Hello, "History Guy." I am a great grandson of Soapy, as well as the author of Alias Soapy Smith: The Life and Death of a Scoundrel. While my family always appreciates people talking about Soapy, unfortunately, I noted right from the start that you used long outdated material. For instance, right at the start you talk about Soapy being a cowboy on a cattle drive. This was dis-proven decades ago. He was never a cowboy. The idea that he was one, comes from the poem, "Jeff & Joe," written in 1892. It's been since confirmed, via letters and from Soapy's own notebooks, that he got into sales in Texas, and moved into "cheap John" work, the equivalent of a jam-auction today.
@TheHistoryGuyChannel4 жыл бұрын
I apologize for the errors, in this case references disagreed with each -other, but I take you as the definitive expert. Mr Smith's book is called "Alias Soapy Smith" and can be purchased here: www.soapysmith.net/id50.html Jeff Smith does performances at western shows as his great grandfather, including the shell game and the prize soap racket. More on his FaceBook page: facebook.com/Alias-Soapy-Smith-The-Life-and-Death-of-a-Scoundrel-217773494901812/?hc_location=ufi
@homefront31624 жыл бұрын
🍕🍕I Like Pizza🍕🍕
@maxsteel80314 жыл бұрын
your grandaddy sold my grandaddy some rancid soap! an cheated my other grandaddy out of a sack of GOLD! I DEMAND restitution with interest! If you choose not to do the honorable thing then I challenge you to a DUEL! Barring that, can I interest you in a game of finding the red queen?
@TheNutriarat4 жыл бұрын
Tear his statue down.
@erikjs4 жыл бұрын
johnmonk66 - That’s an unfair appraisal of Jeff Smith. Everyone in society has something to contribute. In Mr. Smith’s case, he is providing a valuable history lesson and at the same time, providing entertainment. EDIT: For clarity, the comment from johnmonk66 that I was responding to has since been deleted, but his comment was a disparaging portrayal of Jeff Smith.
@slicksnewonenow3 жыл бұрын
HILARIOUS! I haven't thought about the name Soapy Smith in about 40 years... But I saw this video's title, and it reminded me that 'Soapy Smith' was the nickname that my Grandfather (who was in his 80s in the 1970s) used for ME when I was little. I always asked, "don't you mean SNUFFY SMITH"? And Grandpa would say "nope... Soapy was much worse" and then he'd always laugh. Thank for the great memory!
@ringo44194 жыл бұрын
When history guy said, he needed to find a place where a conman wouldn't have to keep moving on, I thought he was going to say Washington DC
@williamsanders50664 жыл бұрын
😂
@jamesdriscoll94054 жыл бұрын
Perhaps there was a depth beneath which he wouldn't sink?
@jriver31454 жыл бұрын
I thought he was gonna say New York
@twillison88244 жыл бұрын
Well said.
@Rich6Brew4 жыл бұрын
In the UK we have two in Downing Street, and a whole host of understudies on the right side of the Houses of Parliament. No, really.
@jamesrobinson36634 жыл бұрын
My depression era grandparents would laughingly call me “Soapy Smith” when I was telling a tall-tale...I finally know why 🤣🤣🤣🤣
@finished62673 жыл бұрын
Haha. That's awesome. I'm gonna carry on that tradition in your honor.
@Gaybraham.Lincoln2 жыл бұрын
I hope this is a lie. Then it's like a self fulfilling prophecy or something
@frostyjim26332 жыл бұрын
@@Gaybraham.Lincoln Behind his back, they called him 'dickhead'
@ronrupert47284 жыл бұрын
There used to be a bar in downtown Denver named Soapy Smith's. I visited there frequently when I was a younger man but never knew the meaning behind the name. The title of your video here caught my eye. Thank you for bringing this story to me!
@beastboss18974 жыл бұрын
I miss this: "Hi, I'm the History Guy; I have a degree in history and I LOVE HISTORY! If you love history too, then this is the channel for you."
@thebigcheese6064 жыл бұрын
Well he is telling it in a different way than it really happened so........
@wendychavez53484 жыл бұрын
@@thebigcheese606, THG may be telling it in different words than others have used. It is nonetheless factual.
@abacab874 жыл бұрын
This is 2020, who's got the patience to listen through all that?
@thebigcheese6064 жыл бұрын
@@wendychavez5348 bend and twist it. Its not real facts.
@Duececoupe4 жыл бұрын
All history, good and bad, deserves to be remembered....totally agree Mr. History Guy! 🍻
@tonyabbate44624 жыл бұрын
When I was in Skagway I was told that the miners were required to have a specific weight in supplies to proceed to the gold fields. The beginning of that route was the photo you had of that long line of miners trudging up the hill. They could not possibly carry all those supplies up the hill all in one trip. Soapy stole what they left behind and then sold it back to them for their return trips. Yes, he’s a true legend in Skagway.
