You’ve likely heard of Rose O’Neal Greenhow, the famous (or infamous) Southern spy in Washington D.C. You might have see the photograph of her which was taken while she was in prison. And, if you’ve seen that photograph, you’ve noticed someone else in the picture. That’s right: a little girl, looking wearily stubborn and clinging close to Mrs. Greenhow. Continue reading
allan pinkerton
Allan Pinkerton: Commanding The Union Intelligence Service
What was the forerunner to the U.S. Secret Service? When did folks start to really worry about protecting a U.S. President? Would you be really surprised if I told you it was during the Civil War?
Today, we’ll talk about a Union spy and detective who saved Lincoln’s life at least once, miscalculated troop numbers for George McClellan, went into enemy territory looking for clues, and ultimately laid the foundation for the U.S. Secret Service.
Meet Major E.J. Allen. No, his real name was Allan Pinkerton. Continue reading