Hometown History: Recent Episodes
Shane Waters
In this episode of Hometown History, we explore the chilling and unsolved mystery of the Sodder children, who vanished on Christmas Eve, 1945, after a fire destroyed their home in Fayetteville, West Virginia. Despite the devastation, no remains were ever found, and a series of strange events both before and after the fire have led to decades of speculation. Were the children victims of a tragic accident, or was there something more sinister at play? Join me as we unravel the clues behind this haunting case that has puzzled investigators for over 75 years.
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In this episode of Hometown History, we dive into the surprising story of how a monumental achievement in telecommunications catapulted Tiffany & Co. to fame. In 1858, Charles Tiffany seized on the success of the first transatlantic telegraph cable by selling pieces of the cable as souvenirs. What started as a technological milestone turned into a brilliant marketing opportunity that made Tiffany a household name. Join us as we explore how this simple yet strategic move by Tiffany & Co. forever changed the luxury brand’s legacy, proving that innovation and timing can shape the course of history.Visit me online at itshometownhistory.comJoin my Patreon community at Patreon.com/friendsofShaneContact me at Shane@itshometownhistory.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of Hometown History, we delve into one of the most fascinating literary mysteries of the 20th century: the disappearance of Ambrose Bierce. A celebrated writer, Civil War veteran, and the sharp wit behind The Devil’s Dictionary, Bierce vanished without a trace in 1913 while journeying through Mexico during the revolution. Was it a suicide, an execution, or something far more mysterious? With no definitive answer, we explore the life of this complex figure, the theories surrounding his final days, and the enduring enigma that continues to captivate historians and mystery lovers alike. Join us as we uncover the strange disappearance of one of America's most intriguing figures.Visit me online at itshometownhistory.comContact me at Shane@itshometownhistory.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of Hometown History, we uncover the incredible story of a secret hidden beneath one of America's most luxurious resorts—the Greenbrier. Nestled in the hills of West Virginia, the Greenbrier has long been a haven for the elite, but during the height of the Cold War, it became the site of a covert government project known as "Project Greek Island." This secret underground bunker, designed to house Congress in the event of a nuclear attack, remained hidden from the public for over 30 years. Join us as we explore how an entire town helped keep this monumental secret, and how it was eventually revealed, leaving the locals both proud and betrayed. Discover the fascinating details of this little-known piece of American history, and ask yourself: could there be more undiscovered bunkers out there?Visit me online at itshometownhistory.comContact me at Shane@itshometownhistory.comThanks for listening.
In this intriguing episode of Hometown History, we unravel the tale of one of America’s most audacious cons: The Great Diamond Hoax of 1872. What began as a whispered rumor of hidden diamonds in the vast American wilderness quickly escalated into a full-blown frenzy, drawing in some of the country’s wealthiest and most powerful individuals. Led by two cunning prospectors, this elaborate scam convinced even seasoned investors that they were on the brink of unimaginable riches. But as the truth came to light, the story took a darker turn, revealing the dangers of greed and the timeless lesson that not everything that glitters is gold—or diamonds. Join us as we explore the fascinating details of this colossal fraud and the men behind it.
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In this episode of Hometown History, we delve into the enigma of Coral Castle, a mysterious structure hidden in the sunny shores of Florida. Built single-handedly by Edward Leedskalnin, a man of modest stature, this architectural marvel is composed of massive coral blocks, some weighing as much as thirty tons. How did one man, using only homemade tools, achieve such a feat? Was it a mastery of ancient techniques, magnetic forces, or something more mystical? Join us as we explore the captivating story behind Coral Castle, uncovering the man, the myths, and the unanswered questions that make this site one of the world’s most intriguing wonders.
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In this episode of Hometown History, we journey into the life of Paul Revere, not just as the legendary rider who warned of the British invasion, but as the Founding Father of Propaganda. Through his craftsmanship and powerful engravings, Revere ignited the revolutionary spirit and unified the colonies against British rule. From his early days as a talented silversmith to his critical role in spreading revolutionary messages, Paul Revere’s contributions went far beyond his famous Midnight Ride. Join me as we explore how Revere’s artistry and vision played a pivotal role in shaping the American Revolution and left an indelible mark on history.
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In this chilling episode of Hometown History, we journey back to the fog-laden streets of 1930s Cleveland, where the shadow of the infamous Cleveland Torso Murderer loomed large over the city. From the grim discovery of the first victim on the shores of Lake Erie to the relentless hunt for a killer that left the police baffled and the public in fear, we delve into the gruesome details of a case that remains unsolved to this day. With each horrifying find, the mystery deepens, leaving us to ponder whether the true identity of the Mad Butcher of Kingsbury Run will ever be uncovered. Tune in as we explore one of the most perplexing and terrifying chapters in Cleveland’s history.
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Welcome back to Hometown History. In today’s intriguing episode, we delve into the shadowy world of secret societies. Often shrouded in mystery and conspiracy, these organizations evoke images of clandestine meetings and sinister agendas. However, not all secret societies are as malevolent as they seem. We will uncover the stories of two lesser-known but fascinating secret societies that, contrary to popular belief, strive to improve society rather than destroy it. First, we explore the Knights of Pythias, a fraternal organization rooted in the ancient Greek story of Damon and Pythias, emphasizing the values of friendship, loyalty, and moral integrity.
Then, we turn our attention to the Patriotic Order Sons of America, a group dedicated to patriotism, education, and preserving American heritage. Join us as we shed light on the noble deeds and historical significance of these enigmatic groups, offering a new perspective on the often misunderstood world of secret societies. Tune in to discover the surprising truth behind America’s wildest secret societies!
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Welcome back to Hometown History. In this episode, we delve into one of America's most troubling chapters: the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, over 120,000 Japanese Americans were uprooted from their lives and forced into internment camps under Executive Order 9066. We explore the origins of this paranoia, the harsh realities faced in these camps, and the lasting impact on the Japanese American community. We'll also discuss pivotal legal battles, such as the Korematsu case, and the eventual acknowledgment of this injustice with the Civil Liberties Act of 1988. Join me as we uncover the stories of resilience and the lessons we must carry forward from this dark period in history.
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In this chilling episode of Hometown History, we delve into the dark tale of Jesse Pomeroy, America's youngest serial killer. Born in 1859 in Charlestown, Massachusetts, Jesse's early life was marked by accusations of animal cruelty and peculiar behavior, culminating in a series of brutal attacks on young boys when he was just 13. Despite initial imprisonment, his mother’s intervention led to his premature release, resulting in more heinous crimes, including the murders of Katie Curran and Horace Millen. Pomeroy's subsequent arrest and life sentence in solitary confinement highlight the tragic consequences of overlooked early warning signs. Join us as we explore the complexities of Pomeroy’s case and its implications on our understanding of criminal behavior.
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In this episode of Hometown History, we explore the Rat Utopia Experiment by John Calhoun in the 1970s, which examined the effects of overpopulation in a controlled environment. Known as Universe 25, this study provided mice with ideal living conditions, but as the population grew, social dysfunction and chaos ensued, leading to the colony's collapse. The experiment raised important questions about the impact of density on social structures, with parallels to human society and implications for our future. Join us to uncover the details and lasting significance of this thought-provoking study on Hometown History.
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Today, we're diving into the enigmatic disappearance of the U.S.S. Cyclops, a naval mystery that has baffled sailors, historians, and explorers for over a century. This colossal ship, launched in 1910, had a distinguished career providing vital support during the U.S. occupation of Veracruz and World War I. However, on March 4, 1918, after departing from Barbados for Baltimore, the Cyclops vanished without a trace, taking with it 309 crew members and a full load of manganese ore. No distress signals were sent, and no wreckage was ever found, leaving behind a perplexing puzzle that still haunts naval history.
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In today's episode, we delve into the fascinating story of the Fox Sisters, whose playful pranks in the mid-19th century inadvertently ignited the Spiritualist movement. From a small cabin in Hydesville, New York, Kate and Maggie Fox's innocent tricks evolved into a phenomenon that convinced their community they could communicate with the dead. Their story captures the era's blend of innovation, superstition, and the quest for connection beyond the veil.
Join me as we explore how the sisters' playful deceptions led to public séances, skepticism, and eventual fame, making them central figures in the burgeoning Spiritualist movement. Despite the ultimate confession of fraud and their struggles with personal demons, the legacy of the Fox Sisters endures, highlighting the enduring human fascination with the supernatural and the unknown. This episode uncovers the birth of Spiritualism and its lasting impact on society, proving that even the smallest actions can ripple through history.
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Welcome back, friends, to Hometown History. Today, we're sharing three heartwarming tales that highlight the kindness, creativity, and community spirit in America's history. First, we explore the story of Mildred and Patty Hill from Louisville, Kentucky, who created the "Happy Birthday" song. Originally a classroom greeting called "Good Morning to All," this tune transformed during a birthday celebration. Despite its fame, the Hill sisters' contributions are often overlooked, but Louisville is working to honor their legacy.
Next, we journey with Johnny Appleseed, or John Chapman, who planted apple nurseries across the frontier, providing food and income for settlers. His dedication to conservation and kindness made him a legendary figure, even influencing modern tech culture with the placeholder name "John Appleseed" used by Apple Inc.
Our final tale is about the Statue of Liberty, an iconic symbol of freedom that almost didn't have a pedestal. In 1885, the U.S. needed to raise $250,000 for the statue's base. Joseph Pulitzer launched a campaign in his newspaper, The New York World, turning the cause into a community effort. People from all walks of life contributed, many donating less than a dollar. This grassroots effort raised over $100,000, enough to complete the pedestal and give a gift to sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi. The Statue of Liberty now stands as a testament to the power of community and collective effort. I hope today's episode has brightened your day with these wholesome stories. It's important to remember the good in our history and appreciate moments of kindness and creativity. Thanks for tuning in to Hometown History, and stay with us for more fascinating tales!
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In this episode of Hometown History, we delve into the unsettling legend of the Night Doctors. Far from mere folklore, the Night Doctors were a terrifying reality for African-American communities in the 18th and 19th centuries. Often likened to boogeymen, these sinister figures were believed to abduct unsuspecting individuals under the cover of darkness, using them for ghastly medical experiments and dissections. The roots of this legend lie in the gruesome practices of body snatching and medical exploitation, where marginalized groups, particularly African Americans, were the primary targets for medical cadavers.
We explore the socio-economic factors that gave rise to such horrific practices and how these tales of terror were used as tools of psychological control during and after the era of slavery. The episode also touches on significant historical events like the Great Migration and the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment, which further fueled distrust towards the medical establishment. Join us as we uncover the dark truths behind the Night Doctors and reflect on the enduring legacy of medical racism. Tune in to understand how history’s shadows continue to shape present-day fears and mistrust.
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In this Hometown History episode, we explore the chilling era of the Hollywood Blacklist, a time when fear and suspicion dominated the American entertainment industry. Initiated during the Cold War, this blacklist barred countless artists from Hollywood jobs due to their real or suspected Communist ties, as dictated by the House Un-American Activities Committee and fueled by anti-Communist hysteria. We delve into the blacklist's beginnings, its impact on careers, and the stories of those who resisted, like the "Hollywood Ten," who faced severe repercussions for their stand against the crackdown.
As the blacklist saga unfolds, we examine its stifling effect on creative expression and the personal devastation for those targeted. Highlighting the gradual dissolution of the blacklist and the resilience of the artistic community, the episode reflects on the enduring lessons of this period. Through a concise narrative, Hometown History revisits a pivotal moment in Hollywood's history, emphasizing the critical need to protect artistic freedom in the face of political paranoia.
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In today's episode of Hometown History, we delve into the life of Lewis Howard Latimer, an unsung hero whose inventions and technical skills significantly influenced the development of electric lighting and telecommunications. Despite his crucial work with Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison, Latimer's contributions have often been overshadowed. His innovations in improving lightbulb filament durability and efficiency changed how we light our world, yet his name remains lesser-known.
Lewis Latimer's story is remarkable not only for his scientific achievements but also for his perseverance against racial prejudice. From humble beginnings as the son of escaped slaves to becoming Edison's trusted chief draftsman and a pioneer in electrical engineering, Latimer broke barriers and paved the way for future generations. Join us on Hometown History as we celebrate Latimer's legacy, a testament to the enduring power of innovation and courage in the face of adversity.
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In this Hometown History episode, we explore the transformative Fatty Arbuckle scandal of the 1920s, which led to a critical examination of movie censorship. Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle's rise from adversity to comedy stardom and his subsequent fall following Virginia Rappe's death spotlighted Hollywood's darker aspects. Despite his acquittal, Arbuckle's career never recovered, underscoring the scandal's lasting impact on his life and the film industry.
The aftermath of the scandal saw the introduction of the Motion Picture Production Code, establishing moral guidelines for film content. This code, an effort by Hollywood to self-regulate and avoid external censorship, dictated the portrayal of topics ranging from sexuality to crime, significantly influencing American cinema for decades. Tune into Hometown History as we uncover how Arbuckle's scandal reshaped Hollywood, illustrating the enduring influence of public perception and media power on the entertainment industry.
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In this episode of Hometown History, we explore the legacy of Charles Brush, a pioneering inventor whose contributions predate even Edison's lightbulb. Brush's work with arc lighting and dynamos in the late 19th century brought electric light to city streets, laying the groundwork for the widespread use of electricity. From his childhood experiments on a farm in Ohio to revolutionizing public lighting, Brush's journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and innovation.
Despite not being as celebrated as Thomas Edison, Charles Brush's impact resonates through today's technology, from lighting to welding. His development of arc lamps and the dynamo system marked a significant leap forward in electric power utilization, illustrating how visionary ideas can illuminate the world. This Hometown History episode shines a light on Charles Brush, an unsung hero whose contributions continue to brighten our lives, highlighting the importance of innovation and persistence.
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In today's Hometown History episode, we explore the true essence of May Day, an emblem of workers' rights and social justice, born from the strife of the late 19th-century Industrial Revolution. Workers faced daunting challenges: grueling hours, meager pay, and hazardous conditions. This episode dives into the labor movement's rise, galvanized by dire need for change, and the crucial Haymarket Affair of 1886, which became a watershed moment for labor rights.
Following the Haymarket Affair's fallout—marked by tragedy, trials, and global solidarity—May Day emerged as a powerful symbol of unity and the struggle for equitable labor practices. This episode highlights how May Day transcends mere celebration, embodying the resilience and collective strength of workers worldwide. Join us on Hometown History as we uncover the enduring legacy of May Day, a reminder of the labor movement's impact and the continuous journey towards a just society.
