The Green Hornet and the Black Cat are among the stars of the colorful universe of the Harvey superheroes. Before Richie Rich and Casper the Friendly Ghost, in the 1940s the Harvey brothers published the adventures of Shock Gibson, the Human Meteor and Captain Freedom among others. But even before the Harvey brothers took control, the heroes of the Black Cat Universe had to struggle to find a stable publishing home.
The characters that would become the Harvey superheroes began their life in three small-time comic books published by Worth Carnahan: Champion Comics and O.K. Comics. Another small publisher issued Speed Comics. When Fawcett Distribution, the distribution arm of the publishers of Captain Marvel, denied all of these titles further distribution in late 1940, the small publishers had few options. They sold their comic book titles and the rights to tell the stories of their heroes. Several months later, in August 1941, Alfred Harvey began publishing his own new title, Pocket Comics, along with Champion Comics (soon retitled Champ) and Speed Comics. Green Hornet and Spitfire Comics were also added to the mix. But it is Pocket Comics #1 that featured the first appearance of the beautiful Black Cat, who would soon emerge as the central figure in this realm.
The Black Cat Universe was a fast-paced, action-packed realm that realized its greatest accomplishments during World War II. It was then that the Black Cat, Captain Freedom, and Shock Gibson regularly joined forces to combat the Axis (as told in text features fleshing out scenes portrayed on the covers of Speed Comics). Their lone, fully illustrated adventure was told in issue 23 of that title. Still, there were other signs of an integrated heroic universe. The Spirit of ’76 squared off against Satan (a villain featured in his own series) in Pocket Comics 2 and Black Cat and British Agent 99 teamed-up in Pocket 4. The text feature of Pocket 4 also detailed the first meeting of the Black Cat and the Spirit of ’76, when they jointly thwarted the plans of a Nazi E-boat traveling up the Hudson River!
Just as aviation or jungle settings defined super-human activity in other universes, show business played a surprisingly large role in the lives of many Harvey heroes. The civilian alter egos of the Black Cat, the Man of 1000 Faces, Stuntman and British Agent 99 all had connections with Hollywood. Even the German film producer Garboil was a top Nazi agent, while the hooded villain “Him” paradoxically turned out to be an American actress of some repute. Luckily, the Black Cat was around to take them both out.
Women were particularly fierce and independent fighters here. The Black Cat might have been the most renowned hero of this universe, but she was not alone among female fighters. There was also Pat Parker, War Nurse, Parker’s international Girl Commandos and the fearless Joanie of Captain Freedom’s Young Defenders. The Blonde Bomber was a noted crime-busting photographer who was rather photogenic herself. Neptina, Queen of the Deep, began her career as an ambitious and unscrupulous ruler but was ultimately transformed into a virtuous heroine by love.
Minority heroes were few, but the portrayal of Johnny Fox was exemplary as a courageous young man who just happened to be Native American. The Phantom Sphinx, of course, was a heroic Egyptian. More stereotypical portrayals were embodied in Snowball, the Blazing Scarab’s African-American servant, and Ike, the Eskimo servant of Dr Bright, an associate of Shock Gibson’s.
Alfred Harvey’s company endured into the 1990s, but this era of costumed heroes ended in 1951, with the transformation of the Black Cat comic book into Black Cat Mystic, a periodical devoted to horror stories.
BLACK CAT
BLACK CATSecret Identity: Linda Turner, movie actress.
Origin: “Linda Turner suspects her director Garboil of being a Nazi agent because of the propaganda in her new script.” When her black cat Toby attacks Garboil, it inspires Linda to adopt a colorful costume and mask to investigate.
Abilities: A stunt woman before she became a Hollywoood star, Turner knows numerous acrobatic tricks and is skilled in various fighting styles.
Appearance: Turner is an attractive and shapely red-haired woman. As the Black Cat, she wears red boots and trunks and blue low-cut front, gloves and mask. Her legs, shoulders and arms are all bare.
Modus Operandi: “Bored by the obvious sham and glitter of Hollywood, Linda Turner, glamorous screen star, becomes the Black Cat to fight the insidious schemes of suspected Nazi agents in the film capital.” As the Black Cat, she takes action on her motorcycle or without it. After the war, she primarily faces criminal threats she encounters in the midst of making movies.
Friends and Allies:
Rick Horne. Ace Hollywood reporter and Turner’s handsome romantic interest from the start of her adventures. Horne often assists the Black Cat or is rescued by her, never realizing that she is secretly Linda Turner.
Toby. Linda’s pet cat and inspiration for her alter ego. In Speed 27, Toby is portrayed as a white long-haired cat who drags out his black fur “disguise” when he wants to accompany Linda on an adventure. By Black Cat 8, Toby is portrayed as a black Siamese who hunts down and contributes to the death of a criminal who thoughtless kills Toby’s “boy friend.”
Tim Turner. Famous silent film and Western star and Linda’s father. He is the only one who knows her alternate identity. Black Cat 3 and thereafter.
Kit. Kit Weston, circus acrobat, is orphaned when his family’s circus is the victim of arson. He then becomes the youthful male sidekick of the Black Cat. Black Cat 28-29 (1951).
Captain Freedom, Shock Gibson, Pat Parker, the Girl Commandos and the Man of 1000 Faces. In 1942, these heroes join the Black Cat to foil a Japanese plot, as told in Speed 23, the largest heroic gathering recorded in this universe. Freedom, Gibson and the Black Cat team the most often, as told in numerous text stories detailing cover illustrations of the three heroes.
Notable Adversaries:
Cleopatra. Actually a contemporary Egyptian woman named Tasman Beh, who claims to be the reincarnation of Cleopatra. She is actually an agent of the Japanese who set her up to act in their interests in the region. Speed 38 (1945).
Crimson Raider. Al Gory, the Crimson Raider, is a red-bearded, eye-patched giant pirate. After his death some three hundred years ago, Gory learned that he can only enter hell to join his comrades if he finds an honest man named Al Gory who will willingly turn over the pirate’s treasure to those in need. But the pirate’s treasure inevitably corrupts his namesake. Each time this happens the Raider grows a foot. By the present day, the pirate is a giant well over twenty feet tall. Black Cat 28 (1951).
Fire Bug. Villainous arsonist who killed Kit Weston’s parents. Black Cat 28 (1951).
Garboil. German-born Hollywood producer who is secretly a Nazi agent. Pocket 1-4; Speed 17-21, 24-25 (1941-43).
Him. “America’s nemesis number one,” mysterious hooded Axis spy who operates behind the scenes. Despite the name, Him turns out to be actress Hedy LaRue. Speed 34-36 (1944-45).
The Rook. Mastermind of the city’s varied gangs, the Rook is dark-haired, grey at the temples with a mustache. He sits on a throne with a giant chess board painted on the floor in front of him. His minions are called pawns and have been known to kill those who might challenge him. Black Cat 2 (1946).
The Sceptre. Brilliant criminal tactician, the Sceptre taunts authorities and the Black Cat by leaving notes behind after his crimes, signed “Obviously, the Sceptre.” He dressed in a conventional suit but wears a red eyemask to disguise his identity. He also carries a scepter which can release a sleep-inducing gas. The narrative promises that the Sceptre will “obviously” return but unfortunately this is the heroines’s last recorded adventures for many years. Black Cat 29 (1951).
Sightings: Pocket Comics 1-4; Speed Comics 17-38, 44; All-New Comics 6, 9, 15; Black Cat 1-29
Original Chroniclers: Alfred Harvey and Al Gabrielle
Active: 1941-51
CAPTAIN FREEDOM
CAPTAIN FREEDOMSecret Identity: Don Wright, newspaper publisher.
Origin: No specific origin is provided.
Abilities: Wright is an exceptional fighter.
Appearance: Captain Freedom fights saboteurs bare legged, in his red, white, blue and yellow costume that includes a modified hood that doesn’t cover his face.
Modus Operandi: A patriotic hero (also characterized as the “defender of the oppressed” who fights enemies of this country, Captain Freedom is assisted by four newsboys called the Young Defenders. The Defenders don’t know their employer, Mr. Wright, is also Freedom.
Friends and Allies:
The Young Defenders. Lefty, Slim, and Whitey, later nicknamed Beanie, all paperboys for Wright’s paper, the Daily Bulletin..
Joanie. Unofficial fourth member of the Young Defenders, a brown-haired, pre-adolescent girl. The boys accept Joanie’s presence grudgingly, but she often makes key contributions to their struggles and is the most courageous of the bunch. When one boy complains upon the capture of their team, Joanie replies: “Shut up, sissy!” Joanie has something of a crush on both Captain Freedom and Wright.
