“Killing the Poormaster,” by Holly Metz – Author Talk & Book Signing

October 21, 2012 • 4pm

Location: Hoboken Historical Museum, 1301 Hudson St., (201) 656-2240

Reflecting on a sensational, Depression-era murder trial, “Killing the Poormaster” chronicles the events that led up to—and followed—the death of Harry Barck, a poormaster who determined who would and would not receive public aid in Hoboken, New Jersey. When unemployed mason Joe Scutellaro was arrested for stabbing Barck in the heart with a paper spike after the poormaster suggested that Scutellaro’s wife prostitute herself rather than ask the city for aid, the case became a symbol of larger social ills and the debate over public relief. Grappling with issues that are still vital—massive unemployment, endemic poverty, and the inadequacy of public assistance—”Killing the Poormaster” offers insight into the ongoing debate over America’s social contract, relaying a gripping narrative that reads like today’s news. Click here for more about book.

Free