The Fiery Tomb of Josie Arlington | Encore Episode
About this episode
The episode explores the life and legacy of Josie Arlington, a prominent Madam in New Orleans' Storyville district.
Josie Arlington, one of the most infamous Madams in New Orleans’ red-light district, Storyville was born Mary Anna Deubler to impoverished German immigrants in 1864. Theories abound as to exactly why or when Josie entered the world of sex work, but by at least the age of seventeen she was working in the brothels of New Orleans. Entrepreneurial in spirit, Josie worked to create a life greater than what she knew, first owning the ‘Chateau Lobrano,’ and then with the creation of Storyville she built and operated The Arlington at 225 North Basin Street. The Arlington was considered one of the finest brothels in the city. Yet despite her flourishing business and increasing wealth, what Josie wanted most was to be a respected woman of New Orleans society. Josie would never get her wish in life, but she left behind a legacy that exceeds just her life. Even her tomb is unique with carved torches and a bronze maiden knocking on the door. And if the stories are true the flames continue to burst into life and the maiden knocks on the door of the tomb, forever attempting to gain entry. This episode is made possible through the support of our sponsors: If you’re starting a business…
Topics covered
- true crime
- history
- society
- New Orleans
- sex work
- brothels
Keywords
- Josie Arlington
- Storyville
- New Orleans
- brothel
- sex work
- history
- true crime
Sponsors
Square, Quince
Mentioned in this episode
Places: New Orleans, Storyville
More episodes of Southern Gothic
- Trapped Underwater in the Nickajack Cave | Encore Episode
- Showdown at the Sure Enuf Hotel | Minisode
- Bridget Fury and the Vice of Gallatin Street
- Carl Pruitt's Cursed Headstone
- Samuel Jocelyn's Restless Spirit | Encore Episode
- Orna Villa's Family Spirits
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Southern Gothic podcast page.