9 Comments
User's avatar
David Perlmutter's avatar

So there actually were people like Fagin in the real world.

Dean Kirby's avatar

Absolutely, David. I do wonder where the name Cabbage came from. A great character.

Chris Dawson's avatar

I’m curious though… did any of the sources indicate what the pickpocket teachers got out of the arrangements? I’m assuming a big piece of the action, but I was wondering how much?

Dean Kirby's avatar

It’s a good question Chris. I’m assuming they took a cut, Fagin style, when the lads came back to their lodgings at night and it paid for their upkeep.

Dr Angela Buckley's avatar

I really enjoyed this post, thanks Dean - I’ve come across Cabbage Ann before so it was wonderful to find out more about her.

Dean Kirby's avatar

Thanks Angela. Nice to hear. Enjoying your newsletter too.

Kaye Jones's avatar

"The worst woman in Manchester"... that's my new life goal 😂

Thanks for sharing this, Dean, what a great story!

Dean Kirby's avatar

Thanks Kaye. It’s a great epitaph isn’t it. I never quite got to the bottom of the Cabbage nickname but I think she possibly ran a provision shop for a while. Enjoying your newsletter too.