In this episode, we uncover the captivating story of the "Eureka Baby," a fossilized human child discovered in 1880 by a well driller in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Initially celebrated as a groundbreaking scientific find, this discovery captivated audiences nationwide. However, nearly 70 years later, the tale took a dramatic turn. Join us as we explore the origins, the excitement, and the ultimate revelations surrounding this remarkable story.
Sources:
“Arkansas’ Famous ‘Petrified’ Baby.” Arkansas Democrat Sunday Magazine, February 15, 1948, p. 8.
Burnett, Abby. “The Eureka Baby—Human or Hoax?” Carroll County Historical Quarterly 55 (March 2010): 13–18.
Kalklosch, L. J. The Healing Fountain, Eureka Springs, Ark., a Complete History. Eureka Springs, AR: 1881.
Schaefer, Susan. The Bear Hunter, the Bareback Rider and the Governor…and Other Stories of Early Eureka Springs.Springfield, MO: Color Graphics, 2004.
"Eccentrics of Eureka Springs." Arkansas Online, October 31, 2021.
"Eureka Baby Exhibit Opens May 17 at ESHM." Eureka Springs Times-Echo, May 11, 2023.
"The Eureka Springs Baby." Encyclopedia of Arkansas, January 9, 2019.