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In this episode of Hometown History, we unravel the enigma of The Philadelphia Experiment, a story shrouded in mystery and conspiracy against the backdrop of World War II. At the center is the USS Eldridge, alleged to possess invisibility amidst a top-secret operation. Through stormy nights and clandestine experiments, we explore the boundaries between ambitious scientific endeavors and their unforeseen consequences, delving into a narrative where technology meets the unknown.
As the saga of the USS Eldridge unfolds, from supposed teleportation to its crew's harrowing ordeal, skepticism meets intrigue. This episode challenges listeners to sift through history, eyewitness accounts, and scientific rationale. We examine the human intrigue with the unexplained, presenting a story that oscillates between military secrets, potential hoaxes, and legends. Tune into Hometown History as we navigate the murky waters of one of America's most captivating conspiracy theories, prompting reflection on the distinction between fact and fiction in the annals of history.
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In today's episode of Hometown History, we dive deep into the turbulent waters surrounding Alcatraz Island, unearthing the harrowing saga of the Battle of Alcatraz. This tale, far removed from its Hollywood depictions and video game incarnations, reveals the true face of what was considered the most secure prison in America. With its iron-clad security measures, from guard towers armed to the teeth to the remote-operated steel cell locks, Alcatraz was a fortress designed to quell the faintest hopes of escape.
Yet, the indomitable spirit of its inmates led to one of the most intense and dramatic uprisings in American penal history. Join us as we peel back the layers of this impenetrable fortress, exploring the meticulous planning and desperate courage that fueled an escape attempt turning into an all-out battle for freedom.
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Welcome to another episode of Hometown History, where we dive deep into the lesser-known corridors of our past, bringing to light the stories that shaped our world in ways we seldom acknowledge. Today, we're setting sail on the turbulent waters of the Caribbean, far from the Hollywood glamorization of pirates, to uncover the real lives of two of the most formidable pirates who ever hoisted the Jolly Roger: Anne Bonny and Mary Read. These women defied the norms of their time, challenging not only the law but societal expectations, proving that the high seas were not just a domain for men. Their tale is not just one of piracy and adventure but a testament to the indomitable spirit of women who dared to take control of their destiny in a world that offered them little.
The Golden Age of Piracy is often romanticized in literature and film, but the true story of piracy is much grittier, and at times, more incredible than fiction. Through the lives of Anne Bonny and Mary Read, we are offered a glimpse into the complexity of pirate life, where loyalty, love, and betrayal were as common as the loot they sought. From Anne's fiery defiance that led her to the pirate life, to Mary's extraordinary journey from soldier to pirate, their stories are interwoven with moments of fierce bravery, cunning, and ultimately, a fight for survival against all odds. As we unravel the myths and delve into the realities of these pirate queens, their legacy challenges us to look beyond the stereotypes and recognize the profound impact women have had throughout history, often hidden in the shadows of their male counterparts. Join us as we navigate the high seas of history, uncovering the tales of Anne Bonny and Mary Read, whose lives remind us that sometimes, the most extraordinary stories are hidden beneath the surface, waiting to be told.
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In the shadowy corridors of post-Civil War America, the Whiskey Ring scandal of 1875 emerges as a riveting saga of corruption, intrigue, and the battle for justice. This episode of Hometown History transports listeners to St. Louis, a city pulsing with the spirit of commerce and the undercurrents of political scheming during the presidency of Ulysses S. Grant. As we peel back the layers of this historical event, we delve into a world where secret societies and high stakes converge in a scandal that threatened to topple the very foundations of trust and integrity in the government. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a nation striving to mend the rifts of the Civil War, highlighting the complexities of governance, the allure of power, and the ethical dilemmas that define the human condition.
The tale of the Whiskey Ring is not merely a chronicle of tax evasion and clandestine plots; it is a reflection on the challenges of leadership and the perennial fight against corruption. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, this episode sheds light on the individuals at the heart of the scandal—from the whiskey distillers and government officials ensnared in the web of deceit, to Secretary of the Treasury Benjamin Bristow's relentless pursuit of justice. As we journey through the intricacies of the investigation and the dramatic courtroom battles that ensued, listeners are invited to ponder the lessons of the past and the enduring quest for integrity in the public sphere. Join us on Hometown History as we explore the Whiskey Ring of 1875, a story of ambition, betrayal, and the quest for redemption in America's tumultuous post-war era.
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In today's episode of Hometown History, we pull back the curtain on the secretive Project Blue Book, an effort by the United States Air Force to explore the unknown: unidentified flying objects (UFOs), from 1952 to 1969. Tucked away at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, this project aimed to shed light on the many mysterious sightings in our skies. While most of these turned out to be everyday objects or natural phenomena, a handful of reports remained unexplained, sparking curiosity and speculation about what might be out there.
Our journey through the story of Project Blue Book is filled with twists and turns. Starting with Captain Edward J. Ruppelt's leadership, we dive into the project's ambitious goal to categorize UFO sightings and make sense of the unexplainable. Despite its scientific endeavors, Blue Book was often caught in a storm of controversy, facing criticism for its methodologies and the skepticism surrounding extraterrestrial life. Yet, beyond the disputes and debates, Blue Book's legacy lives on, not just in the annals of history but in the realm of pop culture, inspiring TV shows and keeping the conversation about UFOs alive. As we explore the fascinating chapters of this project, we're reminded of humanity's unending quest for knowledge and the allure of the mysteries that lie beyond our understanding. Join us on Hometown History as we uncover the enigma of Project Blue Book and celebrate the spirit of curiosity that drives us to look up at the sky and wonder.
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In this episode we delve into the enigmatic world of the Winchester Mystery House, a sprawling Victorian mansion in San Jose, California, shrouded in intrigue and lore. Constructed by Sarah Winchester, the widow of gun magnate William Wirt Winchester, the mansion is an architectural anomaly, featuring doors that lead to nowhere, staircases ending at the ceiling, and windows overlooking other rooms. Sarah's relentless construction, driven by the belief that she needed to appease the spirits of those felled by Winchester rifles, transformed her home into a labyrinthine puzzle.
As we explore the mansion's mystifying design and the tragic life of Sarah Winchester, we uncover the blend of fact and fiction that has captivated historians and paranormal enthusiasts alike. From the alleged advice of a medium that led Sarah to build her confusing home as a means to elude spirits, to the modern-day fascination that keeps the mansion a popular tourist attraction, the Winchester Mystery House remains a monument to one woman's grief and the legacy of the Winchester name.
Join us as we step into the corridors of this historical enigma, where every turn reveals a new mystery, and the walls whisper secrets of the past.
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Welcome to a special bonus episode of Hometown History, where I'm doing something a bit different. Join me for a historical guided audio tour, an immersive journey through the heart of a city that shines bright with tales of innovation, inspiration, and historical milestones.
As the first electrically lighted city in the world, Wabash is not just a place on the map; it's a beacon of human ingenuity and resilience. Whether you're walking the streets of Wabash as I guide you, or sitting comfortably at home, this episode promises to be a unique exploration of a small town with a grand legacy.
Visit this tour online at itshometownhistory.com/tour.
Things to know about this tour if attending in person:
- Start on Market Street, across from the parking lot, under the Alley Walk sign that says "Market"
- Walk at a slow comfortable pace
- Stop at intersections and wait for instructions
- Tour lasts 35 minutes, the walk is a little over 1/2 mile, no hills and is stroller and wheelchair friendly
Learn more about Wabash at these organizations:
- Downtown Wabash
- Visit Wabash County
- Wabash County Museum
This is the first time I've created a historic guided walking tour, I hope you enjoy it. If you have a location you'd like to see covered please reach out at itshometownhistory.com
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In this episode of Hometown History, we dive into the heart of The Underground Railroad, revealing the struggle for freedom by those enslaved in the United States. Through stories of harrowing escapes and the individuals who risked everything to help, like Harriet Tubman and Levi Coffin, we highlight the bravery, innovation, and solidarity that powered this secret network. This journey not only uncovers the pivotal role of the Railroad in American history but also celebrates the legacy of freedom seekers and their quest for liberation.
We also explore the aftermath for those who reached safety in Canada and beyond, acknowledging both their victories and ongoing challenges. Despite facing new forms of discrimination, their spirit of resistance and triumph continues to inspire. Through historical insights and personal tales, this episode pays tribute to the Underground Railroad's enduring impact on the fight for justice and equality. Join us as we honor the unsung heroes whose courage reshaped America, reminding us of the enduring power of unity and freedom.
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In today's episode of Hometown History, we delve into the Lost Colony of Roanoke, a mystery that has puzzled historians and enthusiasts for centuries. This story takes us back to the late 16th century, when a group of English settlers vanished without a trace from Roanoke Island, leaving behind a legacy of questions and the mysterious word "Croatoan" as their only clue. Our journey explores the initial establishment of the colony under the leadership of John White, the hardships faced by the settlers, and the fateful expedition that left them awaiting a return that would never happen.
As we unravel the layers of this historical mystery, we examine the various theories that have emerged over the years, ranging from integration with local Native American tribes to more far-fetched speculations involving aliens and zombie plagues. Despite numerous investigations and the discovery of tantalizing clues like the Dare Stones and archaeological findings at potential settlement sites, the fate of the Roanoke colonists remains an enigma.
Join us as we explore the facts, the folklore, and the fanciful theories surrounding one of America's oldest and most captivating mysteries, reminding us of the profound challenges faced by early settlers and the enduring allure of unsolved historical puzzles.
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Hello friend, today we are exploring the Scopes ‘Monkey’ trial, a riveting legal battle that erupted in the small town of Dayton, Tennessee, during the sweltering summer of 1925. This episode delves into the heart of a national debate that questioned the intersection of science, religion, and education. The trial, triggered by the Butler Act which prohibited the teaching of human evolution in schools, put a young teacher, John Thomas Scopes, under the legal microscope. His indictment for teaching evolution became the catalyst for a historic courtroom showdown, drawing in iconic figures like William Jennings Bryan and Clarence Darrow, and igniting a nationwide discussion on academic freedom and the role of religion in public education.
Beyond the courtroom drama, this episode uncovers the wider implications of the trial, from its influence on American Christianity and the anti-evolution movement to its lasting impact on science education and the legal landscape. The Scopes Trial, with its blend of legal strategy, public spectacle, and philosophical debate, not only challenged the boundaries between faith and science but also set the stage for ongoing discussions about educational content and religious belief in the United States. We explore how this landmark case continues to resonate nearly a century later, reflecting the complexities of balancing personal belief with public education.
Itshometownhistory.com
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In this episode we delve into the sinister world of Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb, two prodigiously intelligent young men from affluent backgrounds who believed themselves to be above the law. Their story unfolds in 1924 Chicago, a city alive with the Jazz Age's vibrancy but also a backdrop to one of the most chilling chapters in American criminal history. With minds sharpened by privilege and education, Leopold and Loeb embarked on a dark journey, culminating in a crime that aimed to assert their perceived superiority and challenge the moral fabric of society.
As we navigate through their meticulously planned act and the subsequent unraveling of their facade of invincibility, this episode not only explores the depths of human depravity but also the societal and psychological intricacies that led to their downfall. The case of Leopold and Loeb is a haunting reminder of the consequences of arrogance and the illusion of omnipotence, serving as a profound narrative on the limits of intellect when detached from humanity. Join us as we dissect this landmark case, reflecting on its implications and the enduring fascination it holds in the annals of true crime.
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In this intriguing episode we uncover a forgotten chapter of the American film industry that places Jacksonville, Florida, at the heart of early 20th-century movie-making. Before the glitz and glamour settled in California, Jacksonville was the burgeoning center of silent films, dubbed the "Winter Film Capital of the World." We delve into the reasons filmmakers flocked to this sunny locale, from the advantageous warm climate, diverse architecture, and abundant natural light to the less restrictive filming environment compared to Thomas Edison's tightly controlled industry in New York.
As the episode unfolds, we explore the rise and fall of Jacksonville's film era, marked by innovative productions, the establishment of over 30 silent film companies, and the creation of significant films that left an indelible mark on cinema history. Yet, despite its early successes, we learn why Jacksonville's film industry declined, giving way to Hollywood's rise. This story is not just about the shift of a geographical location but also about the evolution of an industry that reflects broader cultural and technological changes. Join us as we pay tribute to this nearly lost history and recognize the legacy that Jacksonville's film era has left behind.
Itshometownhistory.com
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In this episode, we dive deep into the murky waters of the Teapot Dome Scandal, a pivotal moment in American history that epitomizes the intersection of politics, greed, and corruption in the early 20th century. As we peel back the layers of this complex story, we explore how the scandal unfolded, from the secretive leasing of oil-rich public lands to private companies, to the intricate web of bribery and deceit that reached the highest levels of the U.S. government. This gripping tale not only sheds light on the individuals involved but also on the broader implications for American politics and the public's trust in their leaders.
Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, we bring to life the characters, settings, and events that made the Teapot Dome Scandal a landmark in the annals of American history. From the bustling oil fields captured in the sepia tones of our episode artwork, to the backdoor dealings and courtroom dramas, listeners will be transported back in time to experience the gravity of these events. As we analyze the scandal's impact on subsequent policy reforms and its lasting legacy on American political discourse, this episode promises not only to educate but also to captivate those who are fascinated by the lessons history continues to teach us about power, corruption, and the importance of transparency and accountability in government.
Time travel with us on Hometown History.
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Imagine a quiet afternoon turning bizarre as chunks of meat rain down from the blue sky. On March 3, 1876, the residents of Bath County, Kentucky, experienced just that, in an event that would come to be known as the Kentucky Meat Shower. Today on Hometown History, we'll sift through this peculiar precipitation to uncover the truths behind what is, perhaps, one of the strangest meteorological phenomena ever recorded.
What was this meat? Where did it come from? Scientific speculation and folklore collide as we discuss theories that range from the plausible to the peculiar, including tornados carrying debris, to explosive vultures, and grisly pranks that went down in history. Through eyewitness accounts and modern analysis, we trace the journey of these meaty morsels as we attempt to piece together a narrative as perplexing as the event itself. This story is a testament to the oddities that history often holds and the lengths to which we go to make sense of the seemingly insensible.
Time travel with us on Hometown History. Join Shane's Facebook group for deep dives into history's most captivating moments, and follow our Instagram for snapshots of the past. Like our Facebook page to stay updated, and chirp along with us on X (Twitter) for all things historic!
Craving more? Shane's gripping narratives continue on Foul Play: Crime Series and Mystery Inc, where crime and mystery come alive. Join us there and become part of our story-loving community!
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Whispers of a 'petticoat government' reverberated through the corridors of the White House during Woodrow Wilson's presidency, but how much truth was there to the rumors? It is said that for a time, the most powerful nation on Earth was steered not by the elected commander-in-chief, but by a woman no one had voted for—Edith Galt Wilson. In today's episode, we unravel the secrecy and speculation that shrouded the twilight years of Wilson's administration and explore the enigmatic role played by his second wife, Edith.
