Print this page Razorhurst: Crime Queens, Razor Gangs and the Underworld

Enter the violent, colourful world of Razorhurst, where Kate Leigh and Tilly Devine ruled rival criminal empires across Kings Cross, Darlinghurst and Surry Hills. This course brings to life the razor gang era of the late 1920s and the underworld networks that shaped it.

You’ll follow the trail through the sites of sly grog, brothels, gang battles and hidden power, while meeting some of Sydney’s most notorious crooks and survivors. A vivid course for anyone drawn to true crime, urban history and the darker side of old Sydney.

Please ensure your mobile phone number is up-to-date with WEA before enrolling and ensure that you have it with you on the day in case the tutor needs to contact you. Meet at Kings Cross Station 10 minutes before the tour starts so it can commence on time. Please check the Transport NSW website for further travel information on how to get there.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE OUTLINE

Meeting place: Kings Cross Station - Underneath Coke billboard

• Stones Against the Sky: Razorhurst, Kate Leigh, Tilly Devine
• Battle of Blood Alley: Phil Jeffs
• Kellett St Riot: Frank Green, Greg Gaffney
• Victoria St:  Nellie Cameron
• Brougham St:  Guido Calletti
• Premier Lane:  50-50 Club
• O’Brien Lane Reserve: Dulcie Markham
• Palmer St: Tilly’s home
• Tradesman’s Arms
• Kate’s house:  Snowy Prendergast
• Battle of Barnett Lane: Wally Thomlinson
• Finishing – Strand Hotel Crown St

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Outline of the causes and consequences of the Razor Gang wars of the 1920s.
• Describe the key characters involved in the Razor Gangs and their shifting relationships
• Identify the sites of the major battles, working areas and homes of the crooks and how people used the area for their operations.