Notable Adversaries:
The Blitzer. Fanged and yellow-skinned (non-Asian) gang leader who kills newspaper publishers who attempt to expose his criminal schemes. To accomplish his murders, the Blitzer poses as an Italian organ grinder. His monkey, Pepito, then stabs his intended victims with a drugged dagger. Speed 15 (1941).
Dr. Krab. A curator of birds, Krab has a parrot like face due to a shock of unruly white hair on the back of his balding head, a goatee and a beak-like nose. He is able to call upon birds to attack. He is assisted in his efforts by a purple parrot named Mephisto who has had his beak dipped with a deadly virus. Speed 32 (1944).
Mr. Skrooge. Aka Adam Skrooge, an elderly and rather demented looking fellow who appears to be devoted to children and helping them contribute supplies for the war effort. No one suspects, at least at first, that he is funneling the paper and scrap metal to a secret Nazi base in the United States. Speed 30 (1944).
Sightings: Speed Comics 13-44
Original Chronicler: Arthur Caseneuve
Active: 1941-47
The CHAMP
The CHAMPSecret identity: None. Nicknamed “the Champ,” his given name is not detailed.
Origin: The Champ develops enhanced strength and athleticism via a secret formula given to him by Dr. Marlin. Dr Marlin is murdered for that secret in Champion 2.
Abilities: The Champ has enhanced strength and agility, but not to a superhuman degree.
Appearance: The Champ is a broad-shouldered, handsome blond college student who dresses in contemporary clothes appropriate to his age.
Modus Operandi: The fact that the Champ’s abilities are artificially enhanced doesn’t keep him from using them to excel in collegiate athletics at Midwest College. Many of his adventures revolve around others seeking the secret of his strength formula. Once the war starts, the Champ’s adventures shift to the international scene.
Friends and Allies:
Dr. Marlin. Inventor of the serum that grants the Champ his special abilities.
Fay Madson. Beautiful heiress who gets involved with a gang of petty racketeers and crooked gamblers once she realizes her presumed inheritance is actually worthless. She subsequently reforms, becoming the Champ’s romantic interest.
Henry Waters. The Champ’s younger, bespectacled pal. In one adventure, Henry expresses a hope that he can one day ingest the secret strength formula, if it’s ever rediscovered. First appears in Champion 8.
El Tigre. South American hero who assists the Champ in rounding up some Nazis in his country, in the process clearing his own name. El Tigre has a pencil thin mustache that protrudes significantly from either side of his face. He wears a blue shirt, red kerchief and yellow sombrero. Champ 24 (1942).
Notable Adversaries:
Dr. Katsu. Dr. Marlin’s Asian assistant who attempts to hijack his mentor’s formula. Later, his sister reports that he’s been killed. Champion 2-3, 10 (1939-40).
Sue Katsu. Dr. Katsu’s younger sister, who bedevils the Champ after her brother’s death. Sue is an attractive Asian woman who initially appears to be assisting the Champ in his efforts. Champion 10; Champ 11-12 (1940-41).
The Yellow Spider. The Yellow Spider is a criminal mastermind who just happens to also be an Asian dwarf. He leaves slips of paper with his namesake on them as a sort of calling card. He interrogates adversaries by placing them in a lie-detector chair and has a projected image of a giant yellow spider ask them questions. In active pursuit of the superior strength formula, the Yellow Spider is killed at the end of his second battle with the Champ. Champion 4-5 (1940).
Sightings: Champion Comics 2-10; Champ Comics 11-24
Active: 1939-42
DR. MIRACLE
DR. MIRACLEAlso Known As: “Master of Magic” and “Super Scientific Detective.”
Origin: “Somewhere in Nepal, protected from intrusion by the high and forbidding Caucasus, the great super-scientist and master magician, Dr. Miracle … perfects a series of instruments designed to fight evil and crime on the earth.” In his years of seclusion, Miracle was also “inducted to the magic of the East,”
Abilities: Miracle is able to protect himself from bullets and other forms of harm by way of his “geno-force wall,” a protective aura of energy that he can summon around him. He can will his astral body to do battle on the astral plane. Miracle is also able to read the minds of others by way of his “thought detector.” In addition, he is an able pilot and flies an aircraft equipped with an “atomic disintegrator ray,” though these scientific devises are seldom used after his first recorded adventure. Later, many of his powers are attributed to a magic locket he wears around his neck.
Appearance: Dr. Miracle wears a tuxedo with a red cape, vest and monocle.
Modus Operandi: Dr. Miracle resides with his servant Akim in the City of the Elders, cradled in the Himalayas. The two travel around the world, facing down mystical threats. After Akim has left Miracle’s side, he is briefly joined by Dolores Dolara.
Friends and Allies:
Akim. Dr. Miracle’s handsome Nepalese servant, who wears only a pair of lavender or green trunks (and matching turban) to cover his powerful frame. His origins are revealed in Champ 14. Born the son of a servant to an English Colonel stationed in India, Akim wandered away from his home as a child in search of his master’s daughter, Carol Blasé, who had disappeared. Akim discovered an ancient temple belonging to the Mystic Order of the Great Thuggee Brotherhood. He was inducted as a member of the cult, but when called upon to sacrifice a human life to the goddess Kali, Akim fled the Brotherhood. He later serves the Council of Elders in the hidden Himalayan city. As Dr. Miracle embarks on his mission to assist the outer world, the Council of Elders “give” Akim to Dr. Miracle to assist him. Years late, the two rescue Carol Blasé, who has grown up to be a priestess in the cult of Kali. Champion 8-10, Champ 11-14.
Dolores Dolara. Miracles’ later associate is a beautiful Cuban woman familiar with magical lore. Champ 23 (1942)
Notable Adversaries:
Ahman-ka-Lukor. An Egyptian mystic, Ahman is capable of murder to meet his ends. He is assisted by a cat named Oasi that can transform itself into a beautiful woman. Ahman has a trimmed black beard and wears a red and black striped turban. Champ 13 (1941).
Mat Mahata. Deemed the “greatest magician of the far east,” Mahata and Dr. Miracle were on good terms when they knew each other in India. However, Mahata travels from Burma to the United States to mobilize an army of zombies, intending to use them to rob banks. Mahat hopes to regain the wealth that was lost to him when the Japanese confiscated his entire estate. Mat Mahata sports a blue turban, lavender cape and black goatee. Champ 23 (1942).
Mitzah the Mystic. Powerful Moroccan mystic, popular with his Arab countrymen, who allies himself with a Nazi colonel in exchange for the promise of control of his homeland. His amulet, imbued with powerful black magic, is similar in power to Miracle’s locket and to possess both is to lose the power of each. Champ 25 (1943).
Set. “The Egyptian Satan” deeply admires Hitler’s evil and agrees to help him as long as all the war dead are given to Set to serve as his slaves in the underworld. Champ 24 (1942).
Sightings: Champion Comics 9-10; Champ Comics 11-25
Active: 1941-43
GREEN HORNET
GREEN HORNETSecret Identity: Britt Reid, dashing publisher of the Sentinel.
Origin: Reid adopts the identity of the Green Hornet in order to apprehend criminals that seem beyond the law.
Tools: Green Hornet possesses a gas gun and a very fast car called Black Beauty.
Appearance: Reid dons a green suit, mask and hat and becomes the Green Hornet.
Modus Operandi: The Green Hornet operates as a vigilante and is widely assumed by the public to be a criminal. His underworld connections, as well as leads he obtains as a newspaper publisher aid him in his efforts at smashing criminal rackets. Reid, for his part, lives in a lavish apartment with his servant and chauffeur, Kato. Kato also assists the Hornet in fighting crime.
Friends and Allies:
Kato. Full name, Hayashi Kato, “trusted Filopino servant who alone shares Reid’s secret.” Kato is a skilled driver and a gifted acrobat in his own right.
Lenore Case. AKA Casey. “Reid’s secretary, Casy chases a story herself, once in a while.”
Michael Axford. “Bodyguard and general do everything for Britt. Axford’s ambition is to catch the Green Hornet.”
Ed Lowry. “Reporter for Reid’s newspaper. Lowry, too, would consider it a feather in his hat to catch the Green Hornet.”
Notable Adversaries:
Baron Satakai. Leader of the Black Dragon Society, Baron Satakai wears a military uniform, sporting a mustache and missing several square teeth. He is a formidable fighter, but appears to die in battle in Green Hornet 23. He manages to find his way back to Japan and, mortally wounded, calls on his adult son to avenge his death. Tugo, a physically fit young man, becomes the new Baron Satakai and unsuccessfully tries to kill the Green Hornet in what turns out to be a rather brief stuggle. Green Hornet 22-24 (1945).
Charlie the Midget. A ruthless gangleader whose vanity prompts him to sit on a normal- sized throne at his hideout. Green Hornet 8 (1942).
