesday's session that the present Grand Jury would hold its last session Wednesday, and it was reported that if action were not taken on Conley's case

Tuesday, 1st July 1913 Frank Is Willing for State to Grill Him

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 1, 1913 Accused Man Declares He's Anxious Even for Prosecution to Cross-Examine. Surpassing in interest any of the other testimony at the trial of Leo M. Frank will be the story related on the stand by the accused man himself. That Frank will make a detailed statement of his movements on the day that Mary Phagan was murdered is regarded as one of the certainties of the trial. It was learned Wednesday that Frank was desirous of going even further than this by being sworn and submitting to a cross-examination by the attorneys for the

Tuesday, 1st July 1913 Colyar Not Indicted On Charge of Libel

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 1, 1913 The Fulton County Grand Jury returned no bill against A. S. Colyar, Jr., Tuesday forenoon on the charge of criminal libel.  Colyar came into prominence a few weeks ago by dictographing Colonel Thomas B. Felder, Mayor Woodward and C. C. Jones in Williams House No. 2. Colyar is the man who sought to trap Colonel Felder by means of the dictograph into offering a bribe of $1,000 for certain affidavits in the Phagan case in the possession of the police. The dictograph records as furnished an afternoon newspaper by Colyar contained the offer.

Tuesday, 1st July 1913 Colyar Indicted as Libeler of Col. Felder

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, July 1, 1913 Grand Jury Develops Sensational Sequel to Famous Dictograph Scandal. A. S. Colyar, Jr., dictographer of Colonel Thomas B. Felder, Mayor Woodward and C. C. Jones, was indicted by the Grand Jury on the charge of criminal libel Tuesday forenoon. Colyar is the man who sought to trap Colonel Felder by means of the dictograph into offering a bribe of $1,000 for certain affidavits in the Phagan case in the possession of the police. The dictograph records as furnished an afternoon newspaper by Colyar contained the offer. Colonel Felder swore the records were padded.

Monday, 30th June 1913 Conley Tale Is Hope of Defense

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, June 30, 1913 DEFENSE PLANS TO TEAR DOWN CONLEY TALE* * This headline appeared on Page 3 of the Georgian. Expect to Prove Frank Innocent By Discrediting Negro's Story Of Phagan Crime. Warned that the State is basing practically all of its expectations of sending Leo M. Frank to the gallows on the dramatic story told by Jim Conley, the defense this week is completing the collection of a strong line of evidence with which it is planned utterly to discredit the negro's statements and his testimony in court. Conley again has insisted on confronting Frank.

Thursday, 24th July 1913 Conley and Lee Meet in Tower

Has Audio

Atlanta ConstitutionJuly 24th, 1913 For First Time Since Mary Phagan Was Killed Two Negroes Are Brought Face to Face. James Conley, a sweeper at the National Pencil factory, and Newt Lee, night watchman, who carried the police to where Mary Phagan's body lay on the morning of April 27, were brought face to face yesterday afternoon in the tower by Solicitor Hugh M. Dorsey and Frank A. Hooper, an attorney who is aiding the solicitor. J. M. Gantt was taken there by the attorneys, as he knew Conley while both were working for the pencil factory. Attorney Hooper stated after

Saturday, 19th July 1913 Woodward Uses Clemency Again

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Saturday, July 19, 1913 Asserting That He Considers Recorder Mentally Irresponsible, the Mayor Announces Controversy Closed. With the declaration that no utterance by Recorder Nash R. Broyles will induce him to resort to blackguardism or swerve him in the matter of exercising clemency, Mayor James G. Woodward yesterday reduced the sentence of George Poulas, a Greek retsaurant keeper, who was fined $100 or thirty days in the stockade for alleged violation of the near beer laws. The extent of the mayor's clemency was to reduce the fine assessed against Poulas to $49 or twenty-nine days in jail.

Saturday, 19th July 1913 Scott Believes Conley Innocent, Asserts Lanford

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Saturday, July 19, 1913 Chief's Statement Follows the Publication of Report That Pinkertons Are Now of the Opinion Sweeper Is Guilty. "OPEN TO CONVICTION," SCOTT TELLS REPORTER "Our Testimony in Case Will Be Fair and Impartial," He Says—Grand Jury Called to Consider Indicting Conley. DEVELOPMENTS OF DAY IN MARY PHAGAN CASE Meeting of grand jury called to take steps leading to indictment of James Conley on the charge of murder, over protest of Solicitor General Hugh Dorsey, who declares that indictment of Conley will be useless procedure. Reported on Friday that the Pinkertons have changed their opinion

Saturday, 19th July 1913 Grand Jury Meets to Indict Conley

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Saturday, July 19, 1913 Call Is Issued After Solicitor General Hugh Dorsey Had Flatly Refused Request of Foreman. A call for the Fulton grand jury to meet at 10 o'clock Monday to take steps leading to the indictment of James Conley, the negro sweeper of the National Pencil factory who accuses Leo M. Frank, its superintendent, of the Mary Phagan murder was issued yesterday by Foreman W.D. Beatie after Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey had flatly refused the foreman's request to call the meeting. The move to indict Conley is wrong and should not be made, the

Friday, 18th July 1913 Wordy War Over, Says Woodward

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Friday, July 18, 1913 In Final Fling at Broyles the Mayor Declares He Is Through With Controversies With City Officials. The word war raging between Mayor James G. Woodward and Judge Nash R. Broyles, police magistrate, which grew out of the mayor's use of the pardon prerogative, grew tense yesterday, when both sides hurled bitter excoriations at the other. Mayor Woodward took a final fling at Recorder Broyles in a statement last night. "I sympathize with Broyles," Mayor Woodward said. "He is, in my opinion, a political accident. No one takes him seriously. He is mad with

Friday, 18th July 1913 Many Rumors Afloat Regarding Grand Jury

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Friday, July 18, 1913 Among These Is One That Effort Will Be Made to Indict Conley. That the grand jury would meet possibly today or tomorrow and take steps toward indicting James Conley, the negro sweeper of the National Pencil factory, was a persistent rumor in circulation Thursday. From Foreman W.D. Beattie came the statement that he had not called for a meeting of the grand jury and that as far as he knew there would be no such action taken. Solicitor Hugh M. Dorsey also declared that he had issued no call for the grand jury

Wednesday, 16th July 1913 No New Indictment Says Jury Foreman

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, July 16, 1913 State Has No Intention of Changing Plan of Action in Phagan Case. The declaration of W.D. Beattie, foreman of the grand jury, that the grand jury had no intention of taking steps to indict James Conley, and a statement from Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey that as far as he was concerned the state would continue its present plan of action in regard to the Mary Phagan murder, apparently put a block to the rumor that the grand jury would go over the solicitor's head and indict the negro sweeper for murder. The