@ab-uz8sd4 жыл бұрын
Good reporting,research,thanks
@johnbee77292 жыл бұрын
Its called the Chilkoot Trail
@johnkidd12262 жыл бұрын
That requirement to have a certain amount of supplies was enforced by RCMP at the top of the pass where the trail entered Canadian territory. They registered every person who entered and ensured they had the required amount of supplies for each person. I believe they also denied Soapy Smith entry as a known undesirable at one point. Skagway was lawless compared to Dawson City and other gold settlements in Canadian Territory. The RCMP were already established in the Yukon before the miners arrived.
@patriciamorgan6545 Жыл бұрын
I believe it was 2000 lbs of food/gear, if I remember correctly from my visit to Skagway ~1990.
@markbass94022 жыл бұрын
A great story teller this History Guy. Another long lost art in America. Keep up the good work and hopefully inspire others to continue in your footsteps. Its priceless. Just sit and listen!
@RG-3PO4 жыл бұрын
With all of the riots we a currently having in the US trying to destroy statues and history, it is often forgot how important it is to remember even bad history. Thank you History Guy for teaching ALL history.
@J0hnBr0wnsB0dy4 жыл бұрын
Found the white guy in the chat. Bad take homie
@Doc_Tar4 жыл бұрын
I'd say the History Guy has given Jeff Smith the kind of remembrance he deserved, a cautionary tale.
@ZestyAqua4 жыл бұрын
Working a modern casino it is one big con. Soapy would have loved it. What he did then the casinos do now including funding the police. It's happening now. More streamline corruption. He was by no means unique. Today he would be a CEO. Highly successful by this standards. To me that is not success at all. Sales is encouraged to con. You mean cautionary for how we allowed corruption to become mainstream acceptable as a "legit" business? My Soapy is transparent, non corrupt marketplace. photos.app.goo.gl/yYxgDs5QRvDBCFVx9 Our entire economic structure now is a con. That's reality. Spooky, I live in Colorado right now... My cousin was on the show "Prospectors" Amanda Adkins- in the Middle of a global con now. Called Markling. History repeats it seems. This round ethics does matter.
@thebigcheese6064 жыл бұрын
Trolls.
@JPER-cv2lq2 жыл бұрын
@@ZestyAqua; just like 45 he could even become President. It was proven in 2017 . A trump became the President. A modern Conman .
@Yeardmeh-oo8pj3 жыл бұрын
0:49 I love that word "Scoundrel"!!!! It's so old timey and such a damn good description that cannot be replaced by any other word to more accurately describe a certain individual or group of individuals
@teamninety75634 жыл бұрын
I watch this in the U.K. ON June 23rd 2020. How wonderful to hear, in a different context during your introduction, that history should be remembered if only that we might not repeat it.
@whitedovetail4 жыл бұрын
In my eyes, history is never boring. It is our best teacher. Good video Mr History Guy!!
@rcknbob14 жыл бұрын
I'm a simple man. I see a very good story about a very bad man, I click. Thanks, Lance.
@Chris_at_Home4 жыл бұрын
Thank you, I’ve lived in Alaska over 40 years and learned more about Soapy Smith watching you tell his story than I have in the last 40 years.
@korolr Жыл бұрын
Ditto for me. I lived in Whitehorse, Yukon.
@michaelc.38124 жыл бұрын
Wow, as a native Coloradan, this was a great story to hear. Having been born in Denver, been to Leadville and been to Skagway, a very informative story indeed. Thank you again!!!
@JeffSoapySmith4 жыл бұрын
On my Soapy Smith websites I have the following quote: "Upon the world he made his mark, and from him we learn how not to be one."
@rickintexas15844 жыл бұрын
Jeff, have you ever been to the Soapy Smith night at the Magic Castle in Hollywood?
@JeffSoapySmith4 жыл бұрын
@@rickintexas1584 yes, for many years.
@michaelporzio73844 жыл бұрын
Just checked out your website! You are the real deal! I wonder what scams Soapy could have run using modern electronic communication (internet, social media etc) It would be epic. (unless you are a mark, of course)
@Michael-du2fv4 жыл бұрын
@Custis Longly Any one who shoots someone and then cries out For God sake Don't Shoot! is the equivilent of a child who calls time out as soon as they are losing. He was a pos.
@JeffSoapySmith4 жыл бұрын
@@Michael-du2fv Once you learn what actually took place, it is easy to see why he said what he did.
@ae.88704 жыл бұрын
Personally I believe that all history should be remembered, no matter how bad it be. It's really important to remember the past and learn from it.
@micavanderbasch12804 жыл бұрын
I love this feed.... I hope it survives though this period of time when everyone is trying to erase history ?. “ ALL HISTORY NEEDS TO BE REMEMBERED!!!” Can’t change the past .
@finished62673 жыл бұрын
You shouldn't have lied Mica. I know where you hide. How's Vancouver Island? Still want to keep history alive and true?
