Powered by Ancestry AI This feature is powered by an AI language model using public information. Quality and accuracy may vary. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Newspapers.com™ or Ancestry®. 
News from December 25, 1923 (Buffalo Express, via Newspapers.com™)
Footprints in the Snow Provide Clue to Robberies
1923 was a year that saw an uptick in criminal activity in Buffalo, New York, including in the North Park section. During the winter of that year, a remarkable crime pattern emerged marked by an intriguing piece of evidence left at the crime scenes – dainty footprints in the snow. Authorities speculated about the possibility of a woman either being part of the criminal gang or serving as a lookout for the thieves.
One such crime was reported at the dwelling of George Polsma on Huntington Avenue. Polsma was awakened by a downstairs noise. However, by the time he could investigate, the intruder had managed to escape, leaving behind a forced-open window and a set of woman’s footprints in the snow.
Another similar occurrence was at Edgar G. Bell’s home on Admiral Road. In this case, $60 and a small amount of jewelry were stolen. Here too, the crime scene presented a forced open window and the distinctive footprints in the snow.
An attempt was also made at the residence of Joseph R. Diebold on Parkside Avenue. The criminals were scared off by the occupants of the house before they could burgle, but the same footprints were again left behind.
Learn more about December 25, 1923 through historical newspapers from our archives. Explore newspaper articles, headlines, images, and other primary sources below.
Source Articles and Clippings
"Snow Reveals Woman's Footprints Under Windows of Looted Homes" 25 Dec 1923, Tue Buffalo Courier (Buffalo, New York) Newspapers.com
"Suspect Woman Burglar of Raid in North Park" 25 Dec 1923, Tue Buffalo Courier Express (Buffalo, New York) Newspapers.com