Posted by Paul J. Nussbaum on August 30, 1999 at 14:07:16:
In Reply to: Re: ROSA MAY of BODIE, CA posted by Doug Spoon on August 30, 1999 at 00:30:06:
Regarding George Williams book on Rosa May. Despite being a rather rambling book, the author did bring together a great deal on information on Rosa May, and I believe it will be hard to add to it significantly. The closest major contemporary newspaper was at Bridgeport, CA. This paper was very conservative, and to find out anything about prostitution you have to learn to read between the lines.
I believe Mr. Williams had a real affection for his subject, and I praise him for the attitude.
I think you leaves many clues in his book for further research, if you take the time to read it very carefully.
Rosa May is certainly one of the most interesting old west prostitutes.
I have found, most unbelievably, that it is very difficult to do research on prostitution in Virginia City, Nevada. Although, a few years ago I heard the University of Nevada was going to begin some serious archaeological work on "D" street, but I never confirmed this.