@aaronanderson76192 жыл бұрын
@@finished6267 well that isn't weird at all... nope, not stalker shit in the least...
@SafetySpooonАй бұрын
Yeah, Holocaust Deniers & Neo-Confederate "Lost Causers" are just the WORST!!
@IlliniRob14 жыл бұрын
I was born and raised in Juneau, Alaska. I remember in elementary school, back in the 80's, taking a class trip on the ferry up to Skagway. We visited the graves of both Smith and Reid. I can still remember the spring smells on that rare sunny day and will always have a little place in my heart for Skagway.
@joedeshon4 жыл бұрын
I study genealogy for the same reason you study history: it deserves to be remembered. In my family tree, I found a great-grandfather who was, by any account, not a good person. By studying him -- and what he did to my great-grandmother -- I could better understand the life decisions that my grandfather and my father made.
@jjphank4 жыл бұрын
Genealogy and racism go hand-in-hand, that's where BLM and these 'anti-racists' are coming. the Bible says don't look to genealogies & racism will pop up in the last days. Jesus said that race Wars will happen towards His second coming but the Armageddon & the Gog and Magog war from Ezekiel 38 will happen after the race Wars. Not into religion? you need to be because you'll be kicking yourself if you don't get into God's religion, the right one. Don't want to be spiritual? you need to have a good talk to yourself if you don't like pain then you need to start being spiritual. And nobody's going to like the pain that hell provides so that means all of us need to be spiritual. start looking to the Bible references include: 1st Timothy 1: 4 don't go to genealogies Matthew 24: 6 and 7 race Wars but not the final Wars. Bible: 40 writers no contradictions means God wrote the Bible means you have no excuse on Judgement Day. Proverbs 18:1 to 2 through desire a man having separated himself, seeks and intermeddleth with all wisdom. a fool has no Delight in understanding but that his heart may discover itself.
@xiaoka4 жыл бұрын
For understanding your own past and to pass on this valuable information to the future generations.
@qwertyTRiG4 жыл бұрын
@@jjphank The Bible does not say a word about not looking up geneologies.
@mooreevair4 жыл бұрын
@@jjphank no one's reading your novel on yt
@wendychavez53484 жыл бұрын
While I understand where J Hankins is coming from, it's kind of pushy to tell us we "need" to believe in any particular way because it's written in a book that not everyone accepts as factual. We make our choices, and that's between the individual and whatever he or she chooses to call the entity you and I know as God. Also, THG's videos are not necessarily the appropriate venue to preach to us.
@NVArt0014 жыл бұрын
This is probably the best channel on KZfaq and one I don't watch nearly enough. Great story.
@spudnickuk4 жыл бұрын
Thank you for spending the time and your research into Mr Soapy Smith Learning from history is valuable . I live in the UK. and as i grew up I was fascinated by gambling.. I played the first Casino computer games then got in to pubs and played slots. I was getting worse. so I went to las Vegas and spent time on the slots and won a few hundred bucks I thought to get a load of drinks and then go for a walk down the old Strip and their I could see and talk to all the professional Tramps that were living on the streets and had chat about their bad habits that ruined them , It was a horrible thing to see. So that is living history. So the moral to my story is, I gave up gambling because I could see what it can do. 35 years later and still no gambling. so if you don't have any history to learn from then more people would get into problems.
@mikelucas31194 жыл бұрын
Sometimes - its just - when people ask you - "How do you know that?" You can say - because I know history. Really - how many can say that today? Not many. Thank you sir for all the posts you make - for you are doing all of us - even those who know history - a lot of good.
@motors11034 жыл бұрын
We were in Skagway in 2016 on the anniversary of Soapy's death. They remember him annually by toasting him at the town pubs and then, after an appropriate amount of fluid refreshment, everyone heads to his graveside and urinates on his grave. Unfortunately our cruise ship left before we were able to "honour his memory" with the locals. Would have been fun.
@kencarp574 жыл бұрын
I would PAY to do that!
@Space.Ghost.4 жыл бұрын
150 years later and the town still gathers to pee on your grave. Legendary.
@joncalon75084 жыл бұрын
Spent many years in the region, though more in the Klondike and Whitehorse, and had never heard of this tradition...I guess this is one of those factoids that the tour guides on the White Pass trains aren't encouraged to share with the tourists who ride by his gravesite.
@whirlpool8514 жыл бұрын
I can attest to the truthfulness of this tradition. But it is only a few. No mass peeing occurs.
@whirlpool8514 жыл бұрын
We also moon the last cruise ship that leaves town in the fall. Definitely a unique little town.
@amp2794 жыл бұрын
I like the way you addressed the small detail of Soapys beginnings after his grandson commented, the fact that you could be open to correction when additional information is provided is the sign of a good youtuber, great stuff.
@keddy56272 жыл бұрын
If history were taught like this in school, students would be hooked!
