Welcome to the premiere episode of This One Time in Kankakee, the podcast that uncovers the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Host Jake LaMore kicks off the series with a deeply personal family legend that has been told for nearly 90 years.
Travel back to a hot summer day in 1936 Manteno, Illinois. At just three years old, Jake's grandfather, Franklin Weber, was accidentally run over by his father's tractor. What follows is a miraculous story of survival, featuring an incredible feat of paternal strength, a look at 1930s medicine at the St. Mary's Hospital, and a twist of fate that connects this near-tragedy to a 69-year love story.
This episode explores rural life during the Great Depression, the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of family history. It’s a foundational story for our exploration of the moments that have shaped the people and places of Kankakee County.
In this episode, you'll hear about:
- Life on a small farm in Manteno, Illinois during the 1930s.
- The dramatic true story of a childhood tractor accident.
- The incredible feat of strength that became a local legend.
- A look at historical medical treatments at St. Mary's Hospital.
- A heartwarming story of destiny that you have to hear to believe.
ABOUT THE PODCAST: "This One Time in Kankakee" explores the unforgettable true stories—big and small—from the people of Kankakee County, Illinois. Hosted by Jake Plummer, a production of the WVLI Podcast Network.
SUBMIT YOUR STORY: Do you have a story that starts with "This one time in Kankakee..."? Email Jake LaMore at [email protected].
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Want more from the WVLI Podcast Network? Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning! Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less.
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