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Welcome back to "Flower in the River," where every episode is a journey through forgotten stories and hidden histories. In episode 48, I explore some unlikely and poignant connections to the Eastland Disaster.
- The Eastland Disaster Unveiled: Learn about one of the most heart-wrenching tragedies in Chicago's history, where a crowded ship capsized in the Chicago River on July 24, 1915, claiming over 800 lives. I explore the disaster beyond the statistics, highlighting the affected community of working-class immigrants.
- Personal Connection: I share a poignant family story, introducing you to my great aunt Martha Pfeiffer, a young victim of the Eastland Disaster. This personal angle provides a touching connection to the broader historical narrative.
- A Curveball from History: The episode takes an unexpected turn with the story of Leslie Elliott Simmons, another victim whose family history challenges the narrative I expected. Examine the complexities of genealogy and the surprises it can hold (kind of like an exploding cigar!).
- Challenging the Mayflower Myth: I recount a formative experience from my second-grade classroom, where the off-putting emphasis on Mayflower ancestry sparked my lifelong passion for uncovering true and inclusive family histories.
- Leslie Elliott Simmons - A Mayflower Descendant on the Eastland: Explore the fascinating story of Leslie Simmons, from his ancestry to his tragic death on the Eastland. My research uncovers layers of American history through Simmons' story, challenging perceptions and highlighting the diversity of the past.
- Bob Satterfield - Eyewitness through Art: Discover the role of political cartoonist Bob Satterfield, who captured the Eastland Disaster's horror through his powerful illustration AND article. Satterfield's work provides a unique perspective on the tragedy, emphasizing the impact of visual storytelling in history.
- Final Reflections: I close with reflections on remembering and telling these stories, ensuring they remain part of our collective memory.
Join me in exploring history, personal connections, and the stories that bind us all. Remember to check our website for show notes, including links to resources and additional reading.
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