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Please join me on a profound journey as we continue to honor those who were forever changed by the Eastland Disaster of 1915. 

Touching on the unexpected emotional bonds which the last episode ignited (The Lutheran Legacy of the Eastland Disaster), I share the personal significance of my own diverse heritage, which fuels my passion for going deeper into the histories that connect us all.

Frieda Kannberg died at age 39 while aboard the Eastland. Yet, her life becomes a beacon--guiding us through the social fabric of her time. Crucial to our understanding are the Western Electric Company News articles and other historical documents that bring to life the Hawthorne Club's activities and the impact of the disaster on its members. Remembering Frieda and her fellow committee members underscores the importance of preserving individual narratives within the broader context of historical events. These accounts form a bridge between the past and the emotional resonance felt in our communities today.

We also step into the lives of the Kannberg family, whose story is inextricably linked with immigration and with Chicago's industrial boom. Employing the FAN (Family (I've also heard, Friends), Associates, Neighbors) Club principle, I piece together their saga through a paper trail of newspaper clippings, census records and cemetery records, highlighting the enduring importance of community ties. And as a bonus, I've unearthed a historical gem from the Internet Archive—a Hawthorne Club document rich with details of a bygone era. Tune in for an episode that promises to be as enlightening as it is enthralling.

Music:

• Artlist

Link:

• Western Electric - The Hawthorne Club

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
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• 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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Introduction: In episode 50, I uncover the stories and lasting legacy of the German Lutheran communities in Chicago, profoundly affected by the Eastland Disaster of 1915, exploring their resilience and the event's historical significance.

Key Points:

• Lutheran Community’s Role: Highlighting how Lutheran churches served as pivotal social and spiritual support systems for immigrant communities in Chicago.
• Understanding Ancestors: Discussing the importance of the “FAN club principle” in comprehending the complex lives of our ancestors.
• Personal Connection: Sharing bits and pieces from my Lutheran background.
• Exploring History: Exploring how the disaster affected Chicago’s Lutheran community, focusing on personal stories and what's left behind.
• Genealogy Tips: Offering insights into the value of Lutheran church records for family history research and recommending genealogical resources.
• Stories of Impact: Featuring narratives of two families—The Wiese-Rakow Family and the Rossow Family—affected by the disaster to illustrate the tragedy’s personal and communal impact.

Conclusion: Reflecting on the memory of the Eastland disaster victims and inviting listeners to explore more in future episodes and at the RootsTech event coming up on February 29, 2024.

Music

• Artlist
• Wikimedia Commons

Links

• Chicago Ancestors
• Lutheranism 101 - Living Lutheran
• Chicago Lutheran Churches by James Huenink
• United States Church Records • FamilySearch
• Golgotha Evangelical Lutheran Church Facebook page
• Encyclopedia of Chicago
• How to Find Your Family History in U.S. Church Records: A Genealogist's Guide 
• RootsTech 2024

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• 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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Key Highlights of Episode 49:

• Eastland News Update: An intriguing update from a relative of coroner Peter Hoffman.
• RootsTech 2024: The upcoming world's largest genealogy conference is right around the corner.
• Genealogy as a Swiss Army Knife: Explore the multifaceted tools of genealogy, from DNA analysis to historical research, and how they've helped me piece together my family's past.
• Deep Dive into Oak Park: I share stories from Oak Park, Illinois, and its connection to the Eastland disaster.
• A Look at Forest Park, Illinois: I explore the unique history and vibe of Forest Park, including its large cemeteries and connection to the Eastland disaster.
• Highlighting Individual Stories: This episode features the tragic tales of  Earl Dawson, Matthew Bonga, and Gertrude Stork whose lives were cut short by the disaster.
• What do the Ziegfeld Follies and the  Florodora Girls have to do with the Eastland Disaster? You'll have to tune in! 