@smallworldbigworld-yi3xw Жыл бұрын
But then the world would be a better place ; )
@judyullmann76554 жыл бұрын
I visited Soapy's grave in Skagway. A simple board marks his grave, while his killer has an elaborate tomb and a nearby creek named after him. There's an animated statue of him, standing at the bar, in a local museum, Jeff Smith's Parlor. Contrary to this report, he would appear to be buried in the cemetery, their graves are a short distance apart.
@bushhippie7372 Жыл бұрын
Opposite of Jesse James and Bob Ford (Who Smith actually met in Creede)
@pkz4204 жыл бұрын
I'm glad you did a video like this. It is important to remember all history, not just the good people. I am disturbed by some recent trends to erase unpleasant figures from history, or make it taboo to discuss them.
@christinebenson5184 жыл бұрын
Also, firing people for something their spouse said. Or saying you said something insensitive to today's standards 25 years ago. My aunt said it best when discussing politics " It's great you support Sanders for always being the same for the past 40 years. However, I'm a much different person at 60 than 20. I hope most people will grow and change."
@lucygray61624 жыл бұрын
Some people love playing the victim these days, and teach their children to do the same, instead of raising them to believe they can accomplish anything they set their mind to. Instead of being proud of ancestors who managed to survive, they prefer to wallow in victimhood. I can only imagine how ashamed their ancestors would be.
@paststeve14 жыл бұрын
Another "Ripping yarn" from my favorite history channel on KZfaq. Thanks once again! You have helped immensely to keep me informed, educated, entertained and SANE during the CV-19 lock-up! I cannot wait to see how history will recount 2020! A ripping yarn, by any estimation.
@mrmike21194 жыл бұрын
I' thankful for you, History Guy, and others who have come forward in recent years to teach what was probably too embarrassing for textbooks. You are correct, history is not just about heroes, but all people in all parts of life. Everyone has a story. I'm just thankful enough that I lived long enough to see the "insignificant" earn their place in history.
@andreww95134 жыл бұрын
As a science teacher, I wish you were my history teacher.
@whirlpool8514 жыл бұрын
I have told the story of Soapy Smith over a hundred times as a tour guide in Skagway. I enjoyed this episode greatly and even learned a few things.
@danieljackowitz23434 жыл бұрын
Hey History Guy! I was introduced to this story when I took my family on a cruise to Alaska. We stopped in Skagway, and took the 3-hour tour. I also love history, and it was fascinating to hear about Soapy Smith and his life and death in Skagway. I've seen his grave and the grave of the man who killed him. If you ever have the chance to get to Alaska, I recommend it. Especially if you can go on a cruise! Thanks for this, and all your wonderful videos!
@christopherarner83222 жыл бұрын
Love the 3 hour tour reference.
@paxhumana20152 жыл бұрын
Um, no, because three hour tours over water usually do not end up well. Sources: some fisherman, his skipper, a millionaire and his wife, a professor, his daughter, and a female movie star.
@russwoodward82514 жыл бұрын
Oh boy. Soapy set the stage for many more criminal organizations to follow. Great research and story telling. Thanks!
@yaelhart92064 жыл бұрын
Thank you, History Guy! My favorite episodes are your tales of outrageous and interesting characters.
@justinmoore19924 жыл бұрын
I just wanted to say, thank you for sharing this bit of history. I grew up in Skagway, and Soapy Smith is still a huge part of it's local history. Love the channel, keep up the great work!
@6stringgunner5114 жыл бұрын
Hollywood STILL honors soapy Smith every year? Why aren't I surprised!!!
@chapiit084 жыл бұрын
Right on point.
@rickintexas15844 жыл бұрын
It is at the Magic Castle. Many magicians perform the 3 shell game and 3 card monte for entertainment purposes.
@chevydyall76194 жыл бұрын
I listened to a two part podcast at 45mins a piece and you told the story so much better in far less time. Excellent work
@kurtb84744 жыл бұрын
History is worth remembering and learning from.. It's full of good things and bad things. It's not there for us to like or dislike. There's no reason why it should be erased.
@inconnu4961 Жыл бұрын
If I retold your personal history to anyone who would listen, emphasizing especially your misdeeds, would you STILL feel the same way? Its easy to state when you feel sufficiently distant from the story, but when it is your own testimony, its far more uncomfortable.
@binkster014 жыл бұрын
My wife and I agree, ALL history should be remembered so as to learn from. Something we did NOT learn in 2016. Removing statues, renaming streets, etc., will not change history, only cover it up.
@SpectatorAlius4 жыл бұрын
But what if the statue or street name were chosen to reflect a false version of history? Then you *do* restore history by removing the statue or going back to the original street name. Consider, for example, renaming St. Petersburg to Leningrad and then back again. No one has forgotten it was Leningrad for 70 years, but both those who live there and those who do not can feel the restorations of the town's historic significance in the correct name: it really is the city of Tsar Peter I more than it the city of Lenin. Besides: the surrounding *county* is stll named "Leningrad county"!
