The Ordinary, Extraordinary Cemetery

Jennie Johnson & Dianne Hartshorn

The Ordinary, Extraordinary Cemetery is a podcast for cemetery lovers, preservationists, and even those who've never walked among the graves. Join hosts Jennie and Dianne as they explore old cemeteries and learn the stories of those buried within their walls. After all, every death had a life, and every life had a story.

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Episodes

Episode 181 - Death's Garden Revisited with Author Loren Rhoads
2d ago
Episode 181 - Death's Garden Revisited with Author Loren Rhoads
"I hope the adventures in this book inspire you to explore a cemetery. It’s good for the cemetery—and I promise it will be good for you." This is how Loren Rhoads welcomes readers to indulge in her latest cemetery book, 'Death's Garden Revisited: Personal Relationships with Cemeteries'. Loren, who is the editor, says the book is a "collection of over two dozen essays and more than two hundred photographs involving twenty-seven contributors, ranging from spoken word diva Lydia Lunch and artist/poet Jane Handel to ceramics artist Mary Jo Bole. The contributorsincluded writers for the LA Weekly, zinesters, underground musicians, and high school girls." Loren, who is also the author of '199 Cemeteries to See Before You Die' and 'Wish You Were Here: Adventures in Cemetery Travel', joins Jennie and Dianne in a delightful discussion about the book and her relationship with those who contributed to it, and how her own relationship with cemeteries began and her Ordinary Extraordinary career as a writer of not only books about cemeteries, but also fiction in the realms of horror, fantasy and sci-fi. Now available on YouTube:https://youtu.be/DyJXVKcB6I0?si=7CylT2EYY6iyT8YbTo purchase an autographed copy of 'Death's Garden Revisited' click here: https://lorenrhoads.com/product/deaths-garden-revisited/To subscribe to Loren Rhoads's newsletter, follow her blogs or learn more about any of her publications, visit her website: https://lorenrhoads.com/
Episode 173 - Crowning Glory Part 2: Maurice Breen in Dayton Ohio's Calvary Cemetery
Feb 29 2024
Episode 173 - Crowning Glory Part 2: Maurice Breen in Dayton Ohio's Calvary Cemetery
Jennie and Dianne return to Dayton Ohio's Calvary Cemetery, this time to visit the grave of Maurice Breen, an Irish immigrant who spent some of his early years in America helping those who were enslaved to escape to freedom on the Underground Railroad. Maurice Breen was a man who worked hard but always made the best of life. He lived through plenty of hardships, but he didn’t let them prevent him from wearing a smile, cracking a joke, and helping those in need. This is Maurice Breen's story but it is also the story of so many others who have come to America seeking to improve their lot in life, to secure employment, food, and better futures for themselves and their children.Now available on YouTube! https://youtu.be/bqEL3Shpo9U?si=k-y5JWlzASPxWpVsResources used to research this episode include:Various historical news articles found on www.newspapers.com, Calvary Cemetery . "About Calvary Cemetery ." https://calvarycemeterydayton.org. calvarycemeterydayton.org/about/. Accessed 18 Feb. 2024., Calvary Cemetery . "Historical People." https://calvarycemeterydayton.org. calvarycemeterydayton.org/historical-people/. Accessed 18 Feb. 2024.Breen, Ed. "Maurice Breen." https://www.findagrave.com/memorial. 14 July 2014. www.findagrave.com/memorial/132821238/maurice-breen?_gl=1*5cpak*_gcl_au*MTAwNTU3MTMxNi4xNzA0MjUzMjIz*_ga*MTE3ODc2MTA3MS4xNjYzNjkxMTEx*_ga_4QT8FMEX30*NjI3MTYyMmUtOWMxNi00ZTc3LWI5M2MtNDllZmE0NTQ1NDY5LjE5LjEuMTcwOTA5NDE2Ny42MC4wLjA.