Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally Told

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In episode 78 of Flower in the River podcast, I explore the power of storytelling through two distinct voices connected to the Eastland disaster. First, I introduce you to Jennifer from the Instagram page Posts in the Graveyard, a passionate storyteller who preserves the memory of Eastland victims through photographs and stories. I talk about how Jennifer's work adds depth and complements my own research, creating a fuller picture of the lives affected by the disaster.

Next, I dive into The Jazz Palace by Mary Morris, a novel that uses the Eastland disaster as the spark that sets the story in motion. While the book isn't entirely focused on the Eastland, the tragedy ignites the narrative and shapes the direction of the characters' lives. The novel beautifully captures the essence of Chicago during the Jazz Age, weaving a tale of survival, identity, and resilience. I highlight how Morris's storytelling sheds light on both the personal and cultural impacts of the disaster, and I share insights into the novel's themes of loss, music, and change.

My reflections on the Eastland and storytelling intertwine with my ongoing mission to honor the forgotten victims of the tragedy, reminding us that stories, more than objects or events, connect us to our shared past.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• The fascinating work of Jennifer’s *Posts in the Graveyard* and her documentation of Eastland disaster victims.
• The role of storytelling in preserving history and healing.
• How Mary Morris’s novel *The Jazz Palace* brings the Eastland disaster into the broader context of Chicago’s cultural evolution.
• My thoughts on how the Eastland tragedy continues to shape the stories of those impacted, both past and present.

Links: 

• The Eastland Disaster – Posts in the Graveyard
• Jennifer (@postsinthegraveyard) • Instagram photos and videos
• The Jazz Palace | Mary Morris

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Join me on a thrilling journey through time as we uncover the hidden world of early 20th-century journalism during one of Chicago's darkest hours--the Eastland Disaster of 1915.

Highlights:

• My personal pilgrimage to a family grave site that started everything.
• The forgotten technology that powered breaking news in 1915
• "The Scoop," a trade journal that described the inner workings of Chicago's press
• An adrenaline-fueled race against time as reporters covered the Eastland disaster
• Unsung heroes who risked it all to bring the truth to light

Fascinating Facts:

• Origins of the term "Bulldog Edition" in newspaper lingo
• Telegraph technology's role in shaping modern journalism
• The Chicago Tribune's staggering deployment of reporters and photographers

Questions to Ponder:

• How has journalism evolved since 1915, and what remains the same?
• What can we learn from the dedication and resourcefulness of early 20th-century reporters?
• In our age of instant digital news, what lessons can we draw from the meticulous fact-checking and collaboration of the past?

Come along as we peel back the layers of history, revealing the human stories behind the headlines and reminding ourselves of journalism's vital role in our society

Music:

• Artlist

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Welcome back to Flower in the River! In this episode, we explore the untold stories of two extraordinary individuals connected to the tragic Eastland Disaster of 1915. These heroes, whose tales have remained largely hidden from history, finally get the recognition they deserve.

First, meet Amelia Schaefer Schmidt, a 15-year-old girl on what was supposed to be a joyous picnic day. Instead, Amelia found herself in a nightmare, surviving the capsizing of the Eastland with sheer determination and courage. Her story, preserved in interviews and newspaper articles, reveals the harrowing details of that day and her incredible bravery in saving a young girl's life.

Next, we uncover the story of Peter Hardy (Hardo), a Rusyn immigrant who, at just 17, found himself rescuing multiple people from the Eastland's wreckage. A man who went on to build a successful life in America, Peter never forgot the screams and chaos of that day. His story is a testament to the strength and resilience of those who rise to the occasion when disaster strikes.

This episode is not just about remembering the tragedy but also about honoring the human spirit's incredible power to persevere and help others, even in the darkest of times. We also take a brief detour into the fascinating world of Rusyn culture, shedding light on the rich history and identity of this often-overlooked ethnic group.

As we wrap up, we reflect on the importance of uncovering and preserving these hidden stories. History is full of forgotten voices, and it's our responsibility to bring them to light.

Links:

• Magocsi, Paul Robert. Our People: Carpatho-Rusyns and Their Descendants in North America. Carpatho-Rusyn Research Center, Inc., January 1, 2023. 
•  Carpatho-Rusyn Society

Music:

• Artlist
• Memory Eternal

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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In this episode, the journey into the history of the Eastland Disaster continues, sharing new findings and uncovering untold stories of those affected by the tragedy. A unique two-part approach to research combines rigorous historical investigation with intuitive connections to the past. This episode features the compelling stories of the Remy and Tismer families, who suffered heartbreaking losses in the disaster. Correcting historical inaccuracies is crucial to honoring the memory of those who perished.

