Kentucky History & Haunts

147. Stephen Bishop & Slavery at Mammoth Cave Jan 18, 2025

In the late 1830s, the owner of Mammoth Cave hoped to attract more tourists to the area. One of the key figures in making that happen was a slave named Stephen Bishop. Stephen became one of the most popular guides in the caves history, as well as a brave and savvy explorer, responsible for the expansion of the cave system with his discovery of several 'new' areas like the Bottomless Pit and Ruins of Karnak.

It was stipulated in his owners will that Stephen was to be emancipated seven years after the owners death, and he was finally free in 1856, but unfortunately his story does not have a happy ending.

There is so much more to be said about the role of slaves related to the early exploration and management of Mammoth Cave than what's covered in this episode. For further research, I recommend starting with the following-

*Legendary tour Guides who were Enslaved Americans

A National Council for the Social Studies Publication Number58 • January/February 2017

*Mammoth Cave, Slavery, and Kentucky: Overcoming the Chains that Bind

Susan Farmer Western Kentucky University,

*https://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/02/travel/in-kentucky-a-family-at-the-center-of-the-earth.html

*https://www.nps.gov/maca/learn/historyculture/african-american-history.htm

If you'd like to be pen pals, you'd like to send me holiday cards or some homemade jam, my mailing address is:

Jessie Bartholomew

9115 Leesgate Rd, Suite A

Louisville, KY 40222

Email kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com topic suggestions, feedback or corrections. Connect with the show on Instagram @kyhistoryhaunts and search Kentucky History & Haunts on Facebook. Leave a comment on this episode if you're listening on Spotify and let me know what you think!

Please leave a review or rating on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen!

146. A Century Ago in Kentucky- December 1924 Dec 24, 2024

Welcome to another installment of 'A Century Ago in Kentucky', where I share some of my favorite newspaper clippings from Kentucky newspapers in 1924. This episode includes stories of prisoners celebrating behind bars, while others are set free in time for the holidays, hundreds of gallons of wine are poured into the sewer by the Feds, plus fires and other accidents, burglars, crossword puzzles, and a special appearance by my great-grandfather!

This episode includes clippings from the Louisville Courier-Journal and The Lexington Herald-Leader.

This podcast is researched, written, recorded and produced by me, Jessie Bartholomew. To leave me a tip for a cup of coffee, use the following link:

https://account.venmo.com/u/kyhistoryhaunts

For more on crossword puzzles:

https://www.alieward.com/ologies/enigmatology

https://time.com/5811396/crossword-history/

145. Tuberculosis Experiments in Mammoth Cave Nov 26, 2024

In the 1840s, a doctor from Louisville purchased Mammoth Cave. One of his motives for purchasing the land was to conduct an experiment by inviting tuberculosis patients to live underground during the winter months to cure them.

It did not go well.

For more on this topic, check out THE PURSUIT OF HEALTH IN THE MAMMOTH CAVE, published in the Bulletin of the History of Medicine, 1971, by Stanley Sides & Harold Malloy.

Follow the show on Instagram @kyhistoryhaunts and find it on Facebook by searching Kentucky History & Haunts. For feedback, corrections and topic suggestions, email kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com

To buy Jessie a coffee for her work on this episode, you can Venmo @kyhistoryhaunts.

Thanks for listening!

144. Floyd Collins- 'Prolific' Cave Explorer Oct 15, 2024

On a cold January evening in 1925, after a long day of widening an entrance to a newly discovered cave, Floyd Collins lost his footing, knocked over his light, caused a shift in the tunnel and was pinned under a rock. Floyd was hopelessly stuck. Over the next two weeks, miners, geologists, engineers, family members and the Kentucky National Guard worked tirelessly to rescue Floyd. Floyd had passed by the time they reached him, but that wasn't the end of his story.

For more information on Floyd Collins, start here: https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/tragedy-at-sand-cave.htm

And for photos of his second funeral service, go here:

https://westernkentuckyuniversity.pastperfectonline.com/byperson?keyword=Collins%2C%20Floyd%2C%201887-1925

143. The Preacher & The Felon- Part 2- Albert Fall Mar 06, 2024

Albert Bacon Fall, a Kentuckian, was the first US Cabinet member in history to be convicted of a felony. Albert, the grandson of Reverend Phillip Fall, moved out west, practiced law, got into politics and got mixed up with some less than virtuous characters, eventually leading to his involvement in the infamous Teapot Dome Scandal.

142. The Preacher & The Felon- Part 1- Reverend Phillip Fall Feb 19, 2024

This is part one of a two part series about the Fall family. Part one discusses the life of Phillip Fall, preacher, teacher, Southern sympathizer. Phillip Fall made connections with major religious figures in Kentucky during the Reformation movement. One of Phillip's sons, William, would later have a son named Albert Fall, who holds the infamous title of being the first U.S. Cabinet member convicted of a felony. Part two will focus on the life of Albert Fall, Phillip's grandson, and let me tell you, it's a very different story.

Much of the research from part one was from the Phillip Fall biography written for the Kentucky Historical Society by P. Burnley and from therestorationmovement.com.

It is likely I made mistakes in this episode as I am not well versed in the topic of religion. If I need to make a correction, or you have a future topic suggestion, please email kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com

To buy Jessie a coffee for her work on this episode (remember, this is a one-woman show) you can send a tip through Paypal @kyhistoryhaunts or Venmo @kyhistoryhaunts

141. Who REALLY Murdered Rhonda Sue Warford? (Louisville/Brandenburg) Feb 01, 2024

In the early 1990s, the Meade County police, Louisville police and Kentucky State police thought they had gotten it right when they arrested Garr Keith Hardin and Jeffrey Clark for the murder of Louisville native Rhonda Sue Warford. It took decades and assistance from the Kentucky Innocence Project to right the wrongs made during the investigation and trial. Let me know what you think. You can send mail to my work address- 9115 Leesgate Rd Suite A, Louisville, KY, 40222.

Send me your address to get on my mailing list!

Send your feedback and topic suggestions to kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com Connect with the show on Instagram @kyhistoryhaunts or search the show name on Facebook. Be sure to join the Facebook group- Kentucky History & Haunts & More. Please leave a rating or review if you haven't yet! Thanks!

140. Lucy Hicks Anderson- Baked Goods, Brothels, and Trouble with the Feds Jan 15, 2024

From winning baking contests and cooking for wealthy families, to a federal indictment- welcome to episode 140, the fascinating life of Lucy Anderson Hicks. Lucy was born Tobias Lawson in Waddy, Kentucky in the 1880s. Lucy, a black, trans woman from rural Kentucky, baked award-winning desserts, cooked for the most prominent families in Oxnard, California, hosted benefits and parties of all kinds, and became a loved and respected figure in her community. She also operated a brothel and was involved in the sale of liquor during Prohibition. This episode includes content that may not be suitable for younger listeners (specifically, discussion of bordellos and more specifically, a sailor visiting a 'house of ill fame' and leaving with an STD), listener discretion advised. For topic suggestions or feedback, please email kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com. Connect with the show on instagram @kyhistoryhaunts or find it on Facebook by searching 'Kentucky History & Haunts.' Be sure to join the Facebook group 'Kentucky History & Haunts & More.' Please leave a review or rating on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Thanks!

139. New Year's Traditions Dec 31, 2023

Cozy up with your bayberry candles, your Hoppin' John, your whiskey and your black buns. It's time to discuss New Year's traditions. I'm making sure you know how to prepare your meals, who to invite into your home, and how to clean your furniture as we enter the new year. HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

138. Ohio River Stories- Part One Dec 26, 2023

Boy is this episode all over the place, but in a good way. Enjoy a variety of stories related to the Ohio River, including tales of a Welsh prince, escaped slaves, alligators, and my parents! Some true, some questionable. Happy New Year to all! If you have topic suggestions, or I need to make a correction, or you just want to say hey, send an email to kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com. Connect with the show on Facebook by searching the show name. Follow on Instagram @kyhistoryhaunts. And please be sure to tell a friend about the show and leave a rating or review wherever you listen. Thanks!

