OVER NIAGARA IN A PICKLE BARREL, TALKING BIRDS AND HIDDEN SUBWAYS - Bruce on Useless Information Podcast
Aug 30, 2024
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Bruce shares captivating tales of history and trivia, from the first person to ride over Niagara Falls in a barrel to whimsical stories about quirky mishaps. Delve into the early 20th century's unique bird training methods and discover the forgotten subway system of Cincinnati. The conversation also touches on the nostalgic charm of vintage radio ads and the evolution of podcasting, illuminating the delightful blend of forgotten history and humor that shapes our world.
Annie Edson Taylor's daring Niagara Falls stunt at 63 exemplifies the irony of seeking fame and financial stability through perilous acts.
Bobby Leech's tragic death from slipping on an orange peel illustrates life's unpredictability, contrasting with his earlier bravery as a daredevil.
The eviction case of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Scott highlights the eccentricities of rental agreements and tenant-landlord disputes in early 20th century Cincinnati.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Daredevils at Niagara Falls
Annie Edson Taylor became the first person to successfully go over Niagara Falls in a barrel in 1901 at the age of 63. After many years of teaching, she sought fame and financial stability by attempting this dangerous stunt, believing it would lead to prosperity. Although she emerged with only minor injuries, the fame she hoped for was fleeting, leading her to sell memoirs for a meager profit. Ultimately, she died in poverty, a life marked by both bravery and irony, as her notorious stunt did not yield the financial freedom she anticipated.
The Curious Case of Bobby Leech
Bobby Leech, a daredevil from England, aspired to be the first man to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel after Annie Edson Taylor. He successfully achieved this feat in 1911 but suffered severe injuries, spending 23 weeks in the hospital. Tragically, his life came to an unexpected end in 1926 when he slipped on an orange peel, resulting in a leg amputation due to gangrene. This ironic fate highlights the unpredictability of life, where a seemingly trivial accident claims the life of someone who had braved such perilous stunts.
A Peculiar Apartment Dispute
In 1949, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Scott found themselves in a bizarre eviction dispute over a contractual limitation of one bath per week in their apartment in Cincinnati. Their landlady insisted on the agreement after raising the rent, claiming high heating costs as her justification for the unusual rules. Despite the Scots' offer to help cover the water costs, the landlord padlocked the bathroom and sought legal action when they refused to comply. The case ultimately led to their eviction, shedding light on the eccentricities of rental agreements during that period.
Unusual Training Methods for Talking Birds
Mrs. Hope, a creative bird trainer in Philadelphia during the early 20th century, revolutionized parrot training by using a phonograph to record her voice repeating phrases. This innovative method vastly improved the speed at which parrots learned to talk, leading to a flourishing business where she trained others' birds for a fee. Her star pupil could reportedly speak multiple languages and impressively recite songs, showcasing the potential of her training approach. This story illustrates the lengths individuals will go to for entrepreneurial ventures and the fascinating intersections between creativity and business.
The Hidden Subway System of Cincinnati
Cincinnati is home to a largely forgotten subway system that was constructed but never operational. Initiated in the early 20th century, the ambitious plan encountered issues of inflation and political turmoil, leading to its abandonment. Though some miles of tracks and tunnels exist, they serve no public transportation purpose, leaving behind a mysterious underground world. Today, these ghostly tunnels attract urban explorers, graffiti artists, and curious residents, representing a unique piece of the city’s history that few are aware of.