The Clown. AKA “the laughing killer.” Britt Reid sends the Clown to the electric chair by way of a newspaper expose, and that’s where the story starts! The Clown asks permission to wear his facepaint on the chair; he ends up overpowering the warden and disguising him in his make-up and clown suit. The warden dies for the Clown’s misdeeds and his real crime spree begins. Green Hornet 7, 10 (1942).
The Eye. Appearing to gang members only as a giant talking eye projected on a screen, the Eye has brought together experts in various criminal endeavors to help plan acts of sabotage. He is more than willing to kill patriotic crooks who balk. The Eye, whom the narrative sensationally refers to as “the Slant Eye of Satan,” is secretly Taro Yakishi, an Azis agent. Green Hornet 25 (1945).
Mr. Hypocrite. “Master double crosser and wizard of crime,” Mr. Hypocrite earned his name by expressing loyalty to the men in his gang and then, whenever convenient, betraying them. Mr. Hypocrite is bald, with a hooked nose and a protruding chin. Green Hornet 11 (1943).
Sightings: Green Hornet Comics 1-47; All New Comics 13-14; War Victory Comics 1
Active: 1940-47
The HUMAN METEOR
The HUMAN METEORSecret Identity: Duke O’Dowd, originally a member of the Foreign Legion and later a taxi drive and costumed hero.
Origin: When O’Dowd crash lands in Tibet, as told in Champion 8, he discovers the hidden city of Bayakura. There he receives “super-scientific devices which give him undreamed of powers” from the wise greybeard Wah Le, supreme ruler of the lost city.
Abilities and weapons: Specifically, O’Dowd possesses a wonderbelt that allows him to fly and grants him remarkable strength and speed. The belt can also create “contra-magnetic fields” around the hero, making him impervious to bullets but still vulnerable to weapons made of wood. O’Dowd also possesses a mentalephone that allows him visual communication with his mentor.
Appearance: O’Dowd adopts a costume in his identity as the Human Meteor which consists of a green trunks, boots and capes and a yellow belt to complement his blond hair. His legs, arms and chest are bare.
Modus Operandi: Duke O’Dowd’s job as a taxi driver allows him to pick up leads from riders and also to take as much time off as the Human Meteor as he needs. O’Dowd is frequently in contact with Tibet.
Friends and Allies:
Wah Le. Wise old man and ruler of the lost city of Baykura. Wah Le is the Human Meteor’s mentor.
Toby. Orphaned shoeshine boy who learns O’Dowd’s secret identity in Champ 11, and becomes a near constant companion thereafter.
Notable Adversaries:
Genghis Khan. Khan is a giant and pointy-eared Mongol warrior standing over twelve feet tall. He also wields an electrified sword. The Great Khan hopes to lead his hoards in first capturing the Tibetan city of Bayakura and then taking over the world. He is shirtless, wearing only blue shorts and boots with gold belt and wrist bands. Champ 15-18 (1941-42).
The Scaly Dragon. Leader of an Asian group planning on spreading typhoid germs across the country while diverting the attention of authorities by a series of floods. The Scaly Dragon has a Fu Manchu mustache and receding hairline and wears a red, silk robe. Champ 14 (1941).
Sightings: (as foreign legionnaire): Champion Comics 6-7; (as the Human Meteor): Champion Comics 8-10, Champ Comics 11-25
Original Chronicler (as the Human Meteor): Robert Turner (Black Owl, Johnny Fox)
Active: 1941-43
JOHNNY FOX
JOHNNY FOXSecret Identity: None. Fox is a private detective nicknamed “the Indian Ace.”
Origin: Fox’s dying grandfather, a medicine man, bequeaths to him the secret of his recently developed sun-shot pellets, which have the power to turn a person invisible.
Abilities: “With the aid of powerful sun-shot pellets, Johnny Fox—Seminole Indian brave—can become invisible at will.” He is also an excellent archer and pilot, owning a red airplane he calls the Flying Gator.
Appearance: Fox is a sharp dresser. He does not wear a uniform, but in his early adventures would often do battle with his enemies shirtless, in covnventional trousers, carrying a bow..
Modus Operandi: A college educated young man in “superb physical condition,” Fox uses his wits and his power of invisibility to help deserving individuals in need in Florida. When he loses the formula for these pellets in Champion 9, Fox decides to move to New York City and become a private detective. Then, in Champ 12, the ghost of his grandfather communicates the lost formula to Johnny through the psychic abilities of Mama Three Bears (see below). Fox takes on Axis saboteurs in later stories.
Friends and Allies:
Mama Three Bears. Elderly Seminole witch woman who is able to communicate with spirits. She assists Fox in retrieving his invisibility formula and may have helped out in other adventures. Champ 12 (1941).
Nancy Van Ham. Attractive blonde haired young woman whom Johnny assists in finding her missing father. In the course of their shared adventure, Fox reveals the secret of his invisibility powers to her. First appears in Champ 13, perhaps others (1941).
Notable Adversaries:
Peter Pokane. “A cruel, young renegade halfbreed,” Pokane fatally injures Fox’s grandfather after overhearing him talk about his invisibility pellets. He then uses them (for criminal purposes) before Fox learns about them. Still later, Pokane returns and succeeds in stealing the formula from Fox, only to lose his life (and the secret) in the swamps when he is devoured by alligators. Champion 6, 9 (1940).
Sightings: Champion Comics 6-10; Champ Comics 11-17
Original chronicler: Robert Turner (Black Owl, the Human Meteor)
Active: 1940-42
The MAN of 1000 FACES
The MAN of 1000 FACESSecret Identity: Ted Parrish, famous Hollywood film star
Origin: “Ted Parrish, young movie ido, bored with the tinsel and lights of Hollywood” craves he-man roles and ends up living his fantasy by fighting crime.
Abilities: A master of disguise, despite his being a romantic leading man and not a character actor. .
Appearance: Parrish wears no costume as his impersonations are his disguise.
Modus Operandi: Parrish “uses his mastery of disguise” to combat the efforts of bad men around the world.
Friends and Allies:
Various directors and actresses.
Notable Adversaries:
The Desert Rat. Self-styled “ruler of the rolling sands,” this green-skinned monstrosity wears long yellow robes and has blood-shot eyes and long red fingernails. The Desert Rat appears to drag his victims beneath the sands, but actually is pulling them into man-made tunnels which he is using to rob an American-owned gold mine. The location of this gold mine isn’t given in the story., though the movie Parrish is making at the time has an Arab theme. Speed 16 (1942).
The Murdering Dummy. A well-formed man named Marko is able to remain perfectly still for hours. He poses as inanimate dummies of different likenesses and then springs into murderous life, thus earning his criminal appellation. Speed 15 (1941).
Sightings: Speed Comics 1-26
Original Chronicler: Bob Powell (Spirit of ’76)
Active: 1939-43
PAT PARKER, WAR NURSE
PAT PARKER, WAR NURSESecret Identity: Pat Parker, a British R.N.
Origin: As an Englishwoman, Pat is crtically concerned with the Nazi threat to her country and fights the Axis menace whenever she encounters it. But her efforts begin to garner too much publicity. When the Daily News sports the headline “Nurse Pat Parker Captures U-Boat Single-Handed,” as told in Speed Comics 15, she adopts the masked identity of War Nurse to fight Axis spies and saboteurs without needing to be so surreptitious about her efforts and avoiding being recognized.
Abilities: Pat and her Girl Commandos are all excellent fighters. In addition, Pat and Ellen are R.N.s.
Appearance: Pat wears a mask, but bares her legs and midriff in a red, white and blue outfit as revealing as that of the Black Cat. She proudly bears the symbol of the Red Cross on the forehead of her mask. From Speed 27 on, she and the Girl Commandos where pale blue militia-like uniforms with short skirts.
Modus Operandi: In her earlier adventures, Pat would frequently evoke her trademark slogan: “Thumbs up! There’ll always be an England.” Pat is assisted in her efforts by the Girl Commandos, whose official formation is told in Speed Comics 23. She abandons her War Nurse costume after issue 26, but continues her Axis busting with her new pals.
Friends and Allies:
Don Fraser. Pat’s romantic interest, a pilot with the Royal Air Force who doesn’t know she’s secretly the War Nurse.
Ellen Billings. A heavyset American nurse who first becomes Pat’s friend and shortly thereafter becomes one of the Girl Commandos. Introduced in Speed 20 as Sally. (1942-46).
The Girl Commandos. A squad of female fighters from European countries. Their group includes Ellen Billings (a heavyset nurse), Tanya—an official photographer from Russia and Mei Ling, a Chinese woman whose family was killed in a Japanese bombing raid. Penelope “Penny” Kirk, a famous American radio reporter, was an early member of the team who didn’t stay with the team through the end of their adventures. Speed 22-36, 39-42; All-New 11 (1942-46).
