Amazing Tales About History

Milton Hershey: He Built his Own Field of Dreams - a Chocolate Utopia Jun 25, 2025

Milton Hershey never finished 4th grade. Yet, he built such a successful business that 80 years after his death his trust is still financing a wide array of charitable enterprises, with billions in surplus. Even Hershey, PA is named after him. Hershey started in caramels, but felt they were a fad and switched to chocolate. All his accomplishments, however, were almost cut short by the Titanic disaster.

Overcoming a Fear of Heights to Paint the George Washington Bridge Jun 18, 2025

We speak with a bridge painter on the George Washington Bridge. What’s it like to maintain the historic structure, sometimes dangling 600 feet above the Hudson River. Even hearing about the “fear of heights test” he had to take will send shivers down your spine.

Building A Canal for Political “One-Upmanship” Jun 11, 2025

The 5-mile Windsor Locks Canal is only 1% the length of the Erie Canal, but its ingenious design set is above all other canals of its era. And, it allowed businessmen in one city to out-maneuver a rival canal operation.

First to Drive Through the Lincoln Tunnel and 500 Similar Records Jun 04, 2025

He was the first to drive through the Lincoln Tunnel, across the lower level of George Washington Bridge, and along the New Jersey Turnpike. Those were just 3 out of hundreds of such achievements. He was called “Mr. First” and you won’t believe the legacy he left behind.

You Won't Believe General Israel Putnam's Death-Defying Horseback Ride May 28, 2025

One of the more fantastic Revolutionary War stories concerns General Israel Putnam’s daredevil horseback ride down 100 steep stone steps in Greenwich while escaping British soldiers who were firing at him. But, what really happened that day?

Secrets Behind the Building of the George Washington Bridge May 21, 2025

The gigantic George Washington Bridge was one of the greatest infrastructure projects ever accomplished 100 years ago. The bridge is the busiest roadway in the U.S. It was supposed to have many things, such as elevators to an observation deck. Today, it needs to be repainted by those without a fear of heights.

The Mystery Behind the Design of NY City's Street Grid May 14, 2025

It was a mammoth urban renewal project – replacing NY City’s crooked wagon paths with today’s elaborate street grid. It took nearly a century to install 12 avenues and 155 cross-streets, with all of its secret spots. And yet, nobody knows for sure who actually had the idea for the grid.

The Sheer Exhilaration of Ski Jumping May 07, 2025

Ski jumping took hold in the U.S. 100 years ago, when Norwegians introduced the sport here. You go down a steep ramp at 50 miles an hour, jump off into the wind, fly for around 10 seconds, and land 2-3 football fields farther away. It’s not for the meek.

Who Padlocked the Governor's Door, Barring Him from His Own Office? Apr 30, 2025

The election for CT Governor in the late 1800s was too close to call. The divided legislature couldn’t agree on a winner. So, the incumbent stayed on for another term. The Comptroller didn’t like that and took matters into his own hands.

The Slaying of one of the Biggest Robber Barons, Diamond Jim Fisk Apr 23, 2025

Big Jim or Diamond Jim – those were names for the legendary Gilded Age robber baron Jim Fisk. He caused the gold crisis collapse after fooling President Ulysses Grant and stole millions from Cornelius Vanderbilt. A lover’s triangle, at age 37, would lead to his untimely end

His Trove of Letters Document Bloody Civil War Battles, Prisons, and Conditions Apr 16, 2025

Captain Andrew Upson wrote up to 2-letters-a-day from the front lines of the Civil War to his wife and children. The 200+ letters, a rare collection that still exists, paint a vivid picture of life in the war, including as a captive.

He was the Last Person Executed in CT - She Knew Him Best, 'Til the Day He Died Apr 09, 2025

Michael Ross was the last person executed in CT. He raped and murdered 8 women. His doctors said he was mentally ill and shouldn’t have been executed. A journalist got to know him well for his final 10 years and shares her insights.

The Tiny Worm Behind an Enormous Industry Apr 02, 2025

The Cheney brothers invented a process for mastering nature’s magical creation of silk, driving their business to the #1 position globally. They made the parachutes used on D-Day. They also introduced corporate paternalism, providing employees with housing, schools, and more.

John Hancock: The Giant Signature that Fanned the Flames of Revolution Mar 26, 2025

Three families, from the same town. Did they start the American Revolution? John Hancock and his friends (the Adams and Quincy’s) fanned the flames. Hancock, meanwhile, married childhood sweetheart Dolly Quincy, after a love triangle involving Aaron Burr

This Hero Stayed on a Sinking Sub to Save a Man Mar 19, 2025

He could have abandoned ship, just like everyone else. After all, the sub sank in just one minute. Everyone was scrambling. But he didn’t. A fellow submariner was still onboard.

What's Hiding Behind That White Cross on the Hill? Mar 12, 2025

Many people see the large white cross as they drive by, shining atop a hill overlooking the downtown. But not everyone has checked out what's hiding behind it. It's an unusual and unique complex that once drew tens of thousands a year to see it.

Tracking Down the First Christmas Tree Mar 05, 2025

Where was the first Christmas tree? Proof is hard to come by. It seems that Windsor Locks, CT is among the very first – at least in legend; a stone monument lays claim to the first decorated tree in 1777. Researching this case turned up other very interesting side stories: German prisoners-of-war, Native American attacks, and even the Wizard of Oz.

The Illegal Pirate Radio Station at the Largest Rock Concert, Watkins Glen Feb 26, 2025

Watkins Glen; world’s largest concert. 600,000 attendees. Six teenagers broadcast with an illegal pirate radio station they brought to the site, interviewing the Grateful Dead, broadcasting traffic and weather reports, and playing records. Attendees loved it. One of the broadcasters tells the crazy story.

You Used to Have to Pay to Use a Library Feb 19, 2025

Access to knowledge for the masses. For many years in the United States, you had to pay a membership fee to a subscription library if you wanted access to books and information. That all changed in the early 1800s when the first publicly funded library opened in CT.

A Religious Group Pinpoints the End of the World Feb 12, 2025

The end of the world was supposed to be on a Wednesday in November of 1873. One hundred religious believers gathered on an island in a New England river to ascend into heaven, even climbing trees to be among the first to rise up.

TV Cameraman Inside Ground Zero Feb 05, 2025

Ground zero. 9-11. World Trade Center. John Maher was one of the first TV cameramen inside the buildings, while they were still burning. He shares his surreal memories and experience.

An Ancient Hiking Rite Still Practiced Jan 29, 2025

It's an ancient European tradition. Hiking a town’s boundaries still occurs in three CT towns (Madison, Guilford, and Durham). They carve a ceremonial stone and place it where the towns meet.

Boxer / Opera Singer / Queen of the Rum Runners Jan 22, 2025

Nellie Green was a famous rum runner and bootlegger during Prohibition. She was also an accomplished boxer and opera singer. She survived the 13 years when alcohol was illegal, keeping her patrons well supplied with alcohol - as well as supplying many downstream customers throughout the state.

PT Barnum's Incredible Legacy Jan 15, 2025

PT Barnum – the world’s greatest showman. Not only did he entertain millions with his American Museum and famous circus, but he was a major benefactor to his adopted hometown of Bridgeport - establishing the first hospital, bank, ferry service across Long Island Sound, and even a beautiful cemetery.

Skydiving's First Jump Jan 08, 2025

Skydiving became a popular sport in the U.S. in the 1950s. The first commercial jumping operation, at a rural grass landing strip, catered to college students with nerves of steel. Early skydivers completed breathtaking stunts, like a surprise landing in Manhattan's Central Park.

