Scarytales

Dating back some 4,000 years, the story of Rumpelstiltskin is one of the earliest surviving tales in Western literature. The legend is savage in parts and reminds readers that spinning a web of lies may cost you everything. Much like the maiden in our fairy tale, Megan Fieramusca became so caught up in her own deceit, that she was willing to kill in order to get what she wanted-a child that wasn't hers. Sources: -https://www.pookpress.co.uk/project/rumpelstiltskin-history/ -https://original.newsbreak.com/@true-crime-mysteries-megan-1588233/2706727311654-bestie-killer-magen-fieramusca-arrested-for-murder -https://www.sjaakvandergeest.socsci.uva.nl/pdf/anthropology_and_literature/rumpelskin.pdf

Happy New Year, everyone! This week Lacie brings you the twisted history behind NYE's  biggest fans, Father Time and Baby New Year. To be honest, we kind of forgot these guys existed but will be incorporating their stories into future celebrations (fast forward to our husbands dressed up as big ole babies on December 31st, 2023). To start off the new year with a chill, we then bring you the story of a family massacre that ensued right as the ball was dropping in 2017.  Sources: -https://www.halloweenartistbazaar.com/father-time-death-and-the-new-year/ -https://www.waggish.org/2013/father-time-chronos-and-kronos/ -https://www.escalontimes.com/209-living/origins-baby-new-year/ -https://www.oddmurdersandmysteries.com/scott-kologi-murders-family-on-new-years-eve-2017/ -scott-kologi-murder-family-santa-claud -https://patch.com/new-jersey/longbranch/i-just-kept-firing-long-branch-teen-describes-killing-family

Merry Christmas from the girls at Scarytales! To celebrate, we are bringing you several dark theories to help explain WHY the Grinch stole Christmas. Lacie then brings you the story of a father who makes the Grinch seem like Mother Theresa. Some might say that Charlie Lawson's soul was an appalling heap overflowing with the most disgraceful assortment of deplorable rubbish imaginable, mangled up in tangled up knots! Resources: -https://www.cracked.com/blog/the-genocide-plot-you-never-noticed-in-grinch -https://www.looper.com/99290/things-grinch-stole-christmas-notice-adult/ -https://www.looper.com/88038/critically-hated-movies-actually-awesome/ -https://southerncalls.com/article/the-lawson-family-tragedy/ -https://www.thestokesnews.com/news/23397/90-years-gone

We're coming home for the holidays! This week we sit down to bring you a few spooky stories from around Alabama.

In honor of Hannah's birthday month, we are discussing her favorite this week, The Jungle Book! While most of us are familiar with the happy-go-lucky Disney version of this story, its origins are much darker. Feral children have fascinated and frightened people for centuries, raising questions about what it truly means to be human. Sources: -https://www.livehistoryindia.com/story/living-culture/the-jungle-book-the-untold-story -https://www.biography.com/writer/rudyard-kipling -dina-sanichar -https://historydaily.org/oxana-malaya-story-girl-raised-dogs -https://allthatsinteresting.com/marina-chapman -https://strangelife.in/sujit-kumar-a-human-raised-as-a-chicken/ -https://allthatsinteresting.com/feral-children/7 -https://cvltnation.com/genie-wiley-the-feral-girl/

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is an American classic that often resurfaces around Halloween. While it is considered one of America's first ghost stories, Washington Irving didn't invent the idea of a headless rider. Unsurprisingly, this character has sinister origins that can be traced all the way back to The Middle Ages. Speaking of headless beings, we also discuss the gruesome murder of Pearl Bryan and how eerily similar her story is to the legend. Sources: -Dullahan -legend-sleepy-hollow-headless-horseman -https://allthatsinteresting.com/the-legend-of-sleepy-hollow -https://westchestermagazine.com/life-style/history/irving-legend-sleepy-hollow/ -https://heathermonroe.medium.com/the-gruesome-murder-of-pearl-bryan-492eb83a859e

Who is spooky and a little gritty around the edges? That's the Sandman. Join the Scarytales gals this week as they dive into the crusty, salty terror of the sleep-inducing, dream-haunting boogeyman. (Big thanks to Chase for writing this lovely episode description). Sources: -https://www.freud.org.uk/2020/02/01/the-sandman/ -https://history.howstuffworks.com/history-vs-myth/who-is-sandman.htm -https://literature.fandom.com/wiki/Ole_Luk-Oie -https://www.gq.com/story/the-sandman-a-beginners-guide -https://allthatsinteresting.com/grim-sleeper -https://murderpedia.org/male.F/f/franklin-lonnie.htm

Chase is back to guest host this week as he and Lacie bring you the history of taphophobia-the fear of being buried alive. Before advances in medical science, our ancestors developed interesting methods to test for life's end. The inaccuracy of such tests resulted in a rise of premature burials that sent a wave of panic through society. As Edgar Allen Poe put it "To be buried alive is, beyond question, the most terrific of extremes which has ever fallen to the lot of mere mortality." Sources: -https://www.maxim.com/maxim-man/brief-history-being-buried-alive/ -https://historycollection.com/buried-alive-common-victorian-era-doctors-used-10-methods-prevent/10/ -https://www.ancient-origins.net/history-ancient-traditions/safety-coffin-0012316 -https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/54818/4-people-who-were-buried-alive-and-how-they-got-out

