Sydney Biddle Barrows, American businesswoman and author

Sydney Biddle Barrows, born on January 14, 1952, is an American businesswoman and socialite who rose to significant public notoriety as the owner of an exclusive escort agency in New York City. Operating under the alias Sheila Devin, her establishment gained a reputation for catering to an upscale and discerning clientele, leading to her eventual arrest and the unraveling of her double life.

Her ancestral lineage, tracing back to the passengers of the historic Mayflower ship, provided the media with a captivating and ironic nickname: "The Mayflower Madam." This moniker starkly highlighted the perceived clash between her esteemed heritage, symbolic of early American aristocracy and established wealth, and the illicit nature of her business, further fueling public fascination.

From Escort Service Owner to Consultant and Author

Following the highly publicized events surrounding her escort service, Barrows successfully transitioned her career path. She has since become recognized as a management consultant, leveraging her business acumen and perhaps even her experience in navigating public scrutiny. Additionally, she has established herself as a writer, contributing to various publications and sharing her unique perspective.

The Legal Aftermath and Public Exposure

In October 1984, Barrows' clandestine escort service was disbanded as a result of a police investigation and raid. Faced with legal repercussions, she subsequently pleaded guilty to promoting prostitution, which is classified as a Class A misdemeanor under New York law. As part of her plea agreement, she was fined $5,000, a sum considered by many to be surprisingly modest given the scale and high-profile nature of her operation.

Capitalizing on the intense public interest generated by her case, Barrows penned a revealing autobiography titled Mayflower Madam: The Secret Life of Sydney Biddle Barrows, which was published in 1986. The book offered an inside look into her world, detailing the operations of her escort service and her experiences. It quickly became a national bestseller, further cementing her place in popular culture.

Cultural Impact: The TV Movie Adaptation

The compelling narrative of her life and the success of her autobiography led to a television movie adaptation. In 1987, the TV movie Mayflower Madam, starring the acclaimed actress Candice Bergen in the lead role, was broadcast. This adaptation brought Barrows' controversial story to an even wider audience, solidifying her status as a figure of enduring public fascination and discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sydney Biddle Barrows

Who is Sydney Biddle Barrows?

Sydney Biddle Barrows is an American businesswoman and socialite born in 1952, primarily known for owning a high-end escort agency in New York City under the name Sheila Devin, which earned her the media nickname "The Mayflower Madam."

Why was she called "The Mayflower Madam"?

She received the nickname "The Mayflower Madam" from the media due to her direct lineage to the passengers of the Mayflower, which contrasted sharply with her illicit escort business and created a sensational public image.

What legal consequences did Sydney Biddle Barrows face?

In October 1984, her escort service was shut down. She subsequently pleaded guilty to promoting prostitution, a Class A misdemeanor, and was fined $5,000.

Did Sydney Biddle Barrows write a book?

Yes, she wrote a bestselling autobiography titled Mayflower Madam: The Secret Life of Sydney Biddle Barrows, which was published in 1986.

Was there a movie based on her life?

Yes, a TV movie titled Mayflower Madam, starring Candice Bergen, was broadcast in 1987, based on her autobiography.

What is Sydney Biddle Barrows doing now?

After her public scandal, Sydney Biddle Barrows transitioned into a career as a management consultant and writer.