137. A Century Ago in Kentucky- Dec. 1923 Dec 18, 2023

Welcome to another installment of the A Century Ago in Kentucky series. This month we have fistfighting judges, yuletide bribes, a destructive cow, a Christmas tree accident, and much more! Please leave a review wherever you listen and be sure to follow the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/kyhistoryhaunts. Follow the show's Instagram @kyhistoryhaunts and if you have topic suggestions, feedback, or just want to say hello you can email kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com. To send me, Jessie, a holiday or Happy New Year card, you can mail them to 9115 Leesgate Rd Suite A, Louisville, KY, 40222. Happy Holidays!

136. Eddyville Escape Attempt of 1923 Dec 03, 2023

In October of 1923, a group of armed young men attempted to escape from Eddyville prison in western Kentucky. After shooting multiple prison guards, they realized their original plan wasn't going to work. They barricaded themselves in the dining hall in the center of the prison yard and the following days resulted in a standoff between the surrounded inmates and the prison guards, plus several Hopkinsville National Guardsmen summoned by Governor Morrow. As the incident came to an unfortunate end, authorities were left wondering, who provided the weapons? They learned exactly who it was. She even confessed, multiple times. But would she face the consequences?

135. A Century Ago in Kentucky- Nov. 1923 Nov 23, 2023

Tarantula bites, jailhouse weddings, drunken traffic cops, voter fraud, post office heroes, safety pin mishaps, baptism confusion, and so much more! Time travel with me, to November 1923 in Kentucky. Connect with the show on Instagram @kyhistoryhaunts, find the show on Facebook under Kentucky History & Haunts, and be sure to join the Facebook group Kentucky History & Haunts & More! Please leave a rating or review wherever you listen, and share with a friend. Happy Thanksgiving!

134. Walter Campbell, Medical Mishaps and the Creation of the FDA Nov 14, 2023

Knox County native Walter Campbell graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1902 and the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law in 1906. He was retained by the Kentucky Experiment Station at UK and worked prosecuting food law violations in Louisville, before being scouted by the federal government to help form and run what would later become the Food and Drug Administration. Walter was a key figure in pivotal events like the sulfanilamide disaster. For more on the early years of the FDA, I recommend the article 'Healthy Public Relations: The FDA's 1930s Legislative Campaign' by Gwen Kay.

133. Belle Gunness- Indiana Serial Killer- Part Two Oct 31, 2023

Belle Gunness was born in Norway in the 1850s. Three decades later she moved to Chicago and started a family and business with her first husband. Tragically, their house and business mysteriously burned. The family collected the insurance money and moved to Texas. While living outside of Austin, Belle's family members began dying off one by one, in the strangest of circumstances. Then another house burned down. It seemed bad luck, in the form of death and fires, followed Belle wherever she went. Especially when she arrived in La Porte, Indiana, at the turn of the 20th century.

132. Belle Gunness- Indiana Serial Killer | Part One Oct 31, 2023

Belle Gunness was born in Norway in the 1850s. Three decades later she moved to Chicago and started a family and business with her first husband. Tragically, their house and business mysteriously burned. The family collected the insurance money and moved to Texas. While living outside of Austin, Belle's family members began dying off one by one, in the strangest of circumstances. Then another house burned down. It seemed bad luck, in the form of death and fires, followed Belle wherever she went. Especially when she arrived in La Porte, Indiana, at the turn of the 20th century.

131. Kentucky Haunts & Folklore- Halloween Special- Part 1 Oct 15, 2023

It’s the time of the season, yall. Enjoy these stories about a 500 year old water moccasin, haunted houses, prohibition, evil creeks, spooky caves, and… Nazis. I have a little bit of everything to get you in the spooky mood this October!

130. Spiritualist Medium Mary Langley- Covington, Kentucky Oct 10, 2023

Mary Langley was born Mary Hinderer in Ohio in the 1880s. In her early years, she and her family moved to Indiana near Camp Chesterfield, a popular community for spiritualists and mediums. By the 1920s, Mary was a successful medium, traveling regionally to offer her services. By the mid-1920s she was working in Covington, where she was arrested and put on trial for disorderly conduct. The local authorities believed Mary Langley was a fraud after exposing her by raiding a séance at her home. Her dedicated followers disagreed, and many continued to defend her in the days leading up to her trial. Most of my research for this episode came from The Kentucky Post archives. To support the show, send Jessie a Halloween card with $5 in it to her work address, 9115 Leesgate Rd, Suite A, Louisville, KY 40222. You can also Venmo or Paypal a one-time donation to @kyhistoryhaunts. Thank you for listening and for your support!

129. A Death at Lakeland Asylum, A Poisoning in Lawrenceburg Oct 01, 2023

This episode features two spooky tales of murders that took place a century ago in Kentucky. The first takes place at a mental institution in Louisville, and if you’d like more on the topic of Lakeland Asylum, revisit episode 106. The second story today takes place in Lawrenceburg, also the location of the haunted Anderson Hotel, which I visited in episode 63. Thank you for listening. For feedback, topic suggestions or just to say hi, please email kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com

128. A Century Ago in Kentucky- September, 1923 Sep 26, 2023

Back for another round of ‘A Century Ago in Kentucky!’ Listen to stories about the Kentucky state fair, terrifying automobile mishaps, hidden bootlegging operations in chimneys, a duel in northern Kentucky, a drunk mayor, gypsies, dynamite and more!

127. Did The KKK Almost Buy Valparaiso University? Sep 18, 2023

In the early 1920s, Valparaiso University was in major financial trouble and looking for a bailout. A man named Milton Elrod, editor of a Klan newspaper, started floating stories that the Valpo board of trustees was negotiation with the Indiana Klan. There were rumors they’d put down an earnest money deposit, they wouldn’t alter the curriculum, they were going to invest millions into the school and the entire Northwestern Indiana community. But it never happened. Did it really come close to happening? Listen to find out! Read Lance Trusty’s full chapter on this topic here https://scholarworks.iu.edu/journals/index.php/imh/article/view/10682/15076 💥 Please leave a review wherever you’re listening! Use the merch tab on www.kyhistoryhaunts.com to purchase your new KYHH hats, sweatshirts, mugs and more!

126. Isaac Shelby- First Governor of Kentucky Sep 06, 2023

Isaac Shelby did such a good job being Governor of Kentucky the first time around, the people begged him to come back for a second term at the onset of the War of 1812. He even led a group of men in the Battle of the Thames, WHILE he was serving his second term, when he was in his sixties. This episode covers Shelby’s early life, his travel and military service, and his political life. If you have suggestions for a future episode or want to discuss a previous episode, please send an email to kyhistoryhaunts.com

125. Murder of Rosetta Warren | Part 2 Aug 29, 2023

One early morning in April 1923, Alfred Warren left his home on Clay St to go to work in downtown Paducah. A short time later, he heard an explosion in the distance. Unfortunately, the explosion came from his home. The research for this episode came from archives from The Paducah Sun and The Lexington Leader. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Connect with Kentucky History & Haunts on Instagram & Facebook. Or send me an email: kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com

124. Murder of Rosetta Warren | Part 1 Aug 29, 2023

One early morning in April 1923, Alfred Warren left his home on Clay St to go to work in downtown Paducah. A short time later, he heard an explosion in the distance. Unfortunately, the explosion came from his home. The research for this episode came from archives from The Paducah Sun and The Lexington Leader. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Connect with Kentucky History & Haunts on Instagram & Facebook. Or send me an email: kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com

123. The Mahan Shooting & The Crawley Murder Aug 21, 2023

Lots of family drama in Kentucky, 1923. A wife claims her stepdaughter attempted to murder her. The stepdaughter claims self defense. A drifting alcoholic harasses his younger brother and his family until the younger brother puts a stop to it. How will the court system handle these situations? Well it’s 1923, you just never know! Research from this episode comes from the Louisville Courier Journal Archives. Let me know what you think by leaving a comment on Spotify, or writing me at kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com. The cover photo for this episode is Elijah Crawley, his wife Josie, and their children, Aileen & Melvin.

