Stuff You Should Know LIVE: Minneapolis - The Madd Gasser of Mattoon
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Nov 28, 2024 Unearth the eerie tale of the Madd Gasser of Mattoon, a bizarre slice of small-town history. Discover how strange gas attacks sparked fear in 1944, leading to community chaos and police challenges. Dive into the intriguing intersection of mass hysteria and media influence, exploring how socio-economic factors shaped victims' responses. Uncover quirky collectibles inspired by this mystery, as humor intertwines with the uncanny. A wild ride through a peculiar event that blurs the line between reality and absurdity!
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Mattoon's Claims to Fame
- Mattoon, Illinois, is known for two things: Lender's Bagels and the Mad Gasser.
- The Mad Gasser terrorized residents with noxious gas, or the town experienced mass delusion.
The First Incident
- In 1944, Mattoon resident Aileen Kearney and her daughter experienced strange symptoms, a sweet smell, and paralysis.
- Her sister Martha Reedy called for help, but police found nothing.
The Headline That Started It All
- Reporter John Miller published the story, labeling Kearney and her daughter as the "first victims."
- This headline fueled public fear and anxiety despite only one reported incident.