Island of Miracles Jan 01, 2025

This stunningly gorgeous island instills hope and virtue in all who visit. A highly successful 12-step alcohol avoidance program is based there. It hosts spiritual retreats and offers majestic beauty and serene calm. You'll also find internationally renowned dahlia gardens and a highly unusual religious relic – an 800-year-old mummified arm..

How Ethan Allen Created a New State Dec 25, 2024

Vermont was formed by Connecticut. Ethan Allen, from Litchfield, CT, created the infamous Green Mountain Boys, a militia that fought for land rights and independence for people living in the wilderness that would later become Vermont. Connecticut's Seth Warner later led the Green Mountain Boys to significant military wins during the Revolutionary War.

A Forgotten Village Abandoned and Hiding in Isolated Woods Dec 18, 2024

This lost village hosted 100 inhabitants in the 1700s and 1800s in an exceptionally remote area of New England. Called the Barkhamsted Lighthouse Village, it was founded by a man and woman who lived an almost Romeo and Juliet love story. Archeologists accidentally found it and have pieced together the unusual back story.

Just 30 Defenders Hold Off 1,300 British During 4-Day Attack Dec 11, 2024

During the War of 1812, the British Navy blockaded Long Island Sound. Just before the British sailed to Washington to burn the White House, they stopped for what was supposed to be a cannon bombardment of a tiny village. The village defenders were outnumbered 1,300 to 30, but they won The Battle of Stonington.

The Fatal Paparazzi Car Crash Involving Marilyn Monroe Dec 04, 2024

Residents of rural Roxbury, CT take it in stride when celebrities live among them. They left alone famous playwright Arthur Miller and his wife Marilyn Monroe. The media did not. During a wild chase, on the day of their engagement, a New York Times reporter was killed in a crash on Roxbury's rural back roads trying to snap their picture.

America's First Folk Hero: General Israel Putnam Nov 27, 2024

General Israel Putnam is the man credited with saying, "Don't shoot until you see the whites of their eyes," at the Battle of Bunker Hill. His military achievements, as George Washington's "go to fixer," are legendary. Among his ideas: stretching a chain under the surface of the Hudson River to keep British ships from sailing up to West Point.

The Man Who Created the News Service You Use the Most Nov 20, 2024

The Associated Press carries more news stories each day then any other service. Most media organizations belong to the nonpartisan outlet. Moses Yale Beach created the AP during the Mexican American War, looking for a way for his New York Sun newspaper to beat his competitors and get the news to readers more quickly.

The First Time a Phone was Used to Summon Emergency Help Nov 13, 2024

The first time a phone was used to call for emergency help. It happened after a horrible train wreck. The train crashed through a bridge and into the icy river below in January of 1878. The train full of passengers was returning from a religious revival with the passengers singing as the crash occurred.

Some of the Worst Storms Hit in Years Ending in the Number 8 Nov 06, 2024

The worst weather disasters in southern New England occurred in years that ended in the number 8. Included are the Blizzard of 1888, the Hurricane of 1938, and tornadoes and ice storms in the years 1878, 1898, 1978, and 2018.

Did Sybil Ludington Really Make her Paul Revere-like Ride? Oct 30, 2024

Paul Revere and Sybil Ludington. They both rode through the countryside to warn Patriots of a pending British attack during the Revolutionary War. The big difference: Sybil was just 16 years old and rode through a major rain storm. But she doesn't get the same credit.

NASCAR was Born at this Trend-Setting Racetrack Oct 23, 2024

NASCAR was born at the Thompson Speedway, during an agreement struck in the back corner of the cafeteria. Thompson itself set many firsts, including being the first track to be asphalt paved and the first to have separate, looped racetrack that did not use public roads. It still hosts races today.

From a 1-Room Schoolhouse to Wall Street Mega-Titan Oct 16, 2024

How did a titan of Wall Street manage to attain his success coming from a rural dairy farm? Charles Dow's only education was in a one-room schoolhouse, and yet managed to start the Dow-Jones Company, the Dow Jones Industrial Average, and the Wall Street Journal.

The Oldest Volunteer Fire Department in the Entire Nation Oct 09, 2024

The earliest firefighters used bucket brigades, hand-drawn pumpers, and "speaking trumpets" (to project a voice and bark orders at fire scenes). With all of the wooden structures in Colonial America, fires were frequent. This fire department has the distinction of being the oldest volunteer fire department in the country.

What was the Ferocious Creature that Terrorized a town in 1939? Oct 02, 2024

The media dubbed it the Glawackus - an elusive and ferocious creature first spotted in Glastonbury, CT that veteran hunters could not identify. It killed wildlife, dogs, chickens, and made unidentifiable howls at night, terrifying the population. Finally, one hunter is believed to have bagged it - but there is much more to the story.

When the Blind and Deaf Woman, Helen Keller, Showed us the Way Sep 25, 2024

Helen Keller - deaf, dumb, and blind from childhood. She overcame her disabilities, with help, and went on to become an internationally celebrated author, lecturer, and advocate for those with her disabilities. One of her good friends was Samuel Clemens, a.k.a., Mark Twain.

A 185-year-old Mutiny that Impacted the Slave Era Sep 18, 2024

It's one of the more quoted stories from the slave era. Four deaths during a mutiny aboard a ship - La Amistad - carrying 50 kidnapped Africans from Cuba led to high profile court cases in the U.S. about the immoral slave trade in the 1800s, drawing international attention.

The Deafening Sound of the Invisible Enemy Frightened an Entire Town Sep 11, 2024

Veteran soldiers in the 1700s were as perplexed as ordinary towns folks - and even as scared - by the deafening, ongoing noise that woke them up on a particularly dark night. Nobody could see the source of the sound - a sound like never heard before. Was it Judgement Day? When the morning light came, the mystery was solved.

Who was the 1899 Bank Robber Whose Grave Still Reads X-Y-Z? Sep 04, 2024

His gravestone reads "X-Y-Z" because the identity of the man who staged an 1899 bank robbery is still unconfirmed. He was shot dead during the robbery and photos of him were widely circulated in the newspapers of the day. No one ever positively identified him.

The True Story Behind Arsenic and Old Lace Aug 28, 2024

Maybe you've seen the classic 1944 Cary Grant movie "Arsenic and Old Lace." It's about two spinster women who lure unsuspecting men to their home and then poison them. What you may not know, is that it's based on a true story.

The CT Compromise - It Saved Our Country Aug 21, 2024

Roger Sherman is the only founding father who signed all four of the country's original documents. He helped draft the Declaration of Independence and brokered the Connecticut Compromise, breaking a political impasse and allowing the Constitution to be approved.

The First Flying Automobile was Invented Decades Ago Aug 14, 2024

The first flying automobile approved by the FAA was invented in the 1940s. Robert Fulton's Airphibian was only one of his incredible gifts to society. He also invented the flight simulator, that teaches pilots to fly, and Skyhook, featured in a 007 film.

Can We Settle the Question of Who Settled First? Aug 07, 2024

Was it Wethersfield or Windsor? After English settlers arrived at Plymouth in the 1600s, they moved into Connecticut. A dispute over which town they settled first continues. Either way, Wethersfield boasts some of the nation's most incredible history.

Tweed - The Little Airport That Could Jul 31, 2024

The development of airports has occurred with many today surrounded by neighborhoods that were built when the airports were small. The Tweed-New Haven Airport fits this bill - and its runway is on the actual border between two towns.