Key Points:

• Research Approach: A methodical process of historical research is outlined, emphasizing the importance of persistence, cross-referencing sources, and constant questioning to uncover the truth about the Eastland Disaster and its victims.
• Intuitive Connections: Growing up in a family with deep spiritual beliefs has shaped the way stories are found, often guided by intuition. The role of synchronicity in research is explored, showing how these connections bring the past to life.
• The Remy Family: A long-standing historical inaccuracy regarding Florence and Ella Remy, who perished in the Eastland Disaster, is corrected. Contrary to earlier reports, Ella was Florence’s mother, not her sister, highlighting the significance of thorough research.
• The Tismer Family: A deep dive into the Tismer family's story reveals the tragic loss of four children in the Eastland Disaster. An emotional 1915 newspaper article is read, capturing the family's grief and the early relief efforts that followed the disaster.
• Correcting Historical Records: The importance of correcting historical inaccuracies is discussed, preserving the integrity of the stories of those who died in the disaster, as demonstrated with the Remy family’s story.
• The Role of Single Researchers: Contributions of individual researchers and platforms like Find A Grave are highlighted, showing the impact of dedicated individuals in preserving history. Listeners are encouraged to explore their own family histories with diligence and respect.

Links:

• The Remy’s - Ella (mother) and Florence (daughter) — Flower In The River by Natalie Zett
• Digital Public Library of America
• One-Step Webpages by Stephen P. Morse
• It's a Long Way to Tipperary

Music

• Artlist 
• Wikimedia Commons

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Welcome back to Flower in the River podcast! In episode 74, we're uncovering more hidden gems from the Eastland disaster, including a deep dive into one of the very first websites dedicated to this tragic event. Get ready for stories you won’t find anywhere else!

Key Points:

• Explored personal time capsules, including Aunt Pearl's notes about our family's connection to the Eastland disaster
• Discussed the importance of an early Eastland disaster website and its impact on research
• Highlighted the significance of proper source citations in historical research, referencing Elizabeth Shown Mills' work
• Introduced valuable research resources: Google Books and FamilySearch.org's Books section
• Shared the story of Michael Kennedy, a Chicago policeman and first responder to the Eastland disaster
• Recounted the harrowing survival tale of siblings Lena and Karl Roseland

Links:

• Wayback Machine 
• Evidence Explained: Citing History Sources from Artifacts to Cyberspace | Evidence Explained
• Google Books 
• FamilySearch.org's Books section 
• Eastland Disaster Victims: a Virtual Cemetery - Find a Grave 
• Lisa Louise Cooke Genealogy Gems

Music:

• Artlist

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of sensitive topics that may be distressing to some listeners. We cover historical events involving child abuse, exploitation, and trauma related to the aftermath of the Eastland disaster. The second half of the episode includes descriptions of violence against a minor. Listener discretion is advised. If you find these topics particularly difficult, please prioritize your mental health and well-being. Remember, it's okay to pause or stop listening if needed.

Welcome to episode 73 of Flower in the River podcast! This week, I'm diving into two intriguing stories connected to my family's Chicago history and the 1915 Eastland disaster.

In the first part, I share a goofy yet fascinating tale about my extended family's unexpected connection to Al Capone in Cicero, Illinois. My uncle's father, a skilled upholsterer, was often blindfolded and taken to secret locations to work for Capone and his henchmen. We explore the possible reasons behind this curious arrangement.

But wait, there’s more! My Aunt worked for the Chicago Daily News, a real-life newsroom adventure that adds a dash of old-school journalism glamour to our family's story.

The second part of the episode takes a more somber turn as we investigate a disturbing story related to the Eastland disaster's aftermath. I discuss the case of Doly Schappacher, an 11-year-old girl whose father exploited the tragedy for personal gain. This heart-wrenching tale sheds light on the vulnerabilities of children in the early 20th century and raises important questions about the fate of genuine Eastland orphans.

Key points covered:

• My family's unexpected connection to Al Capone
• My aunt's work with the Chicago Daily News 
• The story of Doly Schappacher and how the Eastland disaster was exploited
• The importance of uncovering and sharing these hidden histories
• A call for further research into what happened to Eastland orphans

Thank you for listening to this challenging yet important episode. Don't forget to subscribe and visit flowerintheriver.com for more information. The podcast and my book are dedicated to the memory of all who experienced the Eastland disaster of 1915.

Music:
ArtList

Links:
The Day Book

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Explore the gripping tales of the survivors from the Eastland disaster! Episode 72 peels back the layers of history to reveal the human side of this tragic event.

Journey with me as I retrace my great-aunt Martha’s final steps, experiencing eerie sensations and unexpected emotions along the way. You won’t believe what happened at the disaster site!

Uncover the long-lost voices of survivors through newspaper articles. Hear the harrowing accounts of Marie Benes, Willard Brown, Stella Rytir, Meta Otto, Borghild Carlson, and others who lived to tell the tale.

Meet Libby Hruby, the pint-sized survivor with a larger-than-life personality. From her initial reluctance to her later crusade for remembrance, Libby’s story will captivate you.

Explore the fascinating historical context of many of these survivors’ backgrounds. Ever wondered why your ancestors might be listed as “Austrian” when they weren’t? Find out in this episode!

