S2 E15: In this week’s episode we talk about the Bettendorf mansion in Bettendorf, IA, constructed for William Bettendorf. He wanted a home that would scream power and success, but also serve as a hub for entertaining his wealthy friends and businessmen. Today, the mansion serves as a part of the Masonic Health Facilities and some have also claimed to have seen the spirit of Mr. Bettendorf himself, roaming the halls of his “hidden gem.”

We then travel about an 1.5hrs south to Bartonville, IL to talk about the Peoria State Hospital, originally known as the Illinois Asylum for the Incurably Insane. In the over 70 years that the facility was in operation, thousands of people lost their lives here, due to either illness, suicide, or possibly something even more sinister. Since its closure, many people believe that the hospital's history and the experiences of its patients and staff have left behind traces of residual energy, and along with it, spirits that also continue to linger the grounds of this once immense 216 acre campus.

Stories: Bettendorf Mansion, Bettendorf, IA & Peoria State Hospital (Asylum), Bartonville, IL

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Show Notes

Sources:

Ghost Hunting on a Budget⁠ Article

Bettendorf Mansion

https://johnbrassardjr.com/2021/10/31/the-house-on-the-hill-the-haunted-history-of-the-w-p-bettendorf-mansion/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_P._Bettendorf

Peoria State Hospital

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/peoria-state-hospital

https://www.peoriastatehospital.com/psh-history

https://www.bumpinthenight.net/peoria

https://www.almanac.com/man-who-cried-everyone

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Title Theme: “It Follows” by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Story Music: “Curse” by Mehul Sharma

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S2 E14: Our first story this week, takes us to Ohio. We hear about one of the deadliest schoolhouse fires in the US. when in March of 1908, the Lake View School in Collinwood, Ohio was overtaken by a disastrous fire. The aftermath was tragic, firefighters were ill equipped to handle the inferno. Parents were full of questions and left mourning their children.  

For our second story, we travel St. Charles, Missouri. St. Charles Main Street in St. Charles, Missouri is a charming historic district with a rich history dating back to the 1800s. With its brick-paved streets, quaint shops, and restaurants, it’s become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. However, this picturesque street also has a dark and haunted history that has intrigued so many for years. With a long sordid past of hangings, war, cemetery relocation, cholera, diphtheria, and smallpox outbreaks; many believe these distressing events are what’s bringing about the intense activity.

Stories: Collinwood Schoolhouse Fire, Collinwood, OH & St. Charles Main Street, St. Charles, MO

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Show Notes

Sources:

Collinwood

https://www.americanhauntingsink.com/collinwood

Main Street

https://www.discoverstcharles.com/things-to-do/main-street/main-street-walking-tour/ 

https://www.discoverstcharles.com/events/legends-lanterns/haunted-history-trail/

https://www.stltoday.com/suburban-journals/take-a-tour-of-st-charles-haunted-places/article_b975f741-c5df-5658-a45a-19f7bafe9025.html

https://www.passingdownthelove.com/st-charles-is-haunted/ 

https://youtu.be/xqIfLVzpgcg 

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Title Theme: “It Follows” by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Story Music: “Curse” by Mehul Sharma

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To donate & support the show, "Buy Us A Drink” here: https://ko-fi.com/hauntedhappyhour

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Email | [email protected]

Site | https://linktr.ee/hauntedhappyhour

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S2 E13: Our first story takes us to Chicago. The Chicago City Cemetery – now known as Lincoln Park, was said to have brought in 20,000 burials at its peak. Famed parapsychologist Ursula Bielski once called the area, “Without a doubt the most active site I’ve investigated.” 

For our second story, we travel 45 mins SW to Joliet, IL. Often referred to as the “Jewel of Joliet,” and widely considered to be one of the ten most beautiful theaters in the nation, the Rialto Square Theater has not only become known for continuing to host hundreds of patrons, but it’s also come to be recognized as the home to a few resident spirits. 

Stories: Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL & Rialto Square Theatre, Joliet IL.

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Show Notes

Sources:

Lincoln Park

Chicago's Lincoln Park High Bridge called "Suicide Bridge" History.

