019: H.H. Holmes: The Story of a Manipulative Conman in the Backdrop of the 1893 Chicago Worlds Fair

It's a History Podcast

Hello! In todays episode I take a sidestep into true crime, and we take a look at H.H. Holmes. H.H. Holmes was a manipulative Conman, who commmited fraud his whole life. He was also a prolific seriel killer that took the lives of many unsuspecting women in Chicago.

After the Great Chicago Fire, rebuilding efforts brought many oppurtunities to young men and young women alike. And when Chicago was picked to host the next Worlds Fair, an influx of people would soon enter into the city looking for work.

Holmes utilized what was supposed to be a showcase in american excellence for his sinister plans. Just minutes away from the 1893 Chicago Worlds Fair, Holmes Built a structure with questionable intentions. With no head architect, Holmes was able to design a building built for his unsavory plans.

Throughout todays episode, we look at Holmes himself, his arrival to Chicago, the construction of his Castle, and the women who met an unfortnate end at the hands of holmes.

Sources today include: Devil in the White City by Eric Larson, National Geographic, Britannica, The Wilmette Historical Museum, and Crime Museum

If you would like to send me any questions, comments, or ideas for future podcast episodes please email me at [e-mail].

You can also find me on Intagram and Threads @itsahistorypodcast

Thank you for listening!