122. A Century Ago In Kentucky- August 1923 Aug 14, 2023

A century ago there was bootlegging, fortune telling, calculator pedaling, national park advocating, squirrel shooting, and much more! Sit back, relax and enjoy this trip back in time one hundred years. All articles read in this episode are from The Courier Journal archives. More at www.kyhistoryhaunts.com. Join the Facebook group- Kentucky History & Haunts & More!

121. What Happened to Kelly Hollan? Jul 31, 2023

On a snowy February afternoon in 1982, six year old Kelly Hollan vanished from his small community in Knott County, Kentucky, and was never seen of heard from again. For more info visit www.kyhistoryhaunts.com. If you have information regarding this case please contact the Kentucky State Police.

120. The Kentucky Secret Society That Helped Create The American Medical Association Jul 17, 2023

In the early 19th century, secret societies were having a moment. A professor at Transylvania University’s Medical Department decided it would be a good idea to start one for his students. The Kentucky Chapter of the Kappa Lambda Society of Hippocrates didn’t last long, but the seeds it planted spread all over the country, eventually influencing the formation of the American Medical Association. For more on this topic, visit https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2259138/ 🩺 For additional resources visit www.kyhistoryhaunts.com 🎙️ Be sure to follow the show on Instagram @kyhistoryhaunts & find the Facebook group- Kentucky History & Haunts & More! Please leave a review and share this episode with a friend. Thanks for listening!

119. The Time A Kentucky Judge Was Offended By Pants Jun 19, 2023

This episode covers a 1970s lawsuit filed by two Louisville women denied a marriage license by the county clerk. It also covers the Louisville Gay Liberation Front of the early 70s. For more on this topic, check out the article ‘It Could Be Dangerous! Gay Liberation and Gay Marriage in Louisville, Kentucky, 1970’ by Catherine Fosl. Available here: https://muse.jhu.edu/article/571585/pdf ✨ For additional sources visit www.kyhistoryhaunts.com ✨ To become a monthly supporter (even $1 a month helps!) please visit https://anchor.fm/jessie-bartholomew

118. Twice Tried & Still Unsolved- Chantell Humphries Jun 05, 2023

In 2002 a woman’s body was found in a pasture on a field near Cadiz, Kentucky in Trigg County. Police focused on one suspect who they arrested later in 2002. What happens from there is a series of twists and turns some locals may have seen coming, but would not openly theorize or talk about. This is the story of the unsolved murder of Chantell Humphries. Listener discretion advised- this episode includes discussion of murder as well as brief mention of rape and domestic violence. Follow KYHH on Social Media 💥 https://www.facebook.com/kyhistoryhaunts?mibextid=LQQJ4d 🖤 https://www.instagram.com/kyhistoryhaunts/

117. Mistaken Identity & Organs in the Laundry Room- Part 2 May 10, 2023

Strap in! This two parter covers the life and times of Dr. Charles Harlan- a Tennessee coroner who eventually had his medical license revoked. Please note any opinions expressed in this episode are purely that- my opinions; they do not represent anyone but my own thoughts on the matter. Check out www.kyhistoryhaunts.com for more info

116. Mistaken Identity & Organs in the Laundry Room- Part 1 May 10, 2023

Strap in! This two parter covers the life and times of Dr. Charles Harlan- a Tennessee coroner who eventually had his medical license revoked. Please note any opinions expressed in this episode are purely that- my opinions; they do not represent anyone but my own thoughts on the matter. Check out www.kyhistoryhaunts.com for more info

115. Stories from Kentucky Explorer Magazine- Part 1 Apr 30, 2023

Jessie reads some of her favorite articles and short stories from Kentucky Explorer Magazine. This episode includes stories from Volume 15, Number 7- January, 2001. The stories range in dates from late 19th to early 21st century. To suggest a future topic please email kyhistoryhaunts.com. To make a one time donation, you can send any dollar amount through Venmo to @jessie-bartholomew

114. Geneva Hardman, Marshal Law, and Maybe A Serial Killer- Part 2 Mar 14, 2023

Chaos erupted in Lexington, Kentucky in 1920 after a young girl was brutally murdered on her way to school. The aftermath prompted General Marshall to declare Marshal Law. For more info on this topic grab a copy of The Murder of Geneva Hardman & Lexington’s Mob Riot of 1920 by Peter Brackney. https://kaintuckeean-800675.square.site/product/geneva-hardman/2?cs=true&cst=custom Send topic suggestions and corrections to kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com. Visit www.kyhistoryhaunts.com for additional sources and photos

113. Geneva Hardman, Marshal Law, and Maybe A Serial Killer- Part 1 Mar 13, 2023

Chaos erupted in Lexington, Kentucky in 1920 after a young girl was brutally murdered on her way to school. The aftermath prompted General Marshall to declare Marshal Law. For more info on this topic grab a copy of The Murder of Geneva Hardman & Lexington’s Mob Riot of 1920 by Peter Brackney. https://kaintuckeean-800675.square.site/product/geneva-hardman/2?cs=true&cst=custom Send topic suggestions and corrections to kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com. Visit www.kyhistoryhaunts.com for additional sources and photos

112. Pete ‘The Gladiator’ Browning Feb 13, 2023

Louis Rogers Browning was born in 1861 in Louisville, Kentucky. From an early age it was obvious he would be a baseball star. He went on to play for the Louisville Colonels and several other teams, but his personal life was tumultuous and scandalous. This is the story of Louisville Slugger Pete Browning. For more on this topic visit https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/pete-browning/

111. James 'Honest Dick' Tate Fooled Everyone in Frankfort Jan 23, 2023

James William Tate was born near Frankfort, Kentucky in 1831. When he was seventeen he started working at the post office, but quickly transitioned to a career in politics. He was elected State Treasurer in 1867- a position he would maintain for the next two decades. He was loved, trusted and respected by his colleagues and the citizens of Kentucky. That is until 1888, when everything changed. This is the story of James ‘Honest Dick’ Tate. To leave Jessie a tip for her hard work on this show, please use this link and scroll to the bottom of the page- https://bio.site/jessiebartholomew If you're listening on Spotify, please use the Q&A section in this or any episode to suggest future topics or to offer corrections. Thanks for listening!

110. Alvin Shipwreck Kelly Dec 24, 2022

Shipwreck was born Aloysius Kelly in the late 1800s. His early life was full of tragedy but he went on to live a daredevil life of adventure, which is how he ended up spending so much time in Kentucky, doing stunts on airplane wings and atop the Courier Journal building in Louisville. Crowds of thousands gathered in the city to watch him perform. This is the story of Alvin Shipwreck Kelly. To leave Jessie a holiday tip by following this link at scrolling to the bottom- https://bio.site/jessiebartholomew

109. Octagon Hall- The Haunting Dec 12, 2022

Episode 110: Octagon Hall- The Haunting. If you’ve had a paranormal experience anywhere in Kentucky or the surrounding region, write to me about it- kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com.

