The Honeymoon Gang

The Honeymoon Gang of the mid 1800’s has been said to be one of the most brutal of all gangs in the era. This gang was so brutal and violent that even the corrupt Tammany Hall politicians who often hired gangs to get votes and give protection denied their use. The gang operated in the 18th ward of New York City, and was notorious for its brutal attacks on unsuspecting civilians. Every night the chieftain of the honeymooners would station a thug at each street corner, having him beat and mug any well dressed man that he saw. For years this gang operated with little to no resistance from authorities, knowing that it was a large risk crossing on to their turf. Therefore the neighborhood the gang resided in was labeled unsafe and was truly ruled by The Honeymooners. Their reign did end, however, when a new police chief was put in place of the district. Officers called the “Strong Arm” unit were dressed up as civilians and hid clubs under their coats looking for any gang members to pounce on their innocent prey, which would be followed by a ruthless beating, and sometimes killing of the gang member. Police continued these methods and the gang disbanded within two weeks.

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