Publisher's Synopsis
The life story of a famous Baltimore singer who became sheriff. This story will give you a look into an epic tale of the descendants of Irish and German immigrants who lived through hard times, government abuse and fraud (1859-1932). Tom grew from humble beginnings and yet he rubbed elbows with governors, presidents and entertainers. The perspective gives you the dominant male-oriented past as well as the scenes of womens' lives normally ignored in history.
Thomas Frances McNulty left school at age 12 to work for a shoemaker. He had already become a well-known singer in Baltimore -his mother taught and accompanied him at events. Hearing Toms' voice, a future Senator and campaign agent for Ferdinand C. Latrobe asked Tom to promote the candidate. Tom sang Baltimore Mayor Latrobe back into office with the song he wrote: The Old Gray Mare. His campaign entertainment which included Irish, state and national songs, enabled women to be accepted at such events, getting their foot in the door to having the vote. President Cleveland, and dozens of other politicians won elections through Tom's "golden tenor" voice.
Living from 1859-1932, Tom learned life's lessons from the Great Clay Street Fire, two financial crashes, the B&O railroad abuse of employees & strike, and the Baltimore Massacre.
Thomas F. McNulty dreamed of becoming sheriff from a young age and campaigned multiple times before winning. The fraud in the election that stole Tom's bid for sheriff led to over 200 Grand Jury indictments and scrutiny over elections that deterred election cheating and weakened party "bosses." Once elected, Tom petitioned Maryland legislators, by singing, to rectify Baltimore police department pay policies that fed rampant corruption.
Throughout his life Tom used his singing talent to raise money for victims of natural and human catastrophes: earthquake, fires, floods, war, bank & business closures, and unemployment. Not only did he act in a compassionate manner to strangers, those who came in contact with him daily loved him for his genial attitude and fairness in all situations.
This book also examines his daily life with his wives and children- stories passed down through the family. The editor, Thomas Smith is the great grandson of the singing sheriff. His mother has told stories and relived memories of her grandfather, the sheriff, her grandmother who was the sheriff's second wife, aunts and more.