@J0hnBr0wnsB0dy4 жыл бұрын
Bad take
@Anthro0064 жыл бұрын
Damn cool story and a great bit of context for my home of Denver! We're still a city of crooks and gangs and very bad men but I somehow find comfort in the historical reliability of it all!
@gregoryorr114 жыл бұрын
We need people like Sir, to keep our history intact. History Guy I salute you! Thank you for your well put together videos and pleasant narration.
@tomdavies2412 жыл бұрын
our history seems to be changing rather quickly these days to fit a narrative
@jamesburnett70853 жыл бұрын
Thank you, history guy, and thank you for pinning Jeff Smith's rebuttal to the top of the comments section. When we care about history, of course we care to know the truth, which, unfortunately is often elusive. Those who have nothing to hide also have nothing to fear. The best among us appreciate being corrected when we are wrong, and no one is perfect. So thank you, Jeff Smith, and thank you History Guy.
@pmc90884 жыл бұрын
I was waiting for him to con someone out of a boat. Every good story has a pirate...
@rchalmers34 жыл бұрын
Ole Soapy didn't need a boat for his brand of piracy!
@markbrucker70224 жыл бұрын
Has the history guy ever done a background story on Blackbeard, aka Edward Teach, I believe that is his Christian name.
@dhm40444 жыл бұрын
WARNING! The following is anecdotal: My Great Grandfather, John Fitzgerald, was Captain of Detectives in Tacoma, WA. during the 1890's and early 1900's. According to my grandmother, Catherine McGeough (nee Fitzgerald), who was a girl at the time, Soapy Smith made a stop in Tacoma while on his was to Skagway. At some point during his visit there he was confronted by Capt. Fitzgerald, who was known to one and all in Tacoma simply as "The Captain." The Captain advised Soapy that it would be in the best interest of his health if he were to vacate Tacoma no sooner than yesterday. Soapy, apparently being no one's fool, took The Captain's advice to heart and immediately left Tacoma for better climes (probably to Seattle where the steamships left for Alaska). In a nutshell, my great grandfather, according to my grandmother, ran Soapy Smith out of town. As stated, this is all anecdotal - stories my grandmother told me many, many years ago in the 1950's when I was just a dumb kid and didn't have sense enough to press for details. I wish I had! I had no idea, at the time, that Soapy Smith was, or would become, a historically significant character. I do recall that grandma McGeough did make mention of the "soap bar scam" and have always assumed that this was the reason for his confrontation with "The Captain." Who knows? Grandma also acknowledged the fact that Soapy had a "gang," but not while he was in Tacoma. As an aside; I have a solid gold, six point badge that was, according to the engraving on the backside, presented to "The Captain" by his fellow detectives on December 25th, 1901.
@winnifredforbes87124 жыл бұрын
DHM Meyers Wow! That's really interesting!
@JeffSoapySmith4 жыл бұрын
Would love to hear from you, DHM Meyers!
@canadianperspective37314 жыл бұрын
Too cool! Thank you for sharing your history - it’s far more interesting than my “descending from a long line of horse thieves and traitors to the crown.”
@dhm40444 жыл бұрын
@@JeffSoapySmith Jeff, I would assume, by your name and photo, that you are "related." I have no way of verifying any of the stories that my Grandmother told me. Unfortunately I was quite young when they were told to me and didn't have the sense, or curiosity, to press for details. Damn my youth!!! I have, however, done a bit of research into the history of my Great- Grandfather, Capt. John Fitzgerald. Apparently he was one tough, 1st generation, Irishman who wouldn't back down from anyone. He was quite well respected in Tacoma because he was, in his day, "relatively honest." :) My only other "Soapy" story comes again, from my Grandmother. She told me that sometime in the very early 1900's a man came to call upon The Captain, socially, at their home in Tacoma. Grandma was somewhat taken aback by the man's appearance because, according to her, he looked like some one had "hit him in the face with an axe." After his departure she asked her father who the man was and he told her that he was once part of "Soapy Smith's gang." This would have been a few years after Soapy's "Skagway Years." Wish that there was more that I could tell you but that is pretty much the extent of Grandmother's "Soapy Smith" tales.
@jjphank4 жыл бұрын
I can trace my ancestry all the way back to Adam and Eve through mitochondrial DNA. Bill Nye, Bill Maher, & Barry & Joe can trace their family tree all the way back to the Apes.
@charlesyoung8600 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for not turning a blind eye to the truth. And telling it as it was and is!!!!
@4bikeregistry4 жыл бұрын
Very good example of why the study of history is so important to the future.
@josephgehring9194 жыл бұрын
Glad to learn more about one of the outlaws that came to Alaska. My high school Alaska History class was not as in-depth as your video, but we learned most of the major information mentioned in the video about Soapy Smith.
@sarjim43814 жыл бұрын
I mean, how could we ever have history that deserves to be remembered if we couldn't talk about pirates, hardly the most virtuous of historical figures.