Notable Adversaries:
The Crab. Actually a pair of Japanese Siamese twins, they place a throne wall between them to create a singular appearance. When walking, their four legs and four arms create a crablike impression. The Crab is aided in “his”efforts by Zero, the self-described “super-extraordinary secret agent of Japan. A short man with glasses, Zero is effective at disguise. Collectively, the three men operate in Korea to undermine that country’s resistance. Speed 24 (1942).
Madame Intrigue. Intrigue, a Nazi agent, is a mistress of disguise. After a traumatic fall, Madame Intrigue loses her mind, believing herself to be the old woman of her final disguise. Speed 34, 35 (1944).
The Monster. As the emaciated, skull-faced villain explains, “English soldiers buried me alive at the battle of Belgium. In the grave, my body rotted and I became this horrible thing!” The Nazi operates out of “the deserted tombs of the Saxon kings of long ago” and drugs English officers with sleeping gas, with the intent of burning them alive so that they “shall suffer as I have suffered!” Speed 16 (1942).
Sightings: Speed Comics 13-37, 39-42; All-New Comics 11
Active: 1941-46
SHOCK GIBSON
SHOCK GIBSONSecret Identity: Charles Robert “Shock” Gibson, AKA “the Human Dynamo”
Origin: “Charles Gibson, a young man with a hobby of experimenting with chemical and electric forces, was wt work in his laboratory one night when the place was struck by a terrific bolt of lightning. The chemicals spilled over him and at the same time he received the full force of the lightning through his body. Some reaction of the chemicals combined with the huge voltage of the electrical charge caused a mysterious change in the youth. Instead of killing him outright, it gave him a strange increase in his vital energy.” …
Powers: After this electrical accident, Gibson “became suddenly all powerful, endowed with an almost unbelievable strength and energy.” Gibson can also project electric current to shock his opponents, blast through obstacles or fly through the air.
Attire: Initially, Shock wears red tights with yellow gloves, boots, belt and centurion-style helmet. Later, he adopts a more streamlined uniform of red shorts and red, form-fitting short-sleeved tunic, ditching the helmet entirely. Shock Gibson doesn’t wear a mask or cowl, and both Robert and Shock are portrayed with blond hair.
Modus Operandi: “Under the new name of ‘Shock,’ Gibson becomes a man apart—vowing always to work in the interests of fair play and square dealing.” He recharges his powers by strapping himself into his own personal electric chair! Later, Robert joins the army and ends up meeting and establishing a friendship with the Alaskan-based scientist, Dr. Bright. In text stories of his adventures, he frequently joins the Black Cat and Captain Freedom in fighting Axis threats.
Friends and Allies:
Dr. Benjamin Bright. Electrical scientist whose laboratory is located in Alaska. Introduced in Speed Comics 28-35 (1943).
Beautee Bright. Dr. Bright’s lovely daughter who has a crush on Shock Gibson, and disdains Bob Gibson, even though the hero doesn’t wear a mask and two share a last name.
Ike. Dr. Bright’s short and plump Eskimo servant. Speed 28-35.
Black Cat and Captain Freedom. Partners in various Axis-busting operations, most often retold in text features.
Notable Adversaries:
Baron Von Kampf. “A mad genius who plans to dominate the world,” Von Kampf’s specialty is animating zombies, which he did in Speed Comics 1, 6, and 11. Said zombies always talk backwards. In another of his schemes, the Baron uses an invention of his own creation that “can stop a plane’s motor and its radio instantly.” In using it, he hopes to “control all of South America in the interests of a foreign power.” Fortuitously for him, the machine’s rays can also cancel out Shock’s powers for a few seconds. Baron Von Kampf’s countenance is striking: he possesses pointed ears and teeth, bug eyes, and a prominent hooked nose that make him look like a goblin. As for attire, the Baron wears a green military uniform, cap and glasses. Speed 1, 2, 4, 6, 11 (1939-40).
Comrade Ratski. The monocle-wearing comrade is the head of an Axis spy ring based in America and also a pilot. He is bald, with a dark goatee and mustache that stands out from his face. Ratski faces Shock Gibson three times, once trying to sabotage Hollywood’s film industry, the second time kidnapping America’s greatest scientists to create true weapons of mass destruction (an earthquake machine and giant insects), and the third time teaming with Baron Von Kampf. The two appear to die together in the Florida everglades, eaten by alligators. Neither is heard from again. Speed 9-11 (1940).
Dr. Taboo. Taboo uses electrical technology to create voodoo-like dolls that, when stuck, can kill their likenesses. Speed 15 (1941).
The Lorelei. This sinister German platinum blonde seductress has the ability to sing mind-controlling songs that lure American ships into mine filled waters. Speed 25 (1943).
The Nazi “Shock Gibson.” German villain who accidentally stumbles into Gibson’s apartment, the Nazi gets charged by inadvertently sitting on Gibson’s electric chair. As such, the Nazi gains all of Gibson’s powers, adopting a yellow tunic adorned with dozens of small swastikas, trunk and boots. Speed 23 (1942).
Sightings: Speed Comics 1-44; All-New Comics 8; Green Hornet 37-38;
Original Chronicler: Maurice Scott
Active: 1939-48
The SPIRIT OF ’76
The SPIRIT OF ’76Secret Identity: Gary Blakely, West Point cadet.
Origin: Blakely’s great, great grandfather was Captain Ralston, aide-de-camp to General Washington. When war breaks out in Europe, Blakely returns to the United States and enlists as a West Point cadet. But frustrated that he will need to wait four years before seeing action, he adopts the garb of his Revolutionary War ancestor to fight the enemies of America as the Spirit of ’76.
Abilities: Blakely is educated in London schools, where his father is military attache, “and excels not only in studies, but in all sports as well (rugby, fencing, boxing and rowing).” technique.”
Appearance: As the Spirit of ‘76, the dark-haired Blakely wears colorful 18th century garb. His trousers and eye-mask are blue, his jacket is red and his ascot and belt are white. At his side is a sword and scabbard.
Modus Operandi: Blakely often learns of menaces as a cadet and tackles them as the Spirit of ’76. He has adventures both in the United States and in Europe.
Friends and Allies:
Tubby Reynolds. Blakely’s best friend and roommate at West Point. He only later learns of Blakely’s secret identity.
Sue Reynolds. Tubby’s sister and Blakely’s romantic interest.
Colonel Ilya Diabolev. Russia’s greatest flyer is a shapely, blonde air force officer who aggressively plants a kiss on the Spirit of ’76 after their mission is successfully completed. The two heroes receive Soviet Stars for their bravery from Josef Stalin himself. Green Hornet 15-16 (1943-44).
Black Cat. The two join forces to subdue the crew of a Nazi E-boat that was making its way up the Hudson River, as told in a text feature. Pocket 4 (1942).
Notable Adversaries:
Satan. Demonic figure featured in his own series (see below). Spirit of ’76 faces off against him in a double-length adventure. Pocket 2 (1941).
Sidi Ahran. Black Nazi agent of the German Afrika Korps who pretends to be a bumbling African-American janitor named Mercury to disguise the fact that he is murdering men important to the Allied mission. Green Hornet 13 (1943).
Sightings: Pocket Comics 1-4; Green Hornet Comics 7-25, 27-37
Original Chroniclers: Gary Blakely and Bob Powell (Man of 1000 Faces)
Active: 1941-48
STUNTMAN
STUNTMANSecret Identity: Fred Drake, a stunt man.
Origin: Drake is a part of a circus act, the Flying Apollos, until his two partners are murdered. Drake finds a new career as a stunt man, doubling for an actor named Don Daring. In the meantime, he seeks and finds their murderer wearing a mask and his aerialist outfit. When he references being a stuntman, newspapers take that as his name, and so Stuntman is born.
Abilities: Drake displays remarkable acrobatic ability and is a great fighter.
Appearance: As Stuntman, Drake wears a red, yellow and blue costume, complete with cape.
Modus Operandi: Daring comes to think of himself as an amateur sleuth. Accompanied by Drake, and their mutual friend, actress Sandra Sylvan, Daring is forever getting into trouble that only Stuntman can resolve. Even so, he never suspects Drake of being the colorful hero.
Friends and Allies:
Don Daring. Foppish actor who fancies himself a sleuth.
Sandra Sylvan. An actress who is often in the movies of Daring. Drake’s romantic interest.
Notable Adversaries:
The Panda. A deranged scientist, the Panda has found a way to enlarge insects to human size and have them do his bidding. The Panda has a face that resembles his namesake, but also that of Mao Tsedung. Stuntman 3 (1946).