Yankee Peddlers - The First Door-to-Door Salesmen, in the 1700s Jul 24, 2024

Yankee Peddlers - the original door-to-door salesmen. Starting in New England in the 1700s, two brothers not only created the Yankee Peddler approach to consumerism, but they also happened to establish the use of tin for plates, coffee pots and dozens of other applications in the U.S.

The Man Who Chiseled Mount Rushmore Jul 17, 2024

Mount Rushmore. It was conceived and chiseled by Gutzon Borglum, a controversial artist who was the one who decided which four presidents to feature. And when he couldn't quite finish the project, in stepped his son.

Part 2: When a Secret Military Sea Mission Went Very Wrong Jul 10, 2024

In part two of our story about the sinking of the Sea Surveyor, we learn the fate of the 12-man crew that had to abandon ship 300 miles from the nearest land, in 25-foot seas, gale force winds, and a rubber lifeboat.

PART 1: When A Secret Military Sea Mission Went Very Wrong Jul 03, 2024

Fifty years ago, 12 men departed on a secret military mission in the Atlantic. Before long, the Sea Surveyor - a ship ill-equipped to handle rough seas - found itself in trouble. We hear from one of only two survivors of that ill-fated outing in part one of a two-part series.

Riding Motorcycles with Top-Secret Documents Under Gunfire Jun 26, 2024

In World War 1, General John Pershing in Europe had his top-secret documents carried by special couriers who raced motorcycles through enemy territory and dodged gunfire. Top speed in 1918 was just 45 miles per hour, but daredevil Carlton Stevens made it.

The #1 Word Puzzle Creator in the U.S. Jun 19, 2024

He does "Jumble" - the most syndicated word puzzle in the U.S. He also does "Word Round-up" and "Up and Down Words." How do you become the leading word puzzle maker in the U.S.?

Secrets of the Oldest Town Green Jun 12, 2024

It’s the oldest town green in North America – laid out 400 years ago in grid format and continuously maintained since colonial days. The New Haven, CT Green holds many secrets and memories, including forgotten cemeteries and famous visits.

Inside New England's Stonewalls Jun 05, 2024

Stonewalls. Beautiful rows of rocks piled in lines along fields or through the woods. Yet, the 240,000 miles of New England stonewalls hide a more scientific purpose – namely, classifying them in ways similar to wetlands to make future land use decisions.

Among the Worst Naval Loses in U.S. History May 29, 2024

More than 2 dozen American ships sunk in one night. The British did it during the War of 1812 near Long Island Sound. It was the worst loss of ships in a single military event, until Pearl Harbor.

The Hanging of Witches in the 1600s May 22, 2024

The hanging of witches started in Connecticut in the 1600s. Decades later, the more famous Salem Witch Trials occurred. At the beginning, nearly a dozen women and men were hanged for witchcraft, until young Colony Governor John Winthrop used his political expertise to get the state to end executions entirely.

Parts of This Important Early Dirt Path Still Survive May 15, 2024

The "Old Woodbury Path" connected some of America's earliest farms with one of its earliest and nearly forgotten ports. Most of it is paved over now, but if you know where to look, parts of this 350-year-old cart path can still be hiked.

Who Put the Ivory in Ivoryton? May 08, 2024

Ivory. It meant quality, class, and refinement. And, it put the town of Ivorytown on the map. That's where 90% of the material was imported into the U.S. and manufactured into piano keys, combs and buttons, taking advantage of huge demand for its smooth, glassy touch.

A Top-Secret World War II Project: "PO Box 1142" May 01, 2024

American soldiers held in German during WW II made many prison escapes largely thanks to a top-secret project: Post Office Box 1142. Coded info and hidden devices were mailed to prisoners in ingenious ways that got past prison guards.

Who Really Killed Seymour's First Selectman? Apr 24, 2024

About 100 years ago, a town's top leader was shot to death in his Town Hall office. Ray Gilliard telephoned the operator, said he had been shot, described his assailants, and asked for police and a doctor to be dispatched. Then, the line went dead. The investigation's outcome shocked everyone.

The Very First Robot Apr 17, 2024

The "father of robotics," Joseph Engelberger, created the very first industrial robot in the 1980s. It was installed on a car manufacturing production line. His ingenuity led to other advances, including a robot that delivered food trays from a hospital kitchen to a patient's bedside.

One of the Biggest Construction Disasters - the L'Ambiance Collapse Apr 10, 2024

In 1987, a novel construction technique failed, causing a multi-story concrete structure to collapse onto and kill 28 workers. Each floor fell, pancake style, on top of the one below it until the tons of concrete from the L'Ambiance apartment building project trapped the crew. Thomas Bucci was the Mayor who had to manage the disaster.

Benedict Arnold's Most Grizzly Attack Apr 03, 2024

It was a complete mismatch that ended in a Revolutionary War slaughter. 1,600 British soldiers attacked Fort Griswold, where just 165 Patriot defenders gave fight. They surrendered, but the British killed them anyway in a battle directed by Benedict Arnold.

He Murdered for Love - and Hate Mar 27, 2024

It was a difficult murder to solve. The victim's body was not in his house, which had been burned to the ground. The suspect was especially adept at deflecting attention. While he didn't like the victim, he did love a woman - and the two emotions were connected to the crime.

The Draft-Dodging Civil War Doctor Mar 20, 2024

If you were a candidate for military service in the Civil War, and you saw Dr. Josiah Beckwith, odds are you would get a medical exemption. Why did more than 90% of Beckwith's patients end up ducking the draft?

Preserving Open Space is Getting More Difficult Mar 13, 2024

Just because land is forested or undeveloped doesn't mean it's set-aside "open space." Many landowners are just waiting for the right time to sell to developers. The battle to commit enough open space land for future generations to enjoy is behind schedule.

Noah Webster - Our Forgotten Founding Father Mar 06, 2024

Noah Webster doesn't command much attention as a founding father. Yet, he created the first American dictionary and made contributions to education that remain to this day. He's the father of U.S. copyright law and founder of New York’s first daily newspaper.

Are Zoos Becoming a Thing of the Past? Feb 28, 2024

At one point, Connecticut had five zoos. Now, it's just has one accredited facility: Beardsley Zoo. This dwindling resource keeps highly endangered species alive and director Gregg Dancho says its contributions are generally unappreciated by society.

Did This Man Survive the Titanic by Wearing a Dress? Feb 21, 2024

1,500 victims drowned on the Titanic. William Sloper survived. He escaped on an a “women and children only” lifeboat. One reporter claimed he got in it by wearing a dress. What was the truth?

When Your Small Plane Pilot Dies in Mid-Flight Feb 14, 2024

Have you ever wondered what would happen if the pilot of a small plane you were riding in died in mid-flight? On Easter Sunday, 2009, the pilot of a twin-engine plane out of Florida suffered a fatal heart attack, leaving a father, his wife, and two daughters alone in the plane. A CT flight instructor tried to talk him down.

169 Towns - Which One was First? Feb 07, 2024

Is a "trading post" a "settlement?" This seemingly straightforward question is at the heart of a 400-year-old argument as to whether Windsor or Wethersfield was the first town settled by the English in Connecticut.

PART 2: 20,000 Leagues Under Long Island Sound Jan 31, 2024

In part two of this two-part series, we learn the fate of the 41-member submarine crew, trapped under Long Island Sound with flooded compartments, no radio onboard, deadly chlorine gas filling the vessel, and freezing water temperatures.

PART 1: 20,000 Leagues Under Long Island Sound Jan 24, 2024

In 1921, a submarine set sail in Long Island Sound for the New London Naval Base. In part one of this two-part series, we hear how the 41-member crew faced multiple, spellbinding challenges when the vessel sank, with no radio onboard.