*_ga_LMK6K2LSJH*NjI3MTYyMmUtOWMxNi00ZTc3LWI5M2MtNDllZmE0NTQ1NDY5LjE2LjEuMTcwOTA5NDE2Ny4wLjAuMA. Accessed 25 Feb. 2024.Breen, Ed. "Mary O'Neal Breen." https://www.findagrave.com. 7 Sep. 2008. www.findagrave.com/memorial/29638880/mary_breen. Accessed 25 Feb. 2024.Ulster University , and CAIN . "A Chronology of Key Events in Irish History 1800 to 1967 ." https://cain.ulster.ac.uk. 6 Apr. 2023. cain.ulster.ac.uk/othelem/chron/ch1800-1967.htm. Accessed 25 Feb. 2024.Library Of Congress . "Irish-Catholic Immigration to America ." https://www.loc.gov. www.loc.gov/classroom-materials/immigration/irish/irish-catholic-immigration-to-america/. Accessed 25 Feb. 2024.Rocky Mountain PBS, and History Detectives. "Causes Of The Civil War ." https://www.pbs.org. www.pbs.org/opb/historydetectives/feature/causes-of-the-civil-war/#:~:text=What%20led%20to%20the%20outbreak,was%20central%20to%20the%20conflict. Accessed 25 Feb. 2024.Cemetery , Calvary . "Ed Breen Shares Family Stories and Insights into Early Dayton Businesses ." https://calvarycemeterydayton.org. 20 Sep. 2011. calvarycemeterydayton.org/news/ed-breen-shares-family-stories-and-insights-into-early-dayton-businesses/. Accessed 25 Feb. 2024.Ohio, Touring . "Underground Railroad in Ohio ." http://touringohio.com. touringohio.com/history/ohio-underground-railroad.html. Accessed 25 Feb. 2024.
Episode 172 - Crowning Glory Part 1: Dayton Ohio's Calvary Cemetery
Feb 22 2024
Episode 172 - Crowning Glory Part 1: Dayton Ohio's Calvary Cemetery
This episode is part one of at least two episodes covering one of Dayton, Ohio's largest green spaces, Calvary Cemetery. Founded in 1872 to accommodate three Catholic parishes that grew out of the German, Irish, Polish, Hungarian, Italian and Lithuanian immigrants who flocked to the area in the mid 1800s, it replaced the overflowing St. Henry's cemetery, and has become a crown jewel among Midwestern cemeteries. In this first episode Jennie and Dianne delve into the cemetery's beginnings and discover many of the beautiful buildings, natural spaces and Ordinary Extraordinary monuments that make up the cemetery. In part two they will cover some of the stories of those who made Cavalry cemetery their final resting place; a cemetery that is not just a place of final rest, but a living testament to the beauty of the human experience.All photos used in this episode belong to Calvary Cemetery and are borrowed from their website: https://calvarycemeterydayton.org/To view this episode on YouTube, click here: https://youtu.be/5xz77afh580?si=6dm7vaOmFpBUFw-nResources used to research this episode include:Various news articles found on www.newspapers.com, Calvary Cemetery . "About Calvary Cemetery ." https://calvarycemeterydayton.org. calvarycemeterydayton.org/about/. Accessed 18 Feb. 2024., Calvary Cemetery . "Historical People." https://calvarycemeterydayton.org. calvarycemeterydayton.org/historical-people/. Accessed 18 Feb. 2024.Powell, Lisa. "Memorial to ‘unclaimed dead’ undergoing renovation at Calvary Cemetery ." https://www.dayton.com. 23 June 2021. www.dayton.com/lifestyles/crown-centerpiece-memorial-to-unclaimed-dead-undergoing-renovation-at-calvary-cemetery/WQMQVSA3VBFBNM6YOFFP7ZKPJ4/. Accessed 18 Feb. 2024.Encyclopedia Britannica , The Editors Of. "St. Kateri Tekakwitha ." https://www.britannica.com. 1 Jan. 2024. www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Kateri-Tekakwitha. Accessed 18 Feb. 2024., Cyaneyed. "Frank Mills Andrews ." https://en.m.wikipedia.org. edited by Pedantical, 23 Oct. 2012. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Mills_Andrews. Accessed 18 Feb. 2024., Mike Does History . "Ancient America Vol 1 - Calvary Cemetery, Dayton, Ohio." https://youtu.be/, 26 Apr. 2018, youtu.be/Mv7WMiN1zGA?si=SFUJb-Lp9ZZF3U6E.Goldstein , Stan. "ACE Awards Runner-Up." American Cemetery & Cremation , 1 Nov. 2023, pp. 20 - 21.