Sightings: Stuntman 1-3; All New Comics 13; Black Cat 9; Green Hornet 39
Original Chroniclers: Joe Simon and Jack Kirby (Captain America, Boy Commandos)
Active: 1946-48
ZEBRA
ZEBRASecret Identity: John Doyle, attorney at law.
Origin: Doyle is framed for murder and breaks out of prison in his striped prison garb to prove his innocence two days before his scheduled execution. Once he does, a masked Doyle keeps wearing a striped tunic and leggings (“to terrorize all evil doers”), hence his name.
Abilities: Doyle is a good fighter, though his skill in combat is unexplained.
Appearance: As the Zebra, Doyle wears a black and white striped body suit with black trunks and eye-mask and a red cape.
Modus Operandi: Declares Doyle on the run, “Now I know how an innocent man can be persecuted through miscarriage of justice! I wear to devote my freedom to combat all crime and evil where justice fails!”
Friends and Allies:
Mary Sewell. Doyle’s attractive blonde-haired girl friend and legal secretary.
Notable Adversaries:
The Creeper. Serial killer of circus freaks, the Creeper is the apelike “Mr Hyde” personality of circus owner, Bill Matson. Believing he is dying, Matson explains: “Insanity runs through my family. Had to k-kill freaks. Afraid I was becoming one, too!” Green Hornet 24 (1945).
The Frog. Green-skinned (and red-haired) curator of a botanical garden, the Frog possesses webbed fingers and presumably webbed feet. When he catches Doyle looking, he snaps: “Go ahead, stare! Remind me of my deformity!” The curator turns out to be using man-eating plants to kill secret service agents. It is only after his capture that Zebra learns that he is an “escaped lunatic” who had been deported, then sought after, by the international secret service for twenty years. Pocket 4 (1942).
The Jackal. Actually a short and stammering riverfront lackey, the Jackal dons a werewolf-like costume to slow war production through violent acts of sabotage. “They all picked on me,” he sobs upon his capture, referring to roughneck dock workers. “I only wanted to prove I could be as brutal as they were to me.” Green Hornet 17 (1944).
Professor Future. An entertainer, his “will machine” can force other to reveal secret plans, thus creating the illusion that he can predict the future. Professor Future works for the Nazis. Green Hornet 16 (1944).
The Thinking Ape. An intelligent ape and side show attraction appears to be committing acts of sabotage but it actually turns out to be his trainer, a Nazi agent, in an ape suit. Green Hornet 14 (1943).
Sightings: Pocket Comics 1-4; Green Hornet Comics 7-24, 26, 28-30; All New Comics 7, 10
Active: 1941-46
INDEPENDENT VILLAINS
Lady Crime
A shapely teller of tales, Lady Crime appears to be a supernatural being sympathetic to, indeed embodying the plight of criminals. Lady Crime smokes cigarettes and wears a beret. Her stories are told by Robert Powell. Kerry Drake Detective Cases 6, 8 (active 1948).
Landor, Maker of Monsters
Landor specializes in creating human-animal hybrids such as a bat-winged woman, a cat-headed creature and a fish-man. He is opposed by Anthony Torrence and his girl friend, Marcia Merrill. Landor wears a charcoal gray hood and robes to hide his horrific appearance. Dr. Sina Zurat is the only one to love the evil Landor and suggest that he might restore his features through plastic surgery. As told in Speed 7, she travels from Europe to join him in his research: “Don’t try to fool me, Landor. I know you have been dabbling with the secret of life. I have ideas, too.” But a female creation of Landor, Creeta, jealous of a perceived rival, kills Dr. Zurat. Landor, in despair, voluntarily turns himself over the Torrence and the authorities. But he soon escapes from prison and is back at his twisted experiments. Speed Comics 1-11 (active 1939-40).
Natas. Yellow-skinned, horned demon who claims to be “the real lord of Evil.” Satan and Natas subsequently engage in a deadly competition to see who is the most reprehensible. Satan strangles a tireless worker for world peace, while Natas sends a pack of ravenous wolves to kill an entire village. So it goes until the two end up shooting each other with machine guns! As an aside, it’s worth noting that Natas is Satan spelled backward. Pocket 4 (1942).
Neptina, Queen of the Deep
Neptina is the beautiful blonde-haired ruler of Amlooza, an underwater city inhabited by fishmen, creatures with human bodies and fish heads. Neptina possesses a vibro-gun and the unquestioning loyalty of her minions. In Champion 6, her intentions thus far are summarized: “The queen has ordered her fishmen to capture a living woman and has thereby obtained for herself human lungs and organs of speech so that she, Neptina, may visit the ruler of the land people to prepare the way for her invasion. Now a beautiful stranger visits a famous metropolis…” In all of this, she is consistently opposed by Lt. Brad Fletcher and Norma Kane. By Champion 10, Fletcher manages to win the peace and Neptina’s heart. She is assisted and later opposed by Mogg, chief scientist among the fish-men of Amlooza. Champion Comics 2-10, Champ Comics 11-17 (active 1940-42).
Mhera. AKA Mhersa. After Neptina becomes a force for good, her former ally Mhera turns against her, enlisting the Walrus Men to join him in his rebellion. Champ 3, 8; Champion 13, 14 (1940-41).
Satan
“Spawn of the ancient swamps (Satan) is cursed with eternal life. Unable to die, he lives to bring death to others.” He was born with an “ugly body” (bright red skin, pointed ears, no horns) and “a warped mind filled with hatred for his fellow man.” Satan seeks to destroy civilization itself. His most notable battle is with the Spirit of ’76, as told in Pocket 2. Pocket Comics 1-4 (1941-42).
Other HARVEY/Pre-Harvey HEROES and Villains
Bill Handy
Hardy is a world adventurer, accompanied by his friends Pug and Marco. Marco is a large and muscular Latino man who speaks in broken English. When subduing a bad guy, Hardy praises him: “Good boy, Marco.” Champion 2, 4-6 (active 1939-40).
The Blazing Scarab
When Walt Worthington, an American archeologist, discovers a magic scarab in an ancient Egyptian tomb, he is transformed into the Blazing Scarab. His servant is an African man named Snowball. Champion 2-5 (active 1939-40).
Blonde Bomber
Honey Blake, AKA the Blonde Bomber, is a shapely photographer accompanied at all times by the somewhat pudgy Jimmy Slapso. She wears no costume and has no super-human abilities. She does, however, have a keen deductive mind. Her adventures are rendered by Bob Powell.Green Hornet 7-10, 20-25, 27-28, 32-34; All-New Comics 6-9; Speed Comics 33-34 (active 1942-47).
Boy Explorers
The Explorers consist of four orphans from four different countries. Smiley is the handsome American boy and leader, Gadget, the wildly creative inventor, Gashouse the reckless one, and the pint-sized Mister Zero. The boys explore the world on the Dauntless, a sailing ship captained by the white-bearded Commodore Sinbad. The Princess Latima is forcing the Commodore to duplicate “the seven tasks of Sindu San, the legendary sailor.” The Boys are along for the ride, their adventures told by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby. Boy Explorers 1-2; Joe Palooka 5; Terry and the Pirates 4-5 (active 1946-47).
The Boy Heroes
The Boy Heroes consist of four youths: Prince, actual Dutch royalty; Trigger, who wears a cowboy hat; Punchy, an inner city tough; and Corny, a hillbilly youth. The gang travel across wartorn Europe, battling Axis forces wherever they encounter them. They are accompanied by a feisty parrot they adopted along the way. All New Comics 6-12 (active 1944-46).
British Agent 99
When General Douglas “gallantly gives his lis life for Great Britain” at Dunkerque in 1940, swashbuckling Hollywood movie star Alan Douglas returns to England to carry on for his father and his country. There battles despotism as ‘Agent 99.’ His mastery of disguise and numerous foreign languages puts him into the thick of Nazi intrigue. In Pocket Comics 4, he joins forces with the Black Cat, who rewards his efforts with a kiss. The Black Cat’s main squeeze is jealous, but Agent 99 reassures him: “Take it easy, brother Horne. I’d like to cut in on your girl, but so far the British Empire needs my love more!” Pocket Comics 1-4 (active 1941).
Captain Red Cross
Captain Red Cross wears red tights and cowl, with blue boots, gloves and trunks and a white cape. White “red cross” insignias are portrayed predominantly on the forehead of his cowl, his chest and on the top edge of each boot. His only adventure is portrayed in a text story and cover illustration. War Victory Adventures 2 (active 1944).
