Enoch L. Johnson

Enoch L. Johnson (January 20, 1883 – December 9, 1968) was an influential political boss and racketeer in Atlantic City, New Jersey, during the Prohibition era. He held significant power in the city for nearly three decades, from the 1910s to the 1940s.

Early Life

Enoch Lewis Johnson was born in 1883 in Galloway Township, New Jersey. He was the eighth of nine children in his family. His father, Smith E. Johnson, was a farmer and later became a sheriff in Atlantic County, New Jersey.

Political Career

Johnson began his political career as a sheriff in Atlantic County, following in his father's footsteps. He was elected to the position in 1908 and served until 1911. During his tenure, he gained a reputation for his strict enforcement of the law and his ability to maintain order.

In 1911, Johnson was elected as the County Treasurer of Atlantic County, a position he held until 1933. As treasurer, he was responsible for managing the county's finances and ensuring that all financial transactions were conducted legally and transparently.

Prohibition Era

During the Prohibition era, Johnson used his political influence to control the illegal alcohol trade in Atlantic City. He allowed speakeasies and illegal casinos to operate openly, as long as they paid him a portion of their profits. This arrangement made him extremely wealthy and allowed him to maintain his grip on power in the city.

Later Life and Death

In 1941, Johnson was convicted of tax evasion and served four years in federal prison. After his release, he lived a quiet life in Atlantic City until his death in 1968.

Legacy

Johnson's life and career have been the subject of numerous books and films. He is perhaps best known as the inspiration for the character Nucky Thompson in the HBO series Boardwalk Empire.