108. Octagon Hall- The History Dec 11, 2022

Episode 109: Octagon Hall- The History. This episode covers the history of a 175 year old building in Franklin, Kentucky, including the role it played in the Civil War. More information at www.octagonhallmuseum.com To leave Jessie a tip for her work on these episodes, please use this link and scroll to the bottom- https://bio.site/jessiebartholomew If you're listening on Spotify, use the Q&A section to leave suggestions for future episode topics.

107. Captain Mary Miller Nov 14, 2022

Portland, Kentucky native Mary Millicent Miller was begrudgingly given a steamboat captain’s license in the 1880s. She was the first woman in the United States to obtain one. Check out the updated store at https://www.kyhistoryhaunts.com/merch. To leave Jessie a one-time donation for her work on the show, go to https://bio.site/jessiebartholomew and scroll down to ‘Buy Jessie A Coffee.’ To suggest an episode topic send an email to kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com. Thanks for listening! If you're listening on Spotify, use the Q&A section to leave suggestions for future episode topics. Thank you!

106. Jessie Visits the Anderson Hotel Nov 07, 2022

I covered the Anderson Hotel back in June of this year. But when Jeff Waldridge messaged me that I didn’t have the full story, I jumped at the chance to take a tour and interview him. Here’s the full story of the haunted Anderson Hotel in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. For more info, and to check out the new merch, go to www.kyhistoryhaunts.com. Please review, rate and subscribe wherever you’re listening to the show. To leave Jessie a tip, head to https://bio.site/jessiebartholomew and scroll to the bottom of the page.

105. Nightmares, Bloody Mary & Percy Shelley’s Heart Oct 31, 2022

It’s the 2022 Halloween Special! Full disclosure: none of these stories are Kentucky related! I wanted to do something different for Halloween this year. Hope you like it! Eat lots of candy and enjoy the holiday! PS I misspoke in this episode when speaking about the Shelley’s traveling around Europe during WWI- I was in the wrong century! That was during the Napoleonic Wars. 100 years earlier. Oops!

104. Cemetery Road Murders- Part 2 Oct 29, 2022

In 1948 an elderly couple was brutally murdered in their rural Bowling Green home. But who would do such a thing? And why? For more on this story check out the book The Cemetery Road Murders by Wes Swietek- https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-cemetery-road-murders-wes-swietek/1137739616. To buy Jessie a cup of coffee for her work on these episodes, head to https://bio.site/jessiebartholomew. And to browse KYHH merch go to https://www.kyhistoryhaunts.com/merch

103. Cemetery Road Murders- Part 1 Oct 28, 2022

In 1948 an elderly couple was brutally murdered in their rural Bowling Green home. But who would do such a thing? And why? For more on this story check out the book The Cemetery Road Murders by Wes Swietek- https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-cemetery-road-murders-wes-swietek/1137739616. To buy Jessie a cup of coffee for her work on these episodes, head to https://bio.site/jessiebartholomew. And to browse KYHH merch go to https://www.kyhistoryhaunts.com/merch

102. Listener Stories- Three Haunted Houses Oct 08, 2022

These stories were sent in by Chris from Frankfort, KY. Although he tells me he now lives in the less haunted town of Erlanger. These are a lot of fun. If you have paranormal experiences from anywhere in the state of KY to share, please email them to kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com. To send Jessie a tip for all her work on this podcast, head to www.bio.site/jessiebartholomew. For more info on the area Chris wrote about in Haunted House #2, go to https://denison.edu/magazine/spring-2012/140138

101. Haunted Newport Sep 26, 2022

This episode covers the hauntings of the Glenn Playtorium mentioned in the last two episodes, as well as the beautiful and spooky Southgate House. To tip Jessie for her hard work on this episode please visit https://bio.site/jessiebartholomew

100. Newport Mob Stories- Part 2 Sep 19, 2022

This is not your typical Kentucky history lesson. Something entirely unique happened in Northern Kentucky in the early 20th century. The mob took control of Newport and left a lasting impression on the area. For more information on this topic check out the book ‘Wicked Newport: Kentucky’s Sin City’. To buy Jessie a cup of coffee for her hard work creating this podcast, please visit https://bio.site/jessiebartholomew

99. Newport Mob Stories- Part 1 Sep 18, 2022

This is not your typical Kentucky history lesson. Something entirely unique happened in Northern Kentucky in the early 20th century. The mob took control of Newport and left a lasting impression on the area. For more information on this topic check out the book ‘Wicked Newport: Kentucky’s Sin City’. To buy Jessie a cup of coffee for her hard work creating this podcast and to celebrate her hundredth episode, please visit https://bio.site/jessiebartholomew

98. Who Killed Patrice Corley? Aug 19, 2022

In the spring of 1990, a woman’s body was found behind a truck stop in central Ohio. It took twenty-seven years to identify her, but her killer’s identity remains a mystery. This episode discusses details of violence that some may find unsettling. Listener discretion advised.

97. Lottie the Triceratops Jul 26, 2022

When I saw an article about saving Lottie the triceratops, I knew there would be a good story. And here it is. Find out how a life-sized, fiberglass dinosaur from the 1964 World’s Fair ended up in Louisville, Kentucky.

96. Gaines Tavern- Kentucky Horror House Jul 12, 2022

Abner Gaines and his family built a large home in Walton, Kentucky that became a busy stop for the stage coach line running from Cincinnati to Lexington. Over the years, the murders and suicides that took place on the property led to the creation of the nickname ‘Kentucky Horror House.’ Episode 97 will cover the history and hauntings of the Gaines Tavern in Boone County, Kentucky.

95. The Ghost Ship- USS Sachem Jul 07, 2022

A boat with a rich past sits abandoned, decaying, in a shallow creek bed in Boone County. This episode explores the many fascinating roles this ship played in history before settling in what appears to be it’s unfortunate final resting place. For more detailed information, visit www.uss-sachem.org.

94. Angel Bumpass Needs A New Trial Jun 29, 2022

In January, 2009, Linda Bonner arrived home to find her husband, Franklin, murdered- duct taped to a chair, suffocated to death. The case goes cold for a decade until a most unlikely suspect is arrested and put on trial with a co-defendant she may have never met. https://www.change.org/p/bill-lee-demand-a-retrial-for-angel-bumpass-wrongfully-convicted-13-year-old-with-a-life-sentence

93. Ghost Bites at the Anderson Hotel Jun 14, 2022

Episode 94 covers the history and haunting of the Anderson Hotel in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Please review, rate, subscribe and share this episode with friends! More at www.kyhistoryhaunts.com

92. HAPPY BIRTHDAY KENTUCKY Jun 01, 2022

You know the state bird and flower, but do you know the drama behind them? Or the fiery fate of the first state seal? Somehow I also end up talking about the giant ground sloth again. Happy birthday Kentucky! Find more at www.kyhistoryhaunts.com

91. Ben Purnell & the House of David May 16, 2022

At the start off the 20th century, Ben Purnell and his wife Mary decided they were the seventh messengers and that they needed to start a commune for the 144,000 souls they would choose to survive the apocalypse with them. To join their commune, all you had to do was uproot your life and surrender all your personal belongings to Ben and Mary. What could go wrong!? You can find an extensive photo gallery to go along with this episode at www.kyhistoryhaunts.com.

90. Missing: Kenny Naidas Jr. May 09, 2022

In May 2005, a man from Radcliffe left his home to pick up diapers and baby formula. He was never seen again. Kenny Manuel Naidas Jr. was a father, a son, a friend, and a fiancé. He went missing just a few days before he was supposed to get married. Information revealed years after his disappearance made the already disinterested media and public even less interested in his story. The case went cold and there's almost no mention of his disappearance left on the internet. If you have any information regarding this missing person, please call the Radcliff Police Department.