Chickie Ricks, the Flyin’ Fool
Lt. Chickie Ricks is a red-haired pilot who was falsely discharged from the Marines. He ends up in East Asia and teams up with a mechanic named Gooch to do air transport company. They encounter a female pirate named Maylene along the way and the three share many adventures thereafter. His adventures are rendered by Bob Powell. War Victory Adventures 3; All New 7, 13; Joe Palooka 7-14, 16-25 (active 1943-4 ).
The Clown
Nick Nolan, the newly appointed police commissioner, is having trouble making cases stick. A clown paperweight reminds him of his circus roots and so Nolan dons white face paint and a big red nose to cut crime-fighting corners. The Clown wears oversized white trousers and shirt with red polka-dots and juggles rubber balls filled with sleeping case. Spitfire Comics 1-2; All-New Comics 12 (active 1941, 1946).
Crash, Cork and the Baron, the Three Aces
World-travelling friends, pilots and adventurers. Crash is the handsome and womanizing Ace of Hearts. Cork is the pipe-smoking, poker-playing Ace of Clubs and the Baron is the monocle-wearing, German Ace of Diamonds. As of Speed 13, the Baron is presented as being of English nationality. Speed Comics. El-Toro and Conchita. Likeable schemers based in New Yori City who inadvertently assist a Nazi plot and subsequently help the Three Aces. El-Toro is heavily bearded and wears a sombrero. Conchita, who flirts with Crash but is actually El-Toro’s girl friend, is a lovely, Latin spitfire. Speed 16 (1942).
Dash Dolan and the Dragon’s Teeth
Dolan is an American soldier of fortune traveling in the interior of China. He encounters an American newswoman named Nalya Randolph, who poses as the blonde-haired “Golden Goddess” to raise funds for Dr. Ying. Years before Randolph’s late father indebted himself to Dr. Ying, who hopes to use 12 priceless diamonds, collectively known as the Dragon’s Teeth, to fund a free Chinese army. Many Asian villains and foreign agents seek the treasure as well. Champion Comics 6-10, Champ Comics 11-17 (1940-42).The Black Lama. A “murderous Tibetan bandit-chief,” the Black Lama sits on a throne of sorts. He is overweight, sports a mustache and single strand goatee, and wears a green robe with red and black sash. Champion 10 (1940). Sheng Fang. Corrupt warlord of a Chinese province, a puppet of the Japanese invaders. Champion 6-7, Champ 11-12 (1940-41). Lotus. Chen Fang’s lovely, younger sister who assists her brother in his corrupt rule. She wears afloor lengths yellow and black patterned dress. Champion 6-7 (1940).
Devil Dog Dolan
Seasoned leatherneck Devil Dog Dolan accepts special assignments by his commanding officer Captain Lawton. In his only recorded mission, Dolan is sent to rescue the Captain’s adult son, a strapping if reckless Marine named Sam who has gotten himself in trouble. Dolan and Sam spend much of the ensuing adventure shirtless. After the successful rescue, Dolan ends up disciplining Sam by taking him over his knee and spanking him. Champ Comics 24 (active 1942).
Devil Dogs in China
Marines Sgt. Bill Tanner and Corporal Wally White fight threats to American interests in China. They are assisted by Thomas Wing, a “halfbreed” American citizen also residing in China. They are initially suspicious of Wing, going so far as saying they didn’t like how he looked at a white woman, but by the end of the adventure shake his hand and declare him “okay.” O.K. 2 (active 1940).
The Fly-Man
Talented young boxer, Clip Foster refuses to throw a fight, thus winning the heavyweight championship. Immediately afterwards, his scientist father shrinks him to insect size (by means of his black ray) as part of an experiment, even though both know he has no way to restore him to normal size. Clip’s angry manager promptly appears, killing Foster’s father and throwing the now 12 inch hero into a vial of acid, thus permanently disfiguring his tiny face. Clip promptly dons the red cape and orange boots, tunic and hood that his father had fashioned before his death to fight crime. As the Fly-Man, Foster retains the strength of his former size. He also has a long rope that he can use as a slingshot or to wrap around the necks of his enemies. Spitfire Comics 1-2 (active 1941).
The Hand
The Hand is just that, a giant disembodied hand that appears out of a puff of smoke. It can change size, possesses crushing power and is impervious to bullets. The Hand never speaks and communicates through cards it gives to those it wishes to communicate. The glimpse of a shirt cuff suggests some figure may be making his hand appear through magic across miles or even dimensions. Local police look forward to a “helping hand” against the criminal element. Speed Comics 12-13 (active 1941).
His Highness, the Duke of Broadway
Dan Dandy, “His Highness,” has been proclaimed the Duke of Broadway by the various street folk that populate that famous Manhattan street. Among his “minions” are Red, a shoeshine boy, Casey the Cop, Apple Annie and the lovely Hat Check Hattie, would-be actress. The Duke is willing to fight on behalf his friends, who assist him in these struggles. Their story is told by Joe Simon. Boy Explorers Comics 2; Stuntman Comics 2; Black Cat Comics 5-7 (active 1946-47).
King Anthony
“Anthony Conrad, Arctic explorer, loses consciousness after falling though a hole in the ice. Upon waking, he finds himself in a strangle land called Arica, a land where the clank of swords and the twang of bos-strings are still heard. Anthony is crown king after he has proved himself superior to all rivals in a series of trials.” Thereafter, Conrad defends his realm from external threats and the dinosaurs that still roam its hills. Cyclone 1-4 (active 1940).
Jungleman
This blond-haired jungle hero can communicate with wild animals and develop plans of action together. He variously wears a simple loin cloth or a spotted animal skin draped over one shoulder. He shares adventures with Louise Carter and her professor father in Southeast Asia and the South Seas. Champion Comics 2-10; Champ Comics 11-12, 14-17 (active 1939-42). Torchy. Pirate villain assisted by a fellow named Davey. Champion 7-8 (1940).
The Liberty Lads
Name adopted by two patriotic boys in the 1940s, in homage to two Revolutionary War heroes. Skip and Chuck (Hathaway and Martin) do battle with Axis saboteurs. Champ Comics 13-25 (active 1941-43). Jack the Rabbit. Short villain with pointed ears, ill-matched clothes and a big lavender bowtie. He carries a cane with a skull head that conceals a whip. The Rabbit is capable of murder and torture. His aide is a midget named Midge. Champ 19-22, 23? (1942).
Little Giant
“After long years of research and experiment, Professor Rednow has discovered a remarkable serum for the super-development of muscles and sinew. He dreams of creating a race of physical giants with his wonderful serum. To test its powers, he persuades a little orphan newsboy to act as ‘guinea pig’ with startling results. The lad does not increase in size, but suddenly acquires the strength of a dozen full grown men!” Now known as the Little Giant, the youth fights crime in street attire with a red anti-gravity suit hidden underneath. The Little Giant’s abilities are further augmented by his skin’s coating of “impurvogen,” which makes him largely impervious to harm. O.K. Comics 1-2 (active 1940).
The Magician from Baghdad
Nadir Shan was the youthful king of Bagdad in medieval times. After an assassination attempt, the king falls into a river and is presumed dead. He is washed ashore where he discover a jug with a vengeful jinn inside. Before releasing the jinn, Nadir Shan extracts a promise that the jinn make him a magician and not harm him. The jinn fulfills the promise but, having vowed to vanguish whoever released him, sends Nadir Shan far into the future, namely 1940. The Magician is able to walk on air and send bolts of mystical energy. He vows to return to Old Bagdad when he totally masters his magical powers to defeat his usurper and regain his throne. The Magician is a handsome, clean-shaven Arab who no longer wears a turban. He wears black boots, purple trousers and shirt, and yellow gloves and sash. Spitfire Comics 1-2 (active 1941). Muhammed Bey. Turbaned Arab magician who posed as Nadir Shan’s advisor and usurped his throne. Learning that the deposed king is still alive in 1940, he sends demonic elementals into the future in an attempt to kill him once and for all. Spitfire 1-2 (1941).
The Man in Black Called Fate
The Man in Black is a supernatural figure who variously personifies fate or death. He serves primarily as a narrator of supernaturally-themed tales. His own saga is told by Bob Powell. Front Page 1; Strange Story 1; Green Hornet 31-34; All New Comics 14; Terry and the Pirates 11 (active 1945-48).
Mister Mist
When his plane crashes in the snow-packed mountains of India, Roy Gates is taught how to become invisible by a local religious man and vows to use his new abilities to fight evil. His story is told by Charles M. Quinlan. O.K. Comics 2 (active 1940).
Mister “Q”
Mister Q is a balding, bespectacled master of disguise. He is assisted in his efforts by his Asian servant Ying and his faithful dog, Satan and has no apparent connection to Mr. Q who appears a few years later. Cyclone Comics 1-5 (active 1940). The Rattler. A behind the scenes mastermind who always warns his victims before he strikes, Cyclone 2-3, others? (1940).
