Brothels Boosted the Economy
Brothels were actually a big part of the economy in Wild West towns, including Dawson City, up in Canada, which is where this photo was taken. This was a type of promotional photo of some “good time girls,” who were hoping to find some customers. We are sure they were able to find some, as there were almost no other women up there at this time.
Good Time Girls
Mattie Silks
This is Mattie Silks. She started off as a “good time girl,” but then got into the business herself as a madame. She had two highly successful brothels, one in Denver and one in Dodge City. Mattie had a reputation for running a high class establishment, and she was so good at what she did, that she made about $38,000, which is the equivalent of a million dollars, today.
Mattie Silks
