After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal

New York Morgue's Dark Secrets

Aug 1, 2024

This time, Maddy Pelling and Anthony Delaney chat with Cat Byers, a Paris-based writer and historian diving into the overlooked history of the New York Morgue. They reveal haunting tales of unclaimed souls from the city's past, exploring the darker side of morgue practices and the controversial figure of Albert N. White. With a blend of tragedy and dark humor, Cat also discusses bizarre historical anecdotes, showcasing the surprising intersection of mortality, morality, and the human experience.

52:52

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Cat Byers

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Quick takeaways

The New York Morgue, established in the late 19th century, served as a vital yet dark institution for managing unclaimed deaths amidst a burgeoning urban population.

The morgue's use of photographs for identifying bodies highlights a stark and detached approach to death, contrasting with more intimate traditions of previous eras.

Cultural differences between New York and Paris regarding death are evident, reflecting broader societal issues tied to class and the treatment of marginalized populations.

Deep dives

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The Grim Foundations of the New York Morgue

05:03

Intro

4min

Unveiling the New York Morgue's History

29min

Exploring History's Impact on Modern Society

2min

The Human Stories Behind Historical Narratives

4min

Dark Dealings of the New York Morgue

3min

The Dark Trade of Bodies

17min

Bizarre Tales from the Morgue and History

3min

The unclaimed dead of New York City's streets and rivers were once brought to the notorious New York Morgue. It's a history that has never been studied before, full of dark stories and buried secrets.

Maddy Pelling and Anthony Delaney are joined by Cat Byers who is a writer and historian based in Paris currently finishing a PhD on the Paris Morgue and the never-before-studied New York Morgue.

Edited and produced by Freddy Chick. Senior Producer is Charlotte Long.

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After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal is a History Hit podcast

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