It’s History

It’s History

By Ryan SocashHistory
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It’s History episodes

  • New York's Lost Ash Dump

    New York's Forgotten Corona Ash Dump, also known as the Corona Ash Dump or simply the Corona Dump, was once a significant site in the city's waste management history. Located in Queens, it operated from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, serving as a dumping ground for coal ash and other industrial waste. The site was crucial in managing the city's burgeoning waste output during the industrial era. However, as environmental awareness grew and regulations tightened, the dump fell into disuse and was eventually closed. Today, it is a forgotten relic of New York City's industrial past, reclaimed by nature and largely unknown to many of its residents.

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    18 min
  • Wisconsin's Weird "Infinity Room" Explained | The House on the Rock

    The House on the Rock, nestled in the scenic hills of Wisconsin, boasts a rich history dating back to the 1940s when Alex Jordan Jr. began constructing the extraordinary structure atop Deer Shelter Rock. Originally envisioned as a retreat showcasing Jordan's eclectic collections and architectural whimsy, the House on the Rock has since evolved into a beloved tourist attraction. Its labyrinthine corridors lead visitors through a mesmerizing maze of themed rooms, filled with an astonishing array of artifacts, antiques, and curiosities from around the world. Over the years, the House on the Rock has grown in both size and renown, captivating generations of visitors with its unparalleled blend of imagination, creativity, and eccentricity.

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    18 min
  • The Largest Abandoned Subway in the World

    In this podcast, we explore the forgotten history of Cincinnati's abandoned subway system, once the largest abandoned subway in the world. Discover the ambitious plans, political controversies, and construction challenges that led to the creation of this underground network, and the reasons it was ultimately abandoned before it ever carried a single passenger. Join us as we uncover the secrets of this fascinating and mysterious piece of urban infrastructure.

    17 min
  • The Mountain Climbing Steam Train - The Story of the Cog Railway

    Join us on a thrilling adventure to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States, aboard the Cog Railway. Discover the fascinating history and engineering marvel behind the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway, as we journey through the rugged terrain of the White Mountains in New Hampshire. Experience the steep incline, the sweeping views, and the incredible feat of human ingenuity that brought this historic railway to life. Don't miss this exciting episode of the Cog Railway, the ultimate ride to the top of the world.

    15 min
  • California's Dangerous Capitola Village Situation

    Capitola, California, nestled along the picturesque coastline of Santa Cruz County, boasts a rich history dating back to the late 19th century when it became one of the state's first resort towns. Initially established as a seaside retreat, Capitola's charming cottages, sandy beaches, and colorful wharf attracted tourists seeking respite from bustling city life. Over the decades, it evolved into a vibrant community blending historic charm with modern amenities, drawing visitors with its scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere. However, despite its allure, Capitola faces the looming threat of storms due to its coastal location. With rising sea levels and increasing intensity of weather events fueled by climate change, the town's coastline is vulnerable to erosion and flooding. Efforts to mitigate these risks through coastal protection measures and sustainable development are underway, emphasizing the delicate balance between preserving Capitola's natural beauty and ensuring its resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

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    18 min
  • What Happened to This Runaway Train?

    The Santa Fe passenger train incident at Los Angeles' Union Station marked a dramatic chapter in the history of railway transportation. On that fateful day, the train, bound for its destination, encountered a catastrophic failure in its braking system, rendering it unable to stop as it approached the station platform. With its momentum unchecked, the train crashed through a concrete barrier, shattering the tranquility of the station's concourse. The deafening roar of metal meeting concrete echoed through the halls as panic ensued among passengers and bystanders. Miraculously, despite the chaos and destruction, there were no fatalities. However, the incident left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness, serving as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks associated with rail travel and prompting a renewed focus on safety protocols within the industry. In the aftermath of the event, rigorous investigations were launched, leading to the implementation of enhanced safety measures and the tightening of regulations to prevent such occurrences in the future. This historic incident at Union Station stands as a testament to the resilience of both the railway system and the human spirit, underscoring the imperative of continual vigilance in ensuring the safety of passengers and personnel alike.

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    17 min
  • The History of Credit Cards

    In this podcast episode, we explore the fascinating history of credit cards, from their inception in the early 1900s to their ubiquitous presence in our modern-day lives. We examine the key players and innovations that paved the way for the widespread use of credit cards, the challenges and controversies that have arisen over the years, and the ways in which credit cards have fundamentally transformed our economy and consumer behavior. Join us as we delve into the evolution of this small piece of plastic that has had such a profound impact on our financial lives.

    18 min
  • Why The Mississippi River Bridge Collapsed

    The I-35W Mississippi River Bridge collapse, a tragic event in American infrastructure history, occurred on August 1, 2007, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The bridge, a vital artery connecting the northern and southern parts of the city, failed during evening rush hour, sending vehicles and their occupants plummeting into the river below. Thirteen people lost their lives, with many more injured. The collapse brought attention to the state of aging infrastructure across the United States, prompting discussions on the importance of regular maintenance and investment in updating bridges and roads. Investigations revealed design flaws and structural deficiencies in the bridge, highlighting the need for stringent inspection protocols and infrastructure renewal efforts nationwide. The disaster spurred significant changes in infrastructure policy and funding, emphasizing the imperative of ensuring public safety and the resilience of critical transportation networks.

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    24 min
  • Why the Railplane Totally Failed

    The Bennie Railplane, conceived by Scottish engineer George Bennie in the early 1930s, was a pioneering transportation concept to revolutionize urban travel. This innovative design envisioned a streamlined, elevated rail system with lightweight carriages suspended from an overhead track, powered by electric motors. Bennie's vision sought to alleviate traffic congestion and provide a faster, more efficient mode of transportation. Despite successful test runs and considerable public interest, the Railplane faced financial and logistical challenges, ultimately leading to its demise. Though the Railplane never achieved widespread adoption, it remains a fascinating chapter in the history of transportation innovation, showcasing its creator's bold ideas and ingenuity.

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    22 min
  • The Ghost Fleet of Mallows Bay

    In this podcast, we explore the history and secrets of the Ghost Fleet of Mallows Bay, a haunting ship graveyard in Maryland. With over 200 sunken vessels dating back to World War I, the bay is a fascinating historical site with stories of battles, disasters, and environmental restoration efforts. Join us as we dive deep into the mysteries and tragedies of this eerie, yet captivating location.

    16 min

About It’s History

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IT’S HISTORY is a ride through history – join us in discovering the world’s most important eras, the minds that changed everything, and the most important inventions of our time through weekly tales of Urban Decay.