This Ghost Story has Dozens of Witnesses Jan 17, 2024

This ghost story has dozens of witnesses. The well publicized "Lindley Street Poltergeist" saw thousands of people gathering nightly outside the house to witness supernatural activities seen by police and firefighters - floating refrigerators, knives flying through the air, and even a talking cat.

The First Site Proposed for the U.N. Ran Into a Buzz Saw Jan 10, 2024

Instead of New York City, imagine the United Nations in Greenwich, CT. It was the search committee's first choice. The ensuing community battle gave rise to the slogan "NIMBY": not in my backyard. The Rockefeller and Bush political dynasties also got involved.

A Founding Father’s Son Jailed Jan 03, 2024

William Franklin was the son of famous founding father Ben Franklin. He was also the Governor of New Jersey, representing the British Crown. When the Revolutionary War broke out, Patriot forces captured William and imprisoned him. How did Ben respond?

The Mystery Behind the Eerie Moodus Noises Dec 27, 2023

The sounds have been described as eerie, dreadful, and fearful, and they've been heard for centuries. The so-called "Moodus noises" have come to define the small village where the sounds come from, and intriguing legends have grown around them.

The Strongest Man in the World Dec 20, 2023

Farmer Elmer Bitgood drank 10 gallons of milk at lunchtime to wash down several pounds of hamburger. His biceps were 20 inches around. Newspapers nationwide in the 1920s dubbed him the strongest man in the world, for lifting 2,000 pounds.

The Logistics of Moving a Foreign-Speaking, 5,000-Man Army Dec 13, 2023

In the Revolutionary War, the French helped the Patriots beat the English. When the French army came to America, there were enormous logistical issues for finding food for 5,000 men, hundreds of horses and wagons for their 700-mile march to the battle, and translating.

The Real Story of the Mayflower Voyage Dec 06, 2023

The real purpose of The Mayflower voyage is not what's often taught in schools. Most travelers were looking to make money in new enterprises for financial backers in England. What they encountered and overcame was nothing short of amazing.

The Most Honored Actor in U.S. History Nov 29, 2023

Nobody has won as many best acting Oscars as Katharine Hepburn. She won 4, despite having her career nearly derailed by the “poison box office letter” affair. And, she narrowly escaped death during the devastating hurricane of 1938.

The American Colony That Rose Above the Others Nov 22, 2023

One of Connecticut's earliest governors managed to convince the King of England to grant a Royal Charter that gave the state autonomy above all others. John Winthrop, Jr.'s negotiation prowess was masterful and CT was the envy of the first 13 colonies.

A Political "Who Done It" Involving a Magic Trick Nov 15, 2023

After the candles went out, and before they could be lit again, a critically important document was gone. The British had come to Colonial Connecticut to recapture the Royal Charter that had given the colony rare autonomy. But now, it was missing.

Archeologists Find a Camp Where Patriot Soldiers were Executed Nov 08, 2023

It was unusual for Patriot soldiers to be executed during the Revolutionary War by their own commanders. During the winter of 1778-79, under-funded troops suffered without shoes and desertion rates rose. An example was set. And now, we know where.

The First School Exclusively for Black Women in the U.S. Nov 01, 2023

The first school exclusively for Black females opened in the 1830s. Not all townsfolk approved. A number taunted Prudence Crandall's students and arsonists even set fire to it. Opponents brought legal actions that ended up before the U.S. Supreme Court.

What Happened When You Were Sent to the Poorhouse Oct 25, 2023

In the past, if you couldn’t pay your bills you were sent to the poor house. Alms houses and town farms were part of society's safety net for the poor, disabled, and mentally handicapped. Although largely unregulated, they provided food and work opportunities and most towns had one.

Where Critical Military Equipment Came From During WW II Oct 18, 2023

Connecticut’s industrial manufacturers contributed significant parts of the overall military machine that helped win WW II. Half of the aircraft engines, submarines, a large percentage of the billions of bullets, and much, much more were made in CT.

The Day 2 Rolling Skulls Revealed a Vampire Grave Oct 11, 2023

Two boys playing in a sand and gravel pit came across two human skulls. That led to the unearthing of a suspected vampire grave. State officials worked with folklorists to tentatively identify the remains of the individual whose initials – J.B. – were at first all they had to go on.

The First Time Penicillin Saved a Life Oct 04, 2023

It was a miracle. In 1942, a female patient was barely alive. She had run a 106 fever for 4 weeks. Doctors were out of options. A new treatment – never tried in the U.S. – cured her in less than 24 hours. Just getting the medicine to her was the biggest obstacle of all.

When a New Outdoor Weather Climate was Created Sep 27, 2023

Growing cigar wrappers requires excellent soil and the right climate. Connecticut tobacco farmers had the soil, but not the climate. So, they created a new climate. It covered 1% of the state's land and made the region international market leaders in the 1800s.

An Extremely Unique Gated Community Sep 20, 2023

In the 1950s, Jewish firefighters in Queens, NY wanted to get their children into the countryside during a polio outbreak. The large summer camp they built by hand evolved into a year-round gated community. One of the country's most famous singers spent her summers at Lake Waubeeka.

An Enclave Like No Other - The Russian Village Sep 13, 2023

When Stalin overthrew the Russian czars in 1917, many famous Russian artists and writers fled to the U.S.. Ilya Tolstoy, son of War and Peace author Leo Tolstoy, started The Russian Village, a shrouded town where intellectuals settled to write and socialize with other famous Russians.

Electric Cars Were Market Leaders - 130 Years Ago Sep 06, 2023

The first mass-produced electric vehicle in the U.S. was made in 1897. The Columbia Motor Carriage used a new invention (rubber) to insulate electric wires making them safe. 50% of the cars on the road were EVs back then, compared to just 5% today.

A Real-Life ”Field of Dreams” Baseball Story Aug 30, 2023

Standout Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Steve Blass was one of four Pirates pitchers from the same extended family in the 1960s. Blass remains the last National League pitcher to throw a complete 9 innings in the 7th game of a World Series. Only one other human has done that.

The Longest Running Newspaper in the U.S. Aug 23, 2023

The longest-running newspaper in the United States has been around longer than the country itself. The Hartford Courant started publishing in 1764 - 12 years before the Declaration of Independence. Putting out a paper continuously for 260 years is no small feat.

George Washington Slept Here - Or Did He? Aug 16, 2023

Many claims have been made about where George Washington slept. He was so beloved that exaggerated claims often occurred. In Connecticut, there are 10 houses still standing where he definitely stayed during his 10 trips through the state.

He Founded Antarctica Aug 09, 2023

Nathaniel Palmer was just 21 years old when he founded Antarctica. Sailing further south in search of new pods of whales for hunting in a 47-foot boat, he happened across a huge ice-covered mass that was not on any maps in 1820. Now, the main U.S. research lab there is named after him.

Benedict Arnold - Was He Misunderstood? Aug 02, 2023

Sometimes, you learn something new about a person that changes your impression of them. Benedict Arnold had a very difficult upbringing, leaving him with deep-seated emotional scars. His name remains synonymous with the word traitor, but his life's backstory is worth revisiting.

The First Nuclear Submarine - The USS Nautilus Jul 26, 2023

It changed naval warfare forever. The first nuclear-powered submarine, the U.S.S. Nautilus, was launched in the 1950s. It could travel nearly indefinitely under water, undetected for long periods. It was the first sea vessel to travel beneath the Arctic ice cap and was critical during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Rochambeau's View on Helping America Win the Revolution Jul 19, 2023

The Revolutionary War. French commander Rochambeau supported the Americans. He strategized with George Washington. He marched his 5,000 soldiers 700 miles to Virginia to win the final battle. For the French, our battle was not as important as their own revolution.

