James Kelly (crimper) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Kelly
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|---|---|
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Bar owner and crimper |
| Title | Shanghai Kelly |
James Kelly, better known as "Shanghai" Kelly, was a famous American "crimp" in the 1800s. He was known for finding sailors for ships that needed more crew. Sometimes, he would trick or force men to work on these ships. This practice was called "crimping" or "shanghaiing." Kelly was a well-known person in San Francisco's history. He had a red beard and was known for his strong personality.
Contents
Who Was Shanghai Kelly?
James Kelly, often called "Shanghai" Kelly, lived in the 1800s. He was an American "crimp." This means he found workers for ships. The terms "crimping" and "shanghaiing" describe how he got these workers. He would trick or force men to join a ship's crew. Kelly was a legendary figure in San Francisco history. He was known for his ability to supply men to ships that needed more crew members.
Kelly's Businesses
Kelly owned a boarding house in San Francisco. It was located on Pacific or Broadway street. He also ran several bars. One of them was the Boston House. It was near the waterfront at Davis and Chambers streets. He also had a saloon and another boarding house. These businesses helped Kelly find people for the ships.
A Busy Night
In the early 1870s, Kelly was very busy one evening. Reports say he "shanghaied" 100 men. He found these men for three ships that needed more crew. This happened all in a single night.
Kelly in Pop Culture
James Kelly's story has been told in different ways. Actor Robert Taylor played Kelly in a TV show. It was a 1967 episode of Death Valley Days. The episode was called "Shanghai Kelly's Birthday Party." Taylor also hosted the show.
The Irish music band Gaelic Storm also made a song about Kelly. It is called "Shanghai Kelly." You can find it on their 2017 album, Go Climb a Tree.
See also
- Joseph "Bunko" Kelly – another famous "crimp"
Sources
- Samuel Dickson, "Shanghai Kelly", Tales of San Francisco Stanford: University Press, 1957.
- Bill Pickelhaupt, "Shanghaied in San Francisco," San Francisco: Flyblister Press, 1996. ISBN: 0-9647312-2-3
