Murder She Rhymed

By October 24, 1928, Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, a thriving city on the Canadian prairie, had earned its reputation as a “Little Chicago.” Not only was it filled with vice and corruption, but it was also a place where “Scarface” Al Capone himself called the shots.

​Purchasing bootleg liquor from a network of suppliers, Capone stashed the contraband in the tunnels beneath Main Street before shipping it to the States via the Canadian National Railroad and the Grand Trunk Line. As "The Boss," he was in charge and local authorities reported directly to him.

Yet, one individual proved to be a particular threat to the “status quo.” As Chief of Police Wally Wilson’s cook and housekeeper, Mary Kelly eavesdropped on conversations that could embarrass some very important people in Moose Jaw. When her employment was abruptly terminated, she began roaming the streets of the city, writing limericks and seeking work.

​If loose lips sink ships, then Kelly’s boat may have sprung a serious leak. For, when she has a bit too much to drink at Mamie’s Saloon, she’s been known to tell tantalizing tales the Mounties would eagerly gobble up as evidence that can be used to clean up a city. 

​What fate awaits her? Who would line up to permanently silence her loose lyrics? What do these resonant rhymes reveal, and how far is Kelly willing to go to expose “The Boss’s” influence on Moose Jaw’s public officials? Are cryptic clues woven into her vitriolic verses? All will soon be neatly resolved - and revealed.