- What is worldwide applications?
Worldwide applications is a weekly post where we review a significant case where private investigation services were used. Do you know of any cases involving a PI you would like featured? Send us a DM or comment down below!
- James McParland
James McParland was a Private Detective in the 1870s. He is most well known for his work that led to the dismantling of the group known as the Molly Maguires, a group of activist coal miners in Pennsylvania.
The Mollies were known for committing violent beatings and murders in mining districts, as they believed they had been wronged by wealthy railway directors who neglected to pay them a proper wage. Meanwhile, these directors were busy enjoying luxurious private train cars and the like.
James McParland was hired by Franklin B. Gowen, the President of the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad, and the Philadelphia and Reading Coal and Iron Company. Gowen was considered the wealthiest coal mine owner in the world. Using a fake name, McParland infiltrated the group and became one of its secretaries.
Although there is controversy surrounding the outcome of the case, the fact remains that the evidence McParland was able to gather and report played a major role in the eventual arrest and sentencing of 10 Molly Maguire members who were involved in reprisal killings and assassinations.
Source- Wikipedia contributors. "James McParland." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 30 Jan. 2021. Web. 21 Feb. 2021.
