Curator's Choice

Deep within the Land Between Two Lakes, stands the Great Western Iron Works: a short-lived, history-rich iron producer. 

Driving through the Land Between Two Lakes (LBL), you drive right past this huge three-story-tall limestone structure. It’s 10 feet wide, 40 feet high, and is an old iron furnace. This is one of only two still intact from the 1800s; there was a total of 18 in production during the iron ore industry era in LBL.  This is known as the great western iron furnace and has a very unsuccessful history.

As I said before, they are made from these huge limestone slabs and are rectangular, tapering inwards towards the top, basically just a really huge kiln. Had a chimney running up through it, and was next to a hill with a wooden bridge leading to the top of the furnace. 

Men working the furnace would dump charcoal, hematite ore, and limestone would be carted by hand over to the top of the furnace and dumped in. The hematite contained about 60% pure iron; the charcoal provided the heat from burning. Steam pumps at the base of the furnace provided bellows of air to blast the fire, to melt off all the unnecessary stuff as tremendous heat would build up inside the furnace (Temperatures in the ore box reached 3,000 degrees F!).

The molten iron would then pool at the bottom and be funneled through wet sand to produce the iron bars. This is actually where the term "pig iron" came from, the main stream of molten iron would have smaller streams funneling off the sides, looking like a mother pig with her sucking piglets. 

The Great Western Furnace began operation in 1855 and during its first 34 weeks, it produced 1,350 tons of high-quality iron. Then its short producing life was over. The furnace owners, William Newell and John Pritchett were heavily in debt over the purchase of ~10 acres of land, acquired for the ore and timber needed to produce iron. Along with mismanagement, limited resources, and a nationwide economic recession spelled doom for the short-lived furnace. 

Episode Links:

• Four Rivers Explorer’s article “Great Western Iron Furnace’: www.fourriversexplorer.com/great-western-iron-furnace/

• Four Rivers Explorer’s article “Center Furnace in Land Between the Lakes”: www.fourriversexplorer.com/center-furnace/

• RootsRated article “The Story Behind Land Between the Lakes: America’s Largest Inland Peninsula: rootsrated.com/stories/the-story-behind-land-between-the-lakes-america-s-largest-inland-peninsula

• Forest Service webpage: www.landbetweenthelakes.us/

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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers

This week I met with Director Jan Peterson at the Cowboy Art and Gear Museum in Elko, Nevada.  Surrounded by masterfully created saddles, brilliant bits and bridles, and cowboy illustrations, we talk about the history of the brilliant entrepreneur and craftsman G. S. Garcia. Many of the pieces in the museum are Garcia originals!

The saddles created by G. S. Garcia and his family business were hugely popular and became highly sought after for their quality. In 1904, Garcia entered a saddle at the St. Louis World's Fair. The saddle he entered was decorated with precious gems and intricate silverwork and won a gold medal. Garcia had ordered a replica display horse for the fair to showcase his saddle. This same horse replica can be found in the Cowboy Art and Gear Museum, which also happens to be the exact building Garcia had built for his shop in the 1900s. 

After discussing the incredible life history of Garcia, his craftsmanship, and his effect on Elko, we also talk about an Edison record player, made in 1917. If you make it to the museum, ask for a demo, It still plays records! Stay tuned after the video and you will hear a recording of the Edison record "When You Were A Tulip And I Wore A Big Red Rose" Jan played for us.


Episode links:

• Cowboy Arts and Gear Museum webpage: https://cowboyartsandgearmuseum.org/about/

• Article in the Northeastern Nevada Historical Society Quarterly published in 1983 discussing G.S. Garcia's world-famous saddle from the 1904 World's Fair: https://www.gbcnv.edu/howh/Garcia.html

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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers

Unveiling Witchcraft Investigations of the 17th Century - Halloween Special Bonus Episode

🎃 Happy Halloween, listeners! 🎃

In this special bonus episode, we're diving into the spooky history of witchcraft investigations in the 17th century. Join host Ayla Anderson as she explores the chilling 15 criteria used during witch trials, unraveling the tragic tales that unfolded during this dark period.

📖 Book Spotlight: In episode 2, we delved into the haunted halls of the Old Jail Museum, and while researching, we stumbled upon a fascinating book by Lynn J. Buonviri – "Moll Dyer and Other Witch Tales of Southern Maryland." Buonviri details the 15 criteria employed in the investigation of witchcraft in Maryland during the 17th century, sourced from Michael Dalton's "Country Justice."