Making Lawyers of our Founding Fathers' Children Jul 12, 2023

America's first law school trained the children of our founding fathers. Dozens of legal scholars went on to become President, Congressmen, and Supreme Court Justices. But the school wasn't Harvard or Yale; rather, an obscure one you've probably never heard of.

How Some Native Americans Have Assimilated Jul 05, 2023

Early Native American history in eastern CT and MA was tumultuous, with the Pequot and King Phillip's Wars. Native Americans living in western CT largely avoided those wars. Today, 2 small reservations remain and tribal members live generally among the broader population.

The First Telephone Switchboard Was a Game-Changer Jun 28, 2023

Alexander Graham Bell's introduction of the telephone was quite limited until the telephone switchboard connected users. George Willard Coy doesn’t get the same recognition, but his switchboard invention led to the first telephone directory and telephone poles.

One Town - Two Very Different American Flags Jun 21, 2023

Most people forget the Civil War protests between residents in northern states. In one town, the argument over whether to fight the south over slavery led to two sets of neighbors creating and flying two very different types of American flags.

The Greatest Rock Concert That Wasn’t Jun 14, 2023

It’s been called the greatest rock concert that wasn't – sex and drugs, but no rock & roll. Tens of thousands of would-be concertgoers converged on the Powder Ridge ski area despite a court injunction cancelling the show. The show may have been called off, but the fun was not.

169 Noteworthy Signs Jun 07, 2023

A town's history is its legacy. Connecticut had all 169 towns erect signs in their main square containing a brief history of the town's past highlights. One man was visited all of them, photographed them, and published a book for others to reference.

Escaping Execution by Hiding in Judge’s Cave May 31, 2023

Few people remember that the British monarchy was actually toppled for 10 years back in the 1600s. 60 jurors condemned King Charles I to death. Two of them fled to America and hid in MA and CT while agents for King Charles II pursued them in a wild cat and mouse episode.

What Remains of the Earliest Dirt Turnpikes May 24, 2023

Colonial settlers eventually advanced from traveling on horse paths to building dirt turnpikes. Most have been at least partially abandoned. During COVID, John Schwemmer compared old and new maps to find and drive all 100 of CT's earliest roadways.

Hidden Revolutionary War Treasure May 17, 2023

Vast sums of money passed through CT during the Revolutionary War to pay soldiers. Two shipments were supposedly stolen and buried, but never recovered. Millions in gold coins, banknotes, and possibly other relics continue to draw fortune hunters.

The Mystique of The Old Connecticut Path May 10, 2023

There’s a nearly forgotten, 100-mile-long trail that brought settlers from the Massachusetts Bay Colony to Hartford, CT nearly 400 years ago. Much of the gorgeous, rustic Old CT Path is still in its natural state. Some think it should be preserved before it’s too late.

The Ice Man Cometh May 03, 2023

Refrigeration is 100 years old. Before then, people chilled food in insulated ice boxes. You needed large ice blocks to keep food from spoiling. For 150 years, harvesting pond ice, storing it, and transporting it was a big business.

Putting the Spotlight on Lighthouses Apr 26, 2023

There are 780 lighthouses in the U.S. Nearly two dozen are on Long Island Sound. Each lighthouse “blinks” in a unique rhythm, so sea captains know which one it is. The last human lighthouse keeper has retired, but they used to have to deal with storms - and ghosts.

From a Whale Hunt to the Oval Office Apr 19, 2023

The White House's Oval Office hosts the Resolute Desk. It's a stunning, wood carved gift from England. But, its history started with an American whale hunt that stumbled across a valuable, missing British asset - with many twists and turns along the way.

Timing is Everything: Clock-Making Comes to America Apr 12, 2023

America brought the art of clock-making from Europe. Eli Terry and Seth Thomas propelled timepieces in America, in part through Terry's introduction of the concept of mass production. He used interchangeable wooden pieces in mass production, with others rapidly copying the idea.

What Do We Really Know About UFOs? Apr 05, 2023

It's no longer considered taboo or crazy to speak about UFOs. With government admissions of unidentified crafts in our skies, the topic is out of the closet. Famous UFO sightings occurred in eastern NY / western CT in the 1980s. What do we really know?

Train Travel Fatalities Over 200 Years Mar 29, 2023

Trains have been around for 200 years. They can be enjoyable and show you views available only by rail. On occasion, they can also kill you. Since 1853, there have been 7 crashes in CT that killed a total of 85 people and injured scores more, many quite seriously.

Hungarian Soldiers Spend a Winter in New England Mar 22, 2023

Rochambeau’s French army, which helped America win its revolution, included some soldiers from Hungary. They spoke only German and wore very distinctive, colorful uniforms. But, during their final winter encampment in New England, they pillaged livestock and crops from local farms, leaving mixed reviews.

One of America's Largest Power Plants - Candlewood Lake Mar 15, 2023

This water body is 11 miles long, covers 5,000 acres, and holds 46 billion gallons of water. Yes, Candlewood Lake provides remarkable recreation to the five CT towns on its shores. But, it's really just a gigantic, 100-year-old hydroelectric power plant.

When Cleaning Up U.S. Rivers Became a Priority Mar 08, 2023

In Colonial times, unwanted items were often thrown into rivers, which took them out of sight and mind. Raw sewage would be discharged too. This led to horrible pollution. Rivers even smelled bad. Several pivotal court cases finally turned the tide and led to the Clean Water Act.

100 Years of Radio Mar 01, 2023

Some of radio's biggest stars started in Connecticut, with major advances in both AM and FM occurring over the past 100 years. H.G. Wells' famous “War of the Worlds” broadcast also had a strong impact on the state's population.

Bell Town USA - Where Most Bells are Made Feb 22, 2023

They're on all Good Humor trucks, marked the rounds between Mohammed Ali’s boxing matches, and gave Clarence his wings at the end of It’s a Wonderful Life. Bells made in Bell Town USA also open and close trading on the NY Stock Exchange. Bevin Bells is the last manufacturer remaining.

200 Years of Whaling as an Industry Feb 15, 2023

Whaling was an economic mainstay in New England for 200 years. 2,700 wooden ships were built but only one remains afloat. Voyages lasted years, with 60 whales caught per trip for blubber, oil and bone. Whale oil facilitated the Industrial Age as a machine lubricant.

Cleveland Was Founded by Cleaveland Feb 08, 2023

Cleveland, OH was once the wild west - home to Native Americans and vast farmland. Through British law, CT was granted the so-called Western Reserve. Cleveland was part of it. CT lawyer Moses Cleaveland led the team that founded Cleveland - but they dropped the "a" in his name on final maps.

Piloting America's Oldest Ferry Boat Feb 01, 2023

The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry dates back to 1655. It’s the longest-running continuous ferry service in the U.S. The ride across the CT River lasts just 4 minutes and covers a quarter mile, but nautically, the ever-changing currents, tides, rain, wind, and fog make the ride quite challenging.

Nathan Hale - What Really Were his Final Words Before Hanging? Jan 25, 2023

There's little doubt that Nathan Hale is one of the Colonial era's major heroes. Yet, some aspects of his capture and execution by the British as America’s first spy are disputed. Were his final words really: “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country?”