89. Wonder Woman Eula Hall- Part Three Apr 29, 2022

Appalachian history is riddled with poverty, exploitation, crooked politics, lack of jobs, lack of healthcare, lack of opportunity. A woman named Eula Hall believed her Eastern Kentucky town deserved more, and she never stopped fighting for what she believed. She believed in the people of Appalachia. This is the story of Eula Hall taking matters into her own hands. For more check out the book Mud Creek Medicine by Kiran Bhatraju.

88. Wonder Woman Eula Hall- Part Two Apr 28, 2022

Appalachian history is riddled with poverty, exploitation, crooked politics, lack of jobs, lack of healthcare, lack of opportunity. A woman named Eula Hall believed her Eastern Kentucky town deserved more, and she never stopped fighting for what she believed. She believed in the people of Appalachia. This is the story of Eula Hall taking matters into her own hands. For more check out the book Mud Creek Medicine by Kiran Bhatraju.

87. Wonder Woman Eula Hall- Part One Apr 27, 2022

Appalachian history is riddled with poverty, exploitation, crooked politics, lack of jobs, lack of healthcare, lack of opportunity. A woman named Eula Hall believed her Eastern Kentucky town deserved more, and she never stopped fighting for what she believed. She believed in the people of Appalachia. This is the story of Eula Hall taking matters into her own hands. For more check out the book Mud Creek Medicine by Kiran Bhatraju.

86. Identified: Maggie Anne Sniegowski Apr 13, 2022

In May 1992, an unidentified woman was found face down in a swampy area just off of I-65 in central Indiana. Thirty years later, police have identified her. But her siblings still want to know what happened, and who killed their sister. If you have any information relating to this case, please contact the Boone County Sheriff's office at 765-482-1412 or email tips@co.boone.in.us. No detail is too small.

85. Listener Stories- Mary Lee Mar 28, 2022

If you ask the folks at the International Paranormal Museum in Somerset, they’ll tell you that spirits can, and do, attach themselves to items. Like dolls, blankets, and even… pieces of furniture. Head to our website- kyhistoryhaunts.com or social media to view the photos that go along with this story submitted by Holly Browning.

84. Two Pairs of Jeans and a Walkman Mar 02, 2022

Understandably so, this incident, surely the most infamous of Barkley Regional Airport’s history, did not make it on their website. And why did it take eight years to identify the mysterious John Doe involved?

83. Pollard v. Breckinridge- Part Two Feb 05, 2022

“A young school girl. A member of Congress. The most celebrated breach of promise case in the history of this country!” The trial, the events that led up to it, and the aftermath are a fascinating sequence of double standards and old-timey nonsense. This is part two of a two part series. Visit kyhistoryhaunts.com for sources and photos.

82. Pollard v. Breckinridge- The Breach of Promise Case Feb 04, 2022

“A young school girl. A member of Congress. The most celebrated breach of promise case in the history of this country!” The trial, the events that led up to it, and the aftermath are a fascinating sequence of double standards and old-timey nonsense. This is part one of a two part series. Visit kyhistoryhaunts.com for sources and photos.

81. Exonerated- Joyce Watkins & Charlie Dunn Jan 23, 2022

This is the story of a couple wrongly accused of the murder of a four year old girl named Brandi Jessie in 1987. Listener discretion advised.

80. Remembering Darryl Owens Jan 07, 2022

Representative Owens passed away the first week of January 2022. During his career he worked tirelessly for not just African Americans, but all residents of the city of Louisville and the state of Kentucky.

79. Boone Helm- Part Two Dec 30, 2021

This two-parter is a story of the life and times of Kentucky Cannibal Boone Helm. From his childhood in south central Kentucky, to his journey to the Wild West. These episodes include mentions of rape, violent assault, murder and cannibalism. Listener discretion advised.

78. Boone Helm- Part One Dec 30, 2021

This two-parter is a story of the life and times of Kentucky Cannibal Boone Helm. From his childhood in south central Kentucky, to his journey to the Wild West. These episodes include mentions of rape, violent assault, murder and cannibalism. Listener discretion advised.

77. A holiday message from Jessie Dec 24, 2021

No episode this week because I wasn’t thinking ahead and the research I’m working on is just too gruesome for the holidays! Thank you for listening and supporting all year long. Can’t wait to bring you more stories in 2022.

76. Kentucky Bermuda Triangle? Dec 16, 2021

The Kentucky Bermuda Triangle. Some wrecked boats. Some missing persons cases. Some UFO action. And a scientific anomaly. If you have stories that can add to the strangeness of these areas send in a voice message or an email. The cover art is a photo of the USS Fixity refurbished as the Commercial Dixie on the Ohio River

75. Unsolved Murder of Alberta Jones Dec 02, 2021

When 34 year old Alberta Jones was murdered, she was just getting started. She was one of the first black women to pass the Kentucky bar. She helped thousands of black voters register and learn to vote. She marched on Washington. Her case went cold fast, but is still active and is on the FBI list of unsolved cases under the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act.

74. The Orgasm Defense Nov 25, 2021

As you could guess by the title, listener discretion advised. This episode includes mentions of sexually explicit content, violence and profanity. This is the story of Shayna Hubers and Ryan Poston. Happy Holiday’s!

73. William Branham- Yikes! Part 2 Nov 18, 2021

On this episode you’ll learn how a boy from Kentucky went on to recruit for the Klan, become a faith healer, travel the world, influence other cult leaders, and all sorts of other crazy stuff. Jim Jones even claims in a recording that he prophesied Branham’s death. Can’t make this stuff up!

72. William Branham- Yikes! Part 1 Nov 11, 2021

On this episode you’ll learn how a boy from Kentucky went on to recruit for the Klan, become a faith healer, travel the world, influence other cult leaders, and all sorts of other crazy stuff. Jim Jones even claims in a recording that he prophesied Branham’s death. Can’t make this stuff up!

71. Kentucky Place Names Part 2 Nov 04, 2021

Ever wonder how your hometown got it’s name? Consolation? Jonancy? Razorblade? This is part two of the Kentucky Place Names series based on information from the book Kentucky Place Names by Robert M. Rennick.

70. Kentucky Scary Stories Part 2 Oct 31, 2021

A ghost mule. A grocer with a secret. A bossy ghost. And a graveyard haunt. Happy Halloween loves! Link to books on the website. Www.kyhistoryhaunts.com

69. Kentucky Scary Stories Part 1 Oct 27, 2021

A headless nun. A haunted house. A UFO sighting. And a vampire. Happy Halloween week! These stories are from Haunted Kentucky by Alan Brown, Kentucky Book of the Dead by Keven McQueen and Mysterious Kentucky by Barton Nunnelly

68. The Tragic Love Story of Albert & Kitty Wing Oct 19, 2021

This episode contains violence against women- listener discretion advised. When Albert Wing asked Kitty to marry him, he knew what she did for a living, and they went ahead with the marriage anyway. But his jealousy overcame him. Multiple times.

67. The Head on the Mound Oct 12, 2021

It’s Halloween season so I had to give you guys a little dismemberment episode. This episode is an exact recount of the story as written in the book Murder in Old Kentucky- True Crime Stories from the Bluegrass by Keven McQueen. Link to the book is on kyhistory.com under this episode.

66. Joe Wesbecker- Part 3 Oct 05, 2021

On September 14, 1989, disgruntled Standard Gravure employee Joseph Wesbecker went back to the printing plant after a year of long term leave. He wasn’t there for work. He was there for revenge.

65. Joe Wesbecker- Part 2 Sep 28, 2021

On September 14, 1989, disgruntled Standard Gravure employee Joseph Wesbecker went back to the printing plant after a year of long term leave. He wasn’t there for work. He was there for revenge.

