Bumpy Johnson Net Worth (Updated 2025).

Ellis “Bumpy” Johnson, born in 1905, began his career in the underworld of New York City during the Prohibition era. He started as a small-time bootlegger, capitalizing on the illicit alcohol trade that flourished due to the nation’s ban on alcohol. Bumpy’s charisma and quick wit helped him build a network of contacts, allowing him to expand his operations and gain a foothold in the city’s criminal underbelly.

As the years passed, Bumpy’s reputation grew, and so did his influence. He became known for his ability to navigate the treacherous waters of organized crime, often mediating disputes between rival gangs and establishing himself as a power broker in Harlem’s criminal scene. His fame reached its peak in the 1940s and 1950s, during which he was involved in various lucrative criminal activities, including numbers rackets, gambling, and drug trafficking. Bumpy’s name became synonymous with Harlem’s criminal underworld, and his story continues to captivate those interested in the city’s rich, if often tumultuous, history.

Bumpy Johnson’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Bumpy Johnson’s current net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. This figure is based on the latest available information, taking into account his past earnings and investments.

Career

Bumpy Johnson, born in 1905, was a prominent figure in the Harlem organized crime scene during the 1930s and 1940s. He started his career as a numbers runner and later became a key player in the policy racket, a form of illegal lottery. Johnson’s influence grew significantly during World War II, when he controlled much of Harlem’s black market activities. He was known for his charisma, leadership, and ability to maintain order within his territory.

Other Ventures

Besides his criminal activities, Johnson also invested in legitimate businesses. He owned several nightclubs and restaurants in Harlem, including the famous “Bumpy’s Place” and “The 845 Club”. These establishments served as fronts for his illegal operations but also provided employment and entertainment to the community. Additionally, Johnson was known for his philanthropic efforts, contributing to local charities and supporting community initiatives.

Assets

Johnson’s assets included real estate, businesses, and cash reserves. He owned several properties in Harlem, including his residence at 237 West 134th Street. His businesses, primarily nightclubs and restaurants, were valuable assets that generated significant income. Johnson also had substantial cash reserves, a result of his successful criminal ventures and investments.

Annual Income

During the peak of his career, in the 1940s, Bumpy Johnson’s annual income was estimated to be around $500,000 to $1 million in today’s dollars. This income was derived from his control of the policy racket, black market activities, and his legitimate businesses. However, this figure is an estimation and the actual amount may have varied year by year. After his release from prison in the 1960s, his income decreased significantly due to changing criminal dynamics and his advancing age.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Bumpy Johnson

Frequently Asked Questions: Bumpy Johnson Net Worth

1. What is Bumpy Johnson’s net worth?

Bumpy Johnson’s net worth is estimated to be around $500 million.

2. How did Bumpy Johnson make his money?

Bumpy Johnson made his fortune through his involvement in organized crime, particularly in the areas of gambling, loansharking, and drug trafficking during the mid-20th century.

3. Was Bumpy Johnson a member of the Italian mafia?

No, Bumpy Johnson was not a member of the Italian mafia. He was an African American gangster who operated independently and had ties with various criminal organizations.

4. What was Bumpy Johnson’s real name?

Bumpy Johnson’s real name was Ellsworth “Bumpy” Johnson.

5. Where was Bumpy Johnson born?

Bumpy Johnson was born in Charleston, South Carolina.

6. When did Bumpy Johnson die?

Bumpy Johnson died on July 7, 1968, in New York City.

7. What was Bumpy Johnson’s role in the Harlem crime scene?

Bumpy Johnson was a prominent figure in the Harlem crime scene during the 1940s and 1950s. He controlled much of the illegal activities in the area, including gambling, drugs, and loansharking.

8. Did Bumpy Johnson have any known associates?

Yes, Bumpy Johnson had ties with various criminal figures, including Frank Lucas, a major drug trafficker, and Ellsworth “Bumpy” Johnson Jr., his son who followed in his footsteps.

9. Was Bumpy Johnson ever married?

Yes, Bumpy Johnson was married to Mayme Johnson. They had one son together, Ellsworth “Bumpy” Johnson Jr.

10. What is Bumpy Johnson’s legacy?

Bumpy Johnson’s legacy is that of a powerful and influential criminal figure who rose from humble beginnings to control a significant portion of the Harlem crime scene during his time. His story has been immortalized in various books and films, including the movie “American Gangster” starring Denzel Washington.