Ursula Bielski & the Ghosts of Lincoln Park Zoo | Terror from Beyond the Dave

Haunts at the Lincoln Park Zoo – Paranormal Study

Rialto Square Theater

https://www.enjoyillinois.com/explore/listing/rialto-theatre/

https://www.guidestar.org/profile/36-3588432

https://rialtosquare.com/schoolmatinees/

https://rialtosquare.com/history/

https://patch.com/illinois/joliet/rialtos-many-ghosts-include-vivian-little-colin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRJc8H5wbG8

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Title Theme: “It Follows” by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Story Music: “Curse” by Mehul Sharma

—————————-

To donate & support the show, "Buy Us A Drink” here: https://ko-fi.com/hauntedhappyhour

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S2 E12: Join us for part 2 of our birthday celebration! We continue our talk about the Quad City’s own vice lord, John Looney and the queen of the underworld, Helen Van Dale. 

We also welcome our guest Emily, into the studio once again. 

**EXPLICIT WARNING** Just a cautionary note, we were a bit more lax on the language in this episode. 

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Show Notes

Sources:

Chicago Gangsters

https://www.timeout.com/chicago/things-to-do/the-17-most-notorious-mobsters-from-chicago 

John Looney

https://www.rigov.org/DocumentCenter/View/1122/John-Looney-2008?bidId=

https://youtu.be/JqrwroYA0VA

Helen Van Dale

https://blogs.davenportlibrary.com/sc/2019/07/11/helen-van-dale-a-woman-of-the-criminal-underworld-part-i/

https://blogs.davenportlibrary.com/sc/2019/07/31/helen-van-dale-a-woman-of-the-criminal-underworld-part-ii/

Davenport Underground

https://www.ourquadcities.com/news/qc-underground-the-speakeasies-under-davenport/

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Title Theme: “It Follows” by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Story Music: “Curse” by Mehul Sharma

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To donate & support the show, "Buy Us A Drink” here: https://ko-fi.com/hauntedhappyhour

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Get Connected

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Site | https://linktr.ee/hauntedhappyhour

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S2 E11: We’re 1 year old! Can’t believe it’s been a year already. Over the course of two seasons and 30-some episodes, we’ve had so much fun talking spirits, hauntings, local lore, legends, and even about our own personal experiences. It’s exciting to say that it's been an incredible year! 

Join us for Part 1 of our celebration, as we have some drinks, eat some cake (because how could we not?) and do what we do best; talk about history and mystery. 

We welcome a guest into the studio and in honor of our birthday celebration, we chat about one of our favorite topics—Prohibition & Gangsters: from Chicago to the Quad Cities. 

**EXPLICIT WARNING** Just a cautionary note, we were a bit more lax on the language in this episode. 

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Show Notes

Sources:

Chicago Gangsters

https://www.timeout.com/chicago/things-to-do/the-17-most-notorious-mobsters-from-chicago 

John Looney

https://www.rigov.org/DocumentCenter/View/1122/John-Looney-2008?bidId=

https://youtu.be/JqrwroYA0VA

Helen Van Dale

https://blogs.davenportlibrary.com/sc/2019/07/11/helen-van-dale-a-woman-of-the-criminal-underworld-part-i/

https://blogs.davenportlibrary.com/sc/2019/07/31/helen-van-dale-a-woman-of-the-criminal-underworld-part-ii/

Davenport Underground

https://www.ourquadcities.com/news/qc-underground-the-speakeasies-under-davenport/

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Title Theme: “It Follows” by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Story Music: “Curse” by Mehul Sharma

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To donate & support the show, "Buy Us A Drink” here: https://ko-fi.com/hauntedhappyhour

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Get Connected

Instagram | @HauntedHappyHourPodcast

Facebook | @HauntedHappyHourShow

Email | [email protected]

Site | https://linktr.ee/hauntedhappyhour

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S2 E10: Our first story of the episode covers the Lincoln Theatre in Decatur, IL. Artistic Director and Playwright Emily Mann put it best when she said, “When a theater goes dark for the night, a stagehand leaves a lighted lamp on stage. No one knows why any more, but some old timers say it’s to keep the ghosts away. Others say it lights the stage for the ghosts to play. Whichever theory one adheres to, most people agree: a great theater is haunted.” 