Edith's journey from a socialite widow to a 'First Lady acting as president' raises the curtain on a pivotal yet largely untold story in American politics. Following President Wilson's debilitating stroke in 1919, Edith Galt Wilson found herself in a position of unprecedented, unelected influence. Critics called her "Mrs. President," while supporters lauded her as a protective spouse preserving her husband's health and his office. We'll delve into the constitutional crises, personal trials, and political intrigues that paint the portrait of a time when a woman's command came from behind the scenes, casting a long shadow on the power structures of the day.
Time travel with us on Hometown History. Join Shane's Facebook group for deep dives into history's most captivating moments, and follow our Instagram for snapshots of the past. Like our Facebook page to stay updated, and chirp along with us on X (Twitter) for all things historic!
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They say one person's hero is another's villain, and the tale of Hannah Duston embodies this adage with chilling precision. At the dawn of American lore, her story emerges from the shadows of 1697—a frontier mother's ordeal that swerves into a harrowing saga of survival and vengeance. But as we peel back the layers of this historic enigma, we are forced to question: Was Hannah Duston a valiant pioneer survivor or a cold-blooded murderer?
This episode of Hometown History takes you through the thorny paths of Duston's life, from her capture by Abenaki warriors to her dramatic escape which led to the slaying of her captors. Described by some as a brutal retaliation, and by others as an act of undaunted bravery, Duston’s story has echoed through centuries, morphing into legend, propaganda, and a heated debate of morality. Her legacy, etched into the complex fabric of early colonial history, stands at the intersection of gender, violence, and the clash of cultures in a rapidly evolving American landscape. As we sift through historical accounts, folklore, and the moral quandaries her actions pose, we invite listeners to contemplate the multifaceted nature of her legend.
Time travel with us on Hometown History. Join Shane's Facebook group for deep dives into history's most captivating moments, and follow our Instagram for snapshots of the past. Like our Facebook page to stay updated, and chirp along with us on X (Twitter) for all things historic!
Craving more? Shane's gripping narratives continue on Foul Play: Crime Series and Mystery Inc, where crime and mystery come alive. Join us there and become part of our story-loving community!
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Imagine standing in the opulent rooms of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where priceless works of human achievement reside. It’s a sanctum of culture and history, where the pulse of the past beats strong. But what happens when the sanctity of such a place is breached not by time, but by thieves? This episode of Hometown History ventures into the darker side of the art world, unraveling stories of daring heists and cunning capers within the hallowed halls of the Met.
Time travel with us on Hometown History. Join Shane's Facebook group for deep dives into history's most captivating moments, and follow our Instagram for snapshots of the past. Like our Facebook page to stay updated, and chirp along with us on X (Twitter) for all things historic!
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You might walk the grand halls of the Metropolitan Museum of Art today, surrounded by the splendor of centuries-old artifacts and the whispers of history echoing off marble walls. But once upon a time, the Met had a far more modest abode. This episode of Hometown History peels back the layers of time to reveal the Met's first home, a place worlds apart from its current palatial residence on Fifth Avenue. It's a reminder that even the mightiest institutions have humble beginnings, unfolding the story of ambition, vision, and the love of art that has long been nestled in the heart of New York City.
In 1872, the Metropolitan Museum opened its doors for the first time, not amidst the luxury of its current location, but within the red walls of a modest building on 681 Fifth Avenue. Our journey today takes us back to those early days when the fledgling museum displayed its initial collection, which included Roman sarcophagi, a handful of European paintings, and Egyptian artifacts. Through the dedicated efforts of artists, philanthropists, and visionaries, the Met's collection grew, as did its influence, eventually necessitating the move to its famous home on Fifth Avenue, where it continues to inspire and educate. Join us as we explore the origins of this iconic institution and the little-known tales of its early struggle and eventual triumph.
Time travel with us on Hometown History. Join Shane's Facebook group for deep dives into history's most captivating moments, and follow our Instagram for snapshots of the past. Like our Facebook page to stay updated, and chirp along with us on X (Twitter) for all things historic!
Craving more? Shane's gripping narratives continue on Foul Play: Crime Series and Mystery Inc, where crime and mystery come alive. Join us there and become part of our story-loving community!
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The saying goes that behind every successful mission, there's a story of an unsung hero whose bravery defies imagination. In this chapter of Hometown History, we turn the spotlight on a figure whose cunning and courage changed the course of World War II, yet her name remains known to few: Virginia Hall. An American spy with a wooden leg, Hall's tale reads like a spy thriller—complete with narrow escapes, critical sabotage missions, and the undying will to fight for freedom against Nazi oppression.
Virginia Hall, a woman with a tenacity to rival any fiction, stood as the linchpin in some of the war's most decisive guerrilla operations. From disguising herself as a milkmaid to organizing the French Resistance, her story is one of ingenuity, resistance, and exceptional bravery. Delve into the life of the woman whose strategic prowess hastened the fall of the Axis powers and who rewrote the rules of espionage. By episode's end, you'll understand just how pivotal one person could be in the colossal struggle of nations and ideologies that defined the 20th century.
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Time travel with us on Hometown History. Join Shane's Facebook group for deep dives into history's most captivating moments, and follow our Instagram for snapshots of the past. Like our Facebook page to stay updated, and chirp along with us on X (Twitter) for all things historic!
Craving more? Shane's gripping narratives continue on Foul Play: Crime Series and Mystery Inc, where crime and mystery come alive. Join us there and become part of our story-loving community!
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It's said that truth is often stranger—and more chilling—than fiction, a sentiment that finds its proof in the covert operations of World War II. In this episode of Hometown History, we peel back the veil on one of the war's most secretive endeavors: Project Sunshine. It was a mission not fought with bullets and bombs but conducted in the shadows of government laboratories and international politics, where the stakes were the very building blocks of life itself—radioactivity.
As we unravel the layers of secrecy that have long shrouded this project, we travel from the quiet corridors of American science institutions to the diplomatic tensions of the post-war world. Project Sunshine was a global effort, involving not just scientists but unwitting families, and its legacy reaches far beyond the historical confines of the war. The revelation of Project Sunshine's objectives and the lengths to which governments went to carry them out reminds us of the war's far-reaching impacts, some of which continue to echo in the modern world. Listen as we explore the reasons behind this secretive operation, the ethical lines crossed, and the real human stories at the heart of this mysterious project.
Time travel with us on Hometown History. Join Shane's Facebook group for deep dives into history's most captivating moments, and follow our Instagram for snapshots of the past. Like our Facebook page to stay updated, and chirp along with us on X (Twitter) for all things historic!
Craving more? Shane's gripping narratives continue on Foul Play: Crime Series and Mystery Inc, where crime and mystery come alive. Join us there and become part of our story-loving community!
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Dive into a lesser-told tale of World War II heroism that soars beyond traditional battle stories—this is the legend of the Night Witches, an all-female squadron of the Soviet Air Force. These brave women took to the skies in rickety planes and harrowed the German army by night, becoming one of the most formidable forces in aerial warfare.
With each successful mission, their legend grew in the minds of their enemies, morphing from mere pilots to spectral presences terrorizing the Eastern Front. This episode uncovers the untold story of their tenacity, skill, and the inexplicable dread they cast over the Nazi soldiers. The Night Witches flew without parachutes, in the dead of night, under the glow of flames and the shroud of darkness.
In their fragile, wooden biplanes, they managed not only to elude the enemy but to deliver devastating blows as well. To the German soldiers, these women were phantoms, witches of the night sky, who could come and go without warning—their engines idling on the wind to drift silently before dropping their deadly cargo.
As we peel back the layers of history, we find a gripping narrative of determination and valor, punctuated by the whoosh of plywood-and-canvas bombers and the echo of their courage. Join us as we trace the extraordinary exploits of the Night Witches and pay homage to their fearless spirit. From the strategic genius that directed their night raids to the steely resolve that carried them through the darkness, we honor these unsung heroines of the skies.
For more captivating stories that bring the past alive with every detail, remember to visit itshometownhistory.com, where the whispers of history become the conversations of today.
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Time travel with us on Hometown History.
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...1 eerie corn maze...
...9 haunting figures...
...9 spine-tingling tales...
...Will YOU find your way out? This holiday season, step into a labyrinth of shadows and suspense with Shane Waters as your guide. In this chilling collaboration, you'll encounter the hosts of 9 acclaimed true crime podcasts, each offering a dark tale and a life lesson to send shivers down your spine. This is not just a special episode; it's an immersive journey through a maze of twisted paths and unsolved mysteries. So, lift your lantern high and venture into 'Maze of Secrets'...
...but be warned...
...not everyone makes it to the end… Prepare to get lost in the stories, but find yourself in their lessons. It's an odyssey of crime, mystery, and eerie life lessons that you won't soon forget. This is Shane’s 5th holiday collaboration. If you dare to walk this twisted path with us, you're in for a night you'll never forget. Are you ready? Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance:
- Frightful
- Marooned
- Rotten to the Core
- Murder, She Told
- Obscura
- Crimelines
- Once Upon a Crime
- The Trail Went Cold
- Foul Play: Crime Series
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Imagine a time before the Gold Rush swept through California, before miners flocked westward dreaming of wealth and chance—a time when America's first cries of "Gold!" echoed through the Appalachian foothills of North Carolina. It's a narrative woven from the threads of a nation's budding obsession with the precious yellow metal, sparked by nothing more than a child's discovery of a gold nugget in a shallow creek. This episode delves into the origins of America's first gold frenzy, an event that reshaped the economic landscape long before the 49ers staked their claims. In 1799, twelve-year-old Conrad Reed made a find near his father's farm that would incite the first major gold rush in United States history.
This accidental treasure, mistaken for a common rock, sat as a doorstop in the Reed home for years before its true value was understood, precipitating a frenetic surge to the American Southeast. Prospectors inundated North Carolina, clutching onto hope and sifting through streams, as the Gold Rush before the Gold Rush painted the serene backcountry with the bustling activity of mines and makeshift settlements. Our journey will trace the steps of those early fortune-seekers, explore the impact of their discoveries, and reveal how this event planted the seeds for the gold-crazed culture that later defined a nation's westward expansion. Tune in as we pan through history, uncovering the tales of ambition, rivalries, and dreams that were as much a part of America's growth as any political doctrine or land acquisition.
And for more stories where the dust of the past shines with insights for today, join us at itshometownhistory.com. It's where every nugget of history gleams with the promise of revelation. Time travel with us on Hometown History. Join Shane's Facebook group for deep dives into history's most captivating moments, and follow our Instagram for snapshots of the past. Like our Facebook page to stay updated, and chirp along with us on X (Twitter) for all things historic! Craving more? Shane's gripping narratives continue on Foul Play: Crime Series and Mystery Inc, where crime and mystery come alive. Join us there and become part of our story-loving community!
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On the frost-kissed evening of December 24, 1926, when most awaited the arrival of a benevolent St. Nick, New York City witnessed a twisted holiday horror. The sanctuaries of familial warmth contrasted sharply with the chilling scenes at Bellevue Hospital, where medical staff were confronted with a deluge of patients tormented by toxic visions. This episode peers into the dark chapter of America's past when the government's efforts to enforce Prohibition led to a dire intersection of public policy and public health.
As Prohibition tightened its grip on the nation's throat, the federal government embarked on a deadly gambit, deliberately denaturing industrial alcohol to deter consumption. What unfolded was a tragic saga of unintended consequences, where the festive spirits of the Roaring Twenties turned literally poisonous, claiming lives and sewing panic in a macabre Christmas tragedy. This tale isn't merely about the victims of tainted booze; it's a larger story of how a policy meant to curb a societal ill instead spawned a public health disaster.
Through harrowing personal accounts and expert insights, we unravel the perplexing question: Did the government really try to poison alcohol? Dive into the perplexities of Prohibition, the science of sabotage, and the government's role in one of the deadliest Christmases in New York City history. For more thrilling dives into the pages of the past, where myth meets evidence, join us at itshometownhistory.com. There's always a story to be told, and history's whispers await the curious. Time travel with us on Hometown History. Join Shane's Facebook group for deep dives into history's most captivating moments, and follow our Instagram for snapshots of the past. Like our Facebook page to stay updated, and chirp along with us on X (Twitter) for all things historic! Craving more? Shane's gripping narratives continue on Foul Play: Crime Series and Mystery Inc, where crime and mystery come alive. Join us there and become part of our story-loving community!
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The mention of Hershey stirs thoughts of sweet treats and chocolate-scented air in quaint Pennsylvania, but behind the familiar name of Milton S. Hershey is an extraordinary tale of benevolence and visionary capitalism that contradicts the ruthless industrialist archetype. In a narrative departure from the 'evil capitalist' trope, today's episode uncovers the story of Hershey's chocolate bar's creator—a man whose riches built communities rather than crushed souls.
Milton S. Hershey did more than just perfect the recipe for milk chocolate; he concocted a model of compassionate entrepreneurship. He invested his fortune in the well-being of his workers, creating company towns that were paradigms of innovation and welfare. Hershey, Pennsylvania, known as 'The Sweetest Place on Earth,' stands as a testament to his belief that business success and human kindness could coexist.
This episode is a journey through the life of a man whose legacy is etched not only in chocolate but in the hearts of those who lived in the communities he nurtured, extending as far as the tropical fields of Cuba. Join us as we unwrap the life of Milton S. Hershey, the man behind the chocolate empire, and discover how he fused capitalism with care, changing the lives of many and setting a standard for the corporate world.
For a deeper dive into stories of remarkable individuals whose moral compass guided their enterprise to unprecedented heights, visit itshometownhistory.com. Let's explore history's sweet side and the inspirational stories of those who made a difference beyond their time.
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Think of Las Vegas, and your mind likely conjures images of slot machines, neon lights, and opulent shows—not mushroom clouds on the horizon. Yet, there was a time when the spectacle of atomic bomb tests was as much a part of Vegas attraction as any headline act on the Strip. In this second part of "Vegas Beyond the Neon," we revisit a chapter in Las Vegas history when the city's flirtation with the atomic age turned fear into fascination, and nuclear tests became cause for celebration and tourism. The detonations at the Nevada Test Site provided a bizarre backdrop to the everyday life of Las Vegans in the 1950s. The community's response? Atomic cocktails and bomb party viewing schedules, all part of a surreal moment in American history where impending doom was packaged as entertainment.
