The Pinkerton Detective Agency

The Pinkerton National Detective Agency, an influential entity in the history of American law enforcement and detective work, was brought to life through the ethos and efforts of its founder, Alan Pinkerton.

Alan Pinkerton's Early Career as a Detective

Pinkerton, a Scottish Police Sergeant, Immigrated To the US

Alan Pinkerton, initially a Scottish police sergeant, immigrated to the United States, bringing with him a reputation for honesty and a knack for detecting malfeasance. His ability to sense trouble, coupled with his fearlessness and non-corruptible nature, allowed him to carve out a remarkable career in law enforcement.

Reputation For Honesty and Diligence; Founded Pinkerton National Detective Agency In 1850

After moving through the ranks from King County to Cook County and working in the assessor's office, he served as a special agent for the U.S. Post Office. During his time as a cooper, Pinkerton discovered a counterfeiters' hideout, formed a posse, and captured the criminals. This audacious capture led to notoriety and a subsequent appointment as deputy sheriff in Kane County, Illinois, in 1846. Capitalizing on his growing renown, Pinkerton founded the Pinkerton National Detective Agency in Chicago in 1850, becoming the city's first detective at just 31 years old.

Agency's Work in Abolitionist Movement and Underground Railroad

Pinkerton Freed Enslaved People and Opposed Slavery

The Pinkertons were widely acknowledged for their critical role in the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad. From 1850 until emancipation, Pinkerton personally worked to assist the escape and freeing of enslaved individuals. His friendship with passionate abolitionist John Brown, who led raids to free enslaved people, speaks volumes about his commitment to the cause. Moreover, Pinkerton's financial support of these missions, such as paying for train rides to aid escapees, demonstrates his activism within the movement.

Agency Hired Detective Kate Warren to Infiltrate and Gather Intelligence

In an unprecedented move in 1856, Pinkerton hired Kate Warren and by 1860 had placed her at the helm of ...

The history of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency during the Civil War era reveals a close connection with key Union figures, including Abraham Lincoln, and a significant impact on the conflict's progression.

Pinkerton's Role as Union Army Intelligence Officer

Hired by McClellan to Lead Secret Service, Provided Intelligence on Confederate Movements

Alan Pinkerton, famously known for his detective agency, played a crucial role in the Civil War, particularly in his service to the Union army. Pinkerton's early relationship with Abraham Lincoln can be traced through his work for the Illinois Central Railroad, where Lincoln was the corporate attorney and the railroad's president was William McClellan. George McClellan, who later became head of the Army of the Potomac and knew Pinkerton from their shared railroad business dealings, brought Pinkerton in to lead the Secret Service Division under the pseudonym Major E.J. Allen.

Intelligence Estimates Flawed, May Have Prolonged War

Pinkerton's intelligence contributions, however, were marred by significant inaccuracies. He overestimated the size of the Confederate forces, reporting them to be between 100,000 to 200,000 troops when, in fact, General Robert E. Lee had only 40,000 to 45,000 troops. George McClellan, without verifying Pinkerton's estimates, held back his force of 76,000 troops. These flawed intelligence reports are believed to have potentially prolonged the Civil War.

A historical photograph captures the depth of Pinkerton's connections, where he is featured alongside Abraham Lincoln and Major Ge ...

The Pinkerton Agency, initially known for busting bank robbers and stopping train robberies, evolved to take on controversial roles in corporate security and anti-union activities.

Agency's Shift to Corporate Security and Anti-Union Activities

Pinkertons Infiltrate Unions as Labor Movement Grows

After the era of the Wild West, the Pinkerton Agency shifted its focus to corporate security, becoming known for its involvement in union-busting activities. They infiltrated labor organizations, tarnishing their reputation by acting on behalf of corporate interests.

James McParland, a Pinkerton detective, went undercover for two years to gather intelligence on the Molly Maguires, a secretive society linked to Irish coal miners. McParland infiltrated their ranks by becoming the secretary of the local lodge of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and eventually testified against members, leading to the execution of 20 men.

Shift by Corporate Clients to Break Strikes and Labor Unrest

The Pinkertons initially offered services like employee testing to uncover illegal activities within companies. This service expanded as they were asked to monitor employee discontent and potential union formations. The Order of Railway Conductors began warning members of undercover Pinkertons who were monitoring for signs of union formation.

Homestead Strike: Pinkerton's Clash With Steel Workers

Pinkertons Brought In to Break Strike at Carnegie Steel Mill, Leading To Battle

During the Homestead Strike of 1892, the Pinkerton Agency was hired by Henry Clay Frick, representing Andrew Carnegie, to guard the steel mill and lock out workers when the union contract expired. The arrival of the Pinkertons resulted in a violent confrontation with steel workers and the local community, which persisted for 12 to 15 hours.

Backlash Led To Calls For Laws Restricting Private Security Forces Against Unions

The nature of the violent struggle between labor and management, where the Pinkertons were seen siding with corporate interests, led to a significant backlash. This ultimately prompted calls for legislation to restrict the use of private security forces like the Pinkertons against union wor ...