@ladyhonor822 Жыл бұрын
Actions speak louder than words !!! Philadelphia USA 🇺🇲
@Charliecomet824 жыл бұрын
Soapy is definitely a legend in Alaska-I learned about him from my uncle from Ketchikan.
@williamsanders50664 жыл бұрын
@THG, enjoy your videos! So glad I stumbled across your channel. The stories you tell are interesting and informative. Your 7 to 17 minutes of forgotten or unknown history enlightens my day and I can share the stories with my coworkers and roommates.
@63DW89A4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for filling out the life of "Soapy Smith". I'd read of the gunfight that ended Smith's life in SIXGUNS (Elmer Keith, 1961 edition), but knew nothing else of him. He may have been a scoundrel, but nonetheless he is a fascinating character whose story definitely is worth remembering. If nothing else he is a good "bad example"! As always, greatly appreciate your channel!
@tombrown88004 жыл бұрын
You get a thumbs up from me for mentioning Elmer Keith and his excellent read " Sixguns".
@calicrixthemodprofessorpol26254 жыл бұрын
My group would perform at the historic building and venue called soapy Smith’s in Denver on market Street. We were told that it was a restaurant/ brothel back in the 1890s. For some reason I never question the name Soapy Smith. All of these years later we still perform in Leadville and Denver. I stumbled on the title of this video and knew I had to get educated on the man’s name sake. Thank you for a concise presentation.
@crawfordgalbraith732 жыл бұрын
Thoroughly enjoyed being introduced to Soapy Smith. Your content and delivery were first class and your look is excellent. Keep up the good work. From England.
@SirWilliamKidney4 жыл бұрын
In the old DOS game "The Yukon Trail" you can go to Skagway and get cheated out of your money. Soapy Smith was therefore indirectly responsible for some terrible moments of mine, losing all my virtual money in this game as a child. I shake my fist at you, Soapy!
@aaronanderson76192 жыл бұрын
Classically hilarious. Hope the weekend finds you well, and with some of your imaginary cash becoming real
@twzted_synapse2214 жыл бұрын
In 1994, while on my honeymoon, I was in Skagway and was able to stand before both graves. I was always fascinated by the story. Thanks for the incredible backstory! (By the way, Skagway is SO constantly windy, there's not ONE woman in town with hair longer than yours. LOL)
@JeffSoapySmith4 жыл бұрын
Actually, "Skagway" means "home of the north wind."
@spdav314 жыл бұрын
This subject just made me Subscribe, ALL of history should be remembered, the good , bad and ugly, if we erase it, or rewrite it, we all lose. We will repeat mistakes that could have been avoided, ending in disaster.
@jakejones24824 жыл бұрын
As colorado native I love hearing history and traveling to the old mining towns
@hillbilly48954 жыл бұрын
Great story...never heard of him till now. And yes, it figures that Hollywood would find it necessary to memorialize him. We are, after all, judged by the company we keep.
@RhettyforHistory4 жыл бұрын
This is some interesting history and it does contribute to the old adage that crime doesn't pay. It only makes you think that it does.
@jjphank4 жыл бұрын
"A fool doing his thing will suddenly be destroyed without remedy." Proverbs says that. If you don't like pain you need to have a serious talk with yourself to avoid going into hell. Nobody's going to be able to take the pain of hell so you need to start being spiritual whether you want to or not, to avoid that. And then start reading the New Testament, that's the day and age we live in. God can answer everything and the way to go to heaven is Jesus of the Bible so you got to read the Bible to make sure you have the right Jesus.
@Johnny-dp5mu4 жыл бұрын
hmm, not so sure; what is it they say: there's no such person that is an honest successful politician!
@dorianphilotheates37694 жыл бұрын
History is never boring. All of life is history, all of history, life - it’s the absence of history that’s boring.
@jonathanstancil85444 жыл бұрын
Seen recently on Facebook: History is not there for you to like or dislike it. It is there for you to learn from it. And if it offends you, even better, because then you are less likely to repeat it. It's not for you to erase; it belongs to all of us."
@eyegorehertz7614 жыл бұрын
Soapy was an integral part of the Klondike story. Partially because of his gangs operations, the Mounties established the Yukon/Alaskan border where it is today.
@christopherrasmussen87184 жыл бұрын
I grew up in Atlantic City. We all know how honest that town was back in the day.
@dominicguye80584 жыл бұрын
Sorry. . .
@bkohatl4 жыл бұрын
Thanks again, for helping us understand our past.
@OBXN4 жыл бұрын
After learning about Soapy Smith on a trip that included a stop at Skagway, it occurred to me that the character of the ambitious land stealing bad guy in so many Hollywood westerns was probably inspired by Soapy Smith.
@williampetersen99154 жыл бұрын
If you get a chance to see a movie titled "The Far Country" starring James Stewart, the character of Mr. Gannon (played by John McIntire,) was based on Soapy Smith.