🔍 Episode Highlights:

• Discover the historical context behind the witch trials in Maryland.
• Uncover the 15 criteria that guided officials in prosecuting witches.
• Reflect on the tragic consequences faced by women charged with witchcraft.

📚 Recommended Reading:
Explore the Wikipedia article about "Country Justice" for an in-depth understanding of the historical background: Wikipedia - Country Justice

📜 Original Text Source:
Access the scanned original "Country Justice" document, courtesy of Google and Ohio State University: Country Justice - Scanned Document

Happy Halloween! 

I thought it might be fun to include a short bonus episode in celebration of the spooky holiday!

For this bonus episode, I read a portion of Lynn J. Buonviri’s book which describes the 15 criteria that were used in the investigation of witchcraft in the 17th century. 

While doing research for episode 2 about the Old Jail Museum, I bought the book “Moll Dyer and Other Witch Tales of Southern Maryland”, written by Lynn J. Buonviri. In it, she describes a set of recommendations for criteria to be considered when officials were deciding whether or not to pursue an investigation for a witchcraft prosecution. These recommendations were used as a guide in Maryland during the witch trials, and they originally came from the book “Country Justice”, written by Michael Dalton in the 17th century. Though now they seem absolutely ridiculous, they tragically brought the prosecution and death to many women who were charged with witchcraft. 


Episode Links:

• Wikipedia article about "Country Justice": https://lawlibrary.wm.edu/wythepedia/index.php/Countrey_Justice

• Link to the scanned original "Country Justice" done by Google, from Ohio State University: https://hdl.handle.net/2027/osu.32437121567206

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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers

On today's show, we visit the Carlin Historical Museum in Nevada, which happens to be our host Ayla Anderson's hometown! Join the conversation with Ella Trujillo and Sabra Esparza as they share the captivating journey of creating the Carlin Historical Society and Museum. Here about the vibrant history of Carlin, and the darker side of long-forgotten Chinese burials that were finally laid to rest.

Episode Highlights:

🚂 From Railroad Town to Mining Hub: Carlin's Intriguing Origins

Explore the captivating evolution of Carlin, from its roots as a railroad town to its transformation into a bustling mining hub. Get ready for a blast from the past as we showcase a concert advertisement that transports us to the lively "party" days of this metropolis. Delve into the unique combination of artists featured—Country Western and Swing Judy Lynn (America's Champion Girl Yodeler) and Rock and Roll artist Pat Kelly and the Shamrocks!

⚰️ The Forgotten Chinese Graveyard: A Journey Unearthed

Uncover the incredible story behind a long-forgotten Chinese graveyard that became a remarkable archaeological discovery in 1996. Thirteen bodies were accidentally found in a backyard, shedding light on the lives of Chinese settlers from the railroad boom or immigrants who arrived after the gold rush. Learn about the artifacts unearthed, including burial stones, an opium pipe, and coffin handles, now displayed at the Carlin Museum. Discover how, after 21 years, the bodies were finally laid to rest in the Carlin cemetery, with proper Chinese burial practices performed by local resident Lijuchin “Lee” Chin.

🔗 Episode Links for Further Exploration:

• Carlin Historical Society and Museum Webpage: Immerse yourself in Carlin's history, explore exhibits, and plan your visit to the Carlin Historical Society and Museum.
• Tales of Carlin from the Carlin Historical Society: Dive deeper into the captivating stories of Carlin through the eyes of the Carlin Historical Society.
• Carlin Historical Society Facebook Page: Stay connected with the society for updates, events, and a closer look at Carlin's rich history.

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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers

This week, we take you to the Northeastern Nevada Museum in Elko, Nevada, for a journey back in time. Join host Ayla Anderson and guest D'ette Mossin to learn about Silver, a bald eagle that gained the community's love and support, and the tragic tale of the City of San Francisco train derailment.

Episode Highlights:

🌲 Silver the Bald Eagle: A Community Icon

Discover the heartwarming and heartbreaking story of Silver, a bald eagle with a remarkable journey. Rescued from Alaska after being illegally shot, Silver found his way to the San Francisco Zoo for rehabilitation. After release in the Ruby Lake Wildlife Refuge, he chose to make Elko his home. Becoming a beloved community mascot, Silver interacted with residents, charming them with his antics. Tragically, Silver fell victim to yet another illegal shooting. Learn how the community rallied to create an exhibit at the Northeastern Nevada Museum, ensuring Silver's legacy lives on through education and conservation efforts.