We also talk about the Willard Library in Evansville, Indiana. It’s been referred to by some as “History’s Candy Store.” The library's history is an interesting one–one that’s steeped in folklore and legends, much of which involves spirits and other paranormal phenomena. In fact, the Willard Library is often referred to as the home of the world’s most famous library ghost.

Stories: Lincoln Theatre, Decatur, IL. & Willard Library, Evansville, IN. 

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Show Notes

Sources:

Willard Library

https://lewisandclark.travel/nomination/willard-library-of-evansville-indiana/ 

https://www.evansvilleliving.com/whats-in-a-name-willard-carpenter/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DrsdU5D7_o

https://www.willardghost.com/

https://willard.lib.in.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Ghost-Packet-2021.pdf

Lincoln Square Theater

https://www.hauntedillinois.com/realhauntedplaces/lincoln-theater.php

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Title Theme: “It Follows” by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Story Music: “Curse” by Mehul Sharma

—————————-

Affiliate:

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New members can try Audible free for 30 days

So, head on over and start listening!

Just visit www.audibletrial.com/hauntedhappyhour

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To donate & support the show, "Buy Us A Drink” here: https://ko-fi.com/hauntedhappyhour

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S2 E9: In this episode, we cover the Original Mineral Springs Hotel. With waters that were said to have healing properties, whatever ailed visitors, the Original Springs Hotel and bathhouse had that special something to heal those aches and pains. If you book a stay at this hotel, don’t be surprised if you happen to encounter any of the hotel’s famous spirits. 

We also chat about Kings Island, a popular amusement park located in Mason, Ohio. For many Midwesterners and beyond, Kings Island is the place to be every summer. But what non-locals aren't always aware of, is that Kings Island is also known for its paranormal activity. Whether it's due to the history of the land or the tragic on-site accidents, the reports of paranormal activity only add to the appeal of this well-known amusement park.

Stories: The Original Mineral Springs Hotel, Okawville, IL & Kings Island Amusement Park, Mason, OH 

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Show Notes

Sources:

Kings Island Amusement Park

Ghost Hunters S8 E1: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1amafv?playlist=x4usx8

https://www.nytimes.com/1991/06/11/us/3-killed-at-amusement-park.html

https://attractionsmagazine.com/a-look-back-at-50-years-of-kings-island-amusement-park-history/

https://www.facebook.com/valeparanormal/photos/a.168785193306034/341885405996011/?type=3&p=30&paipv=0&eav=AfZnAfT4SqCtUP3xKpMbDyYplH37mzIBBodUWjTxHFTjY_7HQ0pveBYAWfp_ffMTSrI&_rdr 

Original Mineral Springs

https://www.hauntedrooms.com/illinois/haunted-places/haunted-hotels/original-springs-hotel

https://www.theoriginalspringshotel.com/explore

https://www.hauntedillinois.com/realhauntedplaces/original-springs-hotel.php

—————————

Title Theme: “It Follows” by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Story Music: “Curse” by Mehul Sharma

—————————-

Affiliate:

Stay connected, informed, and inspired with Audible.

New members can try Audible free for 30 days

So, head on over and start listening!

Just visit www.audibletrial.com/hauntedhappyhour

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To donate & support the show, "Buy Us A Drink” here: https://ko-fi.com/hauntedhappyhour

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S2 E8: In this episode, we cover the Farm House, a historic building located on the campus of Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. Used today as a museum and a gathering place for university events, the building is also rumored to be haunted.

We also chat about the Elgin Casket Company in Elgin, IL. This once impressive building has played witness to many nefarious incidents throughout its long history. Visitors still regularly report encounters with some of the former residents that are said to roam these crumbling halls and abandoned factory floors.

Stories: The Farm House at Iowa State, Ames, IA & The Elgin Metal Casket Company, Elgin, IL.