Episode 171 - Madam with a Heart: Durango, Colorado's Bessie Rivers
Feb 15 2024
Episode 171 - Madam with a Heart: Durango, Colorado's Bessie Rivers
Love is in the air this week as Jennie and Dianne share the story of a woman who led, shall we say, an alternative life as madam Bessie Rivers, and despite her unconventional  path, found love and respect among many in her community and her final resting place has not been forgotten in lovely Greenmount Cemetery in Durango, Colorado. Situated in the southwestern part of Colorado, Durango is surrounded by the rugged San Juan Mountains and boasts a well-preserved historic district with Victorian architecture, reflecting its mining and railroad past; a past whose Ordinary Extraordinary story would not be complete without the generosity, compassion, tenacity, and ingenuity of madam Bessie Rivers.To view this episode on YouTube, click here: https://youtu.be/L8A3_OR-_SI?si=ljcXa52NKKceihUdResources used to research this episode include:, City Of Durango. "Cemetery Records." https://www.durangoco.gov. www.durangoco.gov/518/Cemetery-Records. Accessed 11 Feb. 2024., Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. "The Route." https://www.durangotrain.com. www.durangotrain.com/ride-us/route/. Accessed 11 Feb. 2024.Alexander , Kathy. "Painted Ladies of the Old West." https://www.legendsofamerica.com. 1 Dec. 2022. www.legendsofamerica.com/we-paintedlady/. Accessed 11 Feb. 2024.MacKell Collins , Jan. "Brothels, Bordellos & Bad Girls: Prostitution in Colorado 1860-1930, Chapter Two: Life as a Harlot ." https://janmackellcollins.wordpress.com. 14 Nov. 2018. janmackellcollins.wordpress.com/2018/11/14/brothels-bordellos-bad-girls-prostitution-in-colorado-1860-1930-chapter-two-life-as-a-harlot/. Accessed 11 Feb. 2024.Carter, Gary. "Heavy Freight Wagons of the American West ." https://westernmininghistory.com. westernmininghistory.com/4127/heavy-freight-wagons-of-the-american-west/. Accessed 11 Feb. 2024.MacKell Collins, Jan. Good Time Girls of Colorado . 2019. Lanham, The Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group, 2019, pp. 122 - 130.
Episode 170 - Love Amidst the Wreckage: The Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus Tragedy
Feb 8 2024
Episode 170 - Love Amidst the Wreckage: The Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus Tragedy
Jennie and Dianne relate a gripping yet heart-wrenching chapter of circus history that led to the first burials at Showmen's Rest in Chicago's beautiful Woodlawn Memorial Park. Listen in as they spotlight the Hagenbeck-Wallace circus train wreck of 1918 – a tragic event that claimed over 80 lives and left many injured. In the spirit of February and love-themed episodes, they explore the profound love that emerged amidst the wreckage. Despite the devastating accident, the survivors found solace and support within their tight-knit circus community.  Tune in to the Ordinary Extraordinary Cemetery podcast for an emotional journey through history, where even in the face of tragedy, love prevails.   