Wild Women of Prescott, Arizona

by Jan Mackell Collins

Arizona remained a raw, rather uncivilized territory before it became one of the last states to enter the Union. Few towns exemplify this more than Prescott. Untamed land lured those who saw an opportunity to prosper, including a number of shady ladies. A staple of any western town, these wanton women were independent, hearty individuals eager to unpack their petticoats and set up shop. Within six years of establishment, at least five prostitutes operated in Prescott. As their clientele grew, so did their influence. Mollie Sheppard, Lida Winchell, Gabriell Dollie and many more women were integral forces on the city that should not be forgotten. From Granite Street to Whiskey Row, Prescott's painted ladies established an ever-expanding red-light district halted only by Arizona's admission to the Union in 1912. Join author Jan MacKell Collins to discover the soiled doves of Prescott's red-light district.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Research

176 pages, Paperback

First published March 30, 2015

Reviews

[Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars for Wild Women of Prescott, Arizona (e-book) by Jan Mackell Collins.

This is a fun bit of Arizona history. I’ve been to Prescott many times and walked the streets mentioned in this book. It’s interesting to see how big a role prostitution played in Prescott’s history.

[Kris · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting bit of local history, although I thought it was a bit sensationalized. The "Wild Women" of the title refers only to prostitutes, who were also referred to as "soiled doves" and other less than flattering terms. I was kind of hoping for heroic stories of daring women.

[Toni Smith · Rating 2 out of 5]

interesting but cursory

it was an interesting topic, would've liked to have a bit more depth. not a bad read if you like history.

[Debra R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed reading about local Prescott color. Very interesting that the "city fathers" protected these ladies even up to the point of not exactly enforcing the law concerning them. Still a fun piece of history.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book.

[Bradley Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well researched. Great read!