35 Facts About Nellie Bly

Early Life and Background

Nellie Bly, born Elizabeth Cochran Seaman, was a pioneering journalist and adventurer. Her life was filled with remarkable achievements and daring exploits.

1. Born on May 5, 1864, in Cochran's Mills, Pennsylvania, Nellie Bly was the daughter of a mill owner and his second wife.
2. Her father, Michael Cochran, died when she was just six years old, leaving the family in financial hardship.
3. Elizabeth adopted the pen name "Nellie Bly" from a popular song by Stephen Foster.
4. She attended Indiana Normal School, now Indiana University of Pennsylvania, but had to leave due to lack of funds.

Career Beginnings

Nellie Bly's career in journalism began with a bold move that set the tone for her future endeavors.

5. At 18, she wrote a fiery response to a misogynistic article in the Pittsburgh Dispatch, which led to a job offer from the newspaper.
6. Her first articles focused on the lives of working women, highlighting their struggles and advocating for reform.
7. Bly's investigative reporting style was groundbreaking, often involving undercover work to expose social injustices.

Ten Days in a Mad-House

One of Bly's most famous exploits was her undercover investigation of a mental institution, which brought her widespread acclaim.

8. In 1887, she feigned insanity to get committed to the Women's Lunatic Asylum on Blackwell's Island.
9. Her report, "Ten Days in a Mad-House," revealed the appalling conditions and mistreatment of patients.
10. The exposé led to significant reforms in the treatment of the mentally ill and increased funding for mental health care.

Around the World in 72 Days

Inspired by Jules Verne's novel, Nellie Bly set out to circumnavigate the globe faster than the fictional Phileas Fogg.

11. On November 14, 1889, she embarked on her journey from Hoboken, New Jersey.
12. Traveling alone, she used various modes of transportation, including ships, trains, and even a burro.
13. Bly completed her journey in 72 days, 6 hours, and 11 minutes, setting a world record.
14. Her adventure was widely followed by the public, making her a household name.

Later Career and Personal Life

After her famous journey, Bly continued to break barriers and make significant contributions to journalism and industry.

15. She married millionaire manufacturer Robert Seaman in 1895, becoming involved in his business.
16. Bly took over the Iron Clad Manufacturing Company after her husband's death, patenting several inventions.
17. During World War I, she reported from the front lines in Europe, one of the first women to do so.
18. Bly's later years were marked by financial difficulties, but she continued to write and advocate for social causes.

Legacy and Honors

Nellie Bly's legacy lives on through her contributions to journalism and her fearless spirit.

19. She is considered one of the first investigative journalists, paving the way for future generations.
20. Bly's work inspired numerous books, films, and plays, celebrating her adventurous life.
21. In 1998, she was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame.
22. The New York Press Club awards the Nellie Bly Cub Reporter Award to promising young journalists.
23. A Google Doodle honored her 151st birthday on May 5, 2015.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Beyond her well-known achievements, Nellie Bly's life was full of interesting and lesser-known details.

24. She once interviewed Susan B. Anthony, the famous women's rights activist.
25. Bly was a skilled fencer and enjoyed practicing the sport in her free time.
26. She had a pet monkey named McGinty, which she brought back from her world trip.
27. Bly's favorite color was pink, and she often wore it to stand out in a crowd.
28. She was a fan of detective novels and often used them as inspiration for her investigative techniques.
29. Bly once disguised herself as a maid to investigate the treatment of domestic workers.
30. She was an advocate for women's suffrage, using her platform to support the movement.
31. Bly's writing style was known for its wit and humor, making her articles engaging and accessible.
32. She was a pioneer in using first-person narrative in journalism, bringing a personal touch to her stories.
33. Bly's adventurous spirit extended to her personal life, where she enjoyed activities like horseback riding and sailing.
34. She was a mentor to many young journalists, encouraging them to pursue investigative reporting.
35. Bly's impact on journalism is still felt today, with many journalists citing her as an inspiration for their work.

Nellie Bly's Legacy

Nellie Bly's life was nothing short of extraordinary. Her fearless journalism and groundbreaking adventures left an indelible mark on history. From exposing the horrors of mental asylums to circling the globe in record time, she shattered barriers for women in journalism. Bly's tenacity and courage continue to inspire generations.

Her work wasn't just about stories; it was about making a difference. Bly's investigative reporting led to real changes, improving conditions for countless individuals. Her legacy reminds us that one person can indeed make a significant impact.

Today, Nellie Bly stands as a symbol of determination and resilience. Her contributions to journalism and society are celebrated and remembered. As we reflect on her achievements, let's carry forward her spirit of fearlessness and compassion in our own lives. Bly's story is a testament to the power of persistence and bravery.