Sunday, 13th July 1913 Parents Are Blamed for Daughters’ Fall

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Sunday, July 13, 1913 Girls of Fourteen and Sixteen Tell Recorder Revolting Stories of Vice. After relating a revolting tale of a career of vice on the streets and in the suburbs of Atlanta, Dora Rothstein and Corinne Wilson, two girls aged 14 and 16 years, stood unabashed in the recorder's court Saturday afternoon. Recorder Pro Tem Preston, shocked by their testimony, called for the parents of the prisoners. Two aged men and a woman stepped forward and stood before the judge. They were Mr. and Mrs. A. Rothstein, parents of the younger girl, and W.B. Engesser,

Sunday, 13th July 1913 Lee Must Remain Behind the Bars

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Sunday, July 13, 1913 Solicitor Dorsey Does Not Believe the Negro Guilty of Any Part in Crime. That Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey does not believe that Newt Lee, negro night watchman at the National Pencil factory, who was bound over by the grand jury with Superintendent Leo M. Frank for the murder of Mary Phagan, is guilty, was the only matter of importance brought out yesterday at the hearing of the habeas corpus before Judge W.D. Ellis by which Lee's attorneys, Graham & Chappell, sought to free him. Judge Ellis denied the motion for habeas corpus

Sunday, 13th July 1913 Former Story True, Says Negro Sweeper

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Sunday, July 13, 1913 Jim Conley Declares Positively That He Has Made No New Admissions. Jim Conley, the negro sweeper, who was reached for a moment by newspaper reporters last night, reiterated his former story and declared positively that he had made no new statement of admission. The police have taken special pains to keep Jim secluded from reporters. Early Saturday night they managed to find him in a cell in "Drunkard's Row." He answered a few questions put to him, and seemed very willing to talk. An early arrival of the turnkey, however, prevented the newspaper

Sunday, 13th July 1913 Detective Harry Scott’s Hunch Thrilling Story of How it Secured James Conley’s Confession

Has Audio

Caption reads: Detective Harry Scott (in Panama hat), of the Pinkertons, who played the hunch that Jim Conley, the negro, knew something of the girl's murder. The accompanying figure is Detective John Black, of police headquarters, whose work in co-operation with the Pinkerton man did much to solve the crime. Great dependence will be put in their testimony at the coming trial of Leo Frank, charged with the murder of Mary Phagan. The Atlanta Constitution Sunday, July 13, 1913 By Britt Craig. Have you ever had a hunch that there wasn't anybody around the table that held a higher hand

Friday, 11th July 1913 Conley Not Right Man, Says Mincey

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Friday, July 11, 1913 Insurance Man Who Made Affidavit Says Conversation Was With Some Other Negro—Saw Conley at Station. It was disclosed Thursday afternoon that William H. Mincey, the insurance agent who has made an affidavit to the effect that Jim Conley on the date of the Phagan murder drunkenly admitted that he had slain a girl had appeared at police headquarters during Conley's grilling and had positively failed to identify the negro. This was told a Constitution reporter by Detective Harry Scott of the Pinkertons and Detective Chief Newport Lanford. The insurance agent, they declared, had

Thursday, 10th July 1913 Mary Phagan’s Pay Envelope is Found

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Thursday, July 10, 1913 Discovery Made by Detectives Weeks Ago, But Is Just Announced The discovery of the pay envelope given Mary Phagan on the day of her murder is believed by detectives to furnish the missing link in the chain of circumstancial evidence they declare they have forged. The envelope was found by Detectives Harry Scott and John Black. It is now in possession of the solicitor general. It was discovered on the first floor of the plant building behind a radiator that is situated in immediate vicinity to the spot at which James Conye ,

Thursday, 10th July 1913 Hotels Involved By Story of Vice Young Girl Tells

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Thursday, July 10, 1913 Soda Water Stands, Chop Suey Joints and Automobile Rides Figure in Her Narrative. NAME OF BUSINESS MAN BROUGHT INTO SCANDAL Hattie Smith Says She Registered With Men in Cumberland and Brittain—Recorder Binds Over Three. A story of vice that is unprecedented even in the sorbid history of police court, was poured into the ears of Judge Broyles Wednesday afternoon, when Hattie Smith, the 17-year-old "Girl of the Streets," was called to the stand. She made no attempt to withhold anything. She gave names and addresses with startling willingness, and told of her own

Wednesday, 9th July 1913 Vice Scandal Probe Postponed for a Day

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, July 9, 1913 Because the attorney of Lena Barnhart, who is accused by Hattie Smith of being a white slave procuress, pleaded for time in which to obtain witnesses to the effect that the Barnhart woman had been introduced to the girl and had been her benefactress, the recent hotel vice scandal which was to have been given an airing yesterday in police court was postponed until today at 2:30 o'clock. Chief Beavers ordered detectives Tuesday morning to summon C. V. Kistner, proprietor of the Hotel Cumberland, to appear in recorder's court and bring the guest

Wednesday, 9th July 1913 Caught Drinking, Three Policemen Fired Off Force

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, July 9, 1913 Three Officers Are Suspended for Ninety Days, and Two Exonerated and Their Pay for Lost Time Restored. WOOD, BORN, FOLDS DISCHARGED BY BOARD Mayor Intimated He Would Ask Charges Be Preferred Against Moon, Who Said He Drank to Secure Evidence. The scandal in the police department which grew out of revelations that eight policemen visited the resort of Ola Bradley, a negress, at No. 129 Auburn street resulted in the dismissal of three, exoneration of two, and suspension of three for ninety days, by the police board, at 1:30 o'clock this morning. The

Friday, 4th July 1913 Effort Will Be Made to Free Newt Lee

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Friday, July 4, 1913 Attorney Chappell Declares Belief That Lee Has No Knowledge of Guilty Parties. An early effort is likely to be made to free Newt Lee, the negro night watchman who discovered the body of Mary Phagan, and who has since been held for suspected complicity in the crime. This is intimated in a statement issued by the negro's counsel, Bernard L. Chappell, who says he has arrived at the conclusion that his client knows absolutely nothing about the murder, except his grewsome discovery. Lee was not indicted, although his name was submitted before the

Saturday, 28th June 1913 Lanford and Felder Indicted for Libel

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Saturday, June 28, 1913 Indictments Grew Out of the Dictagraph Episode and the Letters Which Followed. Formal investigation into the invectives hurled between Colonel Thomas B. Felder and Detective Chief Newport Lanford resulted yesterday in indictments of criminal libel being returned by the grand jury against each of them for their cards and interviews in the daily papers in which they attacked each other's character, after the dictagraph row. Colonel Felder is held under two indictments on a bond of $500, while Chief Lanford has one indictment against him, and is free on the same bond. The

