In the bustling metropolis of Kansas City during the early 20th century, one woman emerged as a trailblazer in the fashion industry and a unifying symbol of resilience. Nell Donnelly's life was filled with extraordinary achievements, inspiring triumphs, and challenging struggles. From founding her own garment company to surviving a harrowing kidnapping, Nell's journey exemplifies determination and courage. Let's dig deeper into the remarkable life of Nell Donnelly and the lasting impact she left on Kansas City and the world of fashion.

Early Life and Founding of Donnelly Garment Company

Nell Donnelly was born in Parsons, Kansas on March 6, 1889, the twelfth child of Irish immigrants. From a young age, she exhibited a flair for fashion and a keen eye for design. In 1916, with an initial investment of $1,000, Nell founded the Donnelly Garment Company, making her mark in the male-dominated fashion industry. Undeterred by the challenges of being a woman entrepreneur, Nell's determination and innovative designs soon earned her company recognition and success.

At the core of Nell's success was her innate sense of style and her ability to identify emerging fashion trends. As a woman who understood the desires and preferences of her fellow women, Nell's designs resonated with consumers. She focused on creating elegant yet affordable clothing that appealed to the modern woman. Her innovative designs were praised for their sophistication and practicality, revolutionizing women's fashion in Kansas City and nationwide.

*1937: Sewing Dept at Donnelly Garment Company at 1828 Walnut. Courtesy National Archives.*

Nell fostered a sense of camaraderie among her employees with company-wide parties and encouraged teamwork, which further elevated the company's productivity and morale. By 1931 the booming company employed over 1,000 workers and had sales of $3.5 million dollars.

*1929: Donnelly Garment Company Valentine Party. Courtesy SHSMO.*

The Kidnapping Incident

*1940: Donnelly's home at 5235 Oak. Present day: The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Courtesy KC Library.*

On a cold December night in 1931, Nell and her Butler, George Blair, were captured by two masked gunmen in front of her residence near 52nd & Oak. The perpetrators saw an opportunity to exploit her wealth and prominence in the fashion industry for a substantial ransom.

Nell and George were driven to a secluded cottage near Bonner Springs, Kansas. For the next 34 hours, they were held captive, with their lives hanging in the balance. Nell was forced to write a ransom note which the kidnappers then mailed to Nell's husband, Paul Donnelly, demanded a staggering $75,000 ransom for Nell's release, a significant sum at the time (approx $1.5M in 2023).

*Portion of the ransom letter written by Nell Donnelly. Courtesy KC Times, Dec 18, 1931.*

The involvement of prominent attorney and politician, James A. Reed, attracted significant media attention to the case. Reed, who was also a neighbor of the Donnellys, wasted no time in joining the search efforts after returning from the State Legislature upon hearing of Nell's abduction. His involvement drew attention from another influential figure, John Lazia, a major figure in the Kansas City organized crime scene.

*Accomplished attorney and U.S. Senator James A. Reed. Courtesy LOC.*

Lazia offered his assistance to trace Nell, informing the chief of police, Lewis Siegfried, that no gangster from Kansas City would have dared to kidnap her due to her close relationship with Reed, her esteemed standing in the community, and her political connections. Lazia's purported support led to the cooperation of known criminals and gangsters in search parties for Nell, carried out without protest from the police department.

Nell and George were eventually rescued by a group of armed men who stormed the secluded house where they were held captive. The ransom was never paid. After the kidnapping, Nell Donnelly pledged to George Blair that he could work for her as long as he wished. He remained dedicated to her for the rest of his life.

Resilience, Rebuilding, and Legacy

*Nell Donnelly Reed (seated, first at left) and employees of the Donnelly Garment Company. Courtesy KC Library.*

Despite the trauma of her kidnapping, Nell Donnelly demonstrated incredible resilience and determination. Within a year of her release, Nell divorced her husband, Paul Donnelly, and purchased his share of the dress company for one million dollars, taking full control of her business empire.

James Reed, the man who had once played a pivotal role in her life as an intermediary during the kidnapping, would become more than just a friend. Nell and James developed a close bond, and on December 13, 1933, nearly two years after Nell's rescue, they were married in a small ceremony with their family and friends.

Their marriage marked a turning point in Nell's life, as she found happiness and stability with a man who had once helped her during her darkest hours. In 1944, James Reed passed away from bronchitis. Nell Donnelly Reed carried on as the head of the Donnelly Garment Company until its sale in 1956.

Legacy & Impact

Throughout her life, Nell Donnelly Reed continued to contribute to the fashion industry and the Kansas City community. Her philanthropic activities and civic engagements endeared her to many. She dedicated her time and resources to various charitable causes, supporting education and women's empowerment initiatives.

An outdoors enthusiast, she donated 731 acres of land to the Missouri Department of Conservation in memory of her husband. Today, the James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area in Jackson County, Missouri, allows the public to enjoy the natural beauty she preserved.

Nell Donnelly Reed passed away on September 8th, 1991 at the age of 102. She will forever be remembered as a pioneer who left an indelible mark on Kansas City and the world of fashion. Her story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the ability to rise above adversity.

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The Story of Nell Donnelly: A Trailblazing Legacy of Fashion and Resilience