🚂 City of San Francisco Train Derailment: A Mystery Unveiled

Travel back to August 12, 1939, as we delve into the mysterious and tragic derailment of the luxurious City of San Francisco train. Running from Chicago to Oakland, the train derailed outside of Carlin, Nevada, claiming 24 lives and injuring 121. Explore the aftermath and the town of Elko's pivotal role in the rescue and support efforts. Uncover the unsolved case, surrounded by conspiracy theories and local lore, and find out why the $5,000 reward for information still stands.

🔗 Episode Links for Further Exploration:

• Northeastern Nevada Museum's Webpage: Dive deeper into the museum's exhibits and plan your visit to explore the rich history of Elko.
• Northeastern Nevada Museum's Facebook Page: Stay connected with the museum for updates and additional insights into the exhibits and events.
• Northeastern Nevada Museum's Instagram: Follow the museum on Instagram for a visual journey through Elko's history and natural wonders.
• Recalling and Train Wreck: Read more about the historical account of the City of San Francisco train derailment and its impact on the Elko community

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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers

Today, we journey to Leonardtown in southern Maryland to unravel the mysteries of the town witch, a cursed death stone, and the poignant story of Benjamin Hance, the only documented lynching victim in St. Mary’s County.

Episode Highlights:

🔮 The Town Witch and Her Cursed Stone

Join our host Ayla Anderson and guest Katherine Davis while they explore the haunting legend of Moll Dyer, the infamous Leonardtown witch. Discover the tragic end that befell Moll, frozen to death after her home was set ablaze by an angry village mob. But the story doesn't end there—legend has it that anyone who dares touch her death stone will be cursed with lifelong misfortune. Hear about the eerie history surrounding this cursed relic housed in the museum.

⚖️ Benjamin Hance: A Legacy Remembered

Delve into the important and tragic story of Benjamin Hance, the only documented lynching victim in St. Mary’s County. Learn about the Equal Justice Initiative's involvement in commemorating his life and death, and the tangible piece of history preserved at the museum—the soil collected from the area of Benjamin’s lynching. Understand the significance of remembering and honoring the unjust end of Benjamin Hance through this powerful ceremony.

🔗 Episode Links for Further Exploration:

• The Equal Justice Initiative's The Legacy Museum and The National Memorial for Peace and Justice: Explore these important initiatives dedicated to challenging racial and economic injustice.
• The Old Jail Museum's Facebook page: Connect with the museum on social media for updates and additional insights into Leonardtown's history.
• St. Mary's County Tourism, The Old Jail: Plan your visit to the Old Jail Museum and immerse yourself in the rich history of St. Mary’s County.
• Wayback Wednesday Video Collection on the St. Clements Island Facebook page: Dive into historical videos showcasing the fascinating past of St. Clements Island.
• Moll Dyer and Other Witch Tales of Southern Maryland by Lynn Buonviri: Explore more about Moll Dyer and other witch tales in Lynn Buonviri's book.

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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers

On today's episode, we take you on an extraordinary journey to the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum in Lexington Park, Maryland. Join your host Ayla Anderson and guest Dan Bramos as they delve into the mysteries of space, uncovering the secrets behind a moon rock sample, the daring escapades of a NASA intern, and the awe-inspiring journey of the X-47A Pegasus mockup.

🌙 Moon Rock Magic: Stardust Revelations

Explore the enchanting world of lunar mysteries with our in-depth discussion about the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum's newest exhibit—a genuine moon rock sample! Learn about the fascinating process of collecting stardust, discover who has the privilege of owning these celestial treasures, and brace yourself for a riveting story of a NASA intern's quest for lunar riches on the black market.

🛸 X-47A Pegasus: UFOs on the Move

Dive into the captivating narrative surrounding the X-47A Pegasus mockup, a UFO-like spectacle that traversed the United States. Uncover the extensive logistics behind transporting this mysterious aircraft and get ready for a surprising twist—it made an appearance in a Christmas parade! Follow us as we unravel the behind-the-scenes work that brought this airborne marvel to the streets.

🔗 Episode Links for Further Exploration:

• Patuxent River Naval Air Museum Webpage: Plan your visit and explore the wonders of aviation and space at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum.
• CollectSPACE: Stay updated on space news and join a thriving online community of space enthusiasts.
• International Space Station's Orbital Location: Track the International Space Station in real-time and witness its awe-inspiring orbit around Earth.

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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers

What is Curator's Choice? Here is a short introduction about what this podcast is all about. Hopefully it encourages you to give my podcast a listen!

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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers