May 1, 1913: New Testimony Shifts Theory in Phagan Murder Case

Letter to the Editor, Atlanta Constitution

To the Editor:

The reward your paper has offered in connection with the murder of Mary Phagan deserves recognition, and I commend the Constitution for its commitment to justice and to the welfare of this city and state. I share the hope that the perpetrator will be identified, prosecuted, and held fully accountable. Such an outcome would go some way toward restoring the reputation of Georgia in the eyes of the nation.

However, I believe it is worth asking a harder question: what steps are we taking to prevent such tragedies in the future?

In my view, the deeper issue at the root of this crime and of a great many crimes like it is the unchecked presence and influence of alcohol. It is my firm conviction that intoxicants played a direct role in enabling this act of violence. While much was made of banning the open saloon in years past, the establishments that replaced it are arguably worse. These venues operate without shame, welcoming not only adults but young people and children as well. On your own streets, cabarets continue to operate on Sundays, no less, while picture houses are compelled to close and churches conclude their services within the hour.

I urge the Constitution to go further. Alongside your reward offer, publish an editorial calling for the serious reform or outright closure of the establishments that corrupt the young and provide the conditions under which such crimes become possible.

George Lloyd Albany, Georgia