Wednesday, 25th June 1913 Trial of Leo Frank Postponed by Judge

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, June 25, 1913 Date of Trial Changed From June 30 Until July 28 at Plea of Attorneys for Defense. The first appearance in open court of the indictment against Leo M. Frank for the murder of Mary Phagan came yesterday afternoon when Judge L. S. Roan, presiding over the criminal division of superior court, summoned attorneys for both sides, and after a hearing changed the date of trial from June 30, as set by Solicitor Hugh M. Dorsey, to July 28. This and the legal move by the defense in serving upon Solicitor Dorsey, Police Chief

Wednesday, 25th June 1913 Reported Hoke Smith May Aid Leo Frank

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, June 25, 1913 Rumor He Will Appear for Defense Emphatically Denied, However, by Senator. By John Corrigan, Jr. Washington, June 24.—Reports that Senator Hoke Smith will be associated with Luther Rosser and other lawyers for the defense in the trial of Leo M. Frank for the murder of Mary Phagan were current here today. These reports followed the visit to Washington on last Saturday of Luther Rosser, leading counsel for Frank and Ike Haas, president of the National Pencil company, which employed Frank as superintendent of the factory. Investigate Early Life. Mr. Rosser and Mr. Haas

Tuesday, 24th June 1913 Frank’s Trial Set For Next Monday

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Tuesday, June 24, 1913 Indications Are Case Will Begin on That Day—Jury Panel Not Yet Drawn by Judge Roan. The trial of Leo M Frank, superintendent of the National Pencil Factory, now under indictment for the murder of Mary Phagan on April 26 in the factory, has been definitely set for next Monday. This was the announcement of Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey last night after he had been working upon the court calendar for the coming week. Solicitor Dorsey announced Sunday upon his arrival from New York city where he had spent the past two weeks

Sunday, 22nd June 1913 Leading Law Firms Have Joined Forces

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Sunday, June 22, 1913 Of especial interest in legal circles is the announcement that two of the leading law firms of Atlanta have joined forces, under the firm name of Rosser, Brandon, Slaton & Phillips. They will begin operation with offices on the west end of the seventh floor of the Grant building on July 1. Associated with the firm will be Luther Z. Rosser, Morris Brandon, John M. Slaton, Benjamin Z. Phillips, J. H. Porter, I. S. Hopkins, L. Z. Rosser Jr., V. B. Moore, J. J. Ragan, and James J. Slaton. Governor elect Slaton has

Sunday, 22nd June 1913 Frank Not Guilty of Phagan Murder Declares Arnold

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Sunday, June 22, 1913 Prominent Atlanta Lawyer Engaged to Aid in Defense of Pencil Factory Superintendent. NO WHITE MAN KILLED GIRL, ASSERTS LAWYER Formby and Conley Statements Should Not Be Given Credence So Far as They Tend to Incriminate Frank, He Says. Reuben R. Arnold, perhaps the best-known attorney in Georgia, has been engaged to aid the defense of Leo M. Frank, the suspected pencil factory superintendent, in the Mary Phagan mystery. This announcement was made from his office yesterday afternoon. In a statement that was furnished each of the newspapers, Mr. Arnold attacks the detectives for

Sunday, 22nd June 1913 Col. Felder Returns From Trip to Ohio

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Sunday, June 22, 1913 Journey Had No Relation to the Phagan Mystery or Dictagraph Incident, He Says. Colonel T. B. Felder returned Saturday from a six-day trip to Cincinnati. Much speculation was created by his departure for Ohio last Sunday and it was hinted that he had made the journey in interest of his recent connection with the famous dictagraph plot. It was also reported that he had gone behalf of the Mary Phagan investigation, in which he has been an active figure. His departure within less than twenty-four hours after Solicitor General Hugh Dorsey had left

Saturday, 21st June 1913 Postponement Likely In Leo Frank’s Trial

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Saturday, June 21, 1913 Doubt is expressed around the Fulton superior court that Leo M. Frank, superintendent of the National Pencil factory, now under indictment for the murder of Mary Phagan, an employee, on the afternoon or night of April 26, will go to trial during June. This date was the one upon which the solicitor had suggested that the trial might be held, but it is believed that if the state should prove to be ready at that time, that the defense would move to postpone the trial, pending further investigation and preparation on their part.

Friday, 20th June 1913 Formby Woman May Not Be A Witness

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Friday, June 20, 1913 State Declares Its Case Against Frank Is Now Complete Dorsey Still Absent Because of the inconsistency of her statement with the state's outline of prosecution, Chief Lanford intimates that Mima Formby , the roominghouse keeper of 400 Piedmont avenue, will not be called to the stand in Leo Frank's trial. He does not state this positively, however, but it is the general opinion that such will be the prosecution's action. Mrs. Formby has stated to a Constitution reporter that she is ready to testify against the factory superintendent and that she will remain

Thursday, 19th June 1913 Reuben Arnold May Aid Frank’s Defense In Big Murder Trial

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Thursday, June 19, 1913 When questioned last night as to the truth of the rumor that he will be associated with the defense of Leo M. Frank, indicted for the Mary Phagan murder, Reuben R. Arnold, one of Georgia's most prominent attorneys, refused to either affirm or deny the rumor. "I am not associated with the defense yet," Mr. Arnold said. "I cannot make any statement at the present time in regard to this matter." When questioned closely as to whether he would be engaged by the defense later on, Mr. Arnold made the same statement. Luther

Thursday, 19th June 1913 Mrs. Formby Here for Phagan Trial

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Thursday, June 19, 1913 Woman Declares She Will Appear in Court and Will Corroborate Sensational Affidavit to Police. Mima Formby, the rooming housekeeper of 400 Piedmont avenue, who made the affidavit declaring that Leo Frank had telephoned her on the night of Mary Phagan's murder in an endeavor to rent a room to which he could bring a girl, has returned to Atlanta after a disappearance of several weeks. To a reporter for The Constitution she stated yesterday afternoon that she intended remaining in the city until time of the Phagan trial and that she would appear

Wednesday, 18th June 1913 Two New Witnesses Sought by Officers

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Wednesday, June 18, 1913 Former Girl Employee and a Machanic May Testify Against Frank. Two new witnesses may be used by the state in the prosecution of Leo Frank when his trial is held on June 30. Chief Lanford is investigating the reported statement of a young girl living near Roswell and of a mechanic who resides near East Point. The former, a lass of 17, is said to have been employed in the pencil factory two years ago. For the past year or more she has been living with her parents at their home just outside

Monday, 16th June 1913 Constitution Picture Will Figure in Trial

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Monday, June 16, 1913 Solicitor Wants Photograph of Spot Where Mary Phagan's Body Was Found A flashlight picture, made by The Constitution's staff photographer is to be used as evidence by the prosecution in the trial of Leo M. Frank. This was made evident Sunday afternoon when Detective John Starnes applied to a Constitution reporter for the photograph of the spot in the pencil factory basement, where Mary Phagan's body was discovered. Starnes would not state why he wanted the picture, saying only that it would be used by the prosecution. He was extremely desirous of getting

