In this episode of Hometown History, we uncover the mysterious disappearance of Judge Joseph Force Crater, an event that captured the nation’s attention in 1930 and coined the phrase “to pull a Crater.” Judge Crater’s sudden vanishing after a dinner in New York City sparked one of the most baffling investigations in American history. Was it foul play, a voluntary escape, or something more sinister? Decades of speculation, false leads, and conspiracy theories have kept the case alive. Join us as we explore the life, career, and disappearance of the man once dubbed “the Missingest Man in New York,” and how his case remains an unsolved enigma to this day.

Visit me online at itshometownhistory.com

Join me on Patreon at Patreon.com/friendsofShane.

Contact me at Shane@itshometownhistory.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Hometown History, we dive into the surprising story of how a monumental achievement in telecommunications catapulted Tiffany & Co. to fame. In 1858, Charles Tiffany seized on the success of the first transatlantic telegraph cable by selling pieces of the cable as souvenirs. What started as a technological milestone turned into a brilliant marketing opportunity that made Tiffany a household name. Join us as we explore how this simple yet strategic move by Tiffany & Co. forever changed the luxury brand’s legacy, proving that innovation and timing can shape the course of history.

Visit me online at itshometownhistory.com

Join my Patreon community at Patreon.com/friendsofShane

Contact me at Shane@itshometownhistory.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Hometown History, we delve into one of the most fascinating literary mysteries of the 20th century: the disappearance of Ambrose Bierce. A celebrated writer, Civil War veteran, and the sharp wit behind The Devil’s Dictionary, Bierce vanished without a trace in 1913 while journeying through Mexico during the revolution. Was it a suicide, an execution, or something far more mysterious? With no definitive answer, we explore the life of this complex figure, the theories surrounding his final days, and the enduring enigma that continues to captivate historians and mystery lovers alike. Join us as we uncover the strange disappearance of one of America's most intriguing figures.

Visit me online at itshometownhistory.com

Contact me at Shane@itshometownhistory.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Hometown History, we uncover the incredible story of a secret hidden beneath one of America's most luxurious resorts—the Greenbrier. Nestled in the hills of West Virginia, the Greenbrier has long been a haven for the elite, but during the height of the Cold War, it became the site of a covert government project known as "Project Greek Island." This secret underground bunker, designed to house Congress in the event of a nuclear attack, remained hidden from the public for over 30 years. Join us as we explore how an entire town helped keep this monumental secret, and how it was eventually revealed, leaving the locals both proud and betrayed. Discover the fascinating details of this little-known piece of American history, and ask yourself: could there be more undiscovered bunkers out there?

Visit me online at itshometownhistory.com

Contact me at Shane@itshometownhistory.com

Thanks for listening.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this intriguing episode of Hometown History, we unravel the tale of one of America’s most audacious cons: The Great Diamond Hoax of 1872. What began as a whispered rumor of hidden diamonds in the vast American wilderness quickly escalated into a full-blown frenzy, drawing in some of the country’s wealthiest and most powerful individuals. Led by two cunning prospectors, this elaborate scam convinced even seasoned investors that they were on the brink of unimaginable riches. But as the truth came to light, the story took a darker turn, revealing the dangers of greed and the timeless lesson that not everything that glitters is gold—or diamonds. Join us as we explore the fascinating details of this colossal fraud and the men behind it.

Visit me online at itshometownhistory.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Hometown History, we delve into the enigma of Coral Castle, a mysterious structure hidden in the sunny shores of Florida. Built single-handedly by Edward Leedskalnin, a man of modest stature, this architectural marvel is composed of massive coral blocks, some weighing as much as thirty tons. How did one man, using only homemade tools, achieve such a feat? Was it a mastery of ancient techniques, magnetic forces, or something more mystical? Join us as we explore the captivating story behind Coral Castle, uncovering the man, the myths, and the unanswered questions that make this site one of the world’s most intriguing wonders.

Visit me online at itshometownhistory.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Hometown History, we journey into the life of Paul Revere, not just as the legendary rider who warned of the British invasion, but as the Founding Father of Propaganda. Through his craftsmanship and powerful engravings, Revere ignited the revolutionary spirit and unified the colonies against British rule. From his early days as a talented silversmith to his critical role in spreading revolutionary messages, Paul Revere’s contributions went far beyond his famous Midnight Ride. Join me as we explore how Revere’s artistry and vision played a pivotal role in shaping the American Revolution and left an indelible mark on history.

Visit me online at itshometownhistory.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this chilling episode of Hometown History, we journey back to the fog-laden streets of 1930s Cleveland, where the shadow of the infamous Cleveland Torso Murderer loomed large over the city. From the grim discovery of the first victim on the shores of Lake Erie to the relentless hunt for a killer that left the police baffled and the public in fear, we delve into the gruesome details of a case that remains unsolved to this day. With each horrifying find, the mystery deepens, leaving us to ponder whether the true identity of the Mad Butcher of Kingsbury Run will ever be uncovered. Tune in as we explore one of the most perplexing and terrifying chapters in Cleveland’s history.

Visit me online at itshometownhistory.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.