When it comes to Norse gods, few are more famous than Thor and Loki. Of course, this is in large part due to The Marvel Universe, but they were just as popular with the ancient Norse as they are today. This week we discuss the true relationship between these two frenemies as well as some super interesting details that Marvel chose to leave out. Then, Lacie recounts the story of a brutal string of murders that plagued Colorado in 1984. Who was the killer? A blood thirsty maniac with a hammer. Sources: -https://www.history.co.uk/articles/the-legendary-adventures-of-thor-in-norse-mythology -https://www.lifeinnorway.net/loki-norse-mythology/ -https://gamerant.com/god-of-war-loki-ragnarok/ -https://mythopedia.com/topics/loki -the-colorado-hammer-killer-from-1984-murder-spree-identified-8a48513fc4b5 -5 -https://mythopedia.com/topics/thor

This week we are bringing you the bloody and mysterious history of folklore's most notorious outlaw, Robin Hood. Besides the Disney movie, Robin Hood has been the subject of countless ballads, books, and films. But was he a real historical figure? Join us as we try to decipher legend from fact. Lacie then brings you the story of the brutal murders of three young boys in 1993. Within a month, investigators were convinced they had found the killers, three misfit teenagers who would become known as "The West Memphis Three." Sources: -who-was-the-real-robin-hood -robin-hood.html -https://www.englishmonarchs.co.uk/robin_hood.html - https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/british/middle_ages/robin_01.shtml -https://www.ancient-origins.net/myths-legends-asia/evidence-robin-hood-008105 -https://www.historyanswers.co.uk/people-politics/chernobyl-fire-fighter-we-were-risking-our-lives-but-we-were-just-doing-a-job/ -https://www.vox.com/culture/22358153/satanic-panic-ritual-abuse-history-conspiracy-theories-explained -http://law2.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/memphis3/arksct2appellate.html -https://www.jivepuppi.com/Terry_Hobbs.html

This week Hannah is bringing you a special back to school episode by telling you about some haunted schools. You'll hear about some friendly ghosts and some not so friendly women from history. We'll even discuss why our culture seems to have a little bit of an obsession with ghost stories like these. Resources: - https://www.wgu.edu/heyteach/article/top-haunted-schools-us-and-abroad1810.html - https://youtu.be/_eyUMgZvEng - https://hauntedohioschool.com/home/ - https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baby_farming - https://www.wgu.edu/heyteach/article/top-haunted-schools-us-and-abroad1810.html - https://www.travelchannel.com/interests/haunted/photos/15-haunted-colleges-and-universities-in-the-u-s- - https://www.psu.edu/news/campus-life/story/we-scare-creepy-commonwealth-campuses-share-spirited-penn-state-tradition/

Sit down with Lacie this week as she tells the disturbing origins behind one of the most beloved nursery rhymes of all time. Resources: -https://allthatsinteresting.com/london-bridge-is-falling-down -https://heavy.com/news/ronald-ron-logan-delphi-murders/ -https://www.wishtv.com/news/i-team-8/fbi-search-warrant-raises-questions-about-delphi-property-owners-arrest/ -https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10829317/New-details-Delphi-Bridge-Murders-reveal-victims-died-bloodbath-killer-took-souvenir.html -delphi-victims

The circus was the most popular form of entertainment for centuries, but it didn't start with a bag of popcorn and a souvenir cup. The history of The Greatest Show On Earth is a twisted one--one filled with actual blood, sweat, and tears. Those who had the misfortune to be the butt of the joke could harness hatred in their heart that would lead them to do the unthinkable. Listen in as Hannah and Lacie discuss the darkest secrets from under the big top. Not everyone makes it out alive. Sources: -https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/americas-big-circus-spectacular-has-long-and-cherished-history-180962621/ -https://cdapress.com/news/2022/jan/09/history-corner/ -https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/the-story-of-circus#slideshow=58613815&slide=0 -https://circushalloffame.com/history-of-the-circus/ -https://www.worldhistory.org/Circus_Maximus/ -https://priceonomics.com/the-rise-and-fall-of-circus-freakshows/ -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejLXxBPajRU

This week we are taking a break from bringing you the creepy origin stories behind your favorite Disney movies to bring you the even creepier stories behind your favorite Disney Parks. You're welcome. Sources: -https://reelreviews.com/deadly-disneyland-deaths-at-disneyland -https://www.bustle.com/p/9-ghosts-that-reportedly-haunt-disney-parks-from-urban-legends-to-actual-events-in-the-parks-history-2938656 -disney-ghosts

Dr. Facilier may be apart of The Princess and the Frog, but his backstory deserved its own episode! This week we discuss how Voodoo inspired one of Disney's most popular villains. Staying on theme, we then head to New Orleans to bring you the story of a socialite turned serial killer. Stay tuned! Learn More: -https://www.learnreligions.com/papa-legba-4771384 -https://www.learnreligions.com/papa-legba-4771384 -https://www.thecollector.com/voodoo-history-misunderstood-religion/ -Baron_Samedi_(folklore) -https://www.learnreligions.com/are-voodoo-dolls-real-95807 -what-is-vodou_b_827947 -slaveowner-madame-lalaurie-tortured-and-killed-her-slaves-for-fun-231571ba1f7f -https://allthatsinteresting.com/madame-lalaurie -https://murderpedia.org/female.L/l/lalaurie-delphine.htm -https://historyofyesterday.com/slaveowner-madame-lalaurie-tortured-and-killed-her-slaves-for-fun-231571ba1f7f -a-portrait-of-cruelty-madame-marie-delphine-lalaurie-982

This week we “dig a little deeper” to discuss the original stories that inspired Disney's The Princess and the Frog. It turns out that this fascination with amphibians dates back to Ancient Rome and eventually lands into the hands of the Grimm brothers in 1810. Join us as we discuss a tale from “in olden times, when wishing still helped.” Sources: -a-summary-and-analysis-of-the-frog-prince-fairy-tale -https://thefairytalecentral.com/the-frog-prince-origins/ -https://sites.pitt.edu/~dash/frog.html#taylor -https://www.tor.com/2016/05/26/wait-what-happened-to-the-kissing-part-the-frog-king-or-iron-henry/ -https://byufairytales.wordpress.com/thefrogprince/ -works_evangeline.shtml -https://www.ranker.com/list/zack-and-addie-new-orleans/patrick-thornton -https://www.thescarechamber.com/hurricane-katrina-royalty-zack-bowen-and-addie-hall/ -https://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=2590814&page=1 -the-tragedy-of-zach-addie

This week we discuss the very sad origins of Raggedy Ann, one of history's most iconic dolls. Learn how a children's toy became the inspiration behind a horror classic and how one man took his doll obsession to the next level. We would like to dedicate this episode to Peter the bunny. Rest In Peace, buddy. Sources: -annabelle-doll -https://fionadodwell.medium.com/annabelle-and-beyond-the-dark-history-of-raggedy-ann-dolls-a3d746fd2bbb -http://wordsworthclassics.com/author/gruelle-johnny -https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raggedy_Ann -https://medium.com/the-mystery-box/the-doll-house-of-human-corpses-b49ca89c19c8 -https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2809228/Evil-murderer-dug-little-girl-s-dead-body-mummified-corpse-taunted-ten-years-Grieving-mother-relives-nightmare-bodysnatcher-genius.html

There have been at least 45 film adaptations of his story with Disney's Tarzan being the most popular. Possibly inspired by the tale of William Charles Midlin, Rice Burroughs wrote Tarzan of the Apes in 1912. It was an instant success and even appreciated by real life Jane of the Jungle, Jane Goodall. Following in Goodall's footsteps, Dian Fossey studied the mountain gorillas of Rwanda in 1960s-1970s. It is her passion for the great apes that cost the famous primatologist her life when she was brutally murdered in in 1977. Sources: -a-brief-history-of-tarzan -https://www.rd.com/article/man-who-inspired-tarzan/ -https://www.bustle.com/articles/169419-is-the-legend-of-tarzan-based-on-a-true-story-the-answer-might-surprise-you -https://historybyday.com/pop-culture/the-men-behind-tarzan-the-real-life-jungle-man-and-the-troubled-author-who-brought-him-to-life/ -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oh_oDr8vg-Y -fatal-obsession-198609 -dian-fossey-bio -the-men-behind-tarzan-the-real-life-jungle-man-and-the-troubled-author-who-brought-him-to-life

This week we discuss the controversial origins of "Mary Had A Little Lamb." It might not be the spookiest thing we've covered, but there is tea to be spilled. Lacie then brings us the case of Mary Bell, one of the world's youngest killers. It's baaaa-zarre. -https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/sarah-hale -https://archive.org/details/storyofmaryherli00unse/page/38/mode/2up -https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/arts/literature/controversy-behind-mary-had-little-lamb.htm

This week we discuss the dark history of the world's most infamous prison. Sitting in the chilly waters of San Fransisco Bay, Alcatraz was the home of America's most difficult and dangerous criminals including Al Capone and Robert "Birdman of Alcatraz" Stroud. Over the years, 36 men in 14 different attempts would try to escape the island. Whether or not some of them were successful is still up for debate. Sources: -https://www.bop.gov/about/history/alcatraz.jsp -https://www.alcatrazhistory.com/rock/rock-037.htm

Coulrophobia is no laughing matter. Although the actual phobia is somewhat rare, most people agree that clowns are creepy. Clowns as pranksters, jesters, jokers, harlequins, and mythologized tricksters have been around for ages, but when did they turn into the sinister beings that haunt our nightmares? This inherent creepiness was taken to an extreme with the idea of the ‘killer clown.” And some people believe this started with the arrest of infamous serial killer-John Wayne Gacy. Also known as "The Killer Clown", Gacy murdered 33 young men before burying them in his crawl space. Sources: -https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/the-history-and-psychology-of-clowns-being-scary-20394516/ -https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20161019-a-surprising-history-of-the-bad-clown -https://www.businessinsider.com/why-people-are-scared-of-clowns-2013-8#in-1986-stephen-king-wrote-it-a-horror-novel-where-a-demon-attacks-children-disguised-as-a-clown-it-was-so-popular-that-it-was-turned-into-a-tv-miniseries-in-1990-since-then-clowns-have-become-a-common-horror-trope-in-movies-like-saw-funnyman-and-clownhouse-9 -https://owlcation.com/humanities/History-of-the-Medieval-Jester -https://historicengland.org.uk/research/inclusive-heritage/disability-history/1485-1660/disability-in-the-tudor-court/ -https://www.aetv.com/real-crime/john-wayne-gacys-childhood -https://www.aetv.com/real-crime/john-wayne-gacy-death

This week we sit down to discuss the not so Chinese origins of Disney's Mulan. Speaking of sitting down, we almost had to name this episode "Mulan & The Virgin Wheelchair" which goes to show just how scary this story actually is. We then bring you a very dark case of Lavena Johnson, a female soldier in the U.S Army who died under mysterious circumstances (to say the least). We hope you're ready to be uncomfortable. Sources: -https://www.vox.com/culture/21412785/mulan-history-original-chinese-ballad-disney -https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/article-movie-real-story-of-mulan.htm -https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1596/mulan-the-legend-through-history/ -https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/why-footbinding-persisted-china-millennium-180953971/ -https://www.history.com/news/8-things-you-might-not-know-about-attila-the-hun -http://lavenajohnson.com/about/ -https://unresolved.me/pfc-lavena-johnson -https://thehueandcry.com/lavena-johnson -https://unresolved.me/pfc-lavena-johnson -https://www.donaldwatkins.com/post/the-murder-of-pfc-lavena-johnson-part-1 -https://web.archive.org/web/20081015063957/http://newpittsburghcourieronline.com/articlelive/articles/40956/1/Who-killed-Private-First-Class-LaVena-L-Johnson/Page1.html -mulan-the-legend-through-history

Arguably one of the most popular figures from Greek mythology, Hercules is a story that most of us are familiar with. Disney released their version in 1997, and the world came to know this demigod as a hero with supernatural strength who saved the world from his crazy uncle. As per usual, we are here to cover what Disney didn't (most likely couldn't) tell you. We also discuss a recent true crime case out of India, where a serial killer named Hercules took Bangladesh's rape crisis into his own hands. Hey, we're not mad about... Thank you so much to Pretzel Pete's for sponsoring this week's snack break. Check them out at https://pretzelpete.com or follow them on IG at @pretzelpetesnacks. Sources: -https://www.worldhistory.org/article/733/the-life-of-hercules-in-myth--legend/ -https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2020/10/26/survivors-of-bangladeshs-rape-epidemic -https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/2/5/hercules-vigilante-kills-suspected-rapists-in-bangladesh -https://www.voxspace.in/2019/02/05/hercules-serial-killer/real-life-vigilantes -https://allthatsinteresting.com/marianne-bachmeier

This week we are bringing you the creepy origins of Valentine's Day. Although it is said to be a time of love and romance, the history of this holiday is actually quite dark. Like, really dark. And in 2007, February 14th was forever blemished by the brutal murder of loving mother and wife, Tara Lynn Grant. Reported missing on Valentine's Day, the investigation would lead police to a grizzly discovery that changed the life of her family forever. Sources: -https://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day/history-of-valentines-day-2 -https://time.com/5527259/valentines-day-lupercalia/ -https://www.themidwestcrimefiles.com/post/the-murder-of-tara-lynn-grant -https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna23409987 -https://www.history.com/news/historys-oldest-known-valentine-was-written-in-prison

Welcome back! This should be a spooky spot that everyone is familiar with considering that most states have multiple "cry baby bridges." But where did this legend come from and why is it so prolific? Listen to find out. Sources: -https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/van-sant-crybaby-bridge -https://www.hyattsvillewire.com/2021/02/23/goatman-prince-georges-county/ -https://medium.com/lessons-from-history/the-terrifying-goatman-who-haunts-maryland-4885f3814fca -https://creepycincinnati.com/2011/11/08/the-screaming-bridge-of-maud-hughes-road/ -http://www.kentuckymonthly.com/lifestyle/kentucky-s-sleepy-hollow/ -http://weekinweird.com/2011/09/03/troubled-waterways-origins-crybaby-bridge-legend/

