Bones of Mississippi documents historical accounts, events and characters of this place we call - Mississippi; Characters such as Lamar Fontaine, possibly the grandest liar of the 19th century to the "Black Knight of the South" or Madam Aivoges and her regal "establishment" under the hill. The saga of the outlaw, James Copeland, whose crimes made those of the badmen of western lore pale in comparison. The tragic fate of Mississippi's most famous madam or the short-lived republic that once encompassed South Mississippi.
The following is an excerpt from 'A Most Wicked Place" in "Bones of Mississippi"
For a time, Big Jim Girty ruled “Under The Hill”. It’s uncertain just exactly what was the nature of his established business, although likely a tavern. He had his hand in every activity, legal and illegal and he ruled by the strength of his fists and his willingness to do anything, even murder if necessary. He became legendary on the riverfront and a rumor was afloat that Girty was a physical freak. He had survived so many knife fights, that some claimed that he didn’t have ribs but rather a solid bone plate around his chest.
Girty’s woman was Marie Dufour, a big brassy blonde who could hold her own with any man, out shooting, out brawling and out cussing anyone she encountered except Big Jim, who she loved dearly. She ran one of the best brothels “Under The Hill” with the protection of Girty.
As with any man of violence, Big Jim met a bloody fate. Determined to prove one way or another that Girty was mortal after all, a band of ruffians cornered him and Big Jim soon lay dying in the street. Hearing the commotion, Madam Dufour ran to his side as he drew his last breath. Distraught and knowing that she no longer had protection, she placed a pistol in her mouth and took her life beside Girty’s body.
The following is an excerpt from 'A Most Wicked Place" in "Bones of Mississippi"
For a time, Big Jim Girty ruled “Under The Hill”. It’s uncertain just exactly what was the nature of his established business, although likely a tavern. He had his hand in every activity, legal and illegal and he ruled by the strength of his fists and his willingness to do anything, even murder if necessary. He became legendary on the riverfront and a rumor was afloat that Girty was a physical freak. He had survived so many knife fights, that some claimed that he didn’t have ribs but rather a solid bone plate around his chest.
Girty’s woman was Marie Dufour, a big brassy blonde who could hold her own with any man, out shooting, out brawling and out cussing anyone she encountered except Big Jim, who she loved dearly. She ran one of the best brothels “Under The Hill” with the protection of Girty.
As with any man of violence, Big Jim met a bloody fate. Determined to prove one way or another that Girty was mortal after all, a band of ruffians cornered him and Big Jim soon lay dying in the street. Hearing the commotion, Madam Dufour ran to his side as he drew his last breath. Distraught and knowing that she no longer had protection, she placed a pistol in her mouth and took her life beside Girty’s body.