In the shadow of the well-known Birmingham-based criminal group, The Peaky Blinders, lies a lesser-known but equally intriguing organization called The Forty Elephants. This all-female gang, operating from the Elephant and Castle district of South London, specialized in shoplifting and operated uniquely from the 1870s until the 1950s.
One of the prominent figures in this underworld syndicate was Alice Diamond, who rose to lead The Forty Elephants, later renamed The Forty Thieves, alongside her sister Louisa. Standing tall at over 5ft 8in during an era when the average male height was 5ft 6in, Alice Diamond was a formidable leader known for her daring heists and flamboyant lifestyle.
Alice’s criminal career began at a young age, with her first run-in with the law at 16 for pilfering chocolate with her friend Mary Austin. Over time, she ascended to the title of “Queen of the Forty Thieves,” overseeing a skilled gang of shoplifters that operated across the West End and beyond.
The gang’s notoriety extended beyond their criminal activities to their elegant appearance and lavish spending habits. They were described as a group of stylish and attractive women who swiftly raided high-end stores for valuable items, utilizing elaborate clothing and diversion tactics to conceal their loot.
Despite facing legal repercussions, Alice Diamond and her deputy, Maggie Hughes, remained undeterred, viewing crime as a means to escape poverty. The gang’s operations expanded, with historical records now revealing over 70 direct members active during the 1920s and 1930s.
Known for their daring thefts and extravagant lifestyles, The Forty Elephants thrived between the wars, employing innovative methods such as using tailored garments to conceal stolen goods and driving vehicles to outmaneuver law enforcement.
In addition to their criminal exploits, the gang delved into blackmail and home burglaries, showcasing their versatility and ruthlessness. Their activities captivated the public and set them apart as a unique all-female crime syndicate in British history.
The legacy of The Forty Elephants endures as a testament to the audacity and cunning of these glamorous female criminals who left an indelible mark on London’s underworld.