Happy New Year! We are so excited to have Hannah back and to celebrate we thought we'd go back to our bread and butter. There are few fairy tales more classic (and scary) than Little Red Riding Hood. Her story originates from around the world with each retelling becoming more creepy than the last. Then Lacie brings you possibly one of the most horrific true crime stories to date. Albert Fish was a despicable human being who went buy many names: The Grey Man, The Brooklyn Vampire, and The Werewolf of Wysteria. You've heard what they say, watch out for a wolf in sheep's clothing. Sources: -https://www.science.org/content/article/evolution-little-red-riding-hood -https://www.thevintagenews.com/2017/10/05/the-earlier-versions-of-little-red-riding-hood-were-violent-and-grotesque/ -http://scihi.org/peter-stumpp-werewolf/ -https://modernfarmer.com/2013/08/peter-stubbethe-werewolf-of-bedburg/ -https://www.crimemuseum.org/crime-library/serial-killers/albert-fish/

Pour yourself a glass of eggnog and settle in by the fire because this week Chase and Lacie bring you the story of A Christmas Carol. Charles Dickens was inspired by the travesties of Victorian England, and the result was a classic tale that embodies the spirt of Christmas. To ruin the merriment, Lacie brings you a true crime story that rocked the London community in 1849. It was so gruesome that Charles Dickens himself wrote about the trials and subsequent executions. Merry Christmas and we hope you enjoy. Sources: -Dickens-Charles.html -https://www.bl.uk/romantics-and-victorians/articles/ragged-schools -https://www.bl.uk/romantics-and-victorians/articles/the-origins-of-a-christmas-carol -https://www.capitalpunishmentuk.org/mannings.html -https://headstuff.org/culture/history/terrible-people-from-history/fred-maria-manning-victorian-murderers/

Bigfoot, Yeti, Sasquatch...this week we are discussing a creature so legendary that people from around the globe have spent their entire lives trying to prove its existence. Despite the lack of scientific evidence, hardcore fans can not be deterred from keeping the conspiracy alive. Guest hosts Chase and Cody will break down the sightings and theories behind this elusive "wild-man" as Lacie connects it to a murder mystery from the wilderness. Sources: -https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/why-bigfoot-and-abominable-snowman-loom-large-human-imagination-180975365/ -https://www.history.com/news/bigfoot-legend-newspaper -https://www.livescience.com/25072-yeti-abominable-snowman.html -https://www.outsideonline.com/culture/books-media/man-who-created-bigfoot/ -https://theweek.com/articles/833273/enduring-legend-bigfoot -https://www.farandwide.com/s/things-to-do-national-parks-a54b7df1bd0b4503 -the-murders-of-julie-williams-and-lollie-winans -https://www.strangeoutdoors.com/true-crime-in-the-outdoors/2020/1shenandoah-national-park-murders -https://historycollection.com/the-hairy-history-of-bigfoot-in-20-intriguing-events/4/ -https://www.theguardian.com/science/grrlscientist/2014/jul/02/genetics-evolution-dna-analysis-yeti-sasquatch-bigfoot-zoology-primates -https://wakingbear.org/is-bigfoot-the-lost-gigantopithecus/ -11-crazy-bigfoot-conspiracy-theories -https://www.masslive.com/news/worcester/2015/10/is_bigfoot_an_extraterrestrial.html

Shout out to special guest, Whitney, for bringing us the story of La Llorona this week! Beware the wailing woman who lurks by water at night to drown her unsuspecting victims. Sadly, there is a true crime case with unfortunate parallels to the legend of the “wailing woman.” In 2001, Andrea Yates made headlines for drowning all 5 of her children in the bathtub. Sources: -https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/04/la-llorona-real-mexican-legend-curse-of-la-llorona-movie -https://allthatsinteresting.com/la-llorona -https://www.oprah.com/omagazine/andrea-yates-a-cry-in-the-dark -https://www.cnn.com/2013/03/25/us/andrea-yates-fast-facts/index.html -https://allthatsinteresting.com/andrea-yates -https://murderpedia.org/female.Y/y/yates-andrea.htm -There Was A Woman: La Llorona from Folklore to Popular Culture by Domino Renee Perez

This week Chase fills in for Hannah to discuss the origins of one of the most popular nursery rhymes, Humpty Dumpty. It turns out that ole egg man has historical ties that date back to the 1400s. As you could guess, it's going to get a little dark. Fast forward to 1942 when 47 patients at The Oregon State Hospital unknowingly ate their last meal. Breakfast for dinner... Sources: -https://www.thevintagenews.com/2018/02/28/humpty-dumpty/ -https://timalderman.com/2020/02/13/the-origin-of-humpty-dumpty/ -874550001 -https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/2017/11/18/oregon-state-hospital-poison-causes-47-deaths-1942/874550001/ -http://www.offbeatoregon.com/1211c-asylum-kitchen-mixup-killed-hundreds-with-scrambled-eggs.html -https://www.salemreporter.com/posts/5175/staffers-at-oregon-state-hospital-endure-violence-long-hours-despite-promises-of-improvements