Monday, 16th June 1913 Col. Thomas Felder Goes to Cincinnati

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Monday, June 16, 1913 Says Trip Has Nothing to Do With That of Solicitor Dorsey Following the departure of Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey for Atlantic City Saturday afternoon, Col. Thomas B. Felder left Sunday afternoon at 5:10 o'clock for Cincinnati. He said that his trip had no connection whatever with that of the solicitor general. He would not disclose his object in going to Cincinnati, however, and said only that he would be in the Ohio city for several days. Business was his motive in leaving, he declared, although he would not tell what business he

Sunday, 15th June 1913 Solicitor Dorsey Goes to New York

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Sunday, June 15, 1913 Grand Jury Will Probably Take Up the Dictagraph Probe While He Is Away. With the departure of Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey for New York yesterday afternoon, whither he declares he is going for a week's rest, and the announcement of Foreman L. H. Beck, of the grand jury, that only routine criminal business will be taken up at the meeting on Tuesday, comes a peculiar situation, as hitherto the solicitor's pretense has been considered necessary for the indictment of the regular class of criminals, and only when investigating on their own accord

Sunday, 15th June 1913 Frank Hooper Aids Phagan Prosecution

Has Audio

The Atlanta Constitution Sunday, June 15, 1913 Solicitor General Hugh Dorsey Announces His Associate in Big Case. Just before leaving yesterday afternoon for New York, Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey announced that Attorney Frank A. Hooper would be associated with him in the prosecution growing out of the murder of Mary Phagan. Saying that Mr. Hooper was his personal choice, Dorsey also stated that Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Coleman, parents of the victim, had been consulted and had directed him to employ such counsel as he desired and that his choice of Mr. Hooper satisfied the Colemans. Attorney Hooper

Fake News and False History: The 1913 Leo Frank Case in the Midst of a 21st-Century Jewish-Gentile Culture War By Moses Jacobs

Has Audio

The oak tree lynching of Leo Max Frank at sunrise on Tuesday morning, August 17, 1915, in a densely sylvan grove at former Sheriff William J. Frey’s farming estate (today 100 meters off what was formerly called 1200 Roswell Road & Fray’s Gin Rd in Marietta). Frank was not assassinated by a moonshine-fueled mob of feverish yokels exacting revenge because “the blood of a negro is not enough to atone for the molestation murder victim” as some Jewish advocates and their Gentile allies have suggested, for more than 100 years. Instead, the men who hanged Leo Frank were a sober,

Report Of L P Whitfield

Has Audio

The following pages contain a correct copy of the report of L. P. Whitfield, dated May 16, 1913, and sent to the National Pencil Company on May 21, 1913. L.P.W. Atlanta, Georgia Friday, May 16th, 1913. At 7:00 A.M. I went to Police Headquarters and met W. D. MacW. and city detective Black. We requested Black to secure the handwriting of Conley and Bailey, the two prisoners now in the barracks and to learn their movements on April 26th, 1913. At 8:30 A.M. W.D. MacW. and myself went to #59 Bonnie Brae Ave., in East Point, Georgia, for the purpose

Statement of Jim Conley: May 29, 1913

Has Audio

I discontinued at 6:00 P. M. Reported. Atlanta 5/31/13. Conley's Statement of May 29, 1913. Atlanta, Georgia May 29, 1913. On Saturday April 26, 1913, when I come back to the pencil factory with Mr. Frank I waited for him downstairs like he told me, and when he whistled for me I went upstairs and he asked me if I wanted to make some money right quick and I told him "Yes", sir", and he told me that he had picked up a girl back there and had let her fall and that he head hit against something he didn't

Statement of Jim Conley: May 28, 1913

Has Audio

State of Jim Conley, May 28, 1913. State of Georgia, County of Fulton. Personally appeared before me, a Notary Public, in and for the above State and County, James Conley, who being duly sworn on oath says: I make this statement, my second statement, in regard to the murder of Mary Phagan at the National Pencil Factory. In my first statement I made the statement that I went to the pencil factory on Friday, April 25, 1913, and went to Frank's office at four minutes to one, which is a mistake. I made this statement in regard to Friday in

Statement of James Conley: May 24, 1913

Has Audio

Statement of James Conley of May 24, 1913. State of Georgia, County of Fulton. Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public, in and for the above stated and county, James Conley, who being sworn on oath says: On Friday evening before the holiday, about four minutes to one o'clock, Mr. Frank came up the aisle and asked me to come to his office. That was the aisle on the fourth floor where I was working, and when I went down to the office he asked me could I write and I told him yes I could write a

Statement of James Conley: May 18, 1913

Has Audio

Statement of James Conley, of Atlanta, Georgia made to John R. Black and H. S. at Police Barracks, Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, May 18th, 1913. My full name is James Conley. I reside at 172 Rhodes St. with Lorena Jones, who claims to be from Marietta, Georgia This woman is not my wife, and I have been living with her a little over two years. I have been having intercourse with Lorena Jones. I have been employed as elevator man and roust about at the National Pencil Co. factory in Atlanta for the past two years. Before going to the

Report of Assistant Superintendent Harry Scott: May 28, 1913

Has Audio

The following pages contain a correct copy of the report of assistant superintendent Harry Scott dated May 28, 1913, and sent to the National Pencil Company on May 31, 1913; Asst. Supt. H. S. reports: Atlanta, Georgia Wednesday, May 28th, 1913. Today Chief of Detectives Lanford and myself had an interview with the negro James Conley again, and after about four hours questioning, we succeeded in having Conley make the enclosed statement to which he made affidavit. We stayed with Conley throughout the entire day, endeavoring to make clear certain points outlined in his statement, which we thought were a

Report of Assistant Superintendent Harry Scott: May 25 & 27, 1913

Has Audio

The following pages contain a correct copy of the report of assistant superintendent Harry Scott, dated May 25, 1913 and sent to the National Pencil Company on May 26, 1913. Asst. Supt. H. S. reports: Atlanta, Georgia Sunday, May 25, 1913. This afternoon Detective Black and myself were at Police Headquarters again and had another interview with the negro James Connally, and questioned him very closely regarding the statement made to us yesterday morning by him, but he maintained that it was the truth and we could not secure any further information from Connally. Atlanta, Georgia 5/26/13. Reported. F. The

Report of Assistant Superintendent Harry Scott: May 24, 1913

Has Audio

The following pages contain a correct copy of the report of assistant superintendent Harry Scott, dated May 24, 1913, and sent to the National Pencil Company on May 26, 1913: Asst. Supt. H. S. reports: Atlanta, Georgia Saturday, May 24th, 1913. This morning the negro James Conley sent for City Detective John Black, as he stated that he was going to tell him the truth. I accompanied Detective Black to James Connalley's cell at Police Headquarters, when Connally voluntarily stated that he had written notes for Mr. Frank on Friday, April 25th, 1913 and that as he recalled it Mr.

