Stuff You Should Know

Who Put Bella In the Wych Elm?

12 snips
Feb 25, 2025
Dive into the chilling case of a woman discovered in a tree during WWII. Uncover the mystery of Bella's identity and the lore surrounding the investigation. Explore the bizarre connections to espionage and dubious individuals, like the intriguing Clara Bowerly. With a mix of humor and haunting details, the discussion contrasts speculative media narratives with historical truths. Enjoy a whimsical journey through myths, eerie folklore, and captivating murder mysteries that keep you guessing!
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ANECDOTE

Discovery of the Skull

  • Four boys, Robert Hart, Bob Farmer, Tommy Willits, and Fred Payne, were poaching in Hagley Wood in 1943.
  • While searching for bird eggs, Bob Farmer discovered a human skull inside a tree.
ANECDOTE

Reporting the Skull

  • The boys initially put the skull back to avoid trouble.
  • However, 17-year-old Tommy Willits told his parents, leading to police involvement.
INSIGHT

Initial Investigation Findings

  • Pathologist James Webster concluded the death was likely a murder.
  • Evidence included taffeta stuffed in the woman's jaw and the impossibility of the body fitting in the tree naturally.
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