Programs
Free And Open To The Public

SCANDAL! A Brief and Sensational History of The Mascot, Notorious Newspaper of Gilded Age New Orleans by Sally Asher

Professional writer, photographer and historian Sally Asher gives a fascinating tell-all talk on the history of a notorious New Orleans tabloid. Founded in 1882, The Mascot both shocked and delighted readers with its biting satire, sharp gossip, farcical verse and comic illustrations by some of the leading artists of the time. The Mascot itself was frequently in the news. Stories of crime, scandal and corruption touched off numerous libel suits. Editors and aggrieved citizens also settled scores with clandestine duels or open gunfights. In 1887, for example, a young machinist who was implicated in an affair with his landlady, stormed The Mascot's offices and shot and killed an editor at his desk. At least two other killings were attributed to the newspaper's coverage before it ceased publication in 1896. Asher's talk will feature readings by Andrew Ward, Veronica Russell and burlesque artist Trixie Minx of Fleur de Tease. The event is free and open to the public as part of the Museum's "Second Thursdays" evening lecture series. When: Thursday May 10 at 6 p.m. Where: The Cabildo, Jackson Square Facebook Event Page: facebook.com/events/414345815245410/