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Accident – death – Obituary News : and subheadings to organize the article and make it easier to read.
**Salisbury’s Dark History: The Saga of Harold Congdon Continues**
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*By C.J. Fitzwater*
Salisbury, a picturesque town on the coast of England, is known for its charming beaches and rich history. However, beneath its idyllic facade lies a tale of corruption, violence, and a shocking murder that shook the entire community. In this second part of “The Saga of Harold Congdon,” we delve deeper into the dark events that unfolded during Prohibition, exposing the hidden secrets of Salisbury’s past.
**A Controversial Return to Power**
After serving a four-month sentence for liquor crimes and conspiracy, Harold Congdon, a cunning and manipulative individual, managed to reclaim his political positions as selectman and police chief. This marked the beginning of a controversial period in Salisbury’s history, where alcohol was readily available under Congdon’s leadership, as long as he received a share of the profits.
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**The Graft Indictment**
On May 12, 1927, the Essex County Grand Jury indicted Congdon and nine associates, including his twin brother Harry and former town officials, on charges of graft. Their pay-to-play scheme involved accepting kickbacks in exchange for turning a blind eye to alcohol-related offenses. This deeply rooted system of corruption tarnished the reputation of Salisbury and its officials.
**The Ocean Echo: A Hub of Entertainment**
The Ocean Echo, a popular establishment at Salisbury Beach, underwent a magnificent transformation after a devastating fire in 1920. It became a bustling hub of entertainment, with various attractions such as Joe’s Popcorn Stand, a beano hall, a dance club, a cocktail lounge, and a bathhouse. The highlight of the venue was the Salisbury swimming pool, which attracted visitors from far and wide.
**The Rise of Dance Marathons**
During the Roaring Twenties, Dance Marathons became a nationwide craze. These endurance contests allowed nightclubs to operate round the clock, as dancers competed to outlast each other for significant prize money. The Ocean Echo emerged as one of the country’s premier venues for these marathon dances, attracting both locals and tourists.
**A Tragic Turn of Events**
On May 20, 1927, while Salisbury Beach was preparing for a grand celebration in honor of Charles Lindbergh’s historic transatlantic flight, tragedy struck. George Taylor, a drifter and skilled dancer, participated in the dance marathon but eventually succumbed to exhaustion. In search of a buzz, Taylor purchased several half pints of witch hazel, an aftershave with a high alcohol content, from a barber supply store. Little did he know that this decision would lead to a gruesome crime.
**Stella Pomikali: A Life Cut Short**
Stella Pomikali, a young and ambitious woman, worked at Salisbury Beach, selling photo packages to summer tourists. Originally from Poland, she had migrated with her family to Lawrence, where she balanced her job at the mills with evening classes to further her education. Stella’s summer job was not just an opportunity to enjoy the season but also a chance to participate in the renowned dance marathons at the Ocean Echo.
**A Brutal Murder Unveiled**
On the morning of June 6, 1927, a couple discovered Stella Pomikali’s lifeless body on the beach. She had been brutally raped and strangled, with her wristwatch missing and a pair of sun goggles nearby. Arthur Williams, her employer, confirmed her identity, and Salisbury Beach was plunged into five weeks of fear and uncertainty.
**The Capture of a Criminal**
Finally, on July 12, George Taylor was apprehended near the Canadian border. He confessed to consuming witch hazel and waking up the next morning with Stella’s watch in his pocket. This crucial piece of evidence directly linked him to the crime scene and Stella’s murder, bringing some relief to the terrified residents of Salisbury.
**Harold Congdon’s Trial and Town Tensions**
Harold Congdon’s trial in 1927 highlighted the growing tensions between Salisbury Beach and the rest of the town. The beach residents, who contributed a significant portion of the town’s revenue, felt neglected and underrepresented. This led to a petition for secession, which played a crucial role in the charges brought against Congdon. The petitioners’ grievances, aired before the state legislature, exposed the lawlessness of town officials, including Congdon himself.
**A Man of Contradictions**
Harold Congdon was a man of contradictions. While he was seen as a guardian of the people of Salisbury, known for his care for the poor and his welcoming approach to newcomers, his administration was marked by prejudiced practices. The influence of the controversial film “The Birth of a Nation” in 1915, which depicted African Americans negatively and glorified the Ku Klux Klan, was evident in the way African American men were targeted for minor offenses and publicly shamed.
**Two Sentences, Two Fates**
The trials of both George Taylor and Harold Congdon unfolded simultaneously, shedding light on the darker aspects of Salisbury’s society and politics. George Taylor was found guilty of murder and sentenced to execution by electric chair at the Charlestown State Prison death House. Meanwhile, Harold Congdon, alongside George, attempted to appeal their respective sentences but was unsuccessful. Harold began serving his 2-½ year sentence at the Salem House of Corrections, only four days before George’s execution.
**In Conclusion**
The shocking murder of Stella Pomikali and the subsequent trials of George Taylor and Harold Congdon left a lasting impact on the town of Salisbury. These events exposed the corruption and dark underbelly of Salisbury’s past, forever changing its reputation. As we reflect on this tragic chapter in history, let us remember the lessons learned and strive to create a brighter future for this beautiful coastal town.
*Final Words*
Salisbury resident C.J. Fitzwater, a curious traveler and storyteller, has woven together the threads of history to bring you this captivating narrative. Through his words, he invites you to explore the hidden depths of Salisbury’s past and discover the untold stories that shape its present. Subscribe today to support local journalism and stay informed about the rich history and fascinating tales of this remarkable town..
