7. Soapy began to make Denver too hot for him
The late 19th century was both the Gilded Age in America and part of the Progressive Era of reform. Big businesses, machine politics, Civil Service, and other areas were targeted for reform by Progressives, led by journalists known collectively as muckrakers. Denver had its share of muckraking journalists. Stories appeared in the Denver newspapers connecting Soapy to the city’s criminal activities, but he appeared aloof. When the Rocky Mountain News ran an article which mentioned his wife and family, Mary found herself getting the cold shoulder from formerly friendly neighbors. Soapy came home to learn of her sudden drop in popularity.
He sent his family to St. Louis by train, armed himself with a walking stick, and visited the newspaper’s managing editor, John Atkins. Smith delivered a caning to the newspaperman sufficiently violent to fracture his skull. It led to Soapy’s arrest and a charge of attempted murder. Smith again used his skills of verbal persuasion at his trial. He pointed out that if he meant to commit murder he would have armed himself with a more formidable weapon than his walking stick. Once again, he was found not guilty. The newspaper increased its efforts to expose Smith’s criminal empire and rid the city of his influence.