The Unmaking of a Mayor: Corruption and Scandal in 1885 Seattle

The question has frequently been asked, 'Why does the Post-Intelligencer oppose Mr. Woolery?' This opposition is based on the fact that he is worthless and onto a score. The administration of affairs for the past year has been that of a Barroom Court. While it is true that certain laws should be enforced and that other laws should not, it is one thing to be in a position to enforce the law in a community and quite another to enforce it. The Post-Intelligencer has from time to time made these public as they came to its knowledge. Woolery has done almost nothing for the city for the past year. He has allowed police officers to remain on the force who had scarcely any claim to the title. He has allowed various gambling dens to open their doors, which were run with his knowledge. Within the year, two and possibly three horrible murders were committed in this city. In each case, the Mayor's jurisdiction was that the deceased persons had been murdered. So far as can be ascertained, not the slightest effort was made to catch the murderers or to bring them to justice. Indeed, it appeared that a determined effort was made to hush the matter up. Mr. Woolery has not hesitated to lend his position to private ends, seeking to damage the reputations of prominent and reputable citizens. The above reasons, we think, are sufficient to induce any thoughtful man or woman to vote against Woolery.