The Mining Camp "Lady of the Evening"

Some of the first women to arrive on the mining frontier were prostitutes who profited highly from the vice and atmosphere of those rough, lawless societies.  20% of the female population in 1850 California were prostitutes and outnumbered respectable women 25 to 1.  Prostitution was considered socially acceptable in the early gold rush years and the women were treated with respect and gallantry by the men.

Probate courts records show the substantial possessions of one Mary Lee after one year in the business.  After her death in Sacramento in 1853 her assets included white window curtains, 2 leather trunks, jewelry, $1520 cash on deposit, opulent clothing including 21 skirts, 11 chemises, 31 dresses of linen, muslin, brocade, satin, silk, gingham, merino wool, along with a silk white cape and a red jacket.  Unfortunately all her worldly assets  couldn't save her from a bowie knife wielded by another rival prostitute.

Next time...what happened to these gold rush prostitutes?