Music:

• Artlist

Links:

• RootsTech 2024
• The Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest
• The Historical Society of Forest Park

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• 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," where every episode is a journey through forgotten stories and hidden histories. In episode 48, I explore some unlikely and poignant connections to the Eastland Disaster. 

• The Eastland Disaster Unveiled: Learn about one of the most heart-wrenching tragedies in Chicago's history, where a crowded ship capsized in the Chicago River on July 24, 1915, claiming over 800 lives. I explore the disaster beyond the statistics, highlighting the affected community of working-class immigrants.
• Personal Connection: I share a poignant family story, introducing you to my great aunt Martha Pfeiffer, a young victim of the Eastland Disaster. This personal angle provides a touching connection to the broader historical narrative.
• A Curveball from History: The episode takes an unexpected turn with the story of Leslie Elliott Simmons, another victim whose family history challenges the narrative I expected. Examine the complexities of genealogy and the surprises it can hold (kind of like an exploding cigar!). 
• Challenging the Mayflower Myth: I recount a formative experience from my second-grade classroom, where the off-putting emphasis on Mayflower ancestry sparked my lifelong passion for uncovering true and inclusive family histories.
• Leslie Elliott Simmons - A Mayflower Descendant on the Eastland: Explore the fascinating story of Leslie Simmons, from his ancestry to his tragic death on the Eastland. My research uncovers layers of American history through Simmons' story, challenging perceptions and highlighting the diversity of the past.
• Bob Satterfield - Eyewitness through Art: Discover the role of political cartoonist Bob Satterfield, who captured the Eastland Disaster's horror through his powerful illustration AND article. Satterfield's work provides a unique perspective on the tragedy, emphasizing the impact of visual storytelling in history.
• Final Reflections: I close with reflections on remembering and telling these stories, ensuring they remain part of our collective memory.

Join me in exploring history, personal connections, and the stories that bind us all. Remember to check our website for show notes, including links to resources and additional reading.

Music:

• Artlist

Links:

• Forest Leaves - Google Books
• The Newberry 

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• 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 to Flower in the River Podcast, Episode 47: Coroner's Conundrum: Pete Hoffman & The Eastland Disaster

In this episode, we explore more coincidences that intriguingly knit together the fabric of our stories and histories. Join me as we uncover the unexpected intersections of past and present, proving that history is not just around us but occasionally aligns in the most fascinating ways.

Zeitgeist News or Coincidence Corner?

• Discover the synchronicity between our past episode on the Ghosts of Versailles and another podcast's similar journey.

Spotlight on The Neo-Futurist Theater's Puppetry Show:

• Hear about the recent serendipity involving the story of Margaret Condon, a pivotal figure from our last episode, now being featured in a puppet show by The Neo-Futurists Theater in Chicago.
• "Switchboard: Missed Connections from the S.S. Eastland" brings history to life through the art of puppetry, focusing on the Eastland Disaster's unsung heroes, including Margaret Condon.
• Reflecting on the power of puppetry in storytelling and its profound impact on community engagement and historical narratives.

The Unfolding Narrative:

• This week, we introduce a colorful, complex, and controversial figure from the time of the Eastland Disaster – Peter M. Hoffman, the coroner whose life's work intersected with tragedy, innovation, and a hint of scandal.
• From his early life and career to his role in the aftermath of the Eastland Disaster, uncover the multifaceted story of Peter M. Hoffman.
• Investigate the evolution of the coroner's role in the early 20th century and how Hoffman's contributions to forensic science marked a turning point in criminal investigations.

Personal Ties and Historical Threads:

• A personal connection to Peter M. Hoffman reveals itself in an unexpected family discovery, linking my step-grandfather's history with the coroner's signature.
• Navigating through the complexities of genealogy, we confront the brick walls and fortresses that challenge our understanding of family histories.

Looking Ahead:

• As we ponder the coincidences that guide our explorations, we invite you to reflect on the mysterious ways in which history intertwines with our present.
• Stay tuned for more stories of intrigue, history, and the unexpected connections that remind us we're all part of a larger narrative.