This episode unpacks the complex legacy of this era, exploring how a city built on the improbable, nestled in the heart of the desert, embraced the advent of the atomic age as part of its identity, redefining leisure time in an era dominated by the Cold War. Join us as we detonate the myths and expose the explosive truths of a city that gambled with the atom and won a peculiar place in history. For stories that go beyond the textbook and unearth the incredible human penchant for turning the fearsome into the fascinating, make sure to visit itshometownhistory.com. Las Vegas, the hometown, is an endless reservoir of the audacious and the astounding, just waiting for you to tune in.
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Las Vegas is synonymous with glitzy casinos, electric nightlife, and monumental shows. But beyond the neon facade lies a vibrant hometown with a history as captivating as any of its world-famous acts. In today's episode, we peel away the tourist veil to reveal "The Other Side of Vegas," featuring none other than the esteemed historian Mark Hall-Patton, whose extensive knowledge paints a picture of Las Vegas that most visitors never see. From a dusty outpost to the gambling capital of the world, Las Vegas's journey is as intriguing as it is unexpected.
Mark, a familiar face to fans of the hit show "Pawn Stars," shares his deep well of knowledge garnered as a Museum Administrator for Clark County's museums. His tales cover the city’s transformation, its hidden gems, and the communal spirit that binds its residents. Mark's voice brings to life stories that define the true essence of Las Vegas—a side that thrives in the shadows of the famed Strip. Discover the compelling narrative of Las Vegas's past and its dynamic evolution with us. For more stories that delve into the lesser-known annals of history, where communities and culture converge, visit itshometownhistory.com. And remember, history is not just about places and events; it's about the people who shape them.
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In the shadow of the grand domes and opulent halls of the West Baden Springs Hotel and French Lick Resort lies a trove of untold stories, waiting to be discovered. Our previous episode with Jeff Lane unpeeled the layers of these historic resorts' general past, setting the stage for today's deep dive into the hidden nooks, crannies, and curious tales that these walls hold. Welcome back to Hometown History, where history comes alive in the detail and the delightfully unexpected anecdotes of Indiana's twin jewels. Dan Frotscher, our insightful guide at the French Lick Hotel, reveals the quirks of fate and fortune that these resorts have seen.
We'll wander through the lesser-known pathways that crisscross the campuses, unearthing stories of clandestine casino operations, secret tunnels, and the high society that once graced these spaces with their presence. These resorts are not just bastions of healing springs and high-stakes gambling—they are storied vessels that sailed through the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and wars that changed the world. As we peel back the curtain to showcase the eccentric and peculiar chapters of the West Baden and French Lick legacy, visit itshometownhistory.com for more captivating stories. Join us as we continue to explore the nooks of history often overlooked yet rich with narrative gold.
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Imagine a structure so grand and pioneering that it earns the title of the "8th Wonder of the World" upon its creation. Hometown History proudly presents the awe-inspiring saga of the West Baden Springs Hotel, whose colossal dome rose above southern Indiana's landscape in 1902, challenging the architectural limits of its era. Join us as we journey through the rise of a resort that captured the nation's imagination with its opulence and the mystique of its mineral springs, touted for healing the elite and the ailing alike.
Fast forward to the 21st century, the glory of the West Baden Springs Hotel has not just been restored but celebrated as one of the pinnacle experiences in American hospitality, according to TripAdvisor's high acclaims. This story is a duet of past brilliance and modern luxury, a tale of two sister resorts, West Baden and French Lick, both steeped in the allure of an ancient sulfur spring's purported curative essence. We'll explore the fascinating history of these twin beacons of leisure and health, whose corridors echo with the whispers of a bygone Gilded Age and whose rejuvenation stands as a testimony to historical preservation and the timeless quest for restoration.
To unravel more layers of America's grand hotels and the echoes of history they hold, make your next stop at itshometownhistory.com. Stay with us as we reveal how legends of the past shape the landmarks of our present.
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Imagine the courage it takes to strap into a vessel that defies gravity, to brush the very edge of the cosmos, only to have destiny reroute your journey. This episode of Hometown History takes us to the stars as we recount the story of Gus Grissom, a man whose name is etched in the annals of space exploration as a symbol of skill, bravery, and an extraordinary twist of fate. Grissom, earmarked by many as the potential first man to make lunar footprints, was part of the Mercury 7, the first American astronauts, heroes who dared to step into the unknown. His tale is interwoven with the burgeoning tapestry of NASA, at a time when space was not a place to visit but a dream to be chased. We remember Gus not just for the misfortune that befell him, but for the indomitable spirit he embodied—a spirit that propelled humanity into a new era.
Dive deeper into the legacy of Gus Grissom, the inception of NASA, and the tales of those who reach for the heavens at itshometownhistory.com. Join us in honoring the memories of those whose journeys were cut short, but whose dreams remain as vast as the night sky.
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Joe Lee's pen has captured the harrowing resilience of a Holocaust survivor in stark black and white, but today, we turn the page to a different chapter of his life—one painted in the vibrant colors of joy and jest. Welcome back to Hometown History, where we revisit the remarkable life of Joe Lee, not just as the author behind 'Forgiveness: The Story of Eva Kor, Survivor of the Auschwitz Experiments,' but as a man who embraced the ancient art of clowning. In this episode, we peel back the layers of a profession often shrouded in mystery and mirth to reveal the rich tapestry of history and humanity within the world of clowning.
From his professional training to the moments that laughter bridged gaps between souls, Joe shares with us how the craft of clowning is woven into the fabric of human experience. It's a journey that juxtaposes the profound depth of chronicling the darkest facets of history with the lightness of bringing smiles to faces young and old. Join us for this and other untold stories that color our understanding of the human experience at itshometownhistory.com. Here, every smile tells a story, and every story holds a world of emotion.
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Words can etch history into our minds, but when paired with images, they carve the stories into our souls. In this chapter of Hometown History we delve into a unique biography that transcends traditional storytelling—a visual and narrative odyssey into the life of Eva Kor, Holocaust survivor and founder of the CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center. As I recounted my visit and discovery to a photographer friend, Rodney Margison, the conversation serendipitously led me to Joe Lee, the man who penned Eva's story and framed it in the stark contrasts of black and white illustrations.
This biography is more than a book; it's a graphic testament to Eva's journey, reminiscent of the powerful imagery found in a comic book, inviting readers of all ages to witness resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through this episode, we not only celebrate Eva Kor's legacy but also the intersection of art and history that Joe Lee masterfully presents. It's a fusion of mediums that breathes new life into the lessons of the past, ensuring that the memories and messages of Holocaust survivors like Eva are never lost to time. Stay tuned for more stories where the past is vividly brought to life at itshometownhistory.com. Join us as we honor the narratives that shape our understanding and remembrance of history's most pivotal moments.
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The ember of hate that ignited the CANDLES Holocaust Museum two decades ago did what flames often fail to consider: it sparked a greater force, a resolve to rise and rebuild. Welcome back to "Hometown History Podcast," where today's episode reunites us with Troy Fears, the Executive Director at CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Terre Haute, Indiana. In the aftermath of a shattering act of domestic terrorism, we uncover the story of resilience that defines the museum's journey from ruin to rebirth. Now a beacon of hope and history, CANDLES stands stronger than before, its halls echoing with the voices of thousands of visitors each year.
From wide-eyed school children absorbing lessons of the past to educational workshops that mold minds for a better future, the museum serves as a testament to the triumph of knowledge and remembrance over ignorance and destruction. Join us as we explore how the center has transformed a narrative of violence into one of vibrant education and enduring peace. For more stories of resilience and the indomitable human spirit, visit us at itshometownhistory.com, where every chapter of history, even the most painful, is given a voice.
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In the quiet hours where today fades into tomorrow, a sinister glow rose in Terre Haute, Indiana — a fire set with malice, intended to erase the somber echoes of history. This episode of "Hometown History Podcast" takes you to the chilling morning of November 16, 2003, when hatred struck in the form of a firebomb, ravaging the heart of the CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center, a sanctuary dedicated to preserving the truth of a dark past. The flames consumed more than just the building; they attempted to silence the stories, the tangible memories, and the personal belongings of those who survived humanity's darkest time.
This assault on memory itself speaks volumes of the shadows that still linger in corners of the present, reminding us why the lessons of history must never be forgotten. We invite you to join us as we sift through the ashes of this tragedy, to understand not only the depth of loss but the unyielding resolve to rebuild and educate future generations. This story continues, and so does our commitment to bringing the past to light, at itshometownhistory.com. Please, stand with us in remembrance and in defiance of those who would seek to set history ablaze.
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[Part 2] This Mother’s Day, join Shane Waters on a chilling adventure featuring 14 podcasters as they share sinister stories of motherhood. Mother’s Day is typically a time to honor the love and sacrifices of mothers, but today we’ll be exploring the twisted tales that lurk behind the shadows.
It’s an extra special, two parts, more than two-hour, Mother’s Day event.
Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance:
Part 1:
- Foul Play: Crime Series
- Music City 911
- Crimes from the East
- Cults, Crimes, Cabernet
- A Nefarious Nightmare
- Crimelines
- The Asian Madness Podcast
- Once Upon A Crime
- PNW Haunts & Homicides
- The Trail Went Cold
- Coffee & Cases
- Already Gone
- Twisted and Uncorked
- Mystery Inc
If you enjoyed this holiday collaboration special, check out the other collaboration specials: Deceptions & Resurrections, Bloody Valentine, and A Nightmare before Halloween . Until our next adventure, stay safe and stay vigilant.
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This Mother’s Day, join Shane Waters on a chilling adventure featuring 14 podcasters as they share sinister stories of motherhood. Mother’s Day is typically a time to honor the love and sacrifices of mothers, but today we’ll be exploring the twisted tales that lurk behind the shadows.
It’s an extra special, two parts, more than two-hour, Mother’s Day event.
Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance:
Part 1:
- Foul Play: Crime Series
- Music City 911
- Crimes from the East
- Cults, Crimes, Cabernet
- A Nefarious Nightmare
- Crimelines
- The Asian Madness Podcast
- Once Upon A Crime
- PNW Haunts & Homicides
- The Trail Went Cold
- Coffee & Cases
- Already Gone
- Twisted and Uncorked
- Mystery Inc
If you enjoyed this holiday collaboration special, check out the other collaboration specials: Deceptions & Resurrections, Bloody Valentine, and A Nightmare before Halloween . Until our next adventure, stay safe and stay vigilant.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Venture with us into the swaying sawgrass and serpentine waterways of the Florida Everglades, where the story of America's indomitable spirit is not written in ink, but in the resolve of the Miccosukee Indian Tribe. In this installment of "Hometown History Podcast," we delve into the extraordinary saga of the only Native American tribe that never bowed to the might of the U.S. Government — the Seminole tribe, specifically the steadfast Miccosukee community. Imagine a people so resilient that their spirit remains untamed by the encroachments of time and governance, their culture unassimilated into the folds of a nation's expansion.
The Miccosukee Indians, ensconced in the impenetrable bastion of the Everglades, held their ground until 1962. That year marked not a surrender, but a recognition — an acknowledgment of their enduring sovereignty by the United States Government. This episode is not just a history lesson; it's a tribute to the undying tenacity of a people whose roots are as deep and intricate as the wetland wilderness they call home. Join us for this and more tales of unwavering human spirit at itshometownhistory.com, where the past is never defeated, only understood.
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Imagine cruising down a quaint downtown street where the hum of your car treads across a melody etched in asphalt, a line that doesn't just divide two states but strums the strings of a rich musical heritage. In this episode of "Hometown History Podcast," we journey to the heart of northeastern Tennessee and into the embrace of Virginia, to a place where country music pulses in the very air and the state line runs like a refrain beneath the lives of those who call this place home.
As I steered through this tuneful corridor, with Tennessee on my right and Virginia on my left, I was struck by the everyday realities of living divided by a line – a line that means different taxes, different laws, and yet, a shared rhythm of life. This isn't merely a tale of geographical boundaries; it's an exploration of how music became the common language of a community straddling two worlds. We'll delve into the stories of shop owners whose businesses hum to the rhythm of two different drummers, and how the birthplace of country music harmonizes these twin experiences into a singular, vibrant culture.
For more stories that echo the untold tales of America's streets, visit us at itshometownhistory.com, where every line tells a story and every story sings a song.
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Step into the world of southern Indiana, a place not forged by the clanging hammers of industry or the smokestacks of factories, but transformed by the delicate strokes of a paintbrush and the vision of one man. Today's episode of "Hometown History Podcast" paints a portrait of how art can become the economic and cultural cornerstone of a community. We're diving into the story of T.C. Steele, an artist whose influence reached far beyond the canvas, coloring the very essence of a county with his legacy.
T.C. Steele's "House of the Singing Winds" became more than just an artist's abode; it became a symbol of inspiration and the magnetic pull of beauty that drew people from all over to witness the harmonious blend of art and nature. As we explore the vibrant impact Steele had on his hometown, we invite you to see how a single individual's passion can alter the trajectory of an entire region. This isn't just a tale of economic development; it's a celebration of cultural enrichment and the enduring power of art to shape the identity of a place.
Join us on this picturesque journey at itshometownhistory.com, where the stories of yesterday continue to inspire us today. And for those who are intrigued by the color and beauty of T.C. Steele's world, further exploration awaits at the Indiana Museum site.
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This Easter, join Shane Waters on a whimsical adventure featuring 13 podcasters as they share true stories of con artists and fake deaths. Delve into the magical world of the Enchanted Easterlands, where you’ll encounter peculiar characters and captivating true crime tales. Discover the history and origins of Easter, and experience a journey like no other.
It’s an extra special, two part, more than two-hour, Easter event.
Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance:
Part 1:
- Crimelines
- Rotten to the Core
- Frightful
- Mind over Murder
- The Trail Went Cold
- The Hidden Staircase
- Hometown History
- Wicked Deeds
- Obscura: A True Crime Podcast
- Hillbilly Horror Stories
- History Goes Bump
- Judgy Crime Girls
- Foul Play: Crime Series
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
This Easter, join Shane Waters on a whimsical adventure featuring 13 podcasters as they share true stories of con artists and fake deaths. Delve into the magical world of the Enchanted Easterlands, where you’ll encounter peculiar characters and captivating true crime tales. Discover the history and origins of Easter, and experience a journey like no other.
It’s an extra special, two part, more than two-hour, Easter event.
Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance:
Part 1:
- Crimelines
- Rotten to the Core
- Frightful
- Mind over Murder
- The Trail Went Cold
- The Hidden Staircase
- Hometown History
- Wicked Deeds
- Obscura: A True Crime Podcast
- Hillbilly Horror Stories
- History Goes Bump
- Judgy Crime Girls
- Foul Play: Crime Series
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Imagine standing knee-deep in a frigid river, the current tugging at your boots, eyes narrowed in focus as you swirl a pan of silt and water – you’re not just looking for gold, you’re traveling back in time. In today's episode of "Hometown History Podcast," we're taking you along on a unique adventure that transcends the pages of history books and enters the tangible realm of experience.