Report of Assistant Superintendent Harry Scott: May 23, 1913

Has Audio

The following pages contain a correct copy of the report of assistant superintendent Harry Scott dated May 23, 1913, and sent to the National Pencil Company on May 26, 1913. Asst. Supt. H. S. reports: Atlanta, Georgia Thursday, May 22, 1913. This morning I had a long conference with Chief of Detectives Lanford, relative to the case in hand and reviewing what investigation has been made by the Agency and City Police in connection with the case. City Detective Black and myself were then requested to report at Solicitor General Dorsey's office for a conference, which we did, and remained

Report of Assistant Superintendent Harry Scott: May 18, 1913

Has Audio

The following pages contain a correct copy of the report of assistant superintendent Harry Scott dated May 18, 1913, and sent to the National Pencil Company on May 23, 1913; Asst. Supt. H. S. reports. Atlanta, Georgia Sunday, May 18th, 1913. This morning I went to Police Headquarters with Supt. H. B. P. and Detective John Black, and arranged to take a statement from James Conley, the negro sweeper formerly employed at the factory of the National Pencil Co., who has been under arrest for the past two weeks, he being arrested on suspicion when he was seen washing one

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs. National Pencil Company: Motion for New Trial Read and Considered

Has Audio

Read and considered. Let the foregoing motion for a new trial be filed to the right of amendment. It is further ordered that the Pinkerton National Detective Agency, the plaintiff, show cause before me at 9 o'clock A.M. on the 18th day of December, 1915, or as soon thereafter as a hearing can be had, why the foregoing motion should not be granted and a new trial ordered. In the meantime, a super sedeas is granted to the defendant in so far as to stay any levy under the verdict and judgment until this motion is disposed of. It is

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs. National Pencil Company: Motion for New Trial Acknowledged by Plaintiff

Has Audio

Due and legal service of the within motion for new trial, rule nisi and order of court acknowledged. This 22 day of November, 1915. Robert C. & Philip H. Alston, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Filed in office this 23rd day of November, 1915. J. C. Lewis, Deputy Clerk. Min. 74, page 557

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs. National Pencil Company: Motion for New Trial

Has Audio

Pinkerton National Detective Agency v. National Pencil Co. No. 31231. Fulton Superior Court, Motion for New Trial. Verdict in favor of the plaintiff and against the defendant at the November Term, 1915, Superior Court of Fulton County, on November 22, 1915. The defendant, the National Pencil Company, being dissatisfied with the verdict and judgment in said case, comes during said term of court, and before adjournment thereof, within thirty days from said trial, and moves the Court for a new trial upon the following grounds, to-wit: 1- Because the verdict is contrary to the evidence and without evidence to support

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs. National Pencil Company: Judgment

Has Audio

JUDGMENT. The jury having rendered a verdict for the plaintiff it is therefore ordered and adjudged that Pinkerton's National Detective Agency do have and recover of the defendant, National Pencil Co., the principal sum of $1286.09 and $170.52 interest to date and future interest at the rate of 7% per annum and ______ dollars cost of court. This 11/22/15. Robt. C. & Philip H. Alston, Attys for Plff.

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs National Pencil Company: Corporation/Partnership

Has Audio

Pinkerton National Detective Agency vs. National Pencil Co. #31231 Superior Court of Fulton County. Now comes the plaintiff and having first obtained leave of the Court amends its petition by striking from the second line thereof the word Corporation and adding the word Partnership. Robert C. & Philip H. Alston, Attys. for Plaintiff. Allowed by consent and ordered filed. This Nov. 17, 1915. W. D. Ellis, Judge S.C.A.C. Filed in office this 22nd day of November, 1915. J. C. Lewis, Deputy Clerk. Min. 74, page 596.

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs National Pencil Company: Charge of Court

Has Audio

Gentlemen of the Jury: This is a suit brought by Pinkerton's National Detective Agency, originally in the papers alleged to be a corporation, but by way of amendment to the original petition now charged to be a partnership, against the National Pencil Company, charged to be and admitted to be a corporation. The plaintiff's petition alleges that about the 28th day of April, 1913, this detective agency was employed by the National Pencil Company in the matter of procuring evidence to convict the murderer of Mary Phagan, who was alleged to have been slain on the premises of the National

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs National Pencil Company: Brief of Evidence

Has Audio

(BRIEF-OF-EVIDENCE.) Harry Scott, for plaintiff, testified as follows: I am at present superintendent of Pinkerton's National Detective Agency at Syracuse, NY. In 1913, I was assistant superintendent of the Atlanta Office. Acting in behalf of the Plaintiff, I made the contract with the defendant. On the afternoon of April 26, 1913, I was called on the telephone by Mr. Frank who asked me to come down to the Pencil Factory, which I did, and we discussed the case as it had developed up to that time, after which he inquired as to our rates, and I told him that our

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs National Pencil Company: Bill of Exceptions

Has Audio

PINKERTON'S NATIONAL DETECTIVE AGENCY verses NATIONAL PENCIL COMPANY. No. 31,231. Fulton Superior Court. BILL OF EXCEPTIONS. GEORGIA, FULTON COUNTY. Be it remembered that on the 17th, 18th, 19th, and 22nd days of November, 1915, at the regular November Term of the Superior Court of Fulton County before the Honorable W. D. Ellis Judge, presiding, there came on to be tried the case of the Pinkerton's National Detective Agency v. National Pencil Company. A jury was stricken, evidence was introduced for plaintiff and defendant, and after argument of counsel and the charge of Court, the jury rendered a verdict in favor

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs. National Pencil Company – Approval of Brief of Evidence

Has Audio

Approval of Brief of Evidence. The foregoing 134 pages constituting the brief of evidence in the above stated case, are hereby approved as a true and correct brief of the evidence produced upon the in the above stated case. Let the same be filed as part of the record herein. This February 3, 1916. W.D. Ellis, Judge S. C. A C. Filed in office this the 4th day of February, 1916. T. C. Miller, D. Clk.

