Hometown History

In this episode of Hometown History, we uncover the rise and fall of the Psychiana Movement, one of the most unusual religious movements in American history. Founded in 1929 by Frank Bruce Robinson, a man with a troubled past, Psychiana promised its followers the power to communicate directly with God and harness divine energy through the power of affirmation. This mail-order religion flourished during the Great Depression, offering hope to people during a time of economic despair. But as the movement grew, so did opposition and controversy, leading to Robinson’s deportation and eventual demise. Join us as we explore how Psychiana captured the hearts of thousands and left a lasting impact on America’s religious landscape.Visit me online at itshometownhistory.comJoin my Patreon at Patreon.com/friendsofShaneContact me at [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Hometown History, we uncover the mysterious disappearance of Judge Joseph Force Crater, an event that captured the nation’s attention in 1930 and coined the phrase “to pull a Crater.” Judge Crater’s sudden vanishing after a dinner in New York City sparked one of the most baffling investigations in American history. Was it foul play, a voluntary escape, or something more sinister? Decades of speculation, false leads, and conspiracy theories have kept the case alive. Join us as we explore the life, career, and disappearance of the man once dubbed “the Missingest Man in New York,” and how his case remains an unsolved enigma to this day.Visit me online at itshometownhistory.comJoin me on Patreon at Patreon.com/friendsofShane.Contact me at [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Hometown History, we dive into the surprising story of how a monumental achievement in telecommunications catapulted Tiffany & Co. to fame. In 1858, Charles Tiffany seized on the success of the first transatlantic telegraph cable by selling pieces of the cable as souvenirs. What started as a technological milestone turned into a brilliant marketing opportunity that made Tiffany a household name. Join us as we explore how this simple yet strategic move by Tiffany & Co. forever changed the luxury brand’s legacy, proving that innovation and timing can shape the course of history.Visit me online at itshometownhistory.comJoin my Patreon community at Patreon.com/friendsofShaneContact me at [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Hometown History, we delve into one of the most fascinating literary mysteries of the 20th century: the disappearance of Ambrose Bierce. A celebrated writer, Civil War veteran, and the sharp wit behind The Devil’s Dictionary, Bierce vanished without a trace in 1913 while journeying through Mexico during the revolution. Was it a suicide, an execution, or something far more mysterious? With no definitive answer, we explore the life of this complex figure, the theories surrounding his final days, and the enduring enigma that continues to captivate historians and mystery lovers alike. Join us as we uncover the strange disappearance of one of America's most intriguing figures.Visit me online at itshometownhistory.comContact me at [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.