Quote of the Episode:
"Coincidence is a Messenger Sent by Truth." – Jacqueline Winspear

Music:
Artlist

Links:

• Neo-Futurist Theater: SWITCHBOARD

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• 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 to Episode 46 of Flower in the River Podcast -- "A Switchboard Operator and a Nurse Walk Into a Shipwreck: Unraveling the Eastland Disaster."

News from the Newberry! Photographs, postcards, death records and other materials related to the 1915 tragedy were donated by the Eastland Disaster Historical Society to the Newberry Library (Chicago). The info is available online or at the Newberry.

What happens in Versailles Doesn't Stay in Versailles. If you enjoyed Episode 44 ("Shadows of the Past: Premonitions from the Titanic to the Eastland") and want to learn more about two English school teachers' unintended time-travel adventure, check out the Astonishing Legends podcast episode, "The Ghosts. of Versailles, Part 1."  

 Look for the Helpers. Imagine the bravery of ordinary individuals like Western Electric employees, Margaret Condon (Switchboard Operator) and Helen Repa (Nurse) who demonstrated exceptional courage amid chaos when the Eastland capsized. Their stories, woven through this week's episode, are poignant reminders of the human spirit's resilience, and we're honored to bring them to light for you.

This episode's rich narrative intertwines the advancements in communication, the evolution of nursing, and the personal sacrifices of those who stepped up when disaster struck. Immersing yourself in their experiences promises both a humbling and enlightening encounter with history.


Music by Artlist

Links:

• The Newberry
• Artifacts From Chicago’s Infamous Eastland Disaster Now On View At Newberry Library
• The History of Pulmotors
•  Astonishing Legends podcast - THE GHOSTS OF VERSAILLES PART 1
• Eine Telefonistin und eine Krankenschwester betreten ein Schiffsunglück (German)
• Telefonistka i pielęgniarka wchodzą na rozbitek: Rozwikłanie katastrofy Eastland (Polish)

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• 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 to Episode 45 of Flower the River Podcast, where we will discuss:
Email from listener in Austria:

• I’ll share an exciting update: an email from a family member of George Dobek, one of the victims of the Eastland disaster that I profiled in an earlier podcast episode (Beyond the Titanic: The Eastland Love Story of George and Theresa)

Story of Survival:

• The incredible story of a woman who survived not only the Eastland disaster but another maritime tragedy--The Favorite Disaster on July 29, 1927

Johnny Weissmuller’s Heroism:

• The tale of Johnny Weissmuller, best known as Tarzan(!), and his brother’s heroic actions during when The Favorite capsized on Lake Michigan.

Links:

• The sinking of the Favorite
• The Effortless and Legendary Life of Johnny Weissmuller Part 4: Real-Life Hero Saves 11 Lives

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• 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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Overview:

In  Episode 44 of Flower in the River Podcast, I continue exploring  unexplained phenomena like premonitions, synchronicities, and precognition, especially in relation to the Eastland Disaster. This journey includes discussions on Carl Jung's theories, mysterious historical events, and personal stories linked to the Eastland tragedy. Warning: there is a detailed discussion of a death scene in this episode. 

Introduction and Recap:

• Overview of the previous episode and the exploration of unexplained phenomena.

 Carl Jung's Synchronicity:

•  Discussion on Jung's concept of synchronicity and its connection to our psychological undercurrents and the cosmos.

 Premonitions and Historical Predictions:

•  Did Morgan Robertson's novella "Futility, or the Wreck of the Titan" predict the Titanic disaster?
• The 1901 experience at the Petit Trianon in Versailles where two English school teachers do some time traveling. 