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Show Notes

Sources:

Elgin Casket Company

https://www.hauntedillinois.com/evil-intentions-ghost-tours.php

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jfks-coffin-dumped-at-sea/

http://www.idaillinois.org/digital/collection/newgailbord01/id/1111/

https://ghostresearch.org/Investigations/elgin.html

Chris Fleming: 

https://www.facebook.com/evilintentionshauntedhouse/videos/10152684097461218

Farmhouse at Iowa State University

https://www.amestrib.com/story/news/local/2014/02/01/iowa-state-named-no-5/27292908007/

https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/2014/01/23/spooky-side-of-isu-noted/4789949/

https://who13.com/news/isu-farm-house-has-history-and-the-unexplained-on-halloween/

https://iowastatedaily.com/177441/uncategorized/the-ghosts-of-campus/

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/iowa/iowa-state-ghosts-ia/

https://frightfind.com/iowa-state-university/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Farm_House_(Knapp%E2%80%93Wilson_House)

https://www.hauntedrooms.com/iowa/haunted-places

https://www.iowapbs.org/article/8600/local-legends-around-iowas-haunted-locations

—————————

Title Theme: “It Follows” by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Story Music: “Curse” by Mehul Sharma

—————————-

Affiliate:

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New members can try Audible free for 30 days

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Just visit www.audibletrial.com/hauntedhappyhour

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S2 E7: In today’s episode, we cover Buffalo Trace Distillery, a historic American whiskey distillery located in Frankfort, Kentucky. In operation since 1787, it’s one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States. This historic landmark is also rumored to be haunted. With such a long history, it’s said that some of the former workers and owners have never left.

We also talk about the Tinker Swiss Cottage, in Rockford IL. A unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. While the hauntings at the Tinker Swiss Cottage remain unexplained, they’ve become a part of its rich history and have added to its allure as a popular destination for paranormal enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious visitors alike. 

Stories: Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, KY & Tinker Swiss Cottage, Rockford IL 

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Show Notes

Sources:

Tinker Swiss Cottage

https://www.rvcvalleyforge.com/index.php/2018/10/23/the-hauntings-of-tinker-swiss-cottage/

https://drloihjournal.blogspot.com/2018/01/history-of-tinker-family-and-tinker-swiss-cottage-museum-and-gardens-in-rockford-illinois.html

https://www.hauntedrockford.com/tinker-cottage-one-of-rockfords-most-haunted-places/

https://www.rrstar.com/story/entertainment/2014/10/19/x2018-ghost-hunters-x2019/36135135007/

—————————

Title Theme: “It Follows” by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Story Music: “Curse” by Mehul Sharma

—————————-

Affiliate:

Stay connected, informed, and inspired with Audible.

New members can try Audible free for 30 days

So, head on over and start listening!

Just visit www.audibletrial.com/hauntedhappyhour

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To donate & support the show, "Buy Us A Drink” here: https://ko-fi.com/hauntedhappyhour

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S2 E6: In this episode, we cover Manteno State Hospital, one of the largest psychiatric hospitals in the country. Some believe that the hospital's history as a psychiatric institution, as well as the suffering and trauma experienced by patients during their stay, may be contributing to the reported hauntings.

We also chat about Conover Square, a 19th-century former piano factory that’s been restored and repurposed for modern use. While this historic building serves as a shopping mall, the building's rich history and location are said to play a part in creating a perfect storm for possible paranormal activity.

Stories: Manteno State Hospital, Manteno, IL. & Conover Square, Oregon IL.

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Show Notes

Sources:

Manteno State Hospital

https://michaelkleen.com/2018/03/27/mystery-and-madness-at-manteno-state-hospital/

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art50748.asp

https://content.time.com/time/subscriber/article/0,33009,772257,00.html

https://windycityghosts.com/manteno-state-mental-hospital/

Conover Square

http://oregonil.com/conover-square/

https://www.rrstar.com/story/entertainment/2014/10/19/reports-giggles-loud-crashes-at/36135168007/

https://antiquepianoshop.com/online-museum/conover/

https://chicagology.com/rebuilding/rebuilding142/

https://q985online.com/check-out-this-haunted-piano-factory-just-45-minutes-from-rockford/

—————————

Title Theme: “It Follows” by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Story Music: “Curse” by Mehul Sharma

—————————-

Affiliate:

Stay connected, informed, and inspired with Audible.

New members can try Audible free for 30 days

So, head on over and start listening!

Just visit www.audibletrial.com/hauntedhappyhour

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To donate & support the show, "Buy Us A Drink” here: https://ko-fi.com/hauntedhappyhour

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