Mr. Q
Dark costumed man of mystery, Mr. Q is actually Operator 17 of the F.B.I. (Q being the 17th letter of the alphabet.) The mystery surrounding his operations is symbolized by the question mark prominently displayed on the chest of his costume and the Q emblazoned on his cowl. Mr. Q appears seemingly out of nowhere in puffs of smoke. He utilizes a Q-gun that fires darts and also throws smoke pellets. Green Hornet 11-12 (active 1943).
The Night Hawk
Playboy Jack Filan secretly fights fifth columnists as the costumed Night Hawk, using only his natural athletic ability. He wears a blue/black costume and a matching cowl with wings on either side of it. All New Short Story Comics 1 (active 1943).
The Green Skull. An American Nazi, his sickly green skull mask is topped by a small wisp of black hair. He is secretly a sleezy tank manufacturer named Norris. All New 1 (1943).
Old Lady Dynamite
“Twenty-five years ago Ma Jenkins adopted three small boys, each orphaned by the same tragic hotel fir. Today Danny is a football coach, Ted, a chemistry prog at Midvall Collge, Pat pilots a police plane. With Ma Jenkins, they pool their talents in a relentless war against crime!” When racketeers take over her town, the boys go into action and Ma literally kicked butt in her apron. All New Short Story Comics 2 (1943).
Pam Kendall in “Yaqui Gold”
“During a violent battle for possession of the hacienda, Pam Kendall faints, Her father is fatally shot and Mexican soldiers, commanded by Don Ramon, take over the property. When Jose, Don Ramon’s son, looks for Pam, she has disappeared. Later, Pam awakens amid strange, werid surroundings that reflect the ancient glory of Mexico in the days of the Aztecs.” Jose Ramon continues heroic efforts to rescue her (as does a handsome American named Chuck Benson). Pam (whom the Aztec warriors call White Flower) is also brave, at one point throwing “her own young body” on top of the shirtless Jose in an effort to prevent an impending human sacrifice. Champion 3-5 (active 1940).
Paul Peyton and his Flying Fortress
“Paul Peyton, ex-college star athlete inherits a small fortune and decides to seek adventure in Latin America. He buys a and equips a modern giant bombing plane for use as a free-lance flying fortress. He recruits a body of adventurous young men and together they take off…” Peyton and his band wear blue paramilitary uniforms with a red eagle insignia on their chests. O.K. 1- (active 1940).
The Phantom Sphinx
“Revived from a hypnotic sleep of 6000 years, Amron, the phantom sphinx, son of the pharaohs, walks the earth in search of wrongs he can right.” Amron dresses in ancient garb, naked save for his Egyptian headdress and loincloth. The Phantom Sphinx possesses magical powers that allow him to transmute matter: he can turn a man into a camel, a desert into an oasis or the sand at his feet into a flying carpet. Initially, the Phantom Sphinx recoils from human touch, but he learns to enjoy and even hold hand with an American reporter named Nancy Parker. Pocket Comics 1-4 (1941-42). Kali. An evil deity come to life, Kali can fly, raise sandstorms, project lightning bolts and cast death flames. This Kali is not a goddess, as traditionally portrayed in the Hindu faith, but rather a god. Pocket 4 (1942).
Red Blazer
As cowboy Tex Morgan himself explains, a scientist named Dr. Morgan “sent me above the heaviside layer (in a space ship) where the astro-pyro rays acted on me and advanced my evolutionary stage a few pegs. In other words, I’m a perfect man.” As such, he gained the power to “control the forces of heat and fire,” as well as the ability to fly super fast surrounded by astro-pyro rays that look remarkably like flames. Dr. Morgan is also the inventor of the visophone, that allows the two men to view scenes from all over the world. Red Blazer wears red trunks and blue boots and sleeveless tunic. He later comes to be known as Captain Red Blazer and is joined in All New 6 by a young sidekick named Sparky. Pocket Comics 1-4; All New 6-12, in text stories only (active 1941-42, 1944-46). Dr. Skull. A maniacal scientist cloaked in heavy yellow robes, Dr. Skull lacks eyebrows, but does have chalk-white skin, bulgy eyes, pointed ears and long, sharp fingernails. He creates a “super-drug” that makes criminals utterly fearless in the pursuit of his ends. Pocket 2-4 (1942).
The Red Demon
Judge Straight is a hard-nosed magistrate concerned over his own strictness: “I’m a Jekyll and Hyde. When Im on the bench, something comes over me. I have no mercy.” He dons a red devil costume to become the Red Demon to investigate cases in a more direct, hands-on fashion. The hero’s adventures are chronicled by Joe Simon. Black Cat Comics 4-7 (active 1947).
Robin Hood
Robin Hood is secretly the respected physician Dr. Fairbanks. His Merry Men include Tuck, his valet, and “Big John” Sherwood, a good-hearted crook who initially tried to rob Fairbanks. His nurse, Elaine Barton, isn’t in on the secret. Green Hornet 7-10 (active 1942).
Robinhood Jones
“Robinhood Jones, ‘knight of the road,’ leads a small but powerful band of ‘gentleman hoboes’ about the country, battling small town crooks and politicians on behalf of the honest citizenry.” His band is comprised of Fry Tucker, a former actor, and “Little Jack” Lee, a onetime circus strongman. Robert Harrison Jones’ adventures were told by Robert Turner. Champion Comics 7-10; Champ Comics 11 (active 1940).
Robo of the Little People
“The Little People, a race of tiny humans living in a strange volcano-heated land beyond the Antacrtic ice, create a giant animated doll by means of which they hope to explore the surrounding country by remote control. Their giant manikin, Robo, is, by an odd coincidence, normal human size.” By the end of his first adventure, Robo is in chains, being brought as a captive oddity to New York City. Cyclone Comics 2-5 (active 1940).
Scarlet Arrow
Alan Bidel idly derides the medieval cavaliers as lazy. The spirit of one of these departed gentlemen promptly castigates Bidel for not striving to rid his world of villains as they would’ve done. Bidel promptly dons the crimson attire of a cavalier (as well as a bow and arrow) and swashbuckles his way through a swath of bad guys. Black Cat Comics 5-6 (active 1947).
Scarlet Nemesis and the Black Orchid
Rocky Ford and Judith Allen are partners in a private detective agency, but neither is aware that the other moonlights as a costumed crime-fighter. Ford wears a red costume with yellow boots, belt and cowl; Allen dresses entirely in form-fitting black with an orchid insignia on her bosom and a matching cape and cowl. The heroine throws a dagger with her namesake blume attached—the sign of the Black Orchid. When the two crime-fighter first met, they worked together but agreed to keep their real identities secret. All New Short Story Comics 2 (active 1943).
Scarlet Phantom
Jack Winstead, ace reporter at the Evening Globe, fights crime as the costumed Scarlet Phantom. His father is killed just after successfully completing work on a “phantom cloak” that allows its wearer to become invisible. Winstead dons the yellow cloak (and a matching yellow and red costume) to avenge his father’s death. His lone adventure is drawn by Joe Kubert. All New Short Story Comics 2 (active 1943).
Speed Taylor
Taylor is a courageous freshman athlete who undoes criminal and foreign plots in between competitions at Clayton College. As told in Speed 26, Taylor enlists in the Marines. Speed Comics 12-26, 28-29 (active 1941-43).
The Spitfire
Born in the 18th century, shipwrecked sailor “Black” Douglas falls asleep on a volcanic island full of sleep-inducing fumes. The water he drinks there also just happens to be the fabled fountain of youth. Douglas awakens in the 1941 with the power to literally spit fire or emit knock-out gas from his nostrils and mouth. Upon coming across his aerial namesake, the Spitfire also learns to fly it in short order. Douglas dresses in his old finery: a red cape, yellow leggings and sleeves and pale blue boots, gloves and tunic. Spitfire Comics 1-2 (active 1941).
Tornado Tom
“Tom, who has been picked up by a cyclone, whirled about for hours in the air and eventually dropped uninjured in another state has absorbed some of the character of the great wind itself. He is stronger than a dozen men, has lightning-like speed, boundless energy and great courage. His one defect is the loss of memory. He cannot recall who he is or where he came from…” As such, Tornado Tom devotes his time to heroics (in his regular slacks and shirt) and trying to learn his original identity. Cyclone Comics 1-5 (active 1940).
The Twinkle Twins
Dan and Diane Twinkle are red-haired twins, high school students given newspaper assignments by Elijah Truth, crusading editor of the Weston Call. Champ Comics 18-25; Green Hornet Comics 13-24, 26, 28-31 (active 1942-46).
