Chapter
Selling Public Property
10:08 - 12:41 (02:33)
In the early 1900s, it was common for con artists to sell public buildings and other properties for personal gain, leading to awareness campaigns about the issue.
Clips
Public property such as buildings and streets were being sold on Ellis Island, leading to the display of signage and pamphlets stating they were not for sale.
10:08 - 11:29 (01:20)
Ellis Island
Summary
Public property such as buildings and streets were being sold on Ellis Island, leading to the display of signage and pamphlets stating they were not for sale. The true extent of the situation and the involvement of Parker remains unclear.
ChapterSelling Public Property
EpisodeShort Stuff: Selling the Brooklyn Bridge
PodcastStuff You Should Know
The alleged story of "Count" Victor Lustig selling the Eiffel Tower to scrap metal merchants for thousands of dollars is a myth, but there is truth behind the myth.
11:29 - 12:41 (01:12)
Fraud
Summary
The alleged story of "Count" Victor Lustig selling the Eiffel Tower to scrap metal merchants for thousands of dollars is a myth, but there is truth behind the myth. Charles Ponzi, known for his infamous pyramid scheme, sold public buildings in Massachusetts and possibly Florida to unsuspecting investors.