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs National Pencil Company: Answer of Defendant

Has Audio

Pinkerton's National Detective Agency v. National Pencil Co. No. 31231 In the Superior Court of Fulton County, Georgia. ANSWER OF DEFENDANT. Now comes the defendant, the National Pencil Company, and answers as follows: 1. Defendant admits the allegations of paragraph 1. 2. Defendant admits the allegations of paragraph 2. 3. Defendant denies the allegations of paragraph 3. 4. Defendant admits the allegations of paragraph 4 except the following allegation, to-wit: *and also to pay proper incidental expenses incurred by petitioner in this behalf* which allegation defendant denies. 5. Defendant denies the allegations of the paragraph following the paragraph numbered 4,

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs National Pencil Company: Amended Motion for New Trial

Has Audio

(AMENDED MOTION FOR NEW TRIAL.) GEORGIA, Fulton County. Now comes the defendant, the National Pencil Company, and amends its motion for a new trial heretofore filed on Nov., 22, 1915, and says that the verdict in the above stated case should be set aside and a new trial granted for the following reasons, to-wit: 1. Because the court on its own motion and although the plaintiff's attorney had withdrawn all objection, refused to admit in evidence certain portions of the argument made by the solicitor General of the Atlanta Circuit on August 23d and 25th , 1913 at the trial

Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency vs National Pencil Company

Has Audio

In the Superior Court of Fulton County, Georgia. This the petition of Pinkerton's National Detective Agency, a corporation, respectfully represents unto this Honorable Court as follows: 1 The National Pencil Company is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Georgia, having its principal place of business in the County of Fulton, State of Georgia. 2 On or about the 28th day of April, 1913, petitioner was employed by the National Pencil Company to render services as a detective agency in the matter of procuring evidence to convict the murderer of Mary Phagan, who was alleged to have

National Pencil Company vs Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency: Bill of Exceptions Certification (Supreme Court)

Has Audio

STATE OF GEORGIA, County of Fulton. I Hereby Certify, That the foregoing pages, hereunto attached, contain a true Transcript of such parts of the record as are specified in the Bill of Exceptions and required, by the order of the Presiding Judge, to be sent to the Supreme Court in the case of National Pencil Company Plaintiff in Error. vs. Pinkerton's National Detective Agency Defendant in Error. I further certify that on account of the volume of work in office I was unable to make out + transcribe this record in the time prescribed by law Witness my signature and

National Pencil Company vs Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency: Bill of Exceptions Certification

Has Audio

GEORGIA, Fulton County. I Hereby Certify, That the foregoing Bill of Exceptions, hereunto attached, is the true original Bill of Exceptions in the case stated, to-wit: National Pencil Company Plaintiff in Error. vs. Pinkerton's National Detective Agency Defendant in Error. and that a copy hereof has been made and filed in this office. Witness my signature and the seal of Court affixed this the 15th day of February 1916 Clerk Superior Court Fulton County, Georgia, Ex-Officio Clerk City Court of Atlanta.

National Pencil Company vs Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency

Has Audio

1. Where partners sue in their firm name, the partnership need not be proved, unless denied in a verified plea. This was true where the original petition alleged that the plaintiff was a corporation, and the partnership was alleged in an amendment to the petition. 2. It was not error for the court to repel as evidence in this case "certain portions of the argument made by the solicitor general of the Atlanta Circuit on August 23 and 25, 1913, at the trial of Leo M. Frank for murder in Fulton superior court". The rejected matter was so clearly inadmissible

Sunday, 29th June 1913 Many Experts to Take Stand in Frank Trial

Has Audio

  The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, June 29, 1913 Great Array of Finger-Print and Blood-Stain Students Will Give Their Views. The trial of Leo M. Frank will bring forth the most prominent array of criminal and medical experts ever grouped in a Southern court room. This became known Saturday when Solicitor Hugh M. Dorsey began making preparations to have the skilled investigators who have worked in the Phagan case return to Atlanta for the trial, July 28. The defense has not been idle and is prepared to have an expert on almost every conceivable angle to introduce in rebuttal. Fingerprint experts

Sunday, 29th June 1913 Brilliant Legal Battle Is Sure as Hooper And Arnold Clash in Trial of Leo Frank

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, June 29, 1913 * * Alternate headline from another page is shown in brackets above. By An Old Police Reporter. As deplorable as the Phagan case is in all its melancholy details, it already is evident enough that there will come of it eventually much that the community may be thankful for. In the first place, Atlanta and Georgia, and incidentally the entire South will have learned a good lesson in law and order, justice and fair play, and to that extent may be the better prepared for the next case of the kind that comes

Saturday, 28th June 1913 State Secures New Phagan Evidence

Has Audio

  The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, June 28, 1913 * Conley's Admission Strengthens Rumor That He Saw Child Just Before Slaying. Frank A. Hooper, associated with Solicitor Dorsey in the prosecution of Leo M. Frank on the charge of strangling Mary Phagan, admitted Saturday that Jim Conley, negro sweeper at the National Pencil Factory, had made important additions to the story of his part in the murder mystery and had told of circumstances on the day of the crime which he had revealed in none of his previous statements. A persistent report that Conley had made the startling admission that he

Saturday, 28th June 1913 Gov. Slaton Takes Oath Simply

Has Audio

  The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, June 28, 1913 With the simplest ceremonies in the history of the State, marked by the absence of all military display and red tape, John Marshall Slaton becomes Governor of the State of Georgia in the hall of the House of Representatives of the State Capitol Saturday at 12 o'clock noon, succeeding Governor Joseph M. Brown. The joint committee on inaugural arrangements selected from the memberships of the Senate and the House has conformed to the expressed desires of Governor-elect Slaton in preparing for his induction into office, and there is none of the pomp

Friday, 27th June 1913 New Frank Evidence Held by Dorsey

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Friday, June 27, 1913 Solicitor Closely Guards Data of Which City Detectives Have No Knowledge. New activity was injected into the Phagan case Friday when James Conley, negro sweeper at the National Pencil Factory, was removed secretly from his cell in police station and closely questioned by Frank Hooper, who will aid Solicitor Dorsey in the prosecution of Leo Frank. The move was surrounded with the utmost secrecy. The negro was taken from his cell by Detective Starnes, and behind locked doors questioned anew in the room used by the Police Commissioners. He had been in for

Friday, 27th June 1913 Lanford and Felder Are Held for Libel

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Friday, June 27, 1913 Grand Jury Indicts Lawyer and Head of Detectives for Attacks on Each Other. Three indictments charging criminal libel were returned Friday by the Grand Jury against Colonel Thomas B. Felder, the Atlanta attorney, and Newport Lanford, Chief of Detectives, who accused each other of most everything in the category after the famous dictograph episode. There are two bills against Felder and one against Lanford. The two men will be placed under bond and will be tried in the Fulton County courts under the misdemeanor act for unlawfully and maliciously accusing each other, according

Thursday, 26th June 1913 Stover Girl Will Star in Frank Trial

Has Audio

Judge L.S. Roan, who will preside at trial of alleged slayer of Mary Phagan. The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, June 26, 1913 State, However, Must Prove She Entered Factory Before Mary Phagan. With the selection of the court room made Thursday, all is virtually in readiness for the trial of Leo M. Frank, accused of strangling Mary Phagan. The venire of jurymen has been selected and July 28 is fixed as the date, and both sides have announced they are ready to go into court. A definite decision was reached by Judge L. S. Roan to hold the trial on the

