Buried Bones - a historical true crime podcast with Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes Paper Trail
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May 21, 2025 Dive into a mysterious death in 1855 Ohio, where a farmer's suspicious demise unearths a web of intrigue. The case revolves around potential poisoning and the psychological dynamics of familial relationships. A troubling letter hints at betrayal and manipulation, revealing a dark romantic affair. Explore the societal implications of life insurance and the challenges of 19th-century diagnostics, all while uncovering the health risks of the era's craftsmanship. It's a captivating blend of love, deceit, and historical crime.
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Arthur's Severe Stomach Illness
- Arthur Reagan, a cooper, suffered severe stomach illness in 1855 Ohio.
- His symptoms could have been caused by natural contamination common to farm life.
Spouse Suspicions and Poisoning
- Elizabeth Reagan suspected Arthur was poisoning himself but gave vague explanations.
- This suspicion often appears when spouses suspect poisonings but conceal true motives.
Arsenic Detection in 1850s
- 1850s toxicology could detect arsenic but lacked quantitative precision.
- Experts judged arsenic presence by chemical reactions and crystal shapes, not exact amounts.
