Monroe Edwards

Monroe Edwards: The Great Forger

Who was Monroe Edwards? A name that echoes through history as both a criminal mastermind and a tragic figure. Born in Danville, Kentucky around 1808, Monroe Edwards embarked on a journey that would make him infamous for his audacious crimes.

The Early Years

Edwards learned the ropes of business from Mr. Morgan in New Orleans, where he honed his skills and developed a flair for deception. His next venture took him to Africa as part of a slave trader’s crew, where he witnessed firsthand the horrors of human trafficking. Upon returning to Texas, Edwards established a plantation, but his true calling lay elsewhere.

The Smuggling Business

In 1832, Edwards embarked on a daring venture: smuggling slaves into Brazil. The proceeds from this illicit trade allowed him to purchase land in Texas. However, his ambitions didn’t stop there. In 1836, he was again caught in the act of smuggling, this time into Texas with more slaves.

The Forged Letters

Edwards’ most notorious scheme involved forging letters from cotton brokers in New Orleans to secure bank drafts for large sums. He then cashed these checks, leaving a trail of financial chaos behind him. His distinctive good looks and frequent spelling errors made him easily recognizable, leading to his conviction.

The Trial and Imprisonment

Edwards’ trial in June 1842 was a media sensation, with six lawyers defending him, including two senators. The handsome appearance that once worked in his favor now turned against him as one of the bankers identified him in court. Edwards was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The Escape and Death

While in Sing Sing prison, Edwards attempted an escape using forged letters but failed. He died on January 27, 1847, from consumption while insane. His life story has been immortalized in Herman Melville’s ‘Bartleby, the Scrivener,’ where a character is imprisoned with Edwards and asks if he is a ‘gentleman forger’ like Edwards.

The Legacy of Monroe Edwards

Edwards earned the title ‘Great Forger’ during and after his trial. The main account of his life and trial, ‘Life and Adventures of Colonel Monroe Edwards,’ was written by George Wilkes in 1848, likely mixing fact with fiction. This account includes the story of Kitty Clover, a supposedly slave who loved Edwards and rescued him.

Condensed Infos to Monroe Edwards

Monroe Edwards remains a fascinating figure in American history, a man whose life was a blend of criminal genius and tragic downfall. His story serves as a reminder of the dark underbelly of early American society and the relentless pursuit of justice.