Minnesota's Most Notorious: Where Blood Runs Cold Minneapolis Madams with Penny A. Petersen - A True Crime History Podcast
Sep 2, 2019
In this captivating discussion, Penny A. Petersen, author of *Minneapolis Madams: The Lost History of Prostitution on the Riverfront*, unearths the hidden stories of Minneapolis's past. She reveals the regulated prostitution system thriving along the riverfront and the complexities faced by madams like Nettie Conley. Petersen highlights how economic survival compelled women into the trade, while also offering a nuanced look at class dynamics within brothels. The conversation explores the transformative impact of societal changes on these women's lives and the legacy they left behind.
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Bike Ride Sparks Book Idea
- Penny A. Petersen discovered Minneapolis's history of prostitution accidentally during a bike ride.
- She investigated a building that was once a bordello and found a hidden history of licensed prostitution in Minneapolis.
Three Minneapolis Red Light Districts
- Minneapolis had three main red light districts: Main Street, First Street, and 11th Avenue.
- These districts evolved over time and reflected the city's economic and social landscape.
Life Varied for Prostitutes
- Life for prostitutes varied depending on the madam, the brothel's quality, and the worker's skills.
- Madams had vested interest in keeping workers safe and profitable, encouraging longer careers.