64. Joe Wesbecker- Part 1 Sep 21, 2021

On September 14, 1989, disgruntled Standard Gravure employee Joseph Wesbecker went back to the printing plant after a year of long term leave. He wasn’t there for work. He was there for revenge.

63. Lakeland Asylum & Sauerkraut Cave Sep 16, 2021

Have you ever walked through Tom Sawyer Park in Louisville and wondered about the field with just a few dilapidated gravestones poking out of it? Turns out those were the patients of Lakeland Asylum- a hospital notorious for overcrowding, poor living conditions, abuse and neglect. I’m pretty sure I say garrulous wrong in this episode. Whoops.

62. The Strange Life & Posthumous Mystery of Constantine Rafinesque Sep 09, 2021

A scientist. A tragedy. A shipwreck. A naked violin battle with bats. A curse. There’s a lot to the story of Constantine Rafinesque.

61. Appalachian Folk Medicine- Part 3 Sep 03, 2021

Including a list of things you definitely shouldn’t consume to induce labor! Based on the book Folk Medicine in Southern Appalachia by Anthony Cavender.

60. Appalachian Folk Medicine- Part 2 Aug 26, 2021

Spiderweb cavity fillings, cow manure facials, red ants for teething babies, getting stung by bees on purpose, and more! From the book Folk Medicine in Southern Appalachia by Anthony Cavender

59. Appalachian Folk Medicine- Part 1 Aug 19, 2021

I came across the book ‘Folk Medicine in Southern Appalachia’ by Anthony Cavender and found the content so entertaining I decided it needed to be an episode. And then two episodes. Maybe three? Lots of turpentine, sulfur, onions and arsenic. What an uncomfortable time to be alive.

58. The Anderson Murder- Louisville Aug 05, 2021

I’ll tell you a tale of an angry drunk who almost got off the hook for killing his wife… by pleading drunk/insane. Insert eye roll emoji here.

57. The Horrible Harpe Brothers- Serial Killers Jul 29, 2021

The Harpe Brothers are considered by many the first documented serial killers in the United States.

56. Delia Webster Jul 15, 2021

Delia Webster was born in Vermont, but her work brought her back again and again to the state of Kentucky, where she worked tirelessly to help get slaves across the Ohio River to their freedom.

55. Disappearance of Ann Gotlib Jul 08, 2021

In June 1983, twelve year old Ann Gotlib went missing. There was plenty of speculation as to what happened to her. Decades passed and the case remained ice cold. Until 2008 when police made a startling announcement. This case technically remains open, and a body has never been recovered.

54. Hayswood Hospital Jul 01, 2021

It’s for sale! And everyone is buzzing about it so I thought I’d put together a little overview of the history of the building and the site. *I am a licensed Realtor in the state of Kentucky. The hospital is not my listing!

53. A Colonel and a Judge Jun 24, 2021

Colonel Buford murdered Judge Elliott in cold blood in the middle of the day in Frankfort, Kentucky. His subsequent conviction and life after murder were quite interesting.

52. Road Trip- Maple Hill Manor & More Jun 17, 2021

I stayed overnight at haunted Maple Hill Manor. I also had dinner at haunted Shaker Village, and the haunted Boone Tavern. I didn't see any ghosts, but I ate and slept well. I'll tell you all about that, plus my visit to the International Paranormal Museum and more in this episode.

51. Louisville Riots- 1855 Jun 07, 2021

You might know this piece of Louisville history as “Bloody Monday.” This is the day 22 (or so) people lost their lives on Election Day as ‘nativists’ tried to keep Catholics and ‘foreign-born’ people from voting. This episode will discuss the events that led up to election day, the events of the day, and the aftermath. If you have a topic suggestion or I need to make a correction, message me via social media or email kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com. For additional resources, head to www.kyhistoryhaunts.com.

50. How Kentucky Places Got Their Names- Part 1 Jun 04, 2021

I got this great book called Kentucky Place Names by Robert Rennick and this episode is just me reading some origin stories to you and chuckling about them. Enjoy!

49. Judge Roy Bean Jun 01, 2021

This Kentucky native wrought havoc out West before (and after) becoming a man of the law in the late 1800s.

48. WAVERLY- AFTER May 27, 2021

This episode will provide details from our guided tour of Waverly Hills as well as my report on our paranormal investigation. Stay tuned til the very end for the “Ernie” recording. For photos and other resources head to www.kyhistoryhaunts.com

47. Della Faye Sutorius May 25, 2021

Five husbands was one too many for Della Faye. This episode is a KYHH road trip. Della was from Auxier, Kentucky but the bulk of this story takes place across the river in Ohio.

46. WAVERLY HILLS- BEFORE May 17, 2021

This is a great conversation with special guest host Gary Lockard who tells us all about the history of Waverly Hills Sanatorium- which many believe is the most haunted place in the US. This conversation was recorded before our overnight trip to Waverly. Stay tuned for follow up!

45. Rod Ferrell & The Vampires- Part 2 May 13, 2021

Rod Ferrell was born in Murray, Kentucky in 1980. He had an unstable upbringing, surrounded by drug use, often neglected, probably abused, and without a father figure. He started telling his friends he was an ancient vampire and that he was immortal. And they could be too, if they let him drink their blood. Things took an especially dark turn in November 1996 when Rod was sixteen. He and three friends left Murray to pick up two more friends in Florida, then on to New Orleans to start new lives as a vampire family. A double homicide derailed their plan.

44. Rod Ferrell & The Vampires- Part 1 May 10, 2021

Rod Ferrell was born in Murray, Kentucky in 1980. He had an unstable upbringing, surrounded by drug use, often neglected, probably abused, and without a father figure. He started telling his friends he was an ancient vampire and that he was immortal. And they could be too, if they let him drink their blood. Things took an especially dark turn in November 1996 when Rod was sixteen. He and three friends left Murray to pick up two more friends in Florida, then on to New Orleans to start new lives as a vampire family. A double homicide derailed their plan.

43. Sarah “Sadie” Frances Price May 06, 2021

Sarah Frances Price was a teenager during the Civil War. When the war came to an end, both her parents died, along with her brother. Then she was bedridden for a year with a mysterious ailment. When things finally started looking up, she became an accomplished researcher and published many works on native Kentucky plant and animal species.

42. The Cicadas Are Coming! May 03, 2021

Every seventeen years, Kentucky gets a visit from a new batch of periodical cicadas. They are loud, they are numerous, but they are generally not harmful, except to young trees and vineyards. You’ll come away from this episode armed with all kinds of great cicada fun facts. Enjoy!

41. Ventriloquism & the Vent Haven Museum Apr 29, 2021

Learn the eerie origins of ventriloquism, how it evolved into the modern form of entertainment it is today, and then enjoy an overview of the fascinating Vent Haven Museum started by W.S. Berger- now home to over 980 ‘figures’ plus oodles of other memorabilia. Check out venthaven.org to learn more and book your appointment.