Wednesday, 25th June 1913 Conley, Put on Grill, Sticks Story

Has Audio

  The Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, June 25, 1913 Police Resume Questioning of the Negro Sweeper Who Accuses Leo Frank. Puzzled by several of the statements of Jim Conley in regard to his part in the happenings the day that Mary Phagan was killed, the police have resumed the questioning from which the negro had been free since he was taken to the police station by the detectives. One point that has not been cleared up is why Conley saw every one else that went into or left the factory and yet failed to see Mary Phagan. Conley, on Sunday, was

Tuesday, 24th June 1913 Both Sides Called in Conference by Judge; Trial Set for July 28

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, June 24, 1913 Dorsey, Beavers and Lanford Summoned to Appear June 30 With All Affidavits They Have Secured Relative to the Phagan Slaying Case. Just before the conference with both sides in the Frank case started Judge Roan intimated strongly that he would set the case for July 14 or July 28 and hold it in some more commodious court room than the one in which he sits on the fourth floor of the Thrower building. Judge Roan's personal inclination leans to a date in July, and it is not likely that the State or defense

Monday, 23rd June 1913 Venire of 72 for Frank Jury Is Drawn

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, June 23, 1913 Negro Conley Sticks to Affidavit Story When Again Cross-Examined by Dorsey. The first official action of the court in preparing for the trial of Leo M. Frank for the murder of Mary Phagan was taken Monday afternoon when Judge L. S. Roan impaneled 72 men, from whom a jury to hear the case will be sought. June 30 was agreed to by Judge Roan for the opening of the case. If a postponement is desired it will now have to be asked for in open court. As yet Judge Roan said he had

Monday, 23rd June 1913 State Ready for Frank Trial on June 30

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, June 23, 1913 Defense Has Announced Its Case Is Complete and Judge Roan Is Free. Prosecuting Attorney Hugh M. Dorsey announced for the State Monday morning that the trial of Leo M. Frank would be placed on the calendar for the week of June 30. The defense had announced that its case was completed and no continuance would be asked unless some unforeseen contingency arose. The trial judge, L. S. Roan, will have the most to say about the date for the trial. He intimated he would be ready on this date and would personally make

Sunday, 22nd June 1913 Jurors, Not Newspapers, To Return Frank Verdict, Declares Old Reporter

Has Audio

    The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, June 22, 1913 Writer Declares He Has Only Worked for Fair Trial and Fair Play—Race Question Is No Issue in Phagan Case—Rosser Not Writer. By AN OLD POLICE REPORTER. There were few developments in the Phagan case last week that to my mind were worth considering seriously or that threw new light upon the mystery. Perhaps it was because of this that a good many people wrote letters to "The Old Police Reporter"—some commending my articles, others condemning them; but in every case indicating clearly that the interest has not lessened. I observe that

Sunday, 22nd June 1913 Arnold to Aid Frank

Has Audio

Reuben Arnold, noted Atlanta lawyer, who in a statement to The Sunday American says he will help defend Leo M. Frank, accused of slaying Mary Phagan. The Atlanta Georgian Sunday, June 22, 1913 Declares Prisoner is Innocent Has Studied Case Deeply, He Says Noted Lawyer, in Statement to Sunday American, Tells Why He Has Decided to Take Up the Defense of the Accused Man. Negro Conley, in New Interview, Asserts He Is Eager to Face Leo M. Frank in Court and Repeat Story of Alleged Part in Crime. Positive confirmation of the report that he would be one of counsel

Saturday, 21st June 1913 Justice Aim in Phagan Case, Says Hooper

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, June 21, 1913 I have not been employed in the case to prosecute Leo M. Frank, but to help find and convict the murderer of Mary Phagan. If the trial proves we are wrong, we will begin work on another angle. We have but one object and idea. It is that justice and the law be vindicated. We are, however, convinced we have a strong case against the accused. FRANK A. HOOPER, Attorney. Mrs. Mina Formby and her sensational affidavit will not be used by the State in the trial of Leo M. Frank, according to

Friday, 20th June 1913 Frank Trial Will Not Be Long One

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Friday, June 20, 1913 Few Witnesses of the Scores Examined Will Be Called When Case Is Heard. That the trial of Leo M. Frank will take a much shorter time that is generally thought was indicated in a statement by Judge L. S. Roan. The judge said the greatest difficulty and almost as great a length of time would be consumed in drawing a jury as in the hearing of the case. He said the actual taking of evidence might not consume more than a day. Judge Roan intimated that he expected neither side to introduce the

Thursday, 19th June 1913 Blow Aimed at Formby Story

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, June 19, 1913 DEFENSE HAS WITNESSES TO REFUTE WOMAN Learns Identity of Other Persons in Home on Night of the Phagan Slaying. That the defense in the trial of Leo M. Frank will be able, if it wishes, to produce three or four witnesses who will testify that the affidavit of Mrs. Mima Formby is untrue was discovered Thursday when the identity of the other persons in the house of Mrs. Formby, 400 Piedmont Avenue, the night of April 26, when Mary Phagan was murdered, was learned. It was from Mrs. Formby that the detectives obtained

Wednesday, 18th June 1913 Rush Plans for Trial of Leo Frank

Has Audio

  The Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, June 18, 1913 Extensive Preparations Made to Accommodate Great Crowd Expected at Hearing. When twelve books of evidence of more than 100 pages each were turned over to the Solicitor's office Wednesday morning by his stenographers, Assistant Solicitor General E. A. Stephens announced the State could now go to trial on 48 hours' notice. No evidence would be introduced, he said, except by witnesses who had already been questioned by the Solicitor. To bring out the salient points in the evidence of each witness, the Solicitor plans to question them from the books. They will

Tuesday, 17th June 1913 Sensations in Phagan Case at Hand

Has Audio

  The Atlanta Georgian Tuesday, June 17, 1913 Out-of-Town Trips Believed To Be of Great Importance—Defense Has Strong Evidence. Frank A. Hooper, associate counsel with Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey in the prosecution of the Phagan murder mystery, left Atlanta Monday for a trip to Indianapolis. Attorney Hooper was the third man closely connected with the Phagan case to leave town within a space of three days. Colonel Thomas B. Felder, who took an active part in the hunt for the slayer of Mary Phagan until the dictograph controversy arose, left Sunday, saying that he was going to Cincinnati. He

Monday, 16th June 1913 Dorsey Aide Says Frank Is Fast In Net

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, June 16, 1913 Attorney Hooper Declares State Is Prepared for Any Move the Defense May Make. Frank A. Hooper, the well-known criminal lawyer who has been engaged to assist Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey in the trial of Leo M. Frank for the alleged murder of Mary Phagan, said Monday that the case was complete and was ready for presentation in court at any time. Mr. Hooper asserted that the attorneys interested in the prosecution had investigated every angle of the mystery so thoroughly and fortified themselves against any defense that Frank will present, that practically

