Gavin Schmitt Knihy

Best known for its many natural wonders, Lake Michigan also claims the odd and dubious honor as the home and stomping grounds of Roaring Dan Seavey, alleged to be the only pirate arrested on the Great Lakes. Aboard his ship, the Wanderer, Seavey's life at sea (or at lake) entangled him in all kinds of misadventures. The wanton sailor roamed to the wilds of Alaska, engaged in a brisk chase with the Coast Guard and survived a raging inferno--and those are just the stories that can be confirmed. Legends of drunken brawls and grave robbing continue to follow Roaring Dan long after his death. Author Gavin Schmitt leads readers on a journey with one of Lake Michigan's most notorious sailors.

Murder Capital explores Prohibition-era Madison, Wisconsin. Per capita, Madison was the most violent and deadly city in the United States during the 1920s. Along with the usual suspects (bootleggers), Madison was unique in its strong Ku Klux Klan presence. In the background was a prominent judge, overseeing Mafia cases by day, but by night taking illegal loans from these very same criminals. In effect, he tied his own hands and the violence was allowed to continue unabated

Delving into Milwaukee's hidden Sicilian underworld, this book uncovers the history of the Milwaukee Mafia from the early 1900s through its influence on the Teamsters union. By utilizing previously unseen police reports, FBI notes, coroner records, and newspaper articles, the author reveals a tumultuous era marked by violence and secrecy. The narrative pieces together a comprehensive account of the city's criminal past, challenging the myths that have long obscured the truth of its mob activities and the impact on the community.

The Menominee Indians have a rich and resilient history in Wisconsin, having maintained their ancestral homeland while other tribes were displaced. Their interactions with Europeans began in the 17th century, leading to both alliances and conflicts. Notable tribal leaders shaped their legacy in trade and warfare, contributing to the naming of several Wisconsin cities. Despite facing challenges in the 20th century, the tribe has emerged as a significant force, recognized for its leadership and cultural contributions, exemplified by figures like Ada Deer and Sylvia Wilber.

The historical narrative explores Neenah's evolution as a vibrant community, highlighting its strategic location at the confluence of Lake Winnebago and the Fox River. The city's identity as "Paper City" stems from the success of local paper mills, particularly Neenah Paper and Kimberly-Clark. Vintage photographs capture the essence of daily life for residents, showcasing the contributions of various community members, from shopkeepers to factory workers. The book also features beloved local businesses, inviting readers to reminisce about the town's rich heritage and enduring spirit.

Karl Freund played a pivotal role in the evolution of cinema, influencing both silent films and the development of television. His innovative "unchained camera" techniques revolutionized filmmaking, while his lighting setup for I Love Lucy set a standard still used today. Freund's contributions span numerous acclaimed films, including Metropolis, The Good Earth, and Key Largo, marking him as a significant yet often overlooked figure in film history. His legacy continues to impact the industry across generations.

The narrative unfolds in a small town grappling with a series of shocking events, including the kidnapping of a respected citizen and the arrest of the police chief's wife for murder. Amidst this turmoil, a mobster faces threats from the FBI, while a widespread corruption investigation implicates individuals from low-level bookies to high-ranking judges and prosecutors. The intertwining of these incidents reveals a community in crisis, raising questions about morality and justice in a seemingly quiet town.

The narrative traces the historical journey of Kaukauna, starting with Jean Nicolet's exploration in 1634 and the establishment of trade in 1760. It highlights the significance of the first recorded land deed in Wisconsin and the development of infrastructure, including the first state road and the construction of locks and dams. The city's growth was fueled by sawmills and paper mills, leading to its nickname, "Lion on the Fox." Today, Kaukauna thrives as a community with a small-town feel, anchored by its rich history and the enduring presence of the Fox River.

Exploring the dark underbelly of the seemingly tranquil Fox Cities, this book delves into a series of shocking crimes that have rattled the community and the state. Highlighting cases such as a murderer’s bizarre suicide attempt and a gruesome farm takeover, it reveals the chilling reality of cold-blooded acts, including the notorious "Appleton Butcher." Crime writer Gavin Schmitt, an expert on the Milwaukee Mafia, provides an in-depth examination of these unsettling events in small-town America, challenging perceptions of safety and innocence.

Exploring the dark realm of sex trafficking, the narrative uncovers four unsolved murders linked by a web of organized crime across the Midwest. Utilizing previously unreleased police and FBI records, the book reveals surprising connections between a small mining town in Michigan and major vice centers like Peoria, Illinois. As the investigation unfolds, it highlights the pervasive nature of crime and the hidden ties that bind seemingly unrelated locations and events.