doi:10.7916/d8-cjpg-az08Oral history interview with Dorothy, 1980Dorothyoral historiesmixed materialDrug addicts--United StatesDrug abuse--History--20th century.--United StatesOpium abuse--History--20th century.--United StatesHeroin abuse--History--20th century.--United StatesMethadone maintenance--History--20th century.--United StatesDrugs--PrescribingCompany towns--West VirginiaProhibitionDorothyDorothy begins the interview describing her youth in a West Virginia coal mining town her relationship with her family, her father's murder, and her early jobs. She describes moving to New York City, her early perceptions of the city, and finding a job dancing in chorus lines. Dorothy discusses transitioning from dancing to singing, performing in speakeasies during the Prohibition, and the speakeasies' interactions with law enforcement. She describes her introduction to opium through others in show business and the scene at upscale opium parties. She discusses starting heroin in the 1930s, as a means prevent withdrawal sickness. She describes relationships, including with a wealthy Texas businessman, her two husbands, and other men who supported her. She describes obtaining Dilaudid from an addicted doctor. She describes the birth of her daughter, and the baby's withdrawal with Paregoric. Dorothy discusses methadone maintenance, compares the relative merits of different drugs, and concludes with general reflections on her life and drug use