Join me, along with my companions Brent and Nick, as we recount the day we ventured into the heart of Washington to try our hands at the age-old pursuit of gold panning. As we trace the ripples of the river, we also trace the ripples of history, connecting with the legions of 19th-century prospectors who flocked to these waterways with dreams of striking it rich. We'll share the thrills, the chills, and the surprisingly profound reflections that sprang from this immersive journey into the past.
This isn't just a story about searching for precious metal; it's a testament to the enduring human spirit, the allure of the unknown, and the timeless bond between people and the land. So, grab your headphones and prepare to be whisked away on a gold-tinged adventure that's sure to enrich your day. We welcome you to continue the journey with us at our website, itshometownhistory.com, where the past is always present.
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In the heart of southern Indiana, nestled among the echoes of melodies and strings, lies a monument to the father of Bluegrass—Bill Monroe. As we step inside his Bluegrass Hall of Fame Museum, I invite you to tune your ears to the notes of a trivia that harmonizes with the strings of American music history. Take a moment, listen closely; can you guess the answers to our musical queries? Who penned the flip side of Elvis Presley's first record, a tune that would help launch the career of the King of Rock 'n' Roll? Who stood as the idol for none other than Willie Nelson, the Red Headed Stranger, who himself would become a legend?
The answers lie within the walls of this museum, amidst Bill Monroe's legacy, where the roots of American music delve deep into the fertile soil of tradition and innovation. This episode is a melodic journey, a tribute to the man whose life was a symphony of pioneering spirit and whose influence resonated far beyond the bluegrass genre. We'll explore how Monroe's mastery of the mandolin and his vision for a new sound sowed the seeds for generations of musicians. From Elvis's rockabilly rhythms to Willie Nelson's country crooning, Monroe's impact can be heard, often in the most unexpected places.
So, let your imagination wander through exhibits that chronicle the life of a legend, and let the sound of Monroe's music transport you back to a time when bluegrass was just beginning to bud. This is an episode for the music lovers, the history buffs, and everyone who believes in the power of a song to tell the story of its people. For those yearning to learn more and experience the stories behind the songs, we invite you to join us online at itshometownhistory.com. Gather 'round as we celebrate the heritage of bluegrass and the man who started it all—Bill Monroe.
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Abraham Lincoln's legacy looms large, not just in the annals of history, but also in the unique and fascinating details that distinguish his life's story. Did you know that our 16th president wasn't just a leader but a man of towering height, innovative mind, and even athletic prowess? In this second part of our journey through Lincoln's early years, we dive into the lesser-known aspects of his life that contribute to the rich tapestry of his legend.
In this episode, we're not only walking through the humble beginnings at Lincoln's Boyhood National Memorial, but we're also unearthing the trivia that humanizes an icon. Lincoln's height, well-known among Americans, is just the tip of the iceberg. Imagine the president, tall and stoic, with the patent for a device to lift boats over shoals in his back pocket. Picture him as a young man, part of the rough-and-tumble world of wrestling, now honored among greats in the Wrestling Hall of Fame. These facets of his life add depth to the image of a president who has become synonymous with the American spirit of perseverance and ingenuity. Join us as we continue to explore the early environment and experiences that shaped this remarkable figure.
We'll sift through stories, myths, and the palpable sense of Lincoln's enduring presence that still whispers through the trees of his boyhood home. For those who are compelled by the spirit of discovery and wish to delve further into the life and times of Abraham Lincoln, visit us at itshometownhistory.com. Let's honor the memory of a man who was much more than a president—he was a symbol of hope, a fountain of ingenuity, and a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
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Have you ever felt the presence of greatness, not in grand halls or towering monuments, but in the quiet, unassuming corners of the world? This is the essence of what I discovered at Abraham Lincoln's Boyhood National Memorial. Our 16th president, a man who shaped the fabric of American history, once roamed these woods and fields as a child, his future unwritten but destined for greatness. Lincoln, alongside Mark Twain, stands as a titan in the annals of American lore—and it's as if I stumble upon their memories at every turn.
In this episode, we embark on a journey back to the early 19th century, to the humble Indiana frontier that molded a young Abraham Lincoln. His formative years, spent in the simplicity of rural life, were laden with the experiences that would one day forge a leader of profound empathy and vision. We'll delve into the everyday moments that, though seemingly ordinary, were the threads from which the tapestry of Lincoln's character was woven. Through stories, reflections, and perhaps the lingering spirit of Lincoln himself, we'll gain a deeper understanding of how the boy became a man synonymous with wisdom and courage.
So join us as we explore the soil that nourished the roots of a legend. And if you're intrigued to learn more about the memorial that captures the simplicity and profundity of Lincoln's youth, stay tuned for the details, reflections, and historical insights that breathe life into our past. To continue this journey into the heart of American history and to walk in the footsteps of giants, visit us at itshometownhistory.com. Let's uncover the stories etched in the landscapes of our nation together.
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The saga of Lakeview High School's indomitable 1963 football team continues in this concluding episode. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes—or, in this case, the dust—this team's story is a profound reminder of the power of perseverance and community. In the face of a divided nation, the young athletes of a small segregated school in South Carolina not only chased a ball across a chalked field but also, perhaps without fully realizing it, ran towards history, clinching a state championship against all odds.
This installment is a tribute to those who refused to let the legacy of Lakeview's champions fade into the dust from which they once played. We delve deeper into the transformation of a desolate "dust bowl" into a center pulsing with life and hope. Bennie Sulton, the esteemed team captain, Reverend Charles Jackson, whose youthful experiences at Lakeview shaped his path, and Keller Kissam, whose vision helped rejuvenate the old high school, return to share their part in this remarkable turnaround. Join us as we listen to the voices that continue to echo through Lakeview's halls and fields, carrying the strength of unity and the resolve to rise above.
The story of the 1963 Lakeview High School Football Team is more than a nostalgic look back; it's a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together for a cause greater than themselves. To hear the full story, to feel the heartbeat of Lakeview, and to connect with the past that informs our future, make your way to itshometownhistory.com. The past is always speaking—let's listen together.
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Imagine stepping onto a football field, where the echo of your footsteps stirs not just the dust beneath your feet, but the whispers of history. This isn't any ordinary field; it's "the dust bowl," the unlikely crucible for the 1963 Lakeview High School South Carolina State Championship Football Team—a team that triumphed not only in sport but in spirit, during the turbulent times of segregation. In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of the Lakeview heroes who carved victory from the adversity of their times.
As we journey back to 1963, we meet the legends themselves. Bennie Sulton, the inspiring team captain, Reverend Charles Jackson, a beacon of faith and former student, and Keller Kissam, whose passion turned the old high school into a beacon of community strength. These individuals join us to unfold the narrative of a team whose legacy is etched deep in the heart of South Carolina. This is more than a sports story—it's a tale of unity, resilience, and the enduring power of community. In part one of this two-part series, we listen to voices laden with wisdom and experience as they share not just memories of a championship long past but a vision that transformed "the dust bowl" into a field of dreams.
As we honor Black History Month, we celebrate the legacies that shape our present, and we invite you to step into the story of the Lakeview High School Football Team—a story of victory against all odds. For an immersive experience and to delve deeper into the layers of this incredible story, visit our website at itshometownhistory.com. Let's honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future, together. Stay tuned for the next installment of this awe-inspiring tale.
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In our final chapter on the enigmatic history of New Harmony, Indiana, we pivot from past ideals to the present fascination with communal living. Have you ever toyed with the idea of joining or creating a commune? Have you pondered over the mechanisms that drive such communities or the reasons behind their often-inevitable demise? If these thoughts have ever crossed your mind, you're in the right place. Welcome to part three of our series on utopian dreams. Communes stir a mix of curiosity and skepticism. They challenge the status quo, proposing alternative ways of living based on shared resources and collective decision-making.
Yet, as history shows, they are fraught with challenges. We dissect the intricate dynamics of communal societies, analyzing the delicate balance between common good and individual needs, and what leads to their unraveling. The story of New Harmony provides a compelling case study of the human yearning for utopia and the practicalities that often undercut it. Join us as we conclude our journey through the experiment of The Harmonists and what their legacy teaches us about human nature and the quest for a perfect society.
For those of you intrigued by the tales of bygone eras and their impact on today's quest for a better world, remember to visit our website at itshometownhistory.com. Here, history isn't just remembered; it's lived. Let's keep exploring the mysteries of the past together, finding new stories and sharing old lessons in the endlessly fascinating chronicle of humanity.
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…12 dates …
…14 love gone wrong stories…
…Will YOU be my Valentine?
This Valentine’s Day, prepare for a unique podcast experience! Shane Waters will introduce 14 crime podcast hosts. Each host brings a new, love gone wrong true story to mix. It’s an extra special, two part, more than two-hour, Valentine event.
Part 2 of 2.
Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance:
In this Part 2 Episode:
1. Sirens
2. The Trail Went Cold
3. Method and Madness
4. True Crime Cases with Lanie
5. Crimelines
6. Love Murder
7. Foul Play: Crime Series
In the Part 1 Episode:
1. Murder She Told
2. True Crime Island
3. Hillbilly Horror Stories
4. Tapes from the Darkside
5. Coffee and Cases
6. Gone Cold – Texas True Crime
7. Live, Laugh, Larceny
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
…12 dates …
…14 love gone wrong stories…
…Will YOU be my Valentine?
This Valentine’s Day, prepare for a unique podcast experience! Shane Waters will introduce 14 crime podcast hosts. Each host brings a new, love gone wrong true story to mix. It’s an extra special, two part, more than two-hour, Valentine event.
Part 1 of 2.
Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance:
In this Part 1 Episode:
1. Murder She Told
2. True Crime Island
3. Hillbilly Horror Stories
4. Tapes from the Darkside
5. Coffee and Cases
6. Gone Cold – Texas True Crime
7. Live, Laugh, Larceny
In the next Part 2 Episode:
1. Sirens
2. The Trail Went Cold
3. Method and Madness
4. True Crime Cases with Lanie
5. Crimelines
6. Love Murder
7. Foul Play: Crime Series
Today Jennifer Greene from the University of Southern Indiana is back with us. Jennifer is going to give us a little more insight on New Harmony, The Harmonist, and there way of life.
Episode 2 of 3.
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I'm talking with Jennifer Greene today about one of my favorite hometowns in all of America - New Harmony, Indiana. New Harmony was founded by a religious commune nearly 200 years ago and despite the fact that only 700 people live there, is one of the biggest tourist destinations in all of Indiana.
Jennifer is a history professor at the University of Southern Indiana, and one of my favorite guests. She also serves as the school's Reference & Archives Librarian.
Episode 1 of 3.
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Long time listeners will know that we’ve been all over the country finding stories - from Florida to Washington State, from Texas to Minneapolis. All this time, there’s been one at the end of our street - literally at the end of the street, that we haven’t covered.
Two blocks from our office, a small circle of about a dozen log cabins, marks the spot of an 1826 treaty between the Potawatomi and Miami Indian Nations and the U.S. Government.
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Last episode we sat down with Brandon at the Beat Museum in San Francisco to learn more about the Beat Movement and the way it forever changed the way Americans have thought about not only literature but life itself.
This episode, we’re going to be looking specifically at the relationship between this movement and the city of San Francisco, which has been home to so many interesting people and scenes over the years.
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In High School I read Jack Kerouac’s novel On the Road, like everybody else.
So, when we were in San Francisco this past spring we stopped at the Beat Museum downtown, to learn more about the movement Kerouac helped found a half century ago.
In this episode we speak with Beat Museum guide and poet Brandon Loberg about the museum and the Beat Movement generally.
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After our episode on “the Conqueror’s Curse,” we invited Richard Moreno back to the studio to talk more about the history of the city of Reno. One of the reasons I invited Richard back was to help introduce us to the real Reno, which was known for decades as the divorce capital of America.
Divorce was so central to Reno’s identity that getting divorced here was known as getting “Reno-vated.”
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You can find Shane's other podcasts Foul Play: Crime Series and Mystery Inc here!
Some would say the 1956 movie, The Conqueror, was cursed from the beginning.
It had a terrible script, an unhappy crew, and a producer, in Howard Hughes, who would soon lose his mind to obsessive compulsive disorder and any number of other unknown mental challenges. Within two years, he quit wearing clothes or cutting his nails, and would eat only three different foods - chicken, chocolate, and milk. Hughes quit bathing and bought every copy of The Conqueror for the modern-day equivalent of 120 million dollars. In order to punish himself for this commercial and critical flop, he sat alone watching it on repeat, naked in his chair, while peeing into Mason jars.
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This episode will be a little different in that we’ll be taking you deep underground in Virginia City. This is the city where Mark Twain worked at a local paper in his younger years and became the writer we know and love today. It’s also the location of one of the biggest silver strikes in history.
The tour begins in the back of this building on main street. A pair of doors opens at the back of the saloon, and you simply walk underground.
Our guide, Spencer, agreed to be mic’d for our tour, to allow us to share it with you. We’ve included most of that tour in this episode, and hope that you enjoy it as much as we did.
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From the same team that brings you Hometown History, we want to introduce you to Shane's new show Mystery Inc.
If you enjoy talking about shady mysteries, Aliens, murder, legends, and of course the occasional tea - then Mystery Inc is the podcast for you! Together brothers Shane and Josh Waters travel in their Mystery Machine Tesla scouting out some of the world’s best mysteries to share them here with you on Mystery Inc - which can be found wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Josh is also the host of Rotten to the Core.
In this episode, Shane visits the former lumber town of Crescent City, California, right at the edge of the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Among other things, this quiet coastal village is known for having been hit by multiple tsunamis. Join me as I sit down with the Coordinator of the Del Norte County Historical Society to learn more.
Link to The Extraordinary Voyage of Kamome.
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When things go as well as they did during the Pig War, it can be easy to forget just how wrong they could have gone. I asked former Chief of Interpretation and Historian for the San Juan Island National Historical Park, Mike Vouri, how the Pig War might have ended otherwise.
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Have you ever had a fight with a family member over something stupid?
Better yet, have you ever had that fight, only to realize it wasn’t so stupid after all? That behind that excuse for a fight was a real fight just waiting to be had?
That’s basically the story of the Pig War.
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Listen to Shane's true crime podcast Foul Play: Crime Series
After writing "On The Road," and before it was published, Jack Kerouac spent a long summer on Desolation Peak in what is now the North Cascades National Park. We'll be hearing from Kerouac and also our favorite Ranger, Jim Burnett. You can find Jim's books on Amazon or through his website.
