Episode 2: The Axeman of New Orleans: Jazz, Fear, and Mystery

Summary

This episode of Killer Curiosity delves into the chilling story of the Axeman, a mysterious figure who terrorized New Orleans in 1918. The narrative unfolds with the brutal murder of Joseph and Catherine Maggio, leading to a series of attacks that left the city in fear. The Axeman's identity remains a mystery, with various theories suggesting connections to organized crime. The episode highlights the panic that gripped the city, culminating in a bizarre letter from the Axeman that urged residents to play jazz music to be spared. Despite numerous attacks and investigations, the true identity of the Axeman remains unknown, leaving a haunting legacy in American crime history.

Sources

• Times-Picayune Archives (March 1918–1919) – original crime reporting and publication of the Axeman’s letter.

• St. Tammany Library Blog – Historical News Articles: The Axeman’s Letter (sttammanylibrary.org)

• A Fortean in the Archives – Fresh Light on the Axeman of New Orleans (includes reprints of the 1919 letter). (aforteantinthearchives.wordpress.com)

• The Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC) – The Mysterious Axeman’s Jazz (archival collection highlights). (hnoc.org)

• Smithsonian Magazine – The Axeman Preyed on Italian Immigrants (historic context, immigrant community focus). (smithsonianmag.com)

• Country Roads Magazine – The Axeman of New Orleans. (countryroadsmagazine.com)

• Legends of America – The Axeman of New Orleans. (legendsofamerica.com)

• Crime + Investigation (UK) – The Axeman of New Orleans: Overview & Analysis. (crimeandinvestigation.co.uk)

• People Magazine – “Jazz It Out — or Get the Axe” Inside the Story of a Serial Killer and a Chilling Ultimatum. (people.com)

• Library Journal – Review of The Axeman of New Orleans: The True Story (notes use of archival newspapers & records). (libraryjournal.com)