How A Fake Illinois Klansman Became The Grim Symbol Of St Louis' Happiest Civic

The city of St. Louis, Missouri, is known for its vibrant culture, bustling nightlife, and friendly residents. However, there is one grim symbol that has become intertwined with the city's history, a symbol that represents a dark chapter in St. Louis' past - the fake Illinois Klansman.

In the early 20th century, the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) had a strong presence in many parts of the United States, including nearby Illinois. The KKK was known for its white supremacist beliefs and brutal acts of violence against African Americans and other minority groups.

In an effort to combat the growing influence of the KKK, a group of St. Louis activists devised a plan to infiltrate the Klan and expose their true intentions. They found a young man from Illinois who agreed to pose as a Klansman and gather evidence against the organization.

The Failed Joke of the Veiled Prophet: How a Fake Illinois Klansman Became the Grim Symbol of St. Louis's Happiest Civic Celebration

by George Garrigues (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9467 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	143 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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The Infiltration

Undercover and armed with hidden cameras, the fake Illinois Klansman attended secret KKK meetings, documenting their activities and conversations. He even participated in some of their rituals and initiations, all the while gathering evidence that would ultimately expose the Klan's true nature.

During his time infiltrating the KKK, the fake Illinois Klansman witnessed acts of violence, hatred, and racism that left a lasting impact on him. He saw cross burnings, heard racist slurs, and witnessed the Klan's efforts to intimidate and terrorize African American communities.

The Unmasking

After months of undercover work, the infiltrator had collected enough evidence to expose the KKK's activities. He turned over his findings to the St. Louis police, who launched an investigation into the KKK's local chapter.

As news of the investigation spread, the people of St. Louis were shocked to learn that the KKK had a presence in their city. The revelation sparked outrage and a renewed commitment to fighting against racism and discrimination.

The fake Illinois Klansman eventually testified in court, providing insight into the inner workings of the Klan. His testimony, combined with the evidence he had gathered, was instrumental in convicting several key members of the KKK.

A Grim Symbol

Despite his heroic actions, the fake Illinois Klansman became a grim symbol of the city's darkest past. His story serves as a reminder of the deep-seated racism and hatred that once plagued St. Louis and the importance of continuing the fight against bigotry.

In recognition of his bravery, the city of St. Louis erected a statue in honor of the fake Illinois Klansman. The statue depicts him in disguise, wearing the iconic white robe and hood of the KKK, but with a determined expression on his face.

The statue serves as a powerful reminder of the courage it took for one man to infiltrate a dangerous hate group and expose their true colors. It stands as a testament to the progress that has been made in the fight against racism, while also acknowledging that there is still work to be done.

The Happiest Civic

Despite the dark history associated with the fake Illinois Klansman, St. Louis has managed to transform itself into a lively and inclusive city. From its beautiful parks and museums to its vibrant music and art scenes, St. Louis has become a hub of cultural diversity and civic pride.

The city now embraces a spirit of unity and celebrates its diverse population. It hosts numerous festivals, parades, and community events that bring people from all walks of life together.

St. Louis has worked hard to shed its past and carve out a new identity as a welcoming and inclusive city. The fake Illinois Klansman's story serves as a reminder of the progress that has been made and the importance of continuing to build a more just and equitable society.

In , the story of the fake Illinois Klansman is a powerful reflection of St. Louis' history, both grim and triumphant. It highlights the challenges the city has faced in confronting racism and the progress that has been made in creating a more inclusive community. St. Louis stands as a testament to the power of unity and the resilience of its residents.

The Failed Joke of the Veiled Prophet: How a Fake Illinois Klansman Became the Grim Symbol of St. Louis's Happiest Civic Celebration

by George Garrigues (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9467 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	143 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

A WHITE SHEETED THUG in a pointed hat, with pistol and shotguns at the ready. Was he a symbol of privilege and power?
Of class and racial control? If so, why was he surrounded by a bug, a lion, and a lady with a cup of hot chocolate?

The year was 1878. In St. Louis, Missouri, tens of thousands of spectators cheered the downtown arrival of a mysterious “Sublime Hime-uk-amuk of the Veiled Prophets.” Decorated floats and cowled men with burning torches moved through the streets and stopped streetcars in their tracks. Some on the floats appeared to be guilty of affectionate embraces even as myriads gaped. Yet most of the “women” were upward-striving men in costume. So were the gods, goddesses, nymphs, and satyrs.

That first Veiled Prophet Parade was a grand success. As was the formal, jewel-encrusted dance afterward, which must have degenerated into a vigorous skipping match once the creaky old folks sat down and left the floor to the youngsters. Throngs were captivated for decades by this annual Parade and its resplendent dance featuring a teenage Queen of Love and Beauty — such as sitcom actress Ellie Kemper, who later apologized for having been one.

Yet in the background for the past score of years has brooded a mysterious, hooded man whose image is as sinister as a Confederate general on his metal horse.

He refuses to die. Who was he?

After 143 years, we now have the answer.