Thumbing the Nose at Prohibition Jan 18, 2023

The outlawing of alcohol in the U.S. 100 years ago saw different state responses. RI and CT didn't approve the Constitutional Amendment, but were still bound by the law. That didn't stop the rum runners from using Long Island Sound as a base of operations.

When the Devil was in Court - Charged with Murder Jan 11, 2023

It's the only time in U.S. history that a murder defendant pleaded not guilty by reason of demonic possession. The Devil-Made-Me-Do-It murder case in 1981 continues to draw attention internationally. Amazing Tales host MIke Allen covered the case as a journalist.

Trivia Tidbits Jan 04, 2023

Some trivia: where was Nathan Hale hanged, what landmark did the last glacier leave behind, and who was Sarah Jane Campbell Pishon? These are just some of the Trivia Tidbits featured in this episode.

One-Room Schoolhouses Posed Challenges Dec 28, 2022

One-room schoolhouses. A simpler time? No outhouses, poor ventilation and lighting, no insulation, and no drinking wells. Girls couldn't expose their ankles under their skirts and students had to carry firewood from home. Still, they served us for 200 years.

Valley Forge Conditions at Putnam Park Dec 21, 2022

Putnam Park in Redding, CT, is called CT’s Valley Forge. 3,000 Patriot soldiers spent the winter of 1778 there, protecting Hudson River to Long Island Sound. Low pay and insufficient food and clothing led to a mutiny action and desertions. Two gruesome executions would follow, to teach the troops a lesson.

How the Cavalry Helped Win the Revolutionary War Dec 14, 2022

The first American unit to undertake a cavalry charge in combat was the Second Light Dragoons. They also started the Pony Express and the infamous Culper Spy Ring around New York City, while providing security for George Washington throughout the war, often riding at up to 40 miles an hour.

The Country's First Female Governor, Elected in Her Own Right Dec 07, 2022

Ella Grasso. She was self-made in a man's political world at the time. She became the first female elected in her own right to a governorship in U.S. history, rising from a home of Italian immigrants where only broken English was spoken at home. A terminal illness ended her outstanding career.

Hiding in Plain Sight - Stone Mile Markers Nov 30, 2022

Today, we drive by LED road signs. In the Colonial era, there were slabs of stone planted each mile by the side of the road. In-scripted on them: the abbreviation for the County seat and Roman Numerals to show how many miles were still to go. There were 600. Now, just 150 or so.

The Fairytale Land: The Last Green Valley Nov 23, 2022

Eastern MA and CT hold acreage that's half the size of Grand Canyon Park that's still 85% undeveloped, with hiking, open space, bald eagles, and historic villages. The Last Green Valley is a designated National Heritage Corridor. On nighttime satellite photos, it's the only dark spot between Washington, D.C. and Boston.

After the British Raid, Patriots Buried This Brit With Honors Nov 16, 2022

William Campbell is the only British soldier during the Revolutionary War who was buried by Americans with honors. A monument and dedicated parcel of land includes the Union Jack flag flying next to his grave. Why was he honored right after 3,000 British soldiers had committed numerous atrocities during their raid?

Eyebrow-Raising Military Secrets from the Cold War Nov 09, 2022

Nuclear missiles hidden in silos in three towns without residents' knowledge, underground buildings built on springs to withstand shaking from nuclear blasts, an Army train moving highly radioactive nuclear material past elementary schools. Just some military activities from the 1950-60s.

Where Aerospace Took Flight Nov 02, 2022

More than a century of top aviation contributions. The first helicopter, leading jet engines, a famous air balloonist, and possibly the first to fly (earlier than the Wright brothers). Connecticut's offerings to aerospace have been enormous.

When Stagecoaches Were How You Got Around Oct 26, 2022

Stagecoaches were the main mode of transportation for 50 years, starting in the late 1700s, until trains came along. Stagecoach routes followed the early dirt turnpikes, delivering people and mail around the Colonies. They were cramped, bumpy, and subject to frequent breakdown.

The Day 4 Trains Collided in 10 Minutes Oct 19, 2022

Four trains collided with each other within 10 minutes in 1891, setting a record in U.S. history. Aside from the death, injuries and property damage, a railroad engineer's premonition of tragedy saved his life when he declined to work that day.

Finding a Mass Grave While Renovating Your Basement Oct 12, 2022

Imagine that you're renovating the dirt floor in your basement. You're trying to make it level. Instead, you uncover a skeleton. And then another. In all, four skeletons. And now, the state archeologist is knocking on your door because you've found the remains of Revolutionary War soldiers.

An Unbelievably Lucky Dinosaur Find Oct 05, 2022

They could have gone undiscovered. Thousands of dinosaur tracks. Hidden beneath layers of compacted dirt. Uncovered by an alert backhoe operator. He saw three-toed prints and stopped his machine. The find was one of the largest in the eastern U.S.

The First State to Open its Own Prison - Literally, A Dungeon Sep 28, 2022

It used to be a copper mine. Then, Newgate Prison in East Granby, CT. Revolutionary War captives were held there. Inmates were lowered 40 feet into damp, dark caverns. Many escaped through rear tunnels. Some climbed back out at night. And you can still experience those conditions today.

Is a Pickle That Doesn’t Bounce Illegal? Sep 21, 2022

When you drop a pickle on the floor, it should bounce a little bit, right? If it doesn't, is it illegal? In Connecticut, this became an issue. In 1948, two men were arrested when their pickles didn’t bounce. It's not the only unusual law.

Benedict Arnold's Forgotten Role in the Battle of Ridgefield Sep 14, 2022

The British primarily attacked coastal towns in the Revolutionary War. Their superior navy overwhelmed communities. The one time they came inland in CT, they faced stiff opposition. Benedict Arnold took part in the Battle of Ridgefield. This forgotten encounter was significant in the war's development.

The Mystery of Sherlock Holmes and his Gillette Castle Sep 07, 2022

Sherlock Holmes. "Elementary my dear Watson." His trademark hat and pipe. These trademarks were created by CT stage actor William Gillette. He built a castle on a hill, which you can visit. One of the most iconic and mysterious homes you'll ever see.

Charles Island - Buried Treasure, Curses, and Ghosts Aug 31, 2022

They say some of Captain Kidd’s loot is buried there. But, watch out for the curse. At low tide, a magical sandbar appears allowing you to walk to Charles Island from shore. When the tide returns though, you're trapped. Did the curse burn the island's resort? Or kill a number of swimmers near the sandbar?

The Civil War Was Also Fought in the North Aug 24, 2022

The Civil War wasn't just fought in the south. People in the north disagreed about the sense of fighting our countrymen in the south. Why not let them have slaves and maintain the Union? The other side: because slavery is wrong. When one argument got out of control, the Battle of Charcoal Run occurred.

The Devastating Floods of 1955 Aug 17, 2022

It’s considered southern New England's worst natural disaster. Three storms - hurricanes and tropical storms; two in one week and the third two months later. Some communities were flooded twice. Mind-boggling flood waters. 80 deaths, thousands injured, billions in damage (in 1955 dollars) in CT, MA, and RI.

When Christianity Met Native Americans Aug 10, 2022

The Moravian sect is the oldest Protestant religion. They sent missionaries in the 1700s to convert Native Americans to Christianity. Over 15 years, they converted several dozen. In fact, their main preacher was so revered that Native Americans buried him on their land, an honor.