Premonition Stories Related to the Eastland Disaster:

•  A Tale of Two Annies: contrasting fates of Annie Utz (who survived) and Annie Booth (who didn’t). 
• The tragic premonition of O.J. Bouffard and its impact. 
• The Clark family tragedy and the premonition experienced by a family member. 
• The story of Mrs. John Fitzgerald and her daughter, including a premonition by Mrs. Fitzgerald's father.

Exploring the Nature of Premonitions:

•  Reflection on the purpose of premonitions and their role in our lives.

 Teaser for the Next Episode:

• Upcoming discussion on another ship disaster in Chicago in 1927, with a surprising involvement of a famous personality. 

Links

• "Futility, or the Wreck of the Titan" by Morgan Robertson
•  Petit Trianon in Versailles
• "An Adventure:  A Haunting Encounter in the Gardens of Versailles (1913)"
• Synchronicities and Age-Old Premonitions of the Eastland Disaster

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• 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 in Today's Adventure:
In this episode, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of genealogy, exploring how unexpected synchronicities and age-old premonitions weave through our search for ancestral connections. I'll share stories and insights into how these mystical elements have surfaced in my research, particularly in relation to the Eastland Disaster.

What's in Store for You:

• The curious phenomenon of premonitions and synchronicities encountered during genealogical research.
• A closer look at the Eastland Disaster and its mysterious premonitions.
• Personal anecdotes illustrating these eerie yet captivating experiences.
• Reflecting on the profound impact these unexplained events have on understanding our past.
• The role of intuition and 'gut feelings' in guiding our genealogical journeys.

Why This Matters:
Unraveling our family histories is more than just dates and names; it's about connecting with stories and experiences that transcend time. Sometimes, our quest leads us to unexplained phenomena that challenge our understanding but enrich our journey.

Episode Highlights:

• Insights into the most startling premonitions related to the Eastland Disaster.
• My own experiences of unexpected discoveries and the 'aha' moments in my genealogical research.
• Discussing the lasting impact of the Eastland Disaster on families and communities.

Connect and Share:
I would love to hear your stories and experiences with synchronicities and premonitions in your own genealogical adventures. Reach out through my website or social media!

Links: 

• Roots Books: Psychic Roots (interview with Hank Z. Jones)
• Hank Z. Jones Website
• Katalikas

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• 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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Come along with me as we traverse the poignant histories of Spring Valley's (IL) coal mining roots and their interwoven tales with the harrowing Eastland Disaster of 1915. The quiet streets of this city bear witness to a story that extends far beyond its borders, a narrative of labor struggles, cultural diversity, and the devastating loss of several of its own to the murky waters of the Chicago River. As we navigate the complex tapestry of early 20th-century life, we pay tribute to those who perished, and the community forever altered by industrialization's dual promise and peril.

The past isn't always what it seems, and deciphering the true stories behind historical events can be akin to solving a puzzle with elusive pieces.  Some course correction is needed to bring to life the stories of survivors like Harriet Theis, and honor the memory of siblings Walter and Nellie Summit (Latowski). From the documentation of near-misses to the heroic efforts of rescuers amidst chaos, we shed light on the resilience and humanity that emerged from tragedy. This chapter of history reminds us that every name on a memorial plaque was a life full of stories, and we endeavor to ensure their narratives are told with integrity and respect.

As we weave the threads of history with personal discovery, I share a revelation that intimately links my family lineage to the very events we've been exploring in Spring Valley. Who knew?? Genealogy and DNA testing have opened a window into my own ancestral connections to Spring Valley and its mining communities. It's a testament to the magic that unfolds when one's intuition collides with rigorous research, revealing the entangled branches of family trees that reach through time. Join us as we celebrate not only the strength of the survivors but also the rich tapestry of legacies they've passed down through generations.

Music from Artlist

Links:

• Bureau County Tribune.  Princeton, IL, Friday, July 30, 1915
• Dziennik Chicagoski, Volume 26, Number 176, 29 July 1915
• Genealogical Proof Standard

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkTree: @zettnatalie | Linktree
• 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