40. Nancy Green- Aunt Jemima Apr 22, 2021

It’s difficult to decipher which information about Nancy Green’s life is true. In this episode, I’ve tried to separate fact from fiction, while giving an overview of Green’s life and the racist stereotypes perpetuated by the flour companies who used her (and others after her) for their brand. For more on this topic check out The NY Times article ‘Nancy Green, Aunt Jemima- Overlooked’; the Medium article ‘Aunt Jemima- It was Never About Pancakes’; NPR’s ‘The Fight to Commemorate Nancy Green: The Woman who Played Aunt Jemima’; and USA Today’s ‘Fact Check: Aunt Jemima Model Didn’t Create Brand, Wasn’t Millionaire’

39. Narcotic Farm- Lexington Apr 19, 2021

It was progressive. It was controversial. It was sometimes unethical. The advancements made at the US Public Service Hospital are often overshadowed by the highly questionable experiments conducted on volunteer inmates... experiments sometimes funded by the CIA as part of Operation MKULTRA. For more, find the air dates for KET’s Narcotic Farm documentary on the KET website. Also check out the Forbes Articles ‘The Narcotic Farm and the Little Known History of America’s First Prison for Drug Addicts’ by Clary Estes. Plus the IRETA article ‘A Look at Treatment History: The Narcotic Farm’

38. True Crime- Kevin Dunlap Apr 15, 2021

In 2008, Kevin Dunlap pretended to be interested in buying a home for sale in the Roaring Spring community. The owner let him in, where he proceeded to tie her up, rape her, leave her for dead, set the home on fire and murder her children. He was arrested and charged three days later, but an evaluation of his mental state brought up questions about his competency. For details on this case, see Dunlap v. Commonwealth- Kentucky Supreme Court decision June 20, 2013. On behalf of this episode, please consider making a donation to The Center for Women and Families at www.thecenteronline.org

37. Why Public Officials Can’t Duel in Kentucky Apr 12, 2021

While dueling has been out of style for quite some time in the state of Kentucky, public officials must still swear under oath before taking office that they’ve never participated in a duel or challenged anyone to fight one. Find out why in today’s episode. Be sure to check out the Smithsonian Magazine article ‘Duel!’; the PBS article ‘The History of Dueling in America’; and the fabulous article by Z.F Smith from the Register of Kentucky State Historical Society ‘DUELING, and Some Noted Duels by Kentuckians’

36. HAUNTED- Anne Mitchell & John Bell Hood Apr 08, 2021

This is a love story. That turns sad. And then violent. And then spoooooky. A woman fell in love with a man, but was forced into marrying someone else. Find out how she retaliates... Check out this story and more Kentucky mysteries in the book ‘Myths and Mysteries of Kentucky’ by Mimi O’Malley & Susan Sawyer

35. Montgomery Blair- Dred Scott v. Sanford and Other Things Apr 05, 2021

A person with a unique role in political history. I didn’t choose this guy because he was an exceptionally great guy, but because his series of roles was interesting and his life might make for a good tv show. This is the story of Montgomery Blair. For more on The Belknap Scandal check out historynet.com/belknap-scandal-fulcrum-disaster

34. Aviatrix Willa Brown Apr 01, 2021

So. Many. Firsts. This woman was not afraid to set records. I get so excited talking about her accomplishments. I hope you enjoy the story of Aviatrix Willa Brown as much as I enjoyed researching it. For more on some of the topics I cover in this episode check out ‘The Other Harlem’ on airspacemag.com. ‘Tuskegee Airmen’ on history.com and ‘Lieutenant Willa Brown- Aviatrix, Maker of Pilots’ by Tanja Spitzer for The National WWII Museum.

33. Nurse Mary W. Arvin Mar 29, 2021

Mary Arvin was born in Henderson, Kentucky. She graduated from nursing school in Owensboro and then joined the Red Cross Harvard Base Unit #5 which was sent to France in 1917. She cared for patients throughout the war years and witnessed two German night raid bombings before coming home to Kentucky and being honored by all three major allied forces. This is the first installment of BADASS KENTUCKY WOMEN.

32. Louis Sansbury Takes on Cholera Mar 25, 2021

Cholera was a real problem in the 1800s. We didn’t know where it came from or how to treat it. In Springfield, Kentucky, one slave stayed behind while his owner and several other people fled the area completely. He ran the businesses of those who left while caring for the sick and dying. Research comes from ‘It Happened in Kentucky’ by Mimi O’Malley, and The National Center for Biotechnology Information.

31. Brenda Sue Schaefer- Part 3 Mar 22, 2021

In the late 1980s, a Louisville woman named Brenda Sue Schaefer went missing. For months, police and FBI were extremely frustrated. They knew who did it, but they didn’t have the evidence to prove it. After going cold for months, they finally got a break in the case. But what would normally be an ending to a tragic true crime story, would just be the beginning. Get ready to be frustrated! For details on this case, check out the book ‘Double Jeopardy’ by Bob Hill. On behalf of this series, I’m asking listeners to make a donation to The Center for Women and Families. Head to www.thecenteronline.org. Thank you

30. Brenda Sue Schaefer- Part 2 Mar 18, 2021

In the late 1980s, a Louisville woman named Brenda Sue Schaefer went missing. For months, police and FBI were extremely frustrated. They knew who did it, but they didn’t have the evidence to prove it. After going cold for months, they finally got a break in the case. But what would normally be an ending to a tragic true crime story, would just be the beginning. Get ready to be frustrated! For details on this case, check out the book ‘Double Jeopardy’ by Bob Hill. On behalf of this series, I’m asking listeners to make a donation to The Center for Women and Families. Head to www.thecenteronline.org. Thank you

29. Brenda Sue Schaefer- Part 1 Mar 15, 2021

In the late 1980s, a Louisville woman named Brenda Sue Schaefer went missing. For months, police and FBI were extremely frustrated. They knew who did it, but they didn’t have the evidence to prove it. After going cold for months, they finally got a break in the case. But what would normally be an ending to a tragic true crime story, would just be the beginning. Get ready to be frustrated! For details on this case, check out the book ‘Double Jeopardy’ by Bob Hill. On behalf of this series, I’m asking listeners to make a donation to The Center for Women and Families. Head to www.thecenteronline.org. Thank you

28. Madame Belle Brezing of Lexington- Part 2 Mar 08, 2021

Find out what happens to Belle and her Megowan St. mansion in part 2 of the Belle Brezing story. A great resource on Belle and the history, politics and economic revolution of Lexington is the book ‘Madam Belle: Sex, Money and Influence in a Southern Brothel’ by Maryjean Wall.

27. Madam Belle Brezing of Lexington- Part 1 Mar 04, 2021

Belle Brezing had a difficult childhood and early life. The odds were definitely against her. But she managed to create a life so interesting and impactful we still consider her a Lexington Legend today. Find out how her life was intertwined with politics, economics, and of course the lucrative horse industry during the late 1800s and into the early 1900s. Be sure to check out the book ‘Madame Belle: Sex, Money and Influence in a Southern Brothel’ by Maryjean Wall.

26. Lillian Patrick & Mary Magdalene Pitts Mar 01, 2021

This episode will be tough to listen to. Both of these children were murdered before they even had a chance to really live. But their stories are every bit a part of Kentucky history as any other topic I’ve covered and touch an important point which is- if you suspect someone is abusing or neglecting a child, go with your gut and report it. To report in Kentucky, you can call the Kentucky Statewide Child Abuse Hotline at 1-877-597-2331

25. Mastodon Graveyard- Boone Co. Feb 25, 2021

Mastodons and stag moose and giant sloths, oh my! This story is actually a little sad but also fascinating and you will come away with some excellent fun facts for future use. Source material for this episode includes “It Happened in Kentucky- Remarkable Events That Shaped History” by Mimi O’Malley and ‘Pre-Historic Animals in Kentucky and the Ohio Valley’- R.B. Gilbert- Register of Kentucky State Historical Society Vol. 7 No. 20

24. Louisville Rail History Feb 22, 2021

Louisville has toyed with the idea of bringing back commuter light rail. And some say the infrastructure is already there in Louisville. Here’s a brief history of streetcar and commuter rail transportation in Louisville and the surrounding region. For a great photo archive go to historiclouisville.weebly.com/interurban-elevated-rail.html. Other source material include ‘A Brief History of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad’ by Charles B. Caster & ‘Curious Louisville: Why Did Our Streetcars Go Away? And Can We Bring Them Back?’ By Erica Peterson (WFPL). Send me your thoughts.

