Charlie: A True Crime Biography of the Prohibition Era
Charlie is historical and creative non-fiction that chronicles the life of Charlie Allison from youth to death. This biography follows his journey from farming to coal mining in Illinois, bootlegging during Prohibition, and his involvement with the Torrio/Capone South Side gang in Chicago.
Connection to Al Capone's Organization
Charlie Allison became acquainted with members of Capone's South Side gang in Chicago. His relationship with Fred Goetz, alias "Shotgun George Zeigler," led to his role as caretaker of a retreat in Couderay, Wisconsin, later known as "The Hideout." There, Charlie shared hunting and fishing experiences with men planning the St. Valentine's Day Massacre.
Life During Prohibition and Beyond
This biography covers the rigors of coal mining in Illinois, Capone's support of the disadvantaged through soup kitchens, and Charlie's own ventures running a hotel and soup kitchen while selling bootlegged alcohol for "The Organization." The narrative includes his arrest, jailing, and competition with rival bootleggers.
Charlie's wife, Lola, viewed the gangsters as businessmen whose business happened to be against the law. She saw them as men with wives and families, no different from anyone else.
Historical Context and Documentation
Charlie addresses historical events related to World War I, Prohibition, and World War II. The book documents Charlie Allison's opportunity in Alaska during WW2, his loyalty to the men he worked for, and his eventual betrayal of Lola.
The biography includes photos from the Allison family's private collection, supporting FBI memos, and newspaper accounts that verify the historical accuracy of events.
Creative Non-Fiction Approach
While based on true events, Charlie incorporates speculative dialogue to bring the story to life. This creative non-fiction approach presents more than just criminals—it reveals people doing what they had to do during difficult times in American history.