@dickvarga69082 жыл бұрын
there were plenty more like Soapy Smith, he was the most famous.
@groermaik4 жыл бұрын
That story didn't even need a pirate! Thanks.
@johndeltuvia78924 жыл бұрын
His 'crimes' seem to me to be no worse than the average politician.
@JeffSoapySmith4 жыл бұрын
Soapy told a newspaper reporter, "I consider bunco steering more honorable than the life led by the average politician." ― The Road (Denver newspaper), February 29,1896
@blipco54 жыл бұрын
Jeff Smith - Sad but true though the politicians make far more money.
@daddygirlchanelhines46004 жыл бұрын
Soapy sucks boring and bland
@ziggy2shus6244 жыл бұрын
What!!!....The politicians have only gotten the people of the USA 25 trillion dollars in debt.
@ndotl2 жыл бұрын
Careful now. Jeff Smith might just sue you for slander 😁
@johndarcy39653 жыл бұрын
I love your channel ❤ History Guy!!! I am a History Major who went to Engineering School so I would be employable. Ha ha . History is where it is at!
@frankdawe51564 жыл бұрын
For me it's just fascinating to learn about ALL famous and infamous characters. We admire, even in some cases idolize the good, and despise the bad.
@probusexcogitatoris736 Жыл бұрын
People despise the bad? That is not what I see when I look around these days. People seem to worship assholes. The more despicable they are the better.
@Brimmlinn4 жыл бұрын
I would love to see an episode on the saying “One a day in Tampa Bay”. The Tampa, FL area was a large training center for pilots during World War 2 and there are very few people left who remember the phrase, and even less who know it’s origins. Thank you for the great content!
@josephchase32402 жыл бұрын
ONE A DAY IN TAMPA BAY WAS IN REFERENCE TO THE B26 MARTIN MARAUDER MEDIUM BOMBER WHICH WAS A VERY HARD PLANE TO FLY , IT HAD PROBLEMS ON TAKE OFFS WITH UNTRAINED PILOTS.THE B26 WAS SAID TO BE A " HOT ROD" BY THE MEN WHO FLEW THEM . FOR WHATEVER THE REASON A LOT ENDED UP IN TAMPA BAY ATTEMPTING TO TAKE OFF. THE B26 WAS ALSO REFERRED TO AS THE " BALTIMORE WHORE ".
@cdeford4 жыл бұрын
What's so illuminating is how easy Smith found it to find corrupt officials. Another great episode.
@NitroBoarder17 Жыл бұрын
I've never heard this story. Its a fascinating tale. Thanks for sharing!
@tonyk15844 жыл бұрын
There once was a fellow named Jefferson Smith who went by the sobriquet "Soapy" An entrepreneur of the scam artist trade, who knew that all greenhorns were dopey If you're just off the boat, and he was around, twas a fact that it wouldn't be long That in under an hour you'd be out in the street, and all of your cash would be gone
@raydunakin4 жыл бұрын
Well done!
@tonyk15844 жыл бұрын
@@raydunakin thanks
@JeffSoapySmith4 жыл бұрын
LOVE IT!
@JeffSoapySmith4 жыл бұрын
Hope you don't mind. I shared your poem on my Soapy Smith Facebook group. facebook.com/groups/297285738118/
@tonyk15844 жыл бұрын
@@JeffSoapySmith I went and looked. I am honored. Thanks for the attribution too.
@Peasmouldia4 жыл бұрын
UK version of "schill" is known as a "feed". The variation on the shell game is "find the lady". Three cards, one of which is supposedly the Queen of spades. Thanks THG.
@moritamikamikara38794 жыл бұрын
Do we not still refer to people who go along with scams as shills though? Don't we accuse youtubers who take sponsorships/bribes from Raid fucking shadow legends as shills?
@jonsprong18424 жыл бұрын
"Those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it". I always respect that quote.
@thomasrobertson81092 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your Channel update God bless you
@Pfsif4 жыл бұрын
There are millions of Soapy Smith's in this World.
@JasonLambek4 жыл бұрын
And one currently is President of the United States.
@infinidominion4 жыл бұрын
@Roger Gertz did you just pickpocket us while distractin with that tldr😅
@terryboyer13424 жыл бұрын
@@JasonLambek Biden, Shiff or Schumer are President?
@kencarp574 жыл бұрын
And most are politicians... And many of those are in Congress...
@Pfsif4 жыл бұрын
@@kencarp57 They are in every field you can think of.
@rick43pen4 жыл бұрын
We had a saying in the navy about Skagway. " Skagway, where men are men, and sheep are nervous."
@rh59714 жыл бұрын
Once again, helping us remember why our history and why it is so important. We must remember the past, to direct our future.
@fredsalter1915 Жыл бұрын
History boss channel. Fantastic telling skills, too!
@TheHistoryGuyChannel Жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@charlesdudek77134 жыл бұрын
Dates and faces change but human nature remains the same.
@EsoTownBizz65004 жыл бұрын
Bingo..