The First Gold Strike East of the Mississippi Aug 03, 2022

Minerals and gemstones. Highly profitable rock formations have been unearthed across CT. It's where the first gold strike occurred east of the Mississippi River. Iron deposits led to the first cannon balls. One mine supplied the granite for the Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Station, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Putting a Stop to Grave Robbing Jul 27, 2022

Grave robbing is rare today. It was common in the 1800s. Stealing valuables buried with the dead occurred. So did the removal of recently-buried corpses - used by medical institutions to learn more about the human body. One notorious case involved Yale University. Finally, the practice had to be outlawed.

The First Mass Murder in the U.S. Jul 20, 2022

Mass murders are common today. In the 1700s, they were unheard of in Colonial America. Until the case of Barnett Davenport. He brutally murdered 5 people in a farmhouse. As grisly as the murders were, so was the manner in which capital punishment was carried out in those days.

The Hubble Telescope: Uncovering the Secrets of the Universe Jul 13, 2022

When the Hubble space telescope first sent back photos, NASA called it the single most important contribution to outer space knowledge since Galileo. It was the first telescope sent beyond the “waviness” of Earth’s atmosphere, giving crystal clear views. Building it was a monumental challenge.

The Greatness of Marian Anderson Jul 06, 2022

International opera superstar Marian Anderson. Best remembered for singing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. She had been barred from singing in 1939 at Constitution Hall because she was Black. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt made sure Anderson would be heard.

The Odd Border Notch Between Connecticut and Massachusetts Jun 29, 2022

The border between Massachusetts and Connecticut is straight. The King of England declared that in a charter issued in 1642. So where did the notch in the border come from, which juts into Connecticut? There's 160-years' worth of disputes about this one-square-mile of territory.

An Old, Forgotten Pro Football Team Jun 22, 2022

Trivia at a sports bar: who were the Hartford Blues? Most people can't answer correctly. They were the first and only pro football team based in Connecticut. They were part of the official National Football League and even played the New York Giants.

How an American Industry Grew but Then Left Big Problems Jun 15, 2022

It's an old story. An industry comes to town, builds a factory, employs hundreds, and then closes - often leaving pollution that's expensive to clean up. The Gilbert & Bennett Company is the epitome of this story. In fact, they're were even featured in the movie "Other People's Money" about such situations.

Did JFK Single-Handedly Kill the Hatting Industry? Jun 08, 2022

There was a time when a man didn't venture out without a hat. He wouldn’t have been completely dressed otherwise. What killed the hatting industry? Many people say it was President John Kennedy. He didn't wear a top hat to his inauguration in 1961. Is that what really happened?

The Day the Clowns Cried at the Worst Circus Fire in U.S. History Jun 03, 2022

It was a hot, humid July afternoon in 1944. Families flocked to the Barnum & Bailey circus in Hartford. Fire somehow lit the tent of the main grandstand. It went up breathtakingly fast. 186 patrons killed. Mostly women and children. The worst circus fire in U.S. history. Who started it?

Charles Ives - So Much More than ”Just” a Musical Giant May 18, 2022

Charles Ives. Cacophony (discordant music). The two go together. Ives created sounds and symphonies way ahead of their time. It took the public several decades to appreciate his genius. Now, he's considered a composing giant. Did you know he was also a standout baseball player and started estate planning?

PART 2: The Greatest Showman on Earth - PT Barnum May 11, 2022

In part two of this two-part series, we learn of P.T. Barnum's successful career - the American Museum where we made the bulk of his fortune, the circus, Jumbo the elephant, and how overcoming multiple fire tragedies played an unusually strong role in his life.

PART 1: The Greatest Showman on Earth - PT Barnum May 04, 2022

You know that P.T. Barnum ran a famous circus. But, do you know about his childhood? He learned some critically important life lessons growing up that would prepare him for the incredible fame and fortune that would follow. Part one of a two-part series examines his early years.

PART 2: Redding’s Favorite Son - Mark Twain Apr 27, 2022

Humorist Samuel Clemens actually faced several depressing tragedies. In part two of this two-part series, we'll cover some of those tragedies during his last two years of life in Redding, Connecticut, culminating in his own death at his famous mansion Stormfield.

PART 1: Redding’s Favorite Son - Mark Twain Apr 20, 2022

Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) spent 25% of his life in Connecticut, including his last two years in Redding. In part one of this two-part series, we'll hear rare stories about those years. Included: the background of his famous house Stormfield and his friend Helen Keller.

The Deadliest Fire in Federal Prison History Apr 13, 2022

July 7, 1977. The deadliest fire at a U.S. federal prison. Five inmates died and 70 were injured when deadly fumes overcame them at night as they were locked in a dormitory at the Danbury, Connecticut Federal Prison. Some of the lucky escapees helped fight the inferno and save their fellow prisoners.

PART 2: There Was Never Anything Quite Like the Great Danbury State Fair Apr 06, 2022

In part two of this two-part series, we hear the inside story of why the Great Danbury State Fair in Connecticut really closed. The backroom deal was heartbreaking for many. A shopping mall would end the longest-running state fair in U.S. history after 122 years - and a key player was not privy to the discussions.

PART 1: There’s Never Been Anything Quite Like The Great Danbury State Fair Mar 30, 2022

It was the longest running state fair in U.S. history. After 112 years, the Great Danbury State Fair closed in the 1980s – to make way for a shopping mall. In part one of this two-part series, we'll hear how this incredible enterprise began.

The Catastrophic Night When Not One, But Two Dams Gave Way Mar 23, 2022

It was a horrific disaster. Two earthen dams, built in the 1800s, collapsed. It sent 140 million gallons of water barreling down into Danbury, Connecticut. The tragic deaths and mind-numbing property damage that it caused devastated the city - and worried reservoir managers nationwide about the safety of relatively new earthen dams.

The Show Must Go On - Even Outdoors Mar 16, 2022

Outdoor theater. Beautiful for the audience. Challenges galore for the staff. One operation has been at it for 37 straight summers. The actors and director share their tales about the challenges, mishaps, and pure satisfaction of outdoor theater.

Keeping The Grange Alive in the 21st Century Mar 09, 2022

They're an institution. Grange Halls are where agricultural communities gather to socialize and swap farming tips. As farming continues to cease in the northeast, the future of The Grange faces challenges. Their evolution into providing broad community support may be the key to their future.

The World is His Oyster Mar 02, 2022

It's been a primary U.S. food source for centuries. Native Americans cultivated the Eastern Oyster from Long Island Sound. European settlers did the same. New Haven, Connecticut was once the Oyster Capital of the World. Today, oyster harvesting is challenged by pollution, but aqua-culture is making inroads.

She Put the Alice in Alice’s Restaurant Feb 23, 2022

Arlo Guthrie's ballad Alice's Restaurant. The anti-Vietnam War folk song focused on a Massachusetts restaurant owner named Alice, and the arrest of Guthrie and a friend for littering after throwing debris from her house in a ravine on Thanksgiving Day. In this episode, an interview with the late Alice Brock.

Hippies, Zealots or Entrepreneurs - The Odd Sandemanian Religion Feb 16, 2022

The Sandemanian religious order was active for 200 years in Europe and the U.S., before going extinct. Congregants were known as “kissites” for their nearly hippie-like practices at services. Yet, they produced many successful businessmen during the 1700-1800s.

The Gruesome Woodchipper Murder Case Feb 09, 2022

It was one of the most gruesome murder stories in history. The movie Fargo based its notorious murder scene on the case. A Connecticut man murdered his wife and then placed her body through a wood chipper. The case was solved with meticulous forensic work and a dedicated private eye.

PART 2: A Trail Like No Other - It Brought Us Freedom Feb 02, 2022

French Commander Rochambeau marched 680 miles from Newport, Rhode Island to Yorktown, Virginia with his 5,000-troop army to help America win its revolution. Along the way, George Washington had to make an unbelievably important military decision – without sufficient information – that literally changed the course of history.