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Before we explore Crater Lake National Park, I’d like to share a few pieces of general advice. I hope this series has inspired you to see more of our national parks, so I asked Jim and Will from More Than Just Parks to offer a few tips for those of us who are just getting started.
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The Civilian Conservation Corps was founded by Franklin Roosevelt in 1933, and operated for roughly a decade until the program was ended in 1942.
In this episode, Jim and Will Pattiz, from More Than Just Parks, explain why they believe America should resurrect this popular conservation initiative.
If you enjoy Hometown History, I suggest listening to another podcast our team creates called The Peripheral. Join host Justin Evans with a guest as they talk about some of their darkest and most cringe worthy moments in life to educate, entertain, or to simply release into the world. Every episode has a new topic or theme where nothing is considered taboo.
If you're looking to learn about the history of the Lake Mead National Recreational Area and what to expect if you go, this will be an episode you won't want to miss.
Ad-free episodes are available on our Apple Premium Channel. You can support our show by joining our Patreon.
Hometown History can be found on all these podcasting platforms.
…1 campfire…
…1 dark forest…
…31 bone-chilling stories…
…Will YOU survive the night?
This Halloween season, enter the woods for a unique and truly epic podcast experience! Around the campfire Shane Waters will introduce 31 crime podcast hosts. Each host brings a new, nerve-wracking true story to the circle. It’s an extra special, two part, five-hour, Halloween event, but before hitting play you might want to ask yourself…can you really handle this much murder and mayhem?
So, pull up to the fire and brace yourself for ‘A Nightmare Before Halloween’
…but be warned…
…bad things happen in these woods….
Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance:
In this Part 2 Episode:
-
True Crime Island [https://tinyurl.com/y6kk2npj]
-
Based on a True Story [https://tinyurl.com/37axzn5z]
-
The Asian Madness Podcast [https://tinyurl.com/yckkxbjn]
-
Sistas Who Kill [https://linktr.ee/Sistas.Who.Kill.Podcast]
-
Hometown History [https://link.chtbl.com/hometownhistory]
-
Coffee and Cases [https://linktr.ee/coffeeandcases]
-
Military Murder [https://tinyurl.com/yc5fxjyh]
-
Dystopian Simulation Radio [https://tinyurl.com/khpw786w]
-
Cults, Crimes & Cabernet [https://linktr.ee/cultscrimesandcabernet]
-
Morbidology [https://tinyurl.com/mshyvxyt]
-
Dark Pountine [https://tinyurl.com/ycydanm9]
-
Hillbilly Horror Stories [https://tinyurl.com/567vxrkz]
-
True Consequences [https://tinyurl.com/39fpfv3h]
-
Gone Cold [https://tinyurl.com/ytzxudt8]
-
Crime Stories with Nancy Grace & Crime Online [https://tinyurl.com/3dxp47wf]
-
True Crime IRL & True Crime Sleep Stories [https://tinyurl.com/ykzwmnxr]
In the last Part 1 Episode:
-
Foul Play: Crime Series [https://link.chtbl.com/foulplay]
-
Murder She Told [https://tinyurl.com/55473exk]
-
Crime Salad [https://tinyurl.com/4pbtdtpc]
-
Crimelines [https://linktr.ee/crimelines]
-
Frightful [https://link.chtbl.com/frightful]
-
Reverie True Crime [https://linktr.ee/paigeelmore]
-
Rotten to the Core [https://link.chtbl.com/Rotten]
-
The Trail Went Cold [https://tinyurl.com/2zydj3y]
-
Once Upon A Crime [https://www.truecrimepodcast.com]
-
Criminology [https://tinyurl.com/yvuu9u8d]
-
The Peripheral & Generation Why [https://link.chtbl.com/ThePeripheral]
-
Live, Laugh, Larceny [https://linktr.ee/Live.Laugh.Larceny.Podcast]
-
The Hidden Staircase [https://link.chtbl.com/TheHiddenStaircase]
-
True Crime Cases with Lanie & It's Haunted...What Now? [https://linktr.ee/LanieHobbs]
-
Obscura: A True Crime Podcast & Disaster [https://link.chtbl.com/obscura]
…1 campfire…
…1 dark forest…
…31 bone-chilling stories…
…Will YOU survive the night?
This Halloween season, enter the woods for a unique and truly epic podcast experience! Around the campfire Shane Waters will introduce 31 crime podcast host. Each host brings a new, nerve-wracking true story to the circle. It’s an extra special, two part, five-hour, Halloween event, but before hitting play you might want to ask yourself…can you really handle this much murder and mayhem?
So, pull up to the fire and brace yourself for ‘A Nightmare Before Halloween’
…but be warned…
…bad things happen in these woods….
Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance:
In this Part 1 Episode:
-
Foul Play: Crime Series [https://link.chtbl.com/foulplay]
-
Murder She Told [https://tinyurl.com/55473exk]
-
Crime Salad [https://tinyurl.com/4pbtdtpc]
-
Crimelines [https://linktr.ee/crimelines]
-
Frightful [https://link.chtbl.com/frightful]
-
Reverie True Crime [https://linktr.ee/paigeelmore]
-
Rotten to the Core [https://link.chtbl.com/Rotten]
-
The Trail Went Cold [https://tinyurl.com/2zydj3y]
-
Once Upon A Crime [https://www.truecrimepodcast.com]
-
Criminology [https://tinyurl.com/yvuu9u8d]
-
The Peripheral & Generation Why [https://link.chtbl.com/ThePeripheral]
-
Live, Laugh, Larceny [https://linktr.ee/Live.Laugh.Larceny.Podcast]
-
The Hidden Staircase [https://link.chtbl.com/TheHiddenStaircase]
-
True Crime Cases with Lanie & It's Haunted...What Now? [https://linktr.ee/LanieHobbs]
-
Obscura: A True Crime Podcast & Disaster [https://link.chtbl.com/obscura]
In the next Part 2 Episode:
-
True Crime Island [https://tinyurl.com/y6kk2npj]
-
Based on a True Story [https://tinyurl.com/37axzn5z]
-
The Asian Madness Podcast [https://tinyurl.com/yckkxbjn]
-
Sistas Who Kill [https://linktr.ee/Sistas.Who.Kill.Podcast]
-
Hometown History [https://link.chtbl.com/hometownhistory]
-
Coffee and Cases [https://linktr.ee/coffeeandcases]
-
Military Murder [https://tinyurl.com/yc5fxjyh]
-
Dystopian Simulation Radio [https://tinyurl.com/khpw786w]
-
Cults, Crimes & Cabernet [https://linktr.ee/cultscrimesandcabernet]
-
Morbidology [https://tinyurl.com/mshyvxyt]
-
Dark Pountine [https://tinyurl.com/ycydanm9]
-
Hillbilly Horror Stories [https://tinyurl.com/567vxrkz]
-
True Consequences [https://tinyurl.com/39fpfv3h]
-
Gone Cold [https://tinyurl.com/ytzxudt8]
-
Crime Stories with Nancy Grace & Crime Online [https://tinyurl.com/3dxp47wf]
-
True Crime IRL & True Crime Sleep Stories [https://tinyurl.com/ykzwmnxr]
In 1820, the well-known British writer, Sydney Smith, mocked the United States for its lack of culture and sophistication:
In the four quarters of the globe, who reads an American book? or goes to an American play? or looks at an American picture or statue?"
This was a common sentiment at that time. America was a young country, barely forty years old, and most Europeans viewed it as a kind of low-brow, hillbilly backwater.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
-Find us on all podcasting platforms: https://link.chtbl.com/hometownhistory
-Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
-Check out our other podcasts: itsarclightmedia.com
There’s a scene in the show Mad Men that shook me up the first time I saw it. It’s probably not the one you think.
In the very first episode, the Draper family picnics along the interstate. The grass is green, the birds are out, and a small portable radio plays softly on a red and white checkered blanket. It’s a deeply nostalgic picture of 1960s America.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
-Find us on all podcasting platforms: https://link.chtbl.com/hometownhistory
-Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
-Check out our other podcasts: itsarclightmedia.com
One of my favorite movies as a kid was The Lorax. When I first saw The Lorax, I had some sense that it was about protecting the environment. But it’s more than a cartoon. It’s a thinly veiled environmental manifesto. I didn’t realize, until I was older, that it was also strange masterpiece of historical fiction.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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-Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
-Check out our other podcasts: itsarclightmedia.com
Have you ever heard the saying that “Life imitates art”?
The person who coined this phrase was Oscar Wilde, the 19th century poet. Some say he was the first modern celebrity. What Wilde meant was simply that art often shows us the world we want to live in, more than the world we actually have. And sometimes, art can be so compelling and attractive that we change our reality to match.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
-Find us on all podcasting platforms: https://link.chtbl.com/hometownhistory
-Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
-Check out our other podcasts: itsarclightmedia.com
There’s not much in life you can understand without context.
When it comes to the systematic destruction of our planet during the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, the context is this – for the first 300,000 years of human history, nature, as former Laker coach Pat Riley might put it, “kicked our ass.”
Nature had us in a choke hold from the first cave to the first cafe, with famine, disease, natural disasters, and the occasional haymaker of a plague, bubonic, choleric, or otherwise.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
-Find us on all podcasting platforms: https://link.chtbl.com/hometownhistory
-Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
-Check out our other podcasts: itsarclightmedia.com
Episode Sponsor:
- Go to Talkspace.com. Make sure to use the code HOMETOWN to get $100 off of your first month and show your support for the show.
In my opinion, the single best online resource for visiting America’s national parks, or even appreciating them from afar, is a site called More Than Just Parks. You can find it at morethanjustparks.com. This site is run by two brothers, Will and Jim Pattiz, who will be joining us today.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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-Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
-Check out our other podcasts: itsarclightmedia.com
Before we jump back into the story of the Levi and Catharine Coffin, the so-called “President” and first-lady of the Underground Railroad, I thought it’d be helpful to review some of the code words common to the movement. Most of these will be intuitive once you get the hang of the railroad theme
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Central Region Director of the Indiana State Museum system. Joanna also manages the Levi & Catharine Coffin State Historic Site, which is where we are today. This small brick home has been called the Underground Railroad's "Grand Central Station." Over a twenty span, from 1826 to 1847, more than 2,000 slaves stopped here on their way north to Canada – and freedom.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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-Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
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If you were with us last episode you’ll recognize the voice of Erin Adams, Director of Education at Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, the former home of our 7th President, and current museum dedicated to preserving his life story. Erin will be with us again this episode as we consider Jackson's presidential legacy
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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What’s the first step in becoming the most powerful man in America?
For our 7th president, Andrew Jackson, the first step in his journey to prominence began with the purchase of his first slave.
I sat down with Erin Adams, Director of Education at Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, a museum on the premises of the president’s former home, to learn more.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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I’d like to introduce one of my favorite voices among anyone I’ve ever interviewed.
Parker's Crossroads, Tennessee is a small town of about 284 people, but it has a big history. This place factored in the life of one of the most controversial figures in all of American history, the Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forest, who would become the first Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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-Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
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When you think of Ancient Greece, what images pop into your head?
You probably think of the Olympics and philosophers like Plato and Socrates. You might think of stories like the Odyssey and the Iliad that you were forced to read in high school. And if you close your eyes and picture one Ancient Greek building, I would bet you are picturing the Parthenon, the iconic temple complex located on the high rocky hilltop overlooking the city of Athens. Surrounded by a towering ring of white marble pillars, this structure has become a picturesque symbol of Ancient Greece and, by extension, of Greek democracy.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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That’s the voice of Dewey Phillips hosting his radio show called “Red, Hot & Blue,” on WHBQ, a Memphis station. In the 1950s, more than 100,000 people listened to his primetime slot every day.
If you couldn’t make out what Dewey was saying, don’t feel bad. I had to listen to it a few times myself. But for Memphians of that era, Dewey’s frantic and crazed cadence was just part of the experience.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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In 2015, musical artist Jack White paid $300,000 for a 78-rpm record at auction. The record was of Elvis Presley singing the songs “My Happiness” and “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin.” It was the first record Elvis ever made.
That $300,000 price tag is a far cry from the $4 that Elvis originally paid to make the record at Sun Studio, a place I visited recently.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
-Find us on all podcasting platforms: https://link.chtbl.com/hometownhistory
-Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
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Episode Sponsor:
-go to Talkspace.com. Make sure to use the code HOMETOWN to get $100 off of your first month
You’re hearing the song “Rocket 88,” widely considered to be the first rock and roll song ever recorded. It was recorded here, at Sun Studio, by Jackie Brenston and His Delta Cats. The Delta Cats included Ike Turner, just one of the many legendary musicians to record here.
Artists from many genres such as B.B. King, Roy Orbison, and Rufus Thomas all used Sun Studio. It was the home to one of the most legendary nights in music history when the Million Dollar Quartet – consisting of Elvis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis – recorded a spontaneous jam session.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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In December 1864, Confederate troops were moving toward Nashville with a plan. Union troops had occupied this southern city for the last two years, and Lieutenant General John Bell Hood wanted to take it back.
Luckily, the Union army had prepared for this very moment by building a 180,000 square-foot fortress near downtown Nashville called Fort Negley
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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Right nowRitual is offering my listeners 10% off your first three months. Visitritual.com/HOMETOWN
Those are a few lines from a song called “Beale Street Blues.” The most famous performance of that song came from Louis Armstrong, but it was written by a man named W.C. Handy, who called himself the “Father of the Blues.”
Beale Street, of course, runs through Memphis, Tennessee, where Handy lived when he wrote most of his music. The blues were a cultural phenomenon in the early 1900s that changed American music forever and touched many other musical genres.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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It was raining on the day of the execution. As Fletcher described it,
The rain during the forenoon had the effect of making the streets and almost every other place exceedingly sloppy and muddy. The ground having recently been frozen, the mud was not very deep, but every place was very slippery.
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Before it was called Richvalley, the community the French family was living in was known as Keller Station. Isaac Keller and his brother owned large tracts of land in this area, as well a popular Inn and Tavern that was the social hub of that neighborhood. Isaac Keller actually owned the land that the Frenches, and now the Hubbards, had been living on.
On their way to the cabin, the posse locates Keller; they also find a doctor, and they bring both men with them.
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Aaron French moved in from Cincinnati.
He had only been here approximately 6 Months. So he himself was a transient character, he had attempted to be a businessman in Cincinnati, involved in the meat packing industry and went broke. And so he decided to maybe , try his hand at farming.
-Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
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I remember the first time I tried to visit the French family grave, just outside of Wabash, Indiana.
It was a Sunday, in the middle of the winter, one day before the mini-blizzard that closed county schools and buried every car on Market Street up to its door handles.
