Herbert Asbury

Herbert Asbury (1891-1963) was an American journalist and author who specialized in documenting the criminal underworld of major U.S. cities during the 19th and early 20th centuries. His most significant work, "The Gangs of New York: An Informal History of the Underworld" (1928), later became the basis for Martin Scorsese's 2002 film adaptation. Growing up in Missouri within a devout Methodist family, Asbury later broke from his religious upbringing to pursue a career in journalism and historical writing. His military service in World War I left him with lasting health issues after a gas attack damaged his lungs while serving in France. Asbury's other notable works include "The Barbary Coast," chronicling San Francisco's criminal history, and "Gem of the Prairie," which explored Chicago's underworld. His writing style combined detailed historical research with a vivid narrative approach, though some critics have questioned the accuracy of certain accounts. Despite potential embellishments in his historical accounts, Asbury's work remains influential in documenting urban crime history and has helped shape popular understanding of 19th-century American criminal culture. His marriage to journalist Edith Evans lasted from 1945 until his death in 1963 in New York City.

Readers appreciate Asbury's storytelling ability to bring historical crime scenes to life with rich details and colorful characters. Many note his books read like crime novels despite being non-fiction. On Amazon, readers frequently mention the "page-turning" quality and "cinematic" descriptions. Common praise focuses on his thorough research and ability to transport readers to specific time periods. Multiple reviews highlight the level of detail about gang territories, criminal operations, and city geography. Critics point out factual inaccuracies and sensationalized accounts. Some readers find his writing style dated or overly dramatic. Several Goodreads reviews note difficulty keeping track of the large cast of characters. Ratings across platforms: - Goodreads: The Gangs of New York 3.8/5 (7,800+ ratings) - Amazon: The Gangs of New York 4.4/5 (1,200+ ratings) - The Barbary Coast 4.3/5 (200+ ratings) - Gem of the Prairie 4.1/5 (150+ ratings) "Like a 19th century true crime podcast in book form," notes one Amazon reviewer. "Fascinating but take with a grain of salt," advises another on Goodreads.

The Gangs of New York (1928) A detailed chronicle of New York City's criminal underworld and street gangs from the early 1800s through the 1920s.

The Barbary Coast (1933) An examination of San Francisco's notorious criminal district from the Gold Rush era through the early 20th century.

The French Quarter (1936) A historical account of New Orleans' underworld, focusing on crime, vice, and colorful characters from the city's founding through the 1930s.

Gem of the Prairie (1940) A comprehensive study of Chicago's criminal history from its early settlement through the Prohibition era.

The Golden Land (1942) An exploration of organized crime and corruption in mid-19th century California during the Gold Rush period.

All Around the Town (1934) A collection of historical tales about crime and scandal in New York City spanning multiple decades.

Carry Nation (1929) A biography of the prominent temperance movement leader known for attacking alcohol-serving establishments with a hatchet.

Up From Methodism (1926) An autobiographical work detailing Asbury's departure from his strict Methodist upbringing.

Luc Sante combines historical research with cultural analysis to document New York's criminal underworld and street life, particularly in "Low Life: Lures and Snares of Old New York." His work shares Asbury's focus on the darker aspects of urban history while maintaining journalistic rigor.

Jack Finney wrote detailed historical accounts of New York City life, including "Time and Again" which chronicles 1880s Manhattan through meticulous research. His work captures the same period as Asbury with emphasis on social conditions and city landscapes.

Peter Maas documented organized crime and law enforcement in New York through works like "The Valachi Papers" and "Serpico." His investigative journalism style parallels Asbury's approach to criminal documentation while focusing on 20th-century developments.

Carl Sifakis produced encyclopedic works on American crime history including "The Encyclopedia of American Crime" and "The Mafia Encyclopedia." His systematic documentation of criminal enterprises mirrors Asbury's comprehensive approach to underworld history.

Richard Zacks explores the vice-ridden history of New York and other American cities through works like "Island of Vice" about Theodore Roosevelt's time as police commissioner. His research methods and subject matter align with Asbury's focus on urban corruption and reform efforts.