Josephine Airey
American prostitute
About Josephine Airey
Lived 1844 – 1899 (aged 54–55). Josephine Airey was an American prostitute and procuring (prostitution).
Josephine "Chicago Joe" Airey (c. 1844 – October 25, 1899), was an Irish-born American prostitute, madam, and proprietor of brothels, dance halls, a variety theatre, and saloons in Helena, Montana. She eventually became the most influential landowner in Helena. She was known as "Chicago Joe" Hensley following her marriage to James T. Hensley.
Origins
Josephine was born Mary Welch in Ireland in about 1844. When she emigrated to New York City in 1858, she changed her name to Josephine Airey.
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Important facts
Contemporaries
People whose lives overlapped Josephine Airey's
Frequently asked questions
Who was Josephine Airey?
American prostitute
When was Josephine Airey born?
Josephine Airey was born in 1844 in Ireland.
When did Josephine Airey die?
Josephine Airey died on 25 October 1899 in Helena.
What was Josephine Airey's occupation?
Josephine Airey was a prostitute and procuring (prostitution).
What nationality was Josephine Airey?
Josephine Airey was American.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Josephine Airey. https://biography.guide/josephine-airey/
MLA: "Josephine Airey." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/josephine-airey/.
Chicago: "Josephine Airey." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/josephine-airey/.
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