@arekingi4 жыл бұрын
Today I learned than "con" is derived from "confidence", thanks 😅
@craiggunsinger99703 жыл бұрын
Con - convict
@woody13203 жыл бұрын
Or is it "congress"?
@Peckerwood-502 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for making everything interesting and fun to listen to.
@evanrhoades95993 жыл бұрын
Hello "History Guy" .. Just wanted to thank you for all that you do in sharing your passion for History. In our own unique history of Covid pandemic and political rift raff it's reassuring to listen to a good "yarn" from you. I am part of a surgical team and a hospital staff dedicated to caring for others. We share a bond of respect and trust that comes from being on the front lines of crisis. You have a gift of gab that soothes the soul. It is much appreciated. Thank you.
@jackpayne46584 жыл бұрын
What a character! But times have moved on - these days, he might even get himself elected President of some large, powerful nation.
@theresehopkins1581 Жыл бұрын
Well put....
@mariaefelices6543 Жыл бұрын
He would make a fine crooked priminister
@kylegreene1356 Жыл бұрын
But he doesn't fall asleep during meetings and didn't once fall up stairs. He never sniffed little girls and Soapy didn't have an associate named 'Heels Up Harris' so ummm no
@MyOddThoughts Жыл бұрын
@@kylegreene1356 Perhaps that OPs original feelings has changed after two years of a certain president of no renowned..
@walterkersting9922 Жыл бұрын
Damn, people are stupid…
@spazmobot4 жыл бұрын
Soapy is one of those individuals who spot opportunities a mile away and manage to get away with it. Even as a bad man, you have to admire the ingenuity...
@inconnu4961 Жыл бұрын
Just dont admire too long, lest you be tempted to do the same. Thats how Soapy got started, if you recall!
@knunyabeasewhacks87444 жыл бұрын
History that is forgotten is doomed to be repeated.
@myviewmjs3632 Жыл бұрын
My wife and I were fortunate to visit Skagway in 2019, we took a delightful tour which included a visit to the cemetery where Soapy’s grave is just outside the official property line.
@randyrick80194 жыл бұрын
Why does Hollywood seem like the natural place to commemorate a lifelong con-man?
@JohnMassari4 жыл бұрын
Exactly!
@roryvonbrutt73024 жыл бұрын
Very sad and very true can you say .......politicians
@tomnekuda38184 жыл бұрын
Because they can't all be President.......
@cylonred89024 жыл бұрын
@wargent99 "Hollywood and sports leagues are plagued by rapists, women abusers, racists, thieves, pedophiles, dog torturers, murderers and other trash." That perfectly describes..... a chunk of the general population that people deal with on a daily basis. Hyperbole much?
@peachtrees274 жыл бұрын
@wargent99 aka artists
@jean-lucpicard30124 жыл бұрын
I probably shouldn't have drank that Bajoran spiritual tea before watching that new opening
@svtirefire4 жыл бұрын
Did the Pah Wraiths speak to you?
@Free_Krazy4 жыл бұрын
And i just generally I shouldn't be drinking Fireball... But If i were you id'e keep drinking the enlightenment tea.
@lawrencetaylor41014 жыл бұрын
I lived in Denver and knew Leadville fairly well. This was enjoyable to learn history that they would never teach us in school.
@nosillalaluna7078 Жыл бұрын
History is so facinating . I love learning about obscure people or events . Thank you for all you hard work and your talent for telling a story, in the way ,a story should be told ✌️🙊🙉🙈👍
@pauljjalix74004 жыл бұрын
I was awe inspired by the parallels that we see in our corporations which of course run the corporatocracy which we all live under today. I was amazed at the point by point rendition of soapy's lifework and scams seeing used by our corporate overlords over our entire global society. Even down to the philanthropy giving to the poor who are made poor because of the generous givers. I admit I was a little bit surprised that you were unable to make the parallel connection which is so blatantly obvious.
@larrywhited30702 жыл бұрын
Neither did he draw the even more obvious parallel connection with many politicians. One of the signs of a very good teacher is that he or she provides you enough information while also stimulating your imagination enough that you--the student--then begin to think for yourself and exercise insight on your own. The History Guy excels at this, and he has no need to cover every random thought for us that we might have along the way as he minimizes the distractions.
@TallLongGuy4 жыл бұрын
“Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it. “ - George Santayana
@1pcfred4 жыл бұрын
History never repeats itself, But it often rhymes.
@TallLongGuy4 жыл бұрын
Paul Frederick haaa! Great one!!
@misfit89154 жыл бұрын
Paul Frederick Mark Twain quote
@Jruth684 жыл бұрын
Thanks for that lesson. I got to visit Soapy's grave once. I even read a book about him. However I just even learned more about him from you in this short clip.
@deanrao48054 жыл бұрын
Brings back memories. I came across Soapy Smith's story around 1970 in a long article in one of my Grandfather's "Old West" magazines.