Monday, 16th June 1913 Colyar Returns Promising Sensation

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Monday, June 16, 1913 A. S. Colyar is in Atlanta again, promising to spring some more sensations. The investigator who engineered the dictographing of Thomas B. Felder and Mayor Woodward has been in Washington. He sent a letter to Atlanta before him, saying he objected to being made a goat. It is believed Colyar saw George M. Gentry while in Washington and got from him an affidavit. This is said to be much the same as the one printed admitting that the dictograph records had been padded, as charged in Gentry's recent affidavit, but that the general

Saturday, 14th June 1913 State Takes Advantage of Points Known

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, June 14, 1913 With certain of the strong defenses of Leo M. Frank exposed by the preliminary battle over the custody of the negro Conley, the prosecution in the Phagan murder mystery went to work on the case to-day with its first definite idea of the sort of a stronghold it must assault. It was assured that the accused man's lawyers would not rest with fighting suspicion away from Frank, but would seek to fasten the guilt so firmly upon Conley that Frank not only would be acquitted, but that he would be cleared of every

Saturday, 14th June 1913 Sheriff Mangum Near End, Says Lawyer Smith

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Saturday, June 14, 1913 Attorney for Conley Injects Politics Into Dispute Over Negro's Place of Confinement. William M. Smith, counsel for James Conley, confessed accessory after the fact in the killing of Mary Phagan, in a statement Saturday sought to make a political issue out of his controversy with Sheriff Mangum over the alleged treatment Conley received while in the Tower. Attorney Smith employed references to his own previous statement that the jail was five stories high; was divided into four wings with seventeen cell blocks distributed over five floors, to discredit Sheriff Mangum's characterization of the

Friday, 13th June 1913 Negro Freed But Jailed Again On Suspicion

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Friday, June 13, 1913 Rosser Declares ‘Gibbering Statements' Point Out Sweeper as Guilty of Slaying. James Conley, self-confessed accessory after the fact in the murder of Mary Phagan, Friday was discharged by Judge L. S. Roan entirely from the custody of the State on the petition of Solicitor Dorsey. Technically free, Conley was at once rearrested and held by the police on suspicion in the murder mystery. The action of Judge Roan constituted a victory for Solicitor Dorsey, who was fighting to prevent the authorities returning Conley to the Tower, from which he had been taken on

Friday, 13th June 1913 Judge Roan to Decide Conleys Jail Fate

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian Friday, June 13th, 1913 Chief of Detectives Lanford Receives No Order to Take the Negro Sweeper to Court. A more explicit accusation of murder against Jim Conley, negro sweeper at the National Pencil Factory, than has yet been made since his name has been connected with the Phagan mystery, was expected Friday morning when Luther Z. Rosser, attorney for Leo Frank, was to appear before Judge L. S. Roan to combat Solicitor Dorsey's move to keep Conley at the police station and away from the tower. The probability that Conley, accuser, and Frank, accused, would be brought face

Thursday, 12th June 1913 Face Conley and Frank, Lanford Urges

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Thursday, June 12, 1913 Detective Chief Ready to Have Accuser Confront Prisoner Before Grand Jury. New sensations are expected in the Phagan mystery Friday morning when the petition of Solicitor Dorsey for the revocation of the order holding James Conley as a material witness is heard before Judge L. S. Roan. Luther Z. Rosser, attorney for Leo Frank, will be afforded his first opportunity formally to present his reasons for the holding of James Conley, not only as a material witness in the baffling murder mystery, but as an actual suspect. While it is not anticipated that

Wednesday, 11th June 1913 Police Hold Conley By Courts Order

Has Audio

Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, June 11th, 1913 Judge Roan Gives Suspect Chance to Show Why He Should Not Be Released. The Phagan case took a queer turn Wednesday afternoon when Judge Roan, apparently stirred by Luther Z. Rosser's araignment of the way Jim Conley has been "petted" by the police, issued notice to suspects in the mystery that they will be given opportunity Friday to show cause why the negro should not be released from custody as a suspect. However, the move is strictly legal in character, Conley, through his attorney, W. M. Smith, having signed a written statement to stay

Wednesday, 11th June 1913 Plot Exposed, Says Felder, But Lanford Doubts Affidavit

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, June 11, 1913 In New Sworn Statement Gentry Declares He Came to Realize He Was Dealing with "Bunch of Crooks"—Charges Lanford and Beavers Names Were Inserted. That the dictograph conversations in which it was plotted to trap Colonel Thomas B. Felder, Mayor Woodward and C. C. Jones were padded and altered in meaning is the sensational charge brought back to Atlanta in an affidavit sworn to by George M. Gentry, who fled to Washington after the conversations, in their alleged garbled form, had been offered for publication by A. S. Colyar, Jr., and printed. Gentry's charges

Wednesday, 11th June 1913 Felder Returns Phagan Fund to Givers

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian June 11, 1913 Attorney Explains Disposition of Money Subscribed to Secure Burns' Services. Colonel Thomas B. Felder Wednesday issued an itemized statement of the funds subscribed by Atlanta citizens, to secure the employment of the Burns Detective Agency to investigate the Phagan mystery, to show that these funds had been returned to the donors. According to Mr. Felder's statement, but $102 was actually subscribed. This amount was placed in the hands of Curtis N. Anderson, a member and treasurer of the law firm of Felder, Anderson, Dillon & Whitman. In a letetr to Colonel Felder, dated June

Wednesday, 11th June 1913 Asks Beavers to Investigate Affidavit

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian Wednesday, June 11, 1913 Chief of Detectives Newport Lanford telegraphed Chief of Police Beavers in Washington, D. C., Wednesday morning to investigate the origin of the affidavit bearing the signature of George M. Gentry in connection with the dictograph plot. The detective chief asked Chief Beavers to find Jeannette Henning, the notary in the national capital who swore Gentry to his statement, and ascertain if the stenographer signed the affidavit which was brought to Atlanta by Detective E. O. Miles. The telegram asked that a minute investigation of the statement be made and the conditions under which

Tuesday, 10th June 1913 Indictment of Felder and Fain Asked

Has Audio

The Atlanta Georgian June 10, 1913 Assistant Solicitor E. A. Stephens virtually admitted this afternoon that Police Commissioner W. P. Fain had been indicted. There was a division of the vote, it was said, but the majority was for indictment. With blank bills of indictment against Attorney Thomas B. Felder and Police Commissioner W. P. Fain under consideration, the vice probe by the Fulton County Grand Jury took a sensational turn Tuesday. Two witnesses told of disorder and rowdyism in a house at 40 East Harris Street, in which the Police Commissioner was said to have been involved. The disorder,

Top