23. Alma Kellner- Part 3 Feb 18, 2021

Find out the fate of Joseph Wendling. Check out Shawn M. Herron’s book ‘Louisville’s Alma Kellner Mystery” and please on behalf of this story go to www.stjohncenter.org/support-our-mission and donate to a wonderful cause. Thank you

22. Alma Kellner- Part 2 Feb 15, 2021

If you missed part 1, go back to episode 22 and then come back to this one. In this episode, Captain Carney makes the journey home with his suspect, Joseph Wendling. From the book ‘Louisville’s Alma Kellner Mystery’ by Shawn M. Herron

21. Alma Kellner- Part 1 Feb 11, 2021

Eight year old Alma Kellner vanished without a trace in Louisville, KY in December 1909. Her disappearance shocked the city and the way things played out afterwards are so bizarre, I’m sitting here talking about them over 100 years later. Thank you to Shawn M. Herron for doing SO much research and authoring the book ‘Louisville’s Alma Kellner Mystery.’ Much of this story takes place in St. John's Church, which is now the site of St. John Center for Homeless Men. On behalf of this episode, please go to www.stjohnscenter.org/support-our-mission. Thank you

20. Hopkinsville Goblins Feb 04, 2021

Owls? Monkeys? Hallucinating drunks? Or did a group of tiny green men really land their UFO in Kelly, Kentucky on the night of August 21, 1955? Sources include ‘Mysterious Kentucky- The History, Mystery and Unexplained of the Bluegrass State’ by Barton M. Nunnelly; ‘Strange Kentucky Monsters’ by Michael Newton and history.com/news/little-green-men-origins

19. True Crime- Virginia Caudill Feb 01, 2021

There is one woman on death row in the state of Kentucky. That woman is Virginia Caudill. She was convicted in 2000, along with her accomplice Johnathan Wayne Goforth. The strange thing about this is that we don’t truly know which one of them committed the murder. We do know that neither of them tried to stop it. So they both sit on death row, awaiting an execution date. Enjoying the show? Help a girl out by heading over to anchor.fm/Jessie-Bartholomew and support for just .99 cents per month! Many thanks!

18. Pope Lick Monster Jan 28, 2021

This mischievous creature hangs out around the Pope Lick Trestle- a tall, bridge-like structure about 15 miles from downtown Louisville. Though his existence is an urban legend, the consequences of his story are very real. Check out the short film The Legend of The Pope Lick Monster. Plus the Atlas Obscura Article “Pope Lick Trestle Bridge.” And the Courier Journal articles “Pope Lick ‘monster’ survivor mentally crushed” from 2016 and “15-year-old girl dies in yet another train accident on the Pope Lick trestle” published in 2019.

17. Killer Coroner- Louisville Jan 25, 2021

Dr. Hugh McCollough was re-elected to his position as Jefferson Co. coroner and all was well. Until the peacock incident. From the book Cruelly Murdered by Keven McQueen

16. NUCLEAR- Maxey Flats Jan 21, 2021

So much nuclear waste, y’all. This story takes place in Hillsboro, Kentucky, where the state approved a site for the Maxey Flats Waste Disposal Facility in the 1960s. What could possibly go wrong? I’ll tell you what.

15. Tent Girl- Georgetown Jan 18, 2021

A body is found in 1968. Thirty years later she’s identified, but with her identification comes more questions than answers. Instead of donating to the podcast, for this episode I’m asking listeners to go to thecenter.org and click donate in the top right corner. Thank you. Check out Crime Junkie 2018 episode MURDERED- TENT GIRL + Huffington Post- A Body in Kentucky- The 30 Year Long Mystery of Tent Girl + theartofkilling.com/2020/03/08/tent-girl

14. HAUNTED- Liberty Hall Jan 14, 2021

Do you love a creepy ghost? A friendly ghost? A lovesick ghost? No matter your preference, you can find them at Liberty Hall- a stately brick building in Frankfort, constructed by the first Kentucky Senator, John Brown. Check out Libertyhall.org for more info and to schedule your tour this spring!

13. Murder of Marlene Oakes Jan 11, 2021

In Verona, KY, a daughter desperately seeks closure about her mother’s murder over two decades prior. The story gets dark fast but has a (kind of) happy ending. Instead of donating to the podcast, for this episode I’m asking listeners to go to thecenter.org and click donate in the top right corner. Thank you

12. Police UFO Sighting- Louisville Jan 07, 2021

The year is 1993. An excited police officer gets a chance to fly in the helicopter instead of his regular street patrol. But he gets more than he bargained for.

11. Where the Heck is Daniel Boone Buried? Dec 31, 2020

Boone was a great explorer, not a savvy businessman. But where are his remains? Missouri? Kentucky? Both? Neither? We’ll probably never know, but it makes for a great story.

10. HAUNTED- Old Talbott Tavern & Jailer’s Inn Dec 28, 2020

Jesse James. The Dungeon Room. Ghost babies. Bourbon. What doesn’t Bardstown have? I can’t wait to stay in The Jail Cell. Maybe I’ll do a follow up episode.

9. Edgar Cayce- The Sleeping Prophet of Christian County Dec 24, 2020

Head trauma or god-given talent!? Who knows. His life story is pretty wild. No matter what you believe, his contributions to holistic medicine are real. This episode highlights the chain of events in Edgar Cayce’s life that labeled him the father of holistic medicine.

8. Meat Shower- Bath County Dec 21, 2020

An unexplained event that occurred in Bath County, KY. Scientists couldn’t determine why it happened or how it happened. Just that it did. (It was probably vultures or a weird veggie-like substance.) A butcher named Frisbee even sampled the mystery space meat.

7. Kentucky UFO Abduction- Stanford Dec 17, 2020

Three women from Liberty thought they were going to have a laid-back birthday dinner in Lancaster. They were in for much more. Like burning eyeballs and antisocial parakeets. Also how great is the name Dr. Leo Sprinkle?

6. Southern Exposition- Louisville Dec 14, 2020

Just history- no haunt! An amazing event took place in Louisville in the 1880s that changed the course of the city’s industrial role in our country. Huge structures were built and visitors flocked from all over the world to take part in the Southern Exposition.

5. Murder on Chestnut St- Louisville Dec 10, 2020

Charles Brownfield made a lot of bad decisions. Like getting married the same day he met his wife. Or gambling away an inheritance. But it gets way worse. Anything can happen... it’s the 1880s! Instead of donating to the podcast, for this episode I’m asking listeners to go to thecenter.org and click donate in the top right corner. Thank you

4. A Grave Mistake- Octavia Hatcher Dec 07, 2020

Octavia Hatcher married a prominent Pikeville businessman in the late 1800s. They were so excited to start a family and live a long happy life together. Things didn’t go as planned.

3. Jane Crawford Didn’t Have Twins Dec 04, 2020

Ephraim McDowell comes to the rescue in the 1800s of a woman misdiagnosed with twins. What she was actually carrying in her belly was way more menacing than the idea of two extra mouths to feed!

2. Harrodsburg- The Mysterious Ballroom Dancer Nov 30, 2020

A luxurious resort atop a hill overlooking the town. A mysterious guest. An extravagant ballroom dance and a tragic ending.

1: William Kriel- A Louisville Jeckyll & Hyde Nov 29, 2020

This guy had everybody fooled. A beloved local butcher, things turned sour when he visited his recently separated wife, Margaret. Join me to learn the fate of William and Margaret Kriel of Louisville, KY. Instead of donating to the Patreon for this episode, I urge my listeners to make a donation to The Center for Women and Families in Louisville. Go to thecenteronline.org and click “donate” in the top right corner. Thank you

Kentucky History & Haunts (Trailer) Nov 28, 2020

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected