Gavin Schmitt Livres

The historical narrative explores Neenah's evolution as a vibrant community, highlighting its strategic location at the confluence of Lake Winnebago and the Fox River. The city's identity as "Paper City" stems from the success of local paper mills, particularly Neenah Paper and Kimberly-Clark. Vintage photographs capture the essence of daily life for residents, showcasing the contributions of various community members, from shopkeepers to factory workers. The book also features beloved local businesses, inviting readers to reminisce about the town's rich heritage and enduring spirit.

Murder Capital explores Prohibition-era Madison, Wisconsin. Per capita, Madison was the most violent and deadly city in the United States during the 1920s. Along with the usual suspects (bootleggers), Madison was unique in its strong Ku Klux Klan presence. In the background was a prominent judge, overseeing Mafia cases by day, but by night taking illegal loans from these very same criminals. In effect, he tied his own hands and the violence was allowed to continue unabated

Delving into Milwaukee's hidden Sicilian underworld, this book uncovers the history of the Milwaukee Mafia from the early 1900s through its influence on the Teamsters union. By utilizing previously unseen police reports, FBI notes, coroner records, and newspaper articles, the author reveals a tumultuous era marked by violence and secrecy. The narrative pieces together a comprehensive account of the city's criminal past, challenging the myths that have long obscured the truth of its mob activities and the impact on the community.

The narrative unfolds in a small town grappling with a series of shocking events, including the kidnapping of a respected citizen and the arrest of the police chief's wife for murder. Amidst this turmoil, a mobster faces threats from the FBI, while a widespread corruption investigation implicates individuals from low-level bookies to high-ranking judges and prosecutors. The intertwining of these incidents reveals a community in crisis, raising questions about morality and justice in a seemingly quiet town.

Exploring the dark realm of sex trafficking, the narrative uncovers four unsolved murders linked by a web of organized crime across the Midwest. Utilizing previously unreleased police and FBI records, the book reveals surprising connections between a small mining town in Michigan and major vice centers like Peoria, Illinois. As the investigation unfolds, it highlights the pervasive nature of crime and the hidden ties that bind seemingly unrelated locations and events.