Discover the unsung heroes working nonstop to preserve these stories. 

Don’t miss this episode that brings the Eastland Disaster to life through the eyes of those who lived it. It’s not just about a ship – it’s about the lives forever changed by that fateful day: July 24, 1915.

Link:

• The Eastland Disaster Documentary (featuring Libby Hruby and others)

Music:

• Artlist 

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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In this special episode commemorating the 109th anniversary of the Eastland disaster, we're taking a moment to reflect on the stories and individuals covered since November 2023. It's been an incredible journey of discovery, preserving and sharing often-forgotten narratives.

Exciting news to share: Tom Milton's letter and related items have found a new home at the Newberry Library. It's heartening to see these pieces of history being preserved for future generations.

There's been a noticeable increase in detailed biographies on Find a Grave for Eastland victims. This collective effort to document and remember is truly inspiring.

Throughout the past months, we've explored various ethnic communities affected by the disaster, from Polish Chicago to Lithuanian, Norwegian and Jewish communities. Each story reveals the intricate tapestry of early 20th-century Chicago.

Some of the most fascinating themes we've explored include premonitions surrounding the disaster, the impact on local baseball players, and the heroic actions of individuals during and after the tragedy. We've also drawn connections to other historical events like the General Slocum and the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire.

Looking back, it's clear that there's still so much more to uncover. With only about 10% of the stories told, the journey continues. Your support and interest in these narratives keep this history alive.

As we approach the anniversary, remember that behind each statistic was a real person with hopes, dreams, and a story worth telling. Together, we're ensuring that the legacy of the Eastland disaster and its victims lives on.

Music:
Artlist
"Eastland Hymn" Copyright 2024
Concept by Natalie Zett, Generated via SUNO

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Listener discretion advised: this episode has some graphic descriptions of death. 

Welcome to the 70th episode of Flower in the River! Today, we're peeling back the layers of time to explore the chaotic history of early 20th century Cicero, Illinois, focusing on the behemoth known as Western Electric's Hawthorne Works.

My journey begins with a fateful trip to Chicago in 1998, driven by an inexplicable pull to uncover my family's hidden past. Little did I know that this adventure would lead me to the ruins of Western Electric and the doorstep of my Aunt Pearl, who held the key to our untold stories.

 We'll dive into the immigrant experience in Cicero, examining what drew so many to this bustling suburb and the profound impact of the Eastland disaster on the community. Through newspaper articles and personal accounts, we'll uncover the heartbreaking story of the Schultz family, who lost multiple members in the tragedy and faced additional hardships in its wake.

 Central to this narrative is Rosemary Pietrzak, granddaughter of Anton and Pearl Schultz. Rosemary's mother, Marie Schultz Pietrzak, lost a brother, two sisters-in-law, and an infant nephew in the Eastland disaster. Through Rosemary's recollections, we gain intimate insight into how the tragedy affected her family for generations.

Join me as we honor those who've kept these stories alive, like Rosemary, who tirelessly shared her family's experiences. We'll reflect on the words of Viktor Frankl and consider how tragedy can shape us and connect us to our shared humanity.

 This episode is a testament to the enduring spirit of those affected by the Eastland disaster and a reminder of the importance of preserving and sharing our family histories. Don't miss this powerful exploration of Chicago's past and its lasting impact on generations to come

Links

• Sharing stories of city’s deadliest tragedy
• Flashback in history: Sinking of the passenger vessel SS Eastland on the Chicago River, 24 July 1915
• A Switchboard Operator and a Nurse Walk Into a Shipwreck: Unraveling the Eastland Disaster
• The Blue Collar Titanic That Killed Over 800 | Eastland: The Shipwreck That Shook America | Timeline

Music

• Artlist

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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What would you do if you narrowly missed a disaster that claimed hundreds of lives? In this episode of "Flower in the River Podcast," we uncover the riveting stories of Tom Milton and Dr. Willard Calvin Haynes, two unsung heroes forever linked by the 1915 Eastland disaster. First, we journey with Tom George Milton, a man who narrowly escaped the tragedy but led an adventurous life filled with service across continents and wars. At 70, Tom's zest for life was unquenchable, as highlighted by a Houston Chronicle article that captures his intriguing journey, including his stint with Western Electric, his military life, and his life as an actor.

We then shift focus to Dr. Willard Calvin Haynes, who reached out to Tom after reading his story and shared his own haunting experience from that fateful day. Dr. Haynes' life was a complex web of roles——from farmer and oilman to doctor and fruit seller—each thread revealing his resilience and dedication.

The episode culminates with an intriguing discovery on eBay of items related to Tom Milton and Willard Haynes, now digitized and preserved for future generations. Join us as we honor the quiet courage and historical significance of these two remarkable men.

Links:

• Learn more about the Iroquois Theatre Fire 
• Boer War

Music:

• Artlist

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist