668: The Long Fuse
This American Life
The Stork Derby: A Contest of Maternal Ambition
This chapter explores the unconventional will of Toronto lawyer Charles Vance Miller, which incited a bizarre competition for his $9 million estate, rewarding the mother with the most births in a decade. Delving into the complexities of the 'Stork Derby', it highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by contestants, particularly during the Great Depression, and examines the societal pressures on women entwined in the contest. Through captivating personal stories, particularly of Mrs. Grace Bignato and the determined Mrs. Kenny, the chapter reveals both the humorous and dark facets of this unconventional race for inheritance.
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