PART 1: A Trail Like No Other - It Brought Us Freedom Jan 26, 2022

It’s called The Rochambeau Trail. 680 miles from Newport, Rhode Island to Yorktown, Virginia. French General Rochambeau marched his 5,000 troops to help George Washington's Patriot Army beat the British in the Revolutionary War. The logistics of this march were complex, as were France's reasons for helping America.

The Mad Hatters and Their Major Supreme Court Case Jan 19, 2022

Monopolies. Under the Sherman Anti-Trust Act, they're supposed to be illegal. What about unions? Do they monopolize the labor they represent? This novel legal argument went to the Supreme Court in the early 1900s. A hat factory owner said he should be able to sue the union for damages.

What Would Polio Vaccine Inventor Jonas Salk Think About COVID? Jan 12, 2022

Jonas Salk developed the polio vaccine. What would he think about today's arguments over vaccines? His nephew, Eric Salk, is an emergency room doctor. He knew his uncle and shares his recollections of him, his famous family, and thoughts on the anti-vaccine movement.

The Incredible Trail of the Whispering Giants Jan 05, 2022

It’s a fairy tale type of story. An artist spent 20 years carving gigantic wood sculptures of Native Americans – one for each of the 50 states. Peter Toth's Trail of the Whispering Giants was to pay homage to Native Americans for injustices they faced from European settlers.

The Erie Canal's Eastern Cousin Dec 29, 2021

New York's Erie Canal inspired New Haven, Connecticut industrialists to build their own canal - from Long Island Sound into Massachusetts, completing bisecting the state. The Farming Canal project caused concerns with competing businessmen in Hartford, who developed their own canal.

PART 2: The Weekend the British Burned Danbury Dec 20, 2021

It was supposed to be a relatively simple military operation. The British would march from Long Island Sound to Danbury, Connecticut and destroy the Revolutionary War Patriot supply depot. As we hear in part two of this part-two series, things didn't go exactly as planned.

PART 1: The Weekend the British Burned Danbury Dec 15, 2021

Danbury, Connecticut was a Patriot supply depot during the Revolutionary War. The British wanted to destroy it. In part one of this two-part series, we hear about the mismatched military engagement when the dominant British marched inland, but how they made a crucial tactical error in planning.

The Magic of Flying Two-Seater Planes Dec 08, 2021

It’s a totally different life style: flying a 2-seater airplane, with just 1 or 2 propellers. Beautiful views, but dangerous. Paved airstrips and grass ones. Sharing the sky with 747s. We hear from representatives of two of the oldest airplane clubs in the country.

Soap Box Derby Racing Dec 01, 2021

You've heard of the Soap Box Derby, but what do you really know about it? How do champions make it the annual championship race in Akron, Ohio? How does it feel to race down a 16% grade? What's the story behind the 75-year-old Derby and its mission to instill leadership skills?

The Story Behind the Separation of Church and State Nov 22, 2021

The separation of church and state. The words are in the U.S. Constitution, right? They are not. The phrase first appeared in a letter - written by the third President, Thomas Jefferson, to a religious group that felt it was being persecuted by another religious group that controlled many governmental functions.

How to Build a New England Town Center Nov 17, 2021

What if they created a town in New England – without a town center, a town green or a big white church? That's what happened in Brookfield, Connecticut. There was no central downtown when the town was formed in the 1700s. How did this happen? Can they fix this after 250 years without one?

Kickbacks Paved the Merritt Parkway Nov 11, 2021

The oldest limited access highway in the U.S. is the Merritt Parkway in Connecticut. It was built to eliminate multi-mile, bumper-to-bumper congestion along the original U.S. Route 1 Post Road. Laying out its path through affluent Fairfield County, it turns out, required a scheme involving illegal kickbacks.

Who Killed Jack the Ripper? Nov 03, 2021

Is it possible that a penniless, old, female recluse killed Jack the Ripper? Florence Maybrick, who famously served time in England for murdering her husband, died in rural Connecticut as Florence Chandler. Claims that her husband was The Ripper have been raised, as have claims of her having been framed. It's a complicated who-done it.

PART 2: Protecting Against Nuclear War Oct 28, 2021

During the Cold War, the U.S. identified 40 cities that required protection against Russian nuclear attack. Those cities were ringed by missile silos in the 1950s. In the 1960s, some silos were outfitted with active nuclear warheads, often without public knowledge. Three silo sites were in Connecticut.

PART 1: Protecting Against Nuclear War Oct 25, 2021

Students hid under their desks during 1960s nuclear raid drills. The true protection was found inside mammoth underground fortresses built at strategic locations nationwide. Supplementing this are nuclear missile silos. In part one of this two-part series, learn about the fortresses - some decommissioned and some still operating.

An Enchanting Legend of The Leatherman Oct 20, 2021

He walked the same, 365-mile, circuitous route every 34 days. He passed through the same two dozen towns, usually at the same hour, like clockwork. He wore a 60-pound, all-leather outfit and spoke to no one. He slept in caves and bothered no one. The Leatherman was beloved, but no one ever learned his true identity.

Ode to the Housatonic Railroad Oct 18, 2021

Trains started operations in the U.S. in the early 1800s. One of the earliest was The Housatonic, traveling from Bridgeport, Connecticut to Pittsfield, Massachusetts. It is struggling today, but 1 or 2 freight trains still operate. Passenger service stopped 50 years ago. The long history of the line is magical.

The Man Who Taught PT Barnum About the Circus Oct 12, 2021

P.T. Barnum didn't start his famous circus until he was 60-years-old. But, in his 20s, he spent a couple of years touring with another circus, handling their finances. Barnum's mentor was Aaron Turner, a rags-to-riches story who was one of the first circus owners in the U.S.

The Era of Stagecoaches, Trolleys and Steam Locomotives Oct 10, 2021

Transportation evolved when the Industrial Revolution was born. Stagecoaches and canal barges gave way to steam-power locomotives and ships. Eventually, electricity and batteries powered trolleys and early cars. On the dirt turnpikes, toll evaders formed off-road shunpikes, as an agrarian society morphed towards industrialization.

The Unbelievable Pardue Brothers Crime Spree Oct 07, 2021

Two brothers. So much grisly crime. Bank robberies, murders (including family members), jail breaks and kidnappings in New York, Connecticut, Missouri, Colorado, and Maryland. The volume and horrendous nature of their deeds defies belief. They often convinced others to do their bidding. It will leave you shaking your head.

The Appalachian Trail Oct 03, 2021

The 100-year-old Appalachian Trail, an iconic walkway through the eastern U.S., has generated interesting statistics: who walked it the fastest, who did the first walk along the entire trail, how many hike the entire trail each year, who was the first woman to do so, who's the youngest, and how many murders have been recorded on the trail?

Earthen Roads Built Colonial Ameria Oct 01, 2021

Colonial settlers in the U.S. had only Native American hiking paths to get around. It took 6 days to ride a horse from New York to Boston. Early earthen roads were neither pleasant nor efficient. Who made up the initial highway crews? How did settlers communicate over long distances? Why did we use miles instead of kilometers?

Fighting Hitler - in the U.S. Sep 20, 2021

Bigotry was alive and well in the U.S., leading up to WW II. Supporters of Germany's Adolf Hitler bought land in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, where Nazi sympathizers could fly the swastika flag, march, and sing. When they tried to build such a camp in Southbury, Connecticut, there was a decidedly different outcome.

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