Gone South: Season 4, Episode 5 – Kidnapped In New Orleans

Release Date: October 30, 2024
Host: Jed Lipinski
Producer: Audacy Podcasts

Introduction

In the fifth episode of the fourth season of Gone South, host Jed Lipinski delves into a gripping historical true-crime story set in the tumultuous Reconstruction era of New Orleans. Titled Kidnapped In New Orleans, this episode explores the complex interplay of race, politics, and justice through the lens of a mysterious baby abduction case that captivated the city in 1870.

Unveiling the Case

The episode begins with Professor Mike Ross from the University of Maryland recounting his serendipitous discovery while researching constitutional history. While investigating the Slaughterhouse Cases, a famous Supreme Court decision from New Orleans, Ross stumbled upon alarming allegations from June 1870: a white baby, Molly Digby, had been abducted for use as a voodoo sacrifice.

Notable Quote:
"If you're going to convict these kidnappers, you're going to need a motive."
— Mike Ross [27:01]

The Scene of the Crime

On June 9, 1870, in the working-class Back of Town neighborhood, Molly Digby vanished under mysterious circumstances. Rosa Gorman, a teenage babysitter, was tending to Molly and her brother Georgie when two Afro Creole women approached them. The women offered to watch Molly while Rosa attended to a nearby fire, sending Georgie on an errand with them. Upon Georgie’s return, Molly and the women had disappeared.

Notable Quote:
"Most of the big stories I've worked on came out of other stories."
— Jed Lipinski [02:15]

Reconstruction Context

The kidnapping unfolded against the backdrop of Reconstruction, a period marked by significant racial tensions and political restructuring. African Americans in New Orleans held unprecedented political power, with representation in the legislature and an integrated police force. However, former Confederate sympathizers feared these changes threatened the South's social order.

Notable Quote:
"This was how the child is returned to the Digbys."
— Mike Ross [20:34]

Detective Jean Baptiste Jourdan

Governor Henry Clay Wormuth, a staunch Reconstructionist, assigned Jean Baptiste Jourdan, one of New Orleans' first black detectives, to solve the case. Jourdan's investigation became a national focal point, symbolizing the potential success of Reconstruction-era reforms.

Notable Quote:
"Jourdan was the first black detective in New Orleans to make national news."
— Mike Ross [35:18]

Investigation and Challenges

The investigation faced numerous obstacles, including rampant rumors linking the kidnapping to voodoo practices. Jourdan utilized various strategies, including consulting a clairvoyant and following unreliable tips, which led to dead ends and false leads. The pressure intensified as the community clamored for answers, reflecting the deep-seated fears and prejudices of the time.

The Trial

In January 1871, Ellen Fallon, George Fallon, and Louisa Murray were indicted and brought to trial. The grand jury's integrated composition was unprecedented, featuring both white men and Afro Creole men. The prosecution relied heavily on eyewitness testimonies, particularly that of August Singler, a white man claiming to have witnessed Louisa Murray abducting Molly.

However, the defense dismantled the prosecution's case by highlighting inconsistencies in Singler’s testimony and presenting alibis through other black witnesses. The jury, after only eight minutes of deliberation, acquitted the defendants, underscoring the complexities of race and justice during Reconstruction.

Notable Quote:
"The jury clearly all agreed that the prosecution did not remove all reasonable doubt."
— Mike Ross [29:22]

Aftermath and Legacy

The trial's outcome was a short-lived beacon of hope for Reconstruction advocates. Hostile press narratives and political backlash led to Jourdan’s demotion and eventual departure from law enforcement. The end of Reconstruction further marginalized figures like Jourdan, culminating in his tragic suicide—a poignant symbol of the era's unfulfilled promises.

Mike Ross's research uncovered that the Digby case had been largely overlooked by historians. His quest to document the true story led to personal connections with the descendants of Detective Jourdan, revealing a legacy of resilience and influence in New Orleans.

Notable Quote:
"Jourdan's suicide was a tragic end to his life, his legacy lives on in his descendants in New Orleans."
— Mike Ross [35:56]

Conclusion

Kidnapped In New Orleans weaves a narrative that highlights the intricate dynamics of race, politics, and justice in post-Civil War America. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Jed Lipinski brings to light a forgotten chapter of history, emphasizing the enduring impact of Reconstruction on individuals and communities. The episode serves as a testament to the complexities of human nature and societal transformation, making it a standout installment in the Gone South series.

Additional Insights

Throughout the episode, Lipinski and Ross emphasize the significance of Jean Baptiste Jourdan's role as a pioneering black detective and the broader implications of his story within the Reconstruction framework. Their collaboration underscores the importance of uncovering marginalized histories to fully understand the fabric of American society.

Final Notable Quote:
"The case went to trial, and the jury returned their verdict: Not guilty."
— Mike Ross [28:28]

For those intrigued by historical true-crime narratives and the rich tapestry of the American South, Kidnapped In New Orleans offers an immersive experience into a pivotal moment of change and contention.