The Vagabond Prince
The Vagabond Prince is actually Ned Oakes, a youthful greeting card writer who decides to fight crime in a colorful red paramilitary uniform, eyemask and fez. The Prince fancies himself as something of a bard: leaving poems for the police with captured bad guys and reciting relevant quotes during lulls in the action. He is joined in his efforts by Chief Justice (AKA Young Roger), his more plain-spoken, youthful sidekick who wears a similar red paramilitary outfit and eyemask. The harlequin-clad Jester joined these two in his first adventure. Black Cat 7-8 (active 1947).
Vito and the “Kingdom of the Moon”
“With the kingdom of Verdina invaded, King Vito is forced to flee for his life. Closely purued by the invader soldiers, he is assisted in his flight by Nerim, a scientist recluse, who live in a weird globe-like structure on top of a mountain.” Nerim’s home turns out to be a magnetic force powered spaceship. Nerim, Vito, his wife and his infant son are accompanied by the scientists’s assistant, a shirtless, bald-headed man known only as the Adder. They escape to the moon where they discover an advanced, alien civilization. Cyclone Comics 1-5 (active 1940).
Volton
“Guy Newton, brilliant young scientist, discovers the secret of static electricity in the body. He controls its power so well that he can multiply or decrease it. His device is concealed ina box attached to a chanin and welded to him He calls himself Volton.” Newton insists its essential no one knows of his powers, but fights crime without a mask and even wears a sweater vest with a giant V on it! His adventures are told by Charles Quinlan. Cyclone Comics 1-5 (active 1940).
The Wasp
“Known to all as Dan Burton, newspaper editor, only his pal Blackie knew he was the Wasp.” The Wasp wore a hat, a red mask and a trench coat while fighting crime. He had no special abilities. Speed Comics 12-13; Champ Comics 19 (active 1941-42).
The White Mask
Former playboy Steve Saxon becomes the publisher of crusading newspaper, the Daily Blade, when his father retires. Saxon develops a special interest in rackets that escape justice and adopts a trenchcoat and a white eye mask to take them in. Champ Comics 22 (1942).
ALSO: Bert Lawson of the Homocide Squad, Green Hornet 11 (1943), Block Buster Barton and his Gang, Black Cat 2-3 (1946-47); Buck Johnson, Explorer, Speed 13 (1941); Calamity Jane, private eye, Boy Explorers 1 (1946); City Girl, Champ 21 (1942); Danny Dixon, cadet at the Hilltop Military Academy, Boy Explorers 1-2; Black Cat 4-6, 10-14 (1946-48); Flyin’ Flynn, daredevil Yankee airman flying for the R.A.F., Champ 15-17 (1941-42); Gary Morgan, cub reporter turned foreign correspondent, Spitfire 1-2 (1941); The Green Ghost, Champ 20 (1942); Jag, a jaguar cub, Cyclone 3-5 (1940); Johnny Nebisco, two-fisted, plain-clothed police detective, Black Cat 2-4 (1946-47); Kayo Kane, first name Rob, a lumberjack turned heroic boxer, All New 1 (1943); Kid Adonis, boxer who tries to prove that brain is better than brawn, Stuntman 3; Green Hornet 37-38 (1946-48); Kip Jaxon of the Varsity, star athlete of Kendal College, O.K. 1-2 (1940); Koroo, black-furred jungle lion, Cyclone 1-5 (1940); “Leatherneck” the Marine, chief adversary of Moglo Khan, a Tatar chieftain, O.K. 1 (1940); Lieutenant Jim Cannon of the British Navy, heroic seaman, Speed 6-11 (1940); Lobo the Flying Sleuth, handsome pilot and adventurer, Champion 6-8 (1940); Major Colt of Military Intelligence, international espionage agent, Speed 12-13 (1941); Mike Lancer, grim-faced, private detective, Green Hornet 10 (1942); Miss Virgie Pinks and her “Furnished Room,” elderly spinster whose room for rent is the setting of frequent crime-oriented mysteries, Stuntman 1-2; Green Hornet 37-38 (1946-48); Nick Nelson of the Navy, another espionage agent, Cyclone 1-2 (1940);Penny and Ulysses, Jr., All New 6, 9, 11 (1944-46); Penny Wright, Feature Writer, heroic, dark-haired newspaper woman, Champion 3-5 (1940); Red, White, Blue, Cyclone 5 (1940); Revenge of the Zombies, Champion 3-5 (1940); Rex Elliot, an airman, All New 2 (1943); Sam Hill, All New 1 (1943); Sergeant Buzz Sawyer, state trooper, Cyclone 1-5 (1940); “Shuteye” Dawson, first name Phil, F.B.I. operative who does his best deducting during naps, O.K. 2 (1940); Smoke Carter, heroic firefighter, Speed 1-6 (1939-40), Spike Marlin, two-fisted sailor and adventurer, Speed 1-11 (1939-40), Spin Hawkins, daredevil flier and famous author who joins the fight against the Axis, Pocket 1-4 (1941-42); Steve Battle, upright Marine who becomes an espionage agent, Champ 13-17 (1941); Steve Case, Crime Rover, crime features writer, All New 1 (1943); Ted Cameron, pipe-smoking soldier of fortune, Cyclone 1-5 (1940); The Teller Twins, Tom and Tim, college graduates who take to the sea in search of adventure, O.K. 1-2 (active 1940); Tiger Shane, company detective of a munitions factory, All New 1 (1943); Whiskers, Champ 18 (1942).
PLUS these Chesler superheroes appearing in Harvey comic books: Barry Kuda, All New 2 (1943); The Echo, All New 1 (1943); The Firebrand, All New 1 (1943); Johnny Rebel , All New 1 (1943); Master Key, All New 1 (1943); Rocketman, Hello Pal 1 (1943); Yankee Doodle Jones, Hello Pal 1 (1943). See chapter on the Dynamic Universe for individual descriptions.
HEROES OF THE PAST
Don Ramon of the Rurales
“Banditry ruled Mexico. Nothing was safe. Finally, in desperation, the Dons (land barons) formed their own police, the famous ‘Rurales.’ This is the story of Don Ramon, who nickname, the ‘Singing Lash,’ struck terror to the hearts of all evil doers.” Don Ramon is a handsome, dark haired Mexican man, dressed in red trousers, yellow shirt, blue jacket and white and yellow sombrero. He is a whip-wielding Rurales based in Las Palimos. O.K. 1 (1940).
The Liberty Lads
Two young men’s adventures during the Revolutionary War. The same nickname was later adopted by two patriotic boys living in the 1940s. Champion Comics 2-10, Champ Comics 11-12 (retold 1939-41).
The Phantom Knight
Prince Phillip of Kyle, a cruel and murderous medieval knight, was gored to death by a wild boar. It was then a supernatural figure informed him: “Nay, unhappy mortal, there is no mercy for you yet! You must return to the earth and atone… atone for each of your evil deeds by doing one noble service for your fellowman. When your account is balanced, you will be recalled!” And so began the wandering of one who came to be known as the Phantom Knight, a ghostly figure riding on a ghostly white charger, seeking to repay his debt. O.K. Comics 1-2 (active 1940).
ALSO: Buckskin Boys, Hank and Pudge, two boys in Revolutionary War times, Spitfire 1-2 (1942); Red Knight of the First Crusade, Sir Miles, a crimson-clad crusader of the Middle Ages, Cyclone 1-2 (1940); Reynard the Fox, “Days of the Third Crusade,” Cyclone 4-5 (1940); Rurik the Sea King, the lone surviving Englishman from a Viking raid, young Rurik takes to the sea seeking revenge, Spitfire 1-2 (1941); Sunset Smith, a “rookie” Texas Ranger, O.K. 1-2 (1940); Texas Tyler, wandering Old West hero, Speed 1-5 (1939-40); Ulysses (the Further Adventures of), O.K. 1 (1940).
HEROES OF THE FUTURE
Atoma
Her lone adventure is told by Powell. Joe Palooka 15 (active 1947).
Kingdom of the Moon
Vito is the king of a land located on the moon. Cyclone Comics 1-5 (1940).
Mars Mason of the Interplanetary Mail Service
Heroic mailman of the future. Speed Comics 7-11 (told in 1940). Killraye. Alien with antenai. Speed 7-8.
Mark Carlson-Ghost
A Glimpse into the Future:
New Harvey adventure heroes would appear in 1957 and again in the 1960s. However, it was not until 1995 that the Black Cat and Shock Gibson would enjoy an extremely brief revival in 1995. Other Harvey heroes, such as the Human Meteor and the War Nurse, appeared briefly in AC’s Femforce, after having spent time in suspended animation in the mysterious Vault of Heroes. See especially: Alfred Harvey’s Black Cat 1; Femforce.
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