Skip to content
New York: The Cigar Girl Case Continues
Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast, Series 24

Historical true crime. Seasonal investigations.Hosted by Shane Waters and Wendy Cee20 min episode

New York: The Cigar Girl Case Continues

August 30, 202320mEpisode 2

Show Notes

The shocking death of New York's Beautiful Cigar Girl, Mary Rogers, continues to bewilder. In this follow-up episode, "The Cigar Girl Case Continues," we dissect the investigation hurdles and examine into new theories. Episode 2 of Season 24 advances the story of Mary Rogers and the ensuing chaos that enveloped New York following her untimely death. The Foul Play series examines the enigmatic circumstances surrounding the Cigar Girl. Mary's vivacious spirit and captivating presence were tragically cut short, yet her memory endured in the poems and stories she inspired. Prior to her demise, Mary was a familiar face at the tobacco shop, making her mark on the artists and writers of her time. Mary Rogers's case highlights the shifting media landscape, where crime reportage often bordered on the sensational, reflecting societal attitudes towards gender and crime. The case remains critical in examining how narrative and speculation can shape public perception. As the investigation moved forward, the swirl of public speculation produced numerous theories, each as treacherous as those involved. Was Mary Rogers a victim of gang violence or another cruelty hidden behind societal veils? This episode examines into how investigators faced not only the complexities of the case but also intense media pressure. The early 1840s were a transitional period in America, marked by rapid urbanization and a society not yet equipped for such mysteries. Public interest in crime was voracious, enabling tabloid-style journalism to expand its reach and influence public opinion like never before. Listeners will hear about how despite numerous suspects emerging, the truth was as murky as the Hudson itself. We'll explore how misleading press reports and public conjecture either helped or hindered justice for Mary, examining contemporary sources to sift fact from fabrication. Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Kensington Publishing: https://www.kensingtonbooks.com


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Share:X / TwitterFacebook

Credits

Shane Waters, Founder & Host

Wendy Cee, Co-Host

Produced by Myths & Malice

Listen to Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast

Get More from Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast

Unlock exclusive content and support the show.

  • Ad-free listening
  • Early access to episodes
  • Bonus episodes
  • Support independent podcasting

the M&M Dispatch

Get new Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast episodes and case updates from across the network.

Enjoying Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast?

Leave a rating on Apple Podcasts. It takes a few seconds and helps new listeners find the show.