15 Interesting Facts About Nellie Bly

Introduction:

Nellie Bly made history with her ambition and courage. As one of the world’s first female journalists, Nellie rose to become a widely renowned personality in the 1800s. She was a pioneer of investigative journalism and is often credited for pushing the controversy-hungry New York World Newspaper into the spotlight. Here, we’ll look at Nellie’s life and present 15 interesting facts about this incredible woman.

Fact 1: Nellie Bly was an Alias

Nellie’s real name was Elizabeth Cochrane, named after two of her mother’s ancestors. Even though she was born in Pennsylvania in 1864, her parents were originally from Ireland. She often used the pseudonym Nellie Bly to hide her true identity while performing investigations and undercover work for the New York World.

Fact 2: She Was a Bookworm

Nellie was an avid reader who particularly enjoyed Charles Dickens’ works. His books served as an inspiration and a drive for her to pursue journalism. She wrote extensively for a local newspaper while in Pittsburgh to gain recognition.

Fact 3: She started writing for the New York World

Nellie wrote the “Letter from a Girl Expelled from School” in 1885 for the New York World. An editor from the newspaper, George McCullagh, was so impressed by her work that he requested more stories from her. This began Nellie’s career in journalism.

Fact 4: She Involved Herself in Investigative Journalism

Nellie was widely known for her investigative journalism piece, “Ten Days in a Mad-House.” She went undercover and committed herself to a madhouse to report on mistreatment and abuse of the patients. Her article brought attention to the horrors present in the asylum and the New York state government was forced to take action.

Fact 5: She was the first female war correspondent

Nellie was the first female war correspondent. She covered the Greco-Turkish War in 1888 and sent back vivid reports to the New York World. She also wrote about the revolution in Mexico and was with the troops in Cuba and Puerto Rico.

Fact 6: She attempted to beat Phileas Phogg’s Record

Nellie was inspired by Jules Verne’s book, Around the world in 80 Days. She decided to attempt to beat Phileas Fogg’s record of completing the journey in 80 days. She completed the journey in a total of 72 days, 6 hours, 11 minutes, and 14 seconds.

Fact 7: Nellie wrote for Cosmopolitan

After her travels, Nellie joined the staff of Cosmopolitan Magazine in 1895. She wrote weekly columns on current affairs, home management, health, and travel.

Fact 8: She married Mexican businessman, Robert Seaman

Nellie married Mexican businessman, Robert Seaman, in 1895. He was almost 30 years older than her, but they shared an interest in business. After Robert passed away, Nellie took over their metal manufacturing business and went on to make it a major success.

Fact 9: She traveled to Mexico

Nellie traveled to Mexico to find out more about Porfirio Diaz’s coup. She wrote several journalistic reports about the civil unrest in the country.

Fact 10: She was a suffragette

Nellie was an ardent suffragette and fought for women’s right to vote. She opened a school in Mexico where she taught basic reading and writing skills.

Fact 11: She Established the NBLY Foundation

Nellie established the NBLY Foundation in 1895 to financially assist aspiring journalists. She wanted to ensure that writers could pursue their passion without worrying about financial support.

Fact 12: She wrote her autobiography

Nellie wrote her autobiography in 1905 which recognized her achievements and highlighted the changes to female journalists’ roles.

Fact 13: She provided aid during the Spanish-American war

Nellie provided aid during the Spanish-American war and wrote two popular books relating to her experiences.

Fact 14: She established the NBLY Home

In 1908, Nellie established the NBLY Home for indigent women in New York. The facility provided the elderly with nursing care, shelter, and medical facilities.

Fact 15: She passed away in 1922

Nellie Bly died in New York city in 1922. Her legacy lives on through her writing and her endeavors to empower female journalists.

Conclusion

Nellie Bly was a pioneering journalist and a passionate advocate for women’s rights. Her courage and ambition have left an indelible mark on the world of journalism. In the face of tremendous odds, Nellie Bly pushed the boundaries and encouraged other women to pursue their dreams. The 15 facts in this article can serve as a reminder of the incredible legacy of the inspirational woman.