I had just moved into town, and I was feeling the things you feel when you move someplace new. I was wondering if the people were nice, and I thought of the friends I hoped to make. I wondered if the new job would work out, and I hoped that Wabash was a good place to call home.
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The sky to the west of the small town of Peshtigo (PESH-ti-go [not pesh-TEE-go]), Wisconsin glowed red before the sunrise, on the morning of October 8th, 1871. It was Sunday, and when the local priest stepped out of his church to greet parishioners, the air was smoky and white ash fell like snow.
The priest, whose name was Peter Pernin, turned and went back into the church and ran to the front of the sanctuary. He grabbed the holy tabernacle, the small cabinet that holds the Catholic eucharist.
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The day after leaving Copper County, I took the obligatory cruise of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. It might be the one thing up here that people from outside the UP are likely to have heard of. And these open cliff faces, roughly 200 feet high, are truly spectacular. But they’re especially pictured in more ways than one. First, they have mineral stains covering their face, due to the huge amount of metal in the ground up here. There’s red and orange, from iron; blue and green, from copper; brown and black, from manganese; white, from limonite, and other colors besides.
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That sound you hear in the background is the hoist control of the Quincy Mine just outside Hancock, Michigan, where we’re heading today.
Quincy is sort of the Madison Square Garden of the northern Michigan ghost mining world. During its lifetime, the Quincy was the 2nd most profitable mine in Keweenaw County. Whereas the Adventure Mine, which was huge, was 7 levels deep, the Quincy Mine is 92 levels deep – that’s two full miles into the ground.
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So, the motel that I stayed at in Eagle Harbor, Fletchy's Otter Belly Lodge, formerly the Shoreline Motel, was apparently the location of well-known feud between a local doctor and the president of the most powerful mine in Michigan. Because it speaks to some of the tensions that existed between the mining companies and the general population, I’ll add a brief episode to Black Label, telling that story.
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One of the things I’d heard about my next stop, Phoenix, Michigan, was that it was home to a well-known bridge troll – but instead of a bridge, it was a 148-year-old general store, and instead of a troll, it was an 87-year woman who owned the store and more or less lived in the front window, scowling at passerby and customers alike, as her one and only hobby.
Find us on all platforms: https://link.chtbl.com/hometownhistory
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Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
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The following morning, my first real stop across the canal, apart from gawking at random pieces of rotting machinery, was the ghost town of Gregoryville – which is of a very different sort than the one at Fayette. As far as I could tell, looking out from the empty gravel parking lot of the Maple Leaf Bar, it isn’t just the people of Gregoryville, but also the buildings, that are ghosts.
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The first mining boom in American history was not the California Gold Rush, the Klondike Gold Rush, or any other gold rush. The first mining boom in American history was the copper rush of the uppermost part of the Upper Peninsula, the Keweenaw peninsula. And by the time it was over, this boom actually had a greater economic impact than either of those gold rushes.
In fact, from the 1860s to the 1920s, this part of Michigan supplied over 90% of the world's copper.
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The distinctive sound of the Mackinaw Bridge is due to the grating in the two center lanes, one going each way. This grating allows air to pass through the bridge rather than pushing against it.
Part of the reason for this technology was the collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge years earlier in Washington state.
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No, there’s nothing wrong with your audio. That sound is the gateway to the best place to live in the year 2100, at least in North America. And, depending on what you like, it may be the best place right now. Or you might hate it, now and also when it’s the new environmental citadel for the coming apocalypse.
If it were its own state, this place would be the least populated state in America, by about 50%, in spite of the fact that it is larger than Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Delaware combined.
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This episode is focused less on the history of a hometown, than a hometown that specializes in history.
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is famous for tourist attractions and southern hospitality but it’s also a hotbed of local culture and storytelling.
There are more than two dozen museums and galleries in the area, and whatever your interests happen to be, there is likely something that will appeal to you. A personal favorite of mine, for obvious reasons, is the Alcatraz East Crime Museum, and on this most recent visit I was able to sit down with the head of their collection.
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Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
Episode Sponsor:
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I don’t know a better way to introduce this episode than by just saying the Biltmore estate is one of my favorite places in the world.
It’s the largest private home in the United States and it’s simply unrivaled on this continent for old world beauty and elegance.
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The Cherokee don’t believe in signatures.
Who can blame them?
In 1763, the British signed a proclamation preventing white colonization west of the Appalachian divide.
It happened anyway.
In 1785, the United States government signed the Treaty of Hopewell, ensuring that no more U.S. citizens would settle on Cherokee land.
They did it anyway.
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The Cherokee don’t believe in signatures.
Who can blame them?
In 1763, the British signed a proclamation preventing white colonization west of the Appalachian divide.
It happened anyway.
In 1785, the United States government signed the Treaty of Hopewell, ensuring that no more U.S. citizens would settle on Cherokee land.
They did it anyway.
Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
Check out our other podcasts: itsarclightmedia.com
Episode Sponsors:
- Adam & Eve, get 50% off 1 item with promocode HOMETOWN at https://bit.ly/3u37EiT
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On a warm summer day in 1900, the village idiot of Oak Ridge, Tennessee laid on his back in the middle of the woods and heard the voice of God.
Returning home, he told his wife:
In the woods, as I lay on the ground and looked up into the sky, there came to me a voice as loud and as sharp as thunder. The voice told me to sleep with my head on the ground for 40 nights and I would be shown visions of what the future holds for this land.
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On a warm summer day in 1900, the village idiot of Oak Ridge, Tennessee laid on his back in the middle of the woods and heard the voice of God.
Returning home, he told his wife:
In the woods, as I lay on the ground and looked up into the sky, there came to me a voice as loud and as sharp as thunder. The voice told me to sleep with my head on the ground for 40 nights and I would be shown visions of what the future holds for this land.
Visit us online at: Itshometownhistory.com
Support our podcast by becoming a patron at: Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
Episode Sponsor:
-Right now Ritual is offering my listeners 10% off your first three months. Visit ritual.com/HOMETOWN and turn healthy habits into a Ritual. That’s 10% off at ritual.com/HOMETOWN.
17-year-old Lepa Radić was a Yugoslavian partisan, having joined the communist party at age 15. Two years later, while tending to the wounded at the battle of Neretva, Lepa was captured and tortured for more than a week for information. She refused. Her Nazi captors sentenced her to death.
As she stood on a wooden box with a noose around her neck, the executioner gave her one last chance to provide the names of friends and allies. This is what she said:
“I am not a traitor of my people. Those whom you are asking about will reveal themselves when they have succeeded in wiping out all you evildoers, to the last man."
"Long live the Communist Party, and partisans! Fight, people, for your freedom! Do not surrender to the evildoers! I will be killed, but there are those who will avenge me!"
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In 1930, a local architect moved a 11,000 tons building in downtown Indianapolis, using hand-powered jacks and an ingenious engineering solution.
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She was known by many names - the Siren of the Shenandoah, the Rebel Joan of Arc, the Cleopatra of Secession – but when the first shots were fired at Fort Sumter in April 1861, she was just seventeen-year-old Belle Boyd of Martinsburg. By the time the Civil War was over she would be one of the most dangerous women in America.
Belle would use her beauty and charm for the cause of the Confederacy throughout the Civil War, seducing and betraying one Union man after another. Her intelligence would determine the outcome of battles, and while her cause was unjust, she remains one of the most memorable and dashing figures of the Civil War
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There are some unsolved mysteries that aren’t mysteries at all.
On the afternoon of July 10, 1981, a group of 40 townspeople surrounded a brown Chevrolet pickup truck in the small town of Skidmore, Missouri. In a short burst of gunfire they shot the man in the driver's seat to death. HIs wife was unharmed.
In total there may have been as many as 46 witnesses to the execution of Ken McElroy. No one was ever charged.
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We’ve named this episode after The Hunt for the Red October because it’s kind of like that, but instead of a Soviet submarine, the search is on for a powerful sleeper agent, known to the US government only as Dorothy. The year is 1981, and her network of associates has infiltrated the U.S. military to the extent that the Department of Defense has concerns over national security, both at home and abroad. In simpler terms, this episode is about an attempt to uncover and exterminate the presence of homosexuality in the American armed forces.
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The year is 1861 and America is in the grips of a bloody Civil War that will change it forever. In Richmond, the capital of the new Confederate States, Southern Belles and Ladies are sewing uniforms, throwing fundraising galas, and nursing injured soldiers, all with the support of young female slaves. They can’t go onto the battlefield but they’re doing the best they can to support their husbands, brothers, sweethearts, and fathers.
But in the middle of all this Southern charity is one woman who separates herself from the pack, choosing to visit the Union prisoners in Libby Prison rather than the injured Confederates in the hospitals. She takes them books, food, and anything else that could comfort them, despite the fact that as a wealthy white Southerner, she is the natural enemy of the Yankee.
And because she looks the part – expensive clothes, genteel accent, black servants – no one thinks to question her charity. That is their first mistake. Because this woman is not like her peers. She is not a loyal Southerner, nor is she pro-Slavery. Her name is Elizabeth Van Lew, and, by the end of the war, Ulysses S. Grant will call her the “source of the most valuable information received from Richmond during the war.”
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On July 17, 1904, 500 residents of Hammond, Indiana gathered together one unseasonably hot summer afternoon, wearing their Sunday best, to watch an innocent man get buried alive.
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In 1647, laborers toiling away at the Tower of London uncovered two small skeletons while clearing away rubble from a staircase.
Had the discovery been made today, scientists would have used a whole host of forensic tools, including genetic samples and family trees, to determine the identities of the remains. None of these existed back in 17th-century England; however, people still knew who the skeletons were.
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I just recently learned that NBA legend Bill Russell once came to my hometown of Marion, Indiana during the 1960's. The result of this brief stay was at once funny and inspiring, and one of the best stories ever told about basketball's greatest ever player.
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In 1922, thousands of teenagers in Manhattan went on a straw hat smashing spree that sent many of them to jail, and some of their victims to the hospital. The exact reasons for the riot are unclear, but a clue from contemporary newspaper articles suggests a probable motive, as well as a possible identity of those responsible.
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There are just times when you need a great speech. These times are rare, but they exist. This episode is about a time like this, when America need a speech and the President of the United States stood with his hat in his hand, looked at the eager crowd, and laid an absolute egg.
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On a cold morning, October 21st, 1861, an officer in the Union army named Major Henry Livermore Abbott led the 20th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment through another hopeless assault against a superior enemy force, up an isolated hill at the tip of northern Virginia, at what would become known as the Battle of Ball’s Bluff.
Sometimes the bad guys win.
Sometimes the people with the worst intentions get what they want in life and their victims lose everything, like when one unemployed German lathe operator attempted to murder the best tennis player in the world with a 9-inch boning knife in 1993 – on live TV.
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One of the most important hometowns in American history is Alexandria, Virginia. Along with being the wealthiest city in Virginia, Alexandria is home to the Institute for Defense. Analyses, the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the National Science Foundation.This city of 150,000 boasts a long list of famous residents, including Nirvana drummer, Dave Grohl, Doors front man Jim Morrison, Civil War general Robert E. Lee, and NASA rocket scientist Wernher von Braun, among many others. Alexandria was also location of some of the first fatalities of the American Civil War, when a Union officer, Col. Elmer Ellsworth, removed a large Confederate flag from the top of a local hotel called the Marshall House – a story we told in detail in last week’s episode.But none of this is the reason for Alexandria’s singular importance in American history, which Is simply that in 1797 it was not Washington DC.Let me explain.Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comSupport the show by becoming a Patron at Patreon.com/itshometownhistoryEpisode Sponsors:Grab your Liquid I.V. and get 25% off when you go to LiquidIV.com and use code HOMETOWN at checkoutGet 10% off your first month of online therapy at Betterhelp.com/hometownGet special financing at NetSuite.com/hometown
The first battle of the Civil War was the Battle of Fort Sumter, off the coast of South Carolina, in early April 1861. A week later, something like a battle erupted in the streets of Baltimore during the Pratt Street Riots, when Union soldiers faced off with a gang of Southern sympathizers during their march through the city. Four Union soldiers and 12 citizens were killed in the shooting. The next clash was a gory three-man skirmish in a staircase in a Virginian hotel, the Marshall Inn, one month later in May.Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comSupport the show by becoming a Patron at Patreon.com/itshometownhistoryEpisode Sponsors:Get a $75 credit at Indeed.com/hometown to hire great talent fastGet key nutrients - without the BS with 10% off during your first 3 months at Ritual.com/hometown Get 10% off your first month of online therapy at Betterhelp.com/hometown
Sometimes known as the 1913 Massacre, the Italian Hall Disaster was a tragedy that occurred on December 24th, 1913 in Calumet, Michigan. 73 people were crushed to death in a stampede when someone falsely shouted "fire" at a crowded Christmas party. Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comSupport our show at Patreon.com/itshometownhistoryEpisode Sponsors:Get better hydration today and get 25% off your order at LiquidIV.com and us code HOMETOWN at checkout Get key nutrients - without the B.S. with Ritual. Get 10% off your first 3 months at Ritual.com/hometown
Sometime in 1678, the mighty Prussian king Friedrich Wilhelm I, known as the “soldier king” of Europe’s most warlike state, sat in his heavily padded throne surveying his army with an ambassador from France.With a row of particularly muscular lummoxes parading before him in bright red and blue uniforms with wide golden sashes across their chests, he turned to the French ambassador and said, with a dreamy look in his eyes, "The most beautiful girl or woman in the world would be a matter of indifference to me, but tall soldiers—they are my weakness".This is the history of The Potsdam Giants. Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comSupport our show by becoming a Patron (and also receive cool perks!) at Patreon.com/itshometownhistory Episode Sponsors:Get a $75 sponsored credit to upgrade your job post to find the perfect candidate at Indeed.com/hometownGet better hydration today AND get 25% off your order of Liquid I.V. by going to LiquidIV.com and using code HOMETOWN at checkout! Hometown History is a creation of Arc Light Media in Wabash, Indiana. Learn more at itsarclightmedia.com
Part 2 - Madam C.J. Walker (born Sarah Breedlove; December 23, 1867 – May 25, 1919) was an African American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and political and social activist. She is recorded as the first female self-made millionaire in America. (Multiple sources mention that although other women might have been the first, their wealth is not as well-documented)Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comSupport our show and listen to episodes early and ad free by becoming a Patron at Patreon.com/itshometownhistoryEpisode Sponsors:Find the right candidate for your job! Get a $75 credit at Indeed.com/hometown
Part 1 - Madam C.J. Walker (born Sarah Breedlove; December 23, 1867 – May 25, 1919) was an African American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and political and social activist. She is recorded as the first female self-made millionaire in America. (Multiple sources mention that although other women might have been the first, their wealth is not as well-documented)Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comSupport our show and listen to episodes early and ad free by becoming a Patron at Patreon.com/itshometownhistoryEpisode Sponsors:Find the right candidate for your job! Get a $75 credit at Indeed.com/hometownGrab your Liquid I.V. in bulk nationwide at Costco or you can get 25% off when you go to LiquidIV.com and use code HOMETOWN at checkout
How have I never heard of Robert Smalls?I’m betting you haven’t either. Smalls was an antebellum slave and real-life action hero who fought without permission in the Civil War and pulled off one of the most daring heists in American military history.Support the show by becoming a Patron at Patreon.com/itshometownhistoryVisit us online at itshometownhistory.com Episode Sponsors:Get your new wireless plan for just $15 a month by going to Mintmobile.com/hometown
Does Blonde hair make you dumb? No, seriously does it? Let’s track the history of this stereotype and find out if it’s true.Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comEpisode Sponsors:Get 25% off your Liquid IV at Liquidiv.com and use code HOMETOWN at checkoutStart your ritual today and get 10% off during your first 3 months at Ritual.com/hometown
This is the 2nd half of our Dear H.H. Holmes episode. Meet Almeda Huiet, of Wabash County, Indiana. Possibly the first Chicago victim of infamous serial killer H.H. Holmes. Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comSupport our show by becoming a Patron! Episode Sponsors:Get your new wireless plan for only $15 a month (with FREE Shipping!) at MintMobile.com/hometown Hire the best candidates and get a FREE $75 credit at Indeed.com/hometown
Could this be the first Chicago victim of infamous serial killer H.H. Holmes? In Chicago on a cold November morning in 1888, the body of a young lady is found in a lake with her throat slit. The story of this young lady, and her untimely death, was quickly forgotten as her body was shipped back to her hometown of Wabash County, Indiana. Join Shane while he tries to unravel the mysterious death and tragic life of a young girl who very well could be the first Chicago victim of H.H. Holmes. This investigation will be used for a future series on the Foul Play podcast. Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comEpisode Sponsors:Get key nutrients without the B.S. Ritual is offering my listeners 10% off during your first 3 months. Visit Ritual.com/hometownDownload June’s Journey free today on the Apple App Store or Google PlaySupport our show by becoming a Patron!