This week we are bringing you the legend of the Tooth Fairy, because what is scarier than American Capitalism? Sources: -https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/tooth-fairy/how-much-does-the-tooth-fairy-pay-for-a-tooth -https://www.twohigdentistry.com/blog/2018/07/the-history-and-mythology-of-the-tooth-fairy -https://www.forbes.com/sites/kristinakillgrove/2016/09/14/where-did-the-tooth-fairy-come-from/?sh=5ea3f93259d4 -https://www.oxygen.com/martinis-murder/true-crime-story-behind-horror-movie-the-dentist -https://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/killer-driller-hed-article-1.2319200

Can you believe that we've been doing this thing for one whole year?! To celebrate, we are back with a bonus episode AND...MERCH. Check our instagram for more info. This week we discuss one of America's most spooky spots, The Stanley Hotel. All demons and no puppies make Hannah and Lacie dull girls. Get it? Cause it's about The Shining. Sources: -https://coloradoencyclopedia.org/article/stanley-hotel -https://www.tripsavvy.com/the-haunted-stanley-hotel-4108817 -creepy-stories-about-colorados-famous-stanley-hotel

Surprise! This week Chase fills in for Hannah to discuss the legend of Bloody Mary. Ya know, the creepy lady in the mirror? We all played this "game" as children, but where did it come from? There are several women throughout history who could be responsible for this ritual, the scariest being The Blood Countess herself, Elizabeth Bathory. This one is not for the feint of heart. Our Sources: -https://allthatsinteresting.com/bloody-mary -https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/myth-bloody-mary-180974221/ -https://www.history.com/topics/british-history/mary-i -https://www.moillusions.com/troxlers-fading-optical-illusion/ -https://folklorethursday.com/halloween/faces-in-the-mirror-the-urban-legend-of-bloody-mary/ -https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/558091/origin-bloody-mary-and-why-we-think-we-see-things-mirrors -https://annfosterwriter.com/2019/11/22/elizabeth-bathory/ -https://www.grunge.com/190380/the-most-notorious-female-serial-killers/ -http://infamouslady.com/new_research.html

Happy October!! We decided to start the spookiest month with telling you about the real story behind our favorite scary movie, The Conjuring. Listen with the lights on. Sources: -https://allthatsinteresting.com/true-story-of-the-conjuring-perron-family-enfield-haunting -https://screenrant.com/conjuring-movie-true-story-bathsheba-sherman-history-explained/ -https://theconjuringhouse.com -http://www.theoccultmuseum.com/the-conjuring-the-true-story-of-the-perron-family-haunting/ -https://newenglandghoststories.com/tag/conjuring-house/

Since this is a podcast about fairy tales, this week we are talking about the creatures who gave our show its name. Fairies, fae, good people, the neighbors...these magical beings go by many names and their stories originate from all over the world. And for one unfortunate woman, belief in these legends cost her everything. Our Sources: -https://medium.com/lessons-from-history/history-of-fairies-18dff807000e -https://www.grunge.com/213096/the-legend-of-fairies-explained/ -https://www.learnreligions.com/lore-about-fae-at-beltane-2561643 -https://historycollection.com/the-charred-remains-of-bridget-cleary-were-found-in-a-bog-and-opened-up-a-chilling-investigation-involving-fairies/3/ -https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/539793/bizarre-death-bridget-cleary-irish-fairy-wife -https://ericwedwards.wordpress.com/2015/08/14/the-origin-and-lore-of-fairies-and-fairy-land/ -https://magickandalchemy.com/faery-mythology-changelings/

This week we decided to cover an entire time period, because THE VICTORIANS. This seemingly bleak and dismal era is what inspired many of the stories we tell today. Fascinated by death, these people took the word "macabre" to a whole new level. Speaking of death, this period produced Jack the Ripper who terrorized the streets of London in 1888, becoming one of the world's most notorious serial killers. The mystery of his killing spree remains unsolved, but we look to break down the most likely suspects. Our Sources: -https://www.britannica.com/event/Victorian-era -http://www.vintageconnection.net/VictorianLaundry.htm -https://www.mimimatthews.com/2018/09/16/teeth-whitening-in-the-victorian-era-from-charcoal-paste-to-sulfuric-acid/ -https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/victorian/food-and-health/ -https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/519291/when-lewis-carroll-was-suspected-being-jack-ripper -https://www.casebook.org/intro.html

How could a story about 101 puppies be anything but absolutely adorable? Enter the original story made famous by Dodie Smith in 1956. A likable tale, but one that may not be suitable for "children." We can't lie though. The real life woman who inspired Cruella De Vil seems like a pretty fun gal. Speaking of evil women, Katherine Knight tops the list and she wasn't above killing a couple puppies herself. This one is a doozy. Sources: -https://filmdaily.co/news/cruella-tallulah/ -https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2021/05/real-cruella-de-vil-tallulah-bankhead -https://7news.com.au/news/crime/katherine-knight-butchers-husband-john-price-then-boils-his-head-and-plates-him-up-c-1852824 -https://murderpedia.org/female.K/k/knight-katherine.htm -https://www.news.com.au/national/crime/queen-bee-cannibal-killer-katherine-knights-life-in-prison-where-shes-known-as-the-nanna/news-story/e6f5e013f7be2c6328eb40029e0715b2

The story of King Arthur is one that uses scraps of history and folklore to create a legend that has been retold for ages. As with many retellings, the line between fact and fiction can be blurred. This week, we sit down to discuss the history behind several famous Arthurian tales and try to answer the question "was King Arthur a real person?" Lacie then delivers a true crime story with a sword wielding monster that changed the lives of a small Sweden town forever. Sources: https://www.worldhistory.org/Excalibur/ https://www.britannica.com/topic/Arthurian-legend https://www.britannica.com/topic/King-Arthur https://www.britannica.com/art/epic/Arthurian-romance#ref503355 https://allthatsinteresting.com/real-sword-in-the-stone http://drreidmeloy.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/The-Swedish-School-Attack-in-Trollhattan.pdf -https://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/usbiography/m/merlin.html -https://www.medievalists.net/2020/10/merlin-demons/ -https://www.tor.com/2015/07/30/the-young-future-king-t-h-whites-the-sword-in-the-stone/

There are few places wrapped in more mystery and superstition than The Bermuda Triangle. Also known as "The Devil's Triangle", this 500,000 square miles of doomed water has claimed the lives of many, with more than 100 known disappearances. Join us as we dive into the tragic stories and theories surrounding one of the wold's greatest mysteries. For more information: -abandoned-ship-the-mary-celeste-174488104 -https://www.history.com/topics/folklore/bermuda-triangle -http://floridazone.blogspot.com/2014/03/disappearance-of-witchcraft.html

We're back with another classic this week. Rapunzel is a fairy tale that has been passed down for centuries with each re-telling becoming more dark and twisted than the one before. The story of the long haired princess was inspired by Saint Barbara, a real life christian martyr who suffered endlessly at the hands of her own father. Unfortunately, the victim of our true crime story suffered a similar fate, possibly worse. Elisabeth Fritzl was kidnapped and held hostage for years by a man that the community praised as a hero. This is a story of a monster hiding in plain sight. This week's snack break is brought to you by Bluff Park Baked Goods. Follow them on IG at @bluffparkbakedgoods for melt in your mouth bundt cakes, custom ordered to please your tastebuds. Our Sources: https://historycollection.com/the-real-rapunzel-was-locked-in-a-tower-and-beheaded-by-her-dad/ https://www.tor.com/2020/07/17/forbidden-desire-and-locked-doors-the-origins-of-rapunzel/ https://www.crimeandinvestigation.co.uk/crime-files/josef-fritzl#First%20Family https://thefairytalecentral.com/the-origins-of-rapunzel/

Happy Belated July 4th, everyone! We're back and discussing America's favorite mascot, Uncle Sam. Speaking of an American classic, this week's true crime takes a look at The Son of Sam, New York's most notorious serial killer. It's patriotic. It's creepy. Hope you enjoy.

This week we discuss the bizarre history surrounding Sarah Winchester and her creation of what some call the world's largest haunted house. Sources: https://www.biography.com/personality/sarah-winchester -https://www.historicmysteries.com/the-winchester-mystery-house/ -https://allthatsinteresting.com/sarah-winchester -https://www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/sarahs-story/ -https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/real-winchester-mystery-house

What's more magical than a rainbow? A double rainbow! This week we're discussing the history/science behind those pretty surprises in the sky. Then we travel back to the 1980s to discuss The Rainbow Murders-a terrible double murder of two women whose hitchhiking adventure took a wrong turn. Sources: -https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/rainbow/ -https://www.aetv.com/real-crime/rainbow-murders-unsolved-vicki-durian-nancy-santomero -https://pocahontascommentatorplus.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-rainbow-murders-in-full.html - http://www.wvencyclopedia.org/articles/1974 -https://www.northcountrypublicradio.org/news/npr/800687854/2-young-women-were-murdered-in-1980-rainbow-girl-tells-their-story

Join us "unda da sea" as we take a dive into the the story of The Little Mermaid. Hans Christian Anderson first published this tale of attempted murder and suicide in 1837. It wasn't until 1989 that Disney released the story we all know and love. We then discuss the mysterious drowning of Natalie Wood, the famous Hollywood actress who died under peculiar circumstances.

It's true what they say. Dead men tell no tales. This week we are talking all things pirates. The legends...the myths...the urethral syringes. Ahem. We then discuss the mysterious disappearance of a young groom lost at sea. So grab you a glass of grog, don your best eye patch, and let's walk this plank together. This week's snack break brought to you by the lovely people at Expedition Roasters. Premium coffee, art, and story. www.expeditionroasters.com Our Sources: -https://www.history.com/topics/exploration/pirates -https://www.history.com/news/8-real-life-pirates-who-roved-the-high-seas -https://www.qaronline.org/history/blackbeard-history-dreaded-pirate -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzRYraztZVA

Don’t worry! No listeners turned to stone while enjoying this week’s episode. You may find that Medusa is not the monster you remember. The true villain is always closer than you think. Watch out for them snake wrangling Pentecostal preachers from Alabama, y’all.

This week we are diving into the story of Cinderella, a tale that is almost 2,000 years old. Although her name and appearance may change throughout the generations, the basic story stays the same: a commoner that rises from oppression to a higher social class via marriage. There's also a lot of weird stuff about feet. So, yeah. This week's true crime involves an evil step mother and is truly heart breaking. Listeners beware. A huge shout out to our friend's at Trader Nick's Tea for sponsoring this week's snack break. Try all of their delicious flavors at www.tradernickstea.com. Find out more: -https://www.historyofroyalwomen.com/the-royal-women/rhodopis-first-cinderella/ -https://www.thevintagenews.com/2018/09/17/cinderella/ -https://www.vox.com/2015/3/15/8214405/cinderella-fairy-tale-history -https://www.11alive.com/article/news/detective-in-stepmom-murder-trial-says-emani-extremely-emaciated-when-she-died/85-733654db-af4c-43a7-b21b-f394bb648bf9 -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQA1I7AHFP0 -https://www.oxygen.com/crime-time/tiffany-moss-sentenced-to-death-for-starving-stepdaughter-emani-moss-to-death

It's our first "tiny tale." A "mini" episode, if you will. Who knew there was so much history behind this fabled creature? For sure didn't know there was a famous killer named after them. Enjoy this semi-condensed episode and let us know if you would like to see more in the future. Thanks to The Frozen Bean for sponsoring us this week. Visit www.thefrozenbean.com to pick up some delicious frozen treats. May we suggest the Unicorn Frappe? It's a 10/10 for taste and theme. Sources: -https://historycollection.com/the-fantastic-true-history-of-unicorns/ -https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/unicorn-nothing-is-what-it-seems -https://www.britannica.com/topic/unicorn -https://www.maryhallbergmedia.com/post/the-murder-of-holly-maddux-solved

This might be the most disturbing "story behind the story" that we've told yet. To give you a little hint, Sleeping Beauty wasn't just sleeping. She may not have even been breathing. And for all you sleep walkers out there, take this as a cautionary tale. Apparently y'all can get a little wild. We may be sleeping with one eye open from now on. This week's snack break is sponsored by the lovely folks at Insomnia Cookies. Warm cookies delivered crazy late. Sources: -https://www.ranker.com/list/details-from-the-original-sleeping-beauty/genevieve-carlton -http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2012/10/sleeping-beauty-is-based-on-a-story-where-a-married-king-finds-a-girl-asleep-and-cant-wake-her-so-rapes-her-instead/ -https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/news/a-killer-sleep-disorder-6432989 -https://www.oxygen.com/crime-news/scott-falater-says-he-still-doesnt-remember-sleepwalking-murder -https://abcnews.go.com/US/sleepwalking-killer-scott-falater-wracked-guilt-murdering-wife/story?id=75468448 -https://forensicfilesnow.com/index.php/2017/07/20/scott-falater-sleepwalking-killer-gets-a-wakeup-call/

Welcome back to Wonderland! This week we take a deeper look into the inspiration behind our favorite characters. Ever wondered where the Cheshire Cat got his grin? Or perhaps what drove The Hatter mad? Stick around to find out. Resources: -http://www.danceshistoricalmiscellany.com/history-bedlam-worlds-notorious-asylum/#:~:text=The%20Bethlem%20Hospital%2C%20or%20Bedlam%20as%20it%20is,the%20New%20Order%20of%20St%20Mary%20of%20Bethlehem. - https://hekint.org/2017/02/22/the-history-of-bethlem-hospital/ -https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20161213-how-bedlam-became-a-palace-for-lunatics -https://www.huffpost.com/entry/bedlam-the-horrors-of-lon_b_9499118 -https://s.telegraph.co.uk/graphics/projects/madness-worlds-oldest-mental-asylum/#:~:text=Examining%20700%20years%20of%20history,intends%20to%20set%20things%20straight.&text=A%20Wednesday%20in%20September.,Hospital%20in%20Beckenham%2C%20south%20London. -https://www.historyextra.com/period/victorian/bethlem-royal-hospital-history-why-called-bedlam-lunatic-asylum/

Follow us down the rabbit hole as we discuss what inspired Lewis Carroll to write Alice in Wonderland. It may not be not be quite what you expected, but nothing in Wonderland ever is, right? We then discuss the grizzly murder of Alice Ruggles and what drove her boyfriend raving mad. Sources: -https://www.mamamia.com.au/alice-in-wonderland/ -https://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2015/apr/17/10-things-you-didnt-know-about-alice-in-wonderland-lewis-carroll -https://www.lib.umd.edu/alice150/alice-in-wonderland/wonderland-characters -https://allthatsinteresting.com/wonderland-murders -https://crimeola.com/15-must-know-facts-about-the-wonderland-murders/ -https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-9098401/Letter-reveals-close-bond-Prince-Albert-woman-inspired-Alice-Wonderland.html -https://www.britannica.com/biography/Lewis-Carroll/The-riddle-of-Lewis-Carroll -https://www.talkmurderwithme.com/blog/2021/1/22/alice-ruggles-murder