Blackface is a form of theatrical makeup that white performers have used throughout history to portray, and demean, black people. The dark substance white performers would put on their faces was typically shoe polish, grease paint, or burnt cork, and the end result was as ridiculous and off-putting as you might imagine. Throughout history has there ever been an appropriate time someone wore blackface? Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comEpisode Sponsor: Grab your Liquid I.V. and get 25% off when you use code HOMETOWN at LiquidIV.com
Have you ever heard of The Landlord's Game, created by Elizabeth Magie? Well if you haven't, you certainly aren't alone. Elizabeth Magie's creation looked like Monopoly, but it was anti-Monopoly - more accurately, it's the original Monopoly, that was renamed and repackaged in 1906 in one of the greatest intellectual property thefts of the 20th century. Episode Sponsors:Get your new wireless plan for just $15 a month with FREE shipping at Mintmobile.com/hometownReceive a $75 job credit to upgrade your job post at Indeed.com/hometown
World history is filled with strange occurrences, from deadly fashion trends to wars fought on baseless grounds. However, none are as weird as the Cadaver Synod, which saw the decaying corpse of a pope being screamed at for hours on end by one of his successors during a bizarre posthumous trial. The Cadaver Synod continues to haunt the Catholic Church, mainly due to the fact that it took place at a time when the papacy was subject to political intrigue, controversy, and murder. Indeed, even the site where it happened prefers to scrub it from history, with not even a monument to mark the macabre event. In this episode of Hometown Histories, we’ll take you through the Cadaver Synod, an incident that the Catholic Church would rather forget. Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comEpisode Sponsors:Get key nutrients - without the B.S. Try Ritual today and receive 10% off your first 3 months at ritual.com/hometownIf you enjoy mysteries and hidden object games download June's Journey FREE today on the apple App Store or Google PlaySources for this episode include Encyclopedia Britannica, the British Museum, the Catholic Encyclopedia of the New Advent Organization, the official Pope History website, Catholic Online, Atlas Obscura, a JSTOR Daily article written by Amelia Soth, and National Geographic.
The centerpiece of the Lincoln Home National Historic Site is the former home of our 16th president, where he lived with his young family for seventeen years. After moving to the White House in 1861, Abraham and Mary kept this as a rental with plans of returning after serving in Washington. Following his assassination in 1865, she refused to come back, and the house was later donated to the State of Illinois. In the 1970s, the state transferred ownership to the National Park Service.https://www.nps.gov/liho/Visit our website at itshometownhistory.comEpisode Sponsors:Grab your Liquid I.V. in bulk nationwide at Costco or you can get 25% off when you go to LiquidIV.com and use code HOMETOWN at checkout.
The first of April is widely regarded as an unofficial holiday reserved for pranks and hoaxes that seem too ridiculous to be believed yet are surprisingly enough to fool several hundreds of people. The pages of history are littered with such incidents, from claims of a flying saucer to news reports of a shocking theft. For decades now, individuals – and even, reputable organizations – have been trying to outdo each other with the craziest yet most believable tales. These may not always result in laughs, but they do make for pretty good stories! In this episode, we’ll dive into three of the strangest pranks to have ever been carried out on April Fools’ Day. Given how outlandish they were, it’s hard to believe that they managed to fool thousands of people across the world! Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comEpisode Sponsor:Join us 3x weekly EXCLUSIVELY on the Stereo App for LIVE chats over at Stereo.com/hometownhistory
When the founding fathers of the United States began adding amendments to the U.S. Constitution to help secure rights and safeguard a free society, the first thing they focused on was the most fundamental: free speech.Autho Charles Slack joins us again for this episode. Check out his book "Liberty's First Crisis" which you can find on Amazon. Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comEpisode Sponsors:Join us 3 times each week for LIVES exclusively on the Stereo App! Stereo.com/hometownhistoryCheck out the Stuck at Home Podcast, which can be found anywhere you stream podcasts!
I think since the very beginning, America has struggled with the question of whether it was a turkey or an eagle. Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comEpisode Sponsors:Get key nutrients without the B.S. - Get 10% off your first 3 months at Ritual.com/hometownJoin us 3x each week for LIVE conversations exclusively on the Stereo App! Stereo.com/hometownhistoryIndeed delivers 4x more hires than all other job sites combined! Get $75 credit to upgrade your job post at Indeed.com/Hometown
Those of you who have listened to my podcasts over the past few years will know how I feel about the discipline of history. It’s been one of the great joys in my life and I believe it’s made me a better thinker, a better person, and a more responsible citizen. I think it does that for all of us when we’re willing to set aside our assumptions and look frankly and interrogatingly at the past. I’ve invited a personal friend and a professor at a nearby university, Dr. Mark Smith, onto the podcast to help us do this. He’ll be joining us for a brief series of conversations in which we’ll explore ways in which different local and national histories can help us think more clearly about the present, in the present.Episode SponsorsGrab your Liquid I.V. and get 25% off when you go to LiquidIV.com and use code HOMETOWNJoin us 3 times each week for LIVE podcasts in the Stereo App! Stereo.com/HometownHistory (Follow us @HometownHistory)
If you lived outside the town of Wilmington, Delaware during the 19th century you probably found yourself, at some point during the week, sitting at the Burning Rag Inn, downing a glass of lukewarm ale. You’d be there with friends from work, shooting the breeze, maybe having a meal with the faint smell of gunpowder in the air.Episode Sponsorships:Download Best Fiends FREE on the Apple App Store or Google Play! Join Shane 3 times a week LIVE in the Stereo App - just visit Stereo.com/hometownhistoryDick's book is "Across the Creek: Black Powder Explosions On the Brandywine"
Nicknamed the Witch of Wall Street, Hetty Green was an American businesswoman and financier known as the richest woman in America during the late 19th century. She was known for her wealth and was named by the Guinness Book of World Records as the "greatest miser," which meant that even when being incredibly rich, she was a renowned cheapskate. Interview featuring author Charles Slack, his book on Hetty Green can be found at https://www.charlesslackauthor.com/Sponsorship:- Get key nutrients - without the B.S. ... Get 10% off during your first 3 months at Ritual.com/Hometown
The 4th person we are highlighting in our misfits series is Diogenes the Cynic, known more commonly as Diogenes. He was born in Sinope (modern day Turkey) around 404BC (or 412BC, its not exactly clear) and died at Corinth in 323 BC. Diogenes was a very controversial figure - let us tell you why.Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comEpisode Sponsors:Download Best Fiends FREE on the Apple App Store or Google Play!Support the show by becoming a Patreon, check out the perks! patreon.com/itshometownhistory
Born in 1889, George Dibbern was an author, adventurer, and sailor-philosopher. He was a free thinker, self-declared citizen of the world and is our 3rd Misfits in our series.Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comEpisode Sponsors:Download Best Fiends FREE on the Apple App Store or Google Play!Get 10% your Ritual Multivitamin at Ritual.com/HometownSupport the show by becoming a Patreon, check out the perks! patreon.com/itshometownhistory
Tarrare was born in 1772 in rural France. He was born hungry, and seemingly that hunger never went away. This 2nd episode in our Misfits series is focused on one of history's most fascinating people - a man noted for his unusual eating habits. Episode Sponsors:Swanson.com - 20% off sitewide with promo code "HOME20" Support us at Patreon.com/itshometownhistoryVisit us online at itshometownhistory.comCheck out Shane's other podcast - Foul Play
Introducing Part 1 of our Misfits mini-series. Joshua Norton proclaimed himself "Norton I, Emperor of the United States" in 1859 from his home in San Francisco, California. If you've never heard of the only US Emperor, let us explain why in this episode. *Note: The anti-“Frisco” proclamation to Emperor Norton is unproven and disputedLearn about The Emperor Norton TrustEpisode Sponsors:Swanson.com - 20% off sitewide with promo code "HOME20" Support us at Patreon.com/itshometownhistoryVisit us online at itshometownhistory.comCheck out Shane's other podcast - Foul Play We made this top 40 list of history podcasts!
Belle Isle is a 982-acre island park located immediately east of Detroit, Michigan, in the Detroit River. Connected to Detroit by the MacArthur Bridge, Belle Isle is the larked city-owned island park in the United States. Episode Sponsors:Swanson.com - 20% off sitewide with promo code "HOME20" Indeed.com/hometown - $75 credit to boost your job post!Support us at Patreon.com/itshometownhistoryVisit us online at itshometownhistory.comCheck out Shane's other podcast - Foul Play We made this top 40 list of history podcasts!
North and South Manitou Island can be found around 14 miles northwest of the Michigan mainland in Lake Michigan. The islands are very rich in history and are part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Episode Sponsors:50% off your first order at TakeCareOf.com enter code 'Hometown50'Use code HOME20 for 20% off sitewide +free shipping ($50+) at Swanson.comVisit us at itshometownhistory.comSupport the show at Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
As a special Halloween podcast, we created a short true story for you to listen to! Enjoy! This special episode is titled "Murdered in the Well"Episode Sponsors:Nutrafol.com: 20% off plus free shipping with promo code "HOMETOWN"Swanson Health (Swanson.com): 20% off plus free shipping over $50 with promo code "HOME20"
Mackinac Island is a 4.35 square mile island located in Lake Huron between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Based on a former trading post, Fort Mackinac was constructed on the island by the British during the American Revolutionary War. It was the site of two battles during the War of 1812 before the US gained the island into its territory. Visit us at itshometownhistory.comSupport the show at Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
The Fox Islands consist of the North Fox and South Fox islands, in Lake Michigan. North Fox Island was once home to a pornography mill, the details are darker than you can imagine. This episode is narrated by Nina Innsted of the Already Gone podcast.Visit us online at itshometownhistory.com
High Island is an island in Lake Michigan and is part of the Beaver Island archipelago. It was the home of a timber-cutting and truck farm operation from 1912-1927 ran by the House of David. And... it is presumably still filled with many unmarked graves. They were never marked - these people were buried without ceremony, and in dishonor, for the humiliating and repeatable crime of...wait for it... dying. Visit us online at itshometownhistory.comSupport our show at Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
Every king in American history has been assassinated in the harbor of St. James, Michigan. And also born in the tiny town of Scipio, New York. And married to five women. And every king has owned a personal cannon and received a revelation from God. This episode is about the only king in American history: Jesse Strang - King of Beaver Island, Michigan.Visit us at itshometownhistory.comSupport the show at Patreon.com/itshometownhistory
In the back of the sleepy old Evergreen Memorial Cemetery in Bloomington, Illinois, sits a tiny 122-year-old unremarkable stone. Buried here, nestled between two old bushes, rests a young 5 month-old little girl whose name is forever memorialized in one of the best-known stories in American Literature - The Wonderful Wizard of OZ.A video was created of the making of this episode, you can watch it here: https://youtu.be/St92C6hMAMo
"From the towering dome of the Courthouse at 8 p.m. on March 31, 1880, burst a flood of lights that made world history. Wabash had a population of 320. Over 10,000 people witnessed the event. For a mile around, houses and yards were distinctly visible, while far away the Wabash River glowed like a band of molten silver."....Charles F. Brush, Cleveland, Ohio, had been experimenting with a new electric arc light, known as the "Brush Light", with the hope of a public test in some city in order to prove it worked to light a city at night. The Wabash City Council agreed with Mr. Brush to make a test of his light in Wabash.Four "Brush Lights" were placed on top of the Wabash County Court House and turned on. On March 31, 1880, Wabash became the "First Electrically Lighted City in the World." https://www.wabashmuseum.org
Join us on this pilot episode as you hear from a historian from the Wabash County Historical Museum in Wabash, Indiana. While we were recording the original episode (which you will hear on the next episode) the historian told us the story of why the bones of a serial killer were in two boxes in the museum's basement. More information about the Wabash County Historical Museum can be found on their website at WabashMuseum.org
In an area 90 minutes northeast of Indianapolis rests a small town named Fairmount. At first glance, it may seem like any old sleepy small town off the beaten path - but while driving through the town of less than 3,000 one might just be surprised by two larger-than-life people who called this very place home.Working with the President of Fairmount Historical Museum, Cole Reeves, we discuss the life and death of movie icon James Dean. In addition to all of the items in the museum on James Dean, there is also a room devoted to the legendary American Cartoonist Jim Davis. Best known as the creator of Garfield, Jim Davis also calls Fairmount, Indiana his home. Visit the Fairmount Historical Museum at their website JamesDeanArtifacts.com. The museum is located at 203 E Washington St. in Fairmount, Indiana. They are a volunteer organization so if you would like to find a way to become involved please contact them!