To view this episode on YouTube, click here: https://youtu.be/3D9WZe3hoB8?si=xYfdnqFQ3gE9wK5CResources used to research this episode include:Various articles located on www.newspapers.comGrossman, Ron. "Circus graveyard: Showmen’s Rest and the Hagenbeck-Wallace tragedy of 1918." https://www.chicagotribune.com/. 12 Aug. 2016. www.chicagotribune.com/2016/08/12/circus-graveyard-showmens-rest-and-the-hagenbeck-wallace-tragedy-of-1918/. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024., Dignity Memorial . "About/Showmen's Rest." https://www.dignitymemorial.com/. www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/illinois/forest-park/woodlawn-funeral-home/7862. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024., Showmen's League . "Showmen's Rest." https://www.showmensleague.org/. 15 Sep. 2023. www.showmensleague.org/Showmens-Rest/13255248. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024., American Experience . "The Circus ." https://azpbs.org, 8 Oct. 2018, azpbs.org/2018/10/learn-the-history-and-cultural-impact-of-american-circus/#:~:text=The%20first%20U.S.%20circus%20was,a%20spectacle%20of%20their%20own. "Ben Wallace." https://www.m.circusesandsideshows.com. www.m.circusesandsideshows.com/owners/ben-wallace.html. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024. "Hagenbeck Wallace Circus." https://www.m.circusesandsideshows.com/. www.m.circusesandsideshows.com/circuses/hagenbeck-wallace-circus.html. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024. "Benjamin E. Wallace." https://www.mthopeperu.com. www.mthopeperu.com/Documents/Ben%20Wallace%20Funeral%20Info.pdf . Accessed 4 Feb. 2024.Higgins, Will. "The truths of the circus train crash of 1918 are more horrifying than myths ." https://www.indystar.com. 20 June 2018. www.indystar.com/story/entertainment/2018/06/20/hagenbeck-wallace-circus-train-crash-more-horrifying-than-myths/644289002/. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024. "The Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus: 7 Fast Facts ." https://frenchlickresort.blogspot.com/. 22 July 2021. frenchlickresort.blogspot.com/2021/07/the-hagenbeck-wallace-circus-7-fast.html?m=1. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024.Elwell, Mina. "WHAT 19TH-CENTURY CIRCUS LIFE WAS REALLY LIKE." https://www.grunge.com/. 26 Aug. 2023. www.grunge.com/1375360/what-19th-century-circus-life-was-like/. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024.Berry, Chris. "Hagenbeck Wallace CARL HAGENBECK PERFORMING ELEPHANTS." https://www.collectorsweekly.com. www.collectorsweekly.com/stories/161680-hagenbeck-wallace-carl-hagenbeck-perfor. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024.Boiseoneault, Lorraine . "The Hammond Train Wreck of 1918 Killed Scores of Circus Performers ." https://www.smithsonianmag.com. 22 June 2018. www.smithsonianmag.com/history/hammond-train-wreck-disaster-1918-killed-dozens-circus-performers-180969428/. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024.Norton, Richard Arthur . "American Circus Corporation ." https://en.m.wikipedia.org. edited by ForsythJo, 22 July 2008. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Circus_Corporation. Accessed 4 Feb. 2024.Lytle, Richard M. The Great Circus Train Wreck of 1918. The History Press, 2010, pp. 1 - 112.
Episode 169 - Love Triumphs: James and Olivia Tate's Extraordinary Love Story
Feb 1 2024
Episode 169 - Love Triumphs: James and Olivia Tate's Extraordinary Love Story
Jennie and Dianne delve into the remarkable tale of James and Olivia Tate, enslaved in Georgia prior to the American civil war but united by love. This February, they kick off a month-long celebration of love and honor Black History with the Tate's inspiring story at Atlanta's historic Oakland Cemetery. True love knows no bounds, not even the challenges of the Civil War. Discover how James and Olivia overcame separation, legal barriers, and emerged as a symbol of enduring love and how their Ordinary Extraordinary story helped other freed black Americans to begin life anew in Atlanta. Click here to see volunteers at Historic Oakland Cemetery reenact James and Olivia’s story during the 2021 Capturing the Spirit of Oakland Halloween tour. https://youtu.be/rhC0d6VN9dA?si=Rza44RqHTiMWKQDhResources used to research this episode include:Various articles through www.newspapers.com as well as historical documents through www.ancestry.com "About CAU ." https://www.cau.edu. www.cau.edu/about/index.html. Accessed 28 Jan. 2024., Historic Oakland Foundation . "Love Stories of Oakland: James and Olivia Tate ." https://oaklandcemetery.com. 19 Jan. 2022. oaklandcemetery.com/love-stories-of-oakland-james-and-olivia-tate/. Accessed 28 Jan. 2024.Ferree, L. "James Tate." https://www.findagrave.com. 5 Feb. 2016. www.findagrave.com/memorial/157833473/james-tate. Accessed 28 Jan. 2024.Owens, Brian. "Belief in the Future." http://www.brianowensart.com. www.brianowensart.com/tate.html. Accessed 28 Jan. 2024.Mohamed , Besheer, et al. "A brief overview of Black religious history in the U.S. ." https://www.pewresearch.org. 16 Feb. 2021. www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/02/16/a-brief-overview-of-black-religious-history-in-the-u-s/. Accessed 28 Jan. 2024. "Berry family collection ." https://www.nypl.org. www.nypl.org/research/research-catalog/bib/b11822942?originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fcatalog.nypl.org%2Frecord%3Db11822942. Accessed 28 Jan. 2024., Atlanta History Center. "A City Enslaved." https://www.atlantahistorycenter.com. www.atlantahistorycenter.com/exhibitions/the-color-line-the-problem-of-the-centuries/a-city-enslaved/#:~:text=In%20Atlanta%2C%20African%20American%20residents,Black%20population%20of%20nearly%202%2C500.&text=Credit%20Close.,-02%2F03&text=Storrs%20School%2C%20the%20first%20schoolhouse,formerly%20enslaved%20people%20in%20Georgia. Accessed 28 Jan. 2024., Atlanta History Center. "After Reconstruction ." https://www.atlantahistorycenter.com. www.atlantahistorycenter.com/exhibitions/the-color-line-the-problem-of-the-centuries/after-reconstruction/. Accessed 28 Jan. 2024.Contributer , Guest. "160th Anniversary of the Historic Friendship Baptist Church of Atlanta, Georgia ." https://atlinq.com. 14 Apr. 2022. atlinq.com/160th-anniversary-of-the-historic-friendship-baptist-church-of-atlanta-georgia/#. Accessed 28 Jan. 2024.
Episode 168 - Witness to Time: Margaret Ann Harvey Neve's Three-Century Saga
Jan 25 2024
Episode 168 - Witness to Time: Margaret Ann Harvey Neve's Three-Century Saga
Join Jennie and Dianne as they unravel the remarkable life of Margaret Ann Harvey Neve in this episode of the Ordinary Extraordinary Cemetery Podcast! This latest episode delves into the story of the first recorded female supercentenarian, the second person to reach 110 (after Geert Boomgaard), and the first to span three centuries (1792-1903).  "Living to be over 100 is not just about time; it's about witnessing the dance of history." Explore the political, social, and fashion transformations she witnessed throughout her Ordinary Extraordinary lifetime, along with some of the inventions that defined the 1800s and took not only Margaret Ann, but the world into the 20th century! Resources used to research this episode include:Various articles accessed through www.newspapers.comde Jersey, Dr. Philip , et al. The Brothers’ Cemetery, Rue des Frères Condition Survey and Report March 2012. St. Peter Port, Guernsey Museums & Galleries , 2012."A very short history ." https://brotherscemetery.wordpress.com/. brotherscemetery.wordpress.com/about/. Accessed 21 Jan. 2024."Historical Events in 1792 ." https://www.onthisday.com. www.onthisday.com/events/date/1792. Accessed 21 Jan. 2024."Historical Events in 1812 ." https://www.onthisday.com. www.onthisday.com/events/date/1812. Accessed 21 Jan. 2024.Bellis, Mary. "Nineteenth Century Inventions 1800 - 1850." https://theinventors.org. theinventors.org/library/weekly/aa111100a.htm. Accessed 21 Jan. 2024.Majer, Michele. "1790-1799 ." https://fashionhistory.fitnyc.edu. fashionhistory.fitnyc.edu/1790-1799/. Accessed 21 Jan. 2024.Cadeau, C. "WOMEN’S FASHION DURING THE REGENCY ERA (1810S TO 1830S) ." https://cdnhistorybits.wordpress.com. 2 Jan. 2018. cdnhistorybits.wordpress.com/2018/01/02/womens-fashion-during-the-regency-era-1810s-to-1830s/. Accessed 21 Jan. 2024., Nina. "Victorian Era (1837 - 1901) ." https://www.epochs-of-fashion.com. www.epochs-of-fashion.com/the-epochs/victorian-era/. Accessed 21 Jan. 2024.Poulain, Michel, et al. "Margaret Ann Harvey Neve – 110 Years Old in 1903. The First Documented Female Supercentenarian ." https://link.springer.com. 10 Dec. 2020. link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-49970-9_16. Accessed 21 Jan. 2024.
Episode 167 - "Rebel Girls of the Frontier: Cattle Annie and Little Britches
Jan 18 2024
Episode 167 - "Rebel Girls of the Frontier: Cattle Annie and Little Britches
Jennie and Dianne ride into the Wild West in this latest podcast episode! 🤠 Together they cover the unique story of Cattle Annie and Little Britches, two adventurous young girls who defied the norms of their time by becoming outlaws in the vast Oklahoma territory of the 1890s. 🌵 Explore their journey, the challenges they faced, and the Ordinary Extraordinary legacy they left behind. 🐎 Whether you're a history buff or just love a good tale, this episode is a must-listen!To watch the 1981 movie "Cattle Annie and Little Britches", click here: https://youtu.be/7R9DuAUIbRY?feature=sharedA Word on Westerns interview with William Russ: https://youtu.be/cyk6YOSxtZ8?feature=sharedResources used to research this episode include:Various sources through both www.ancestry.com and www.newspapers.comSamuelson, Nancy B. "CATTLE ANNIE (1882–1978). ." https://www.okhistory.org. www.okhistory.org/publications/enc/entry?entry=CA075. Accessed 14 Jan. 2024.Synar, Edwyna. "Remember the Ladies: Cattle Annie and Little Britches ." https://www.muskogeephoenix.com. 27 Jan. 2023. www.muskogeephoenix.com/news/remember-the-ladies-cattle-annie-and-little-britches/article_b5c99730-b603-518c-8df7-8f91aedb85cf.html. Accessed 14 Jan. 2024. "Cattle Annie & Little Britches ." https://okielegacy.net. 18 Jan. 2015. okielegacy.net/journal/tabloid/?ID=7796&iss=38&vol=17. Accessed 14 Jan. 2024.Mclennan, Jim. "Cattle Annie and Little Britches: Fact vs. fiction ." https://girlswithguns.org/. 3 Sep. 2018. girlswithguns.org/cattle-annie-little-britches-fact-fiction/. Accessed 14 Jan. 2024. "CATTLE ANNIE AND LITTLE BRITCHES ." https://catalog.afi.com. catalog.afi.com/Catalog/moviedetails/56566#:~:text=%22Cattle%20Annie%2C%22%20by%20Tom,Tom%20Slocum%20and%20Beverly%20Spaulding. Accessed 14 Jan. 2024.
Episode 166 - Sewn in Stardust: Irene Lentz's Impact on Hollywood Fashion
Jan 4 2024
Episode 166 - Sewn in Stardust: Irene Lentz's Impact on Hollywood Fashion
Jennie and Dianne uncover the remark ble legacy of Irene Lentz – a trailblazing fashion designer turned Hollywood costume innovator during the 1930s and 40s. Delve into the Ord nary Extraordinary story of how she not only took the reins as MGM's chief designer in 1942 but also managed an exclusive fashion line for over 20 department stores – a true pioneer working both in Tinseltown and for herself simultaneously. Yet, beneath the glitz and glamour, Irene's life was marked by tragedies, lost loves, and personal struggles that led her down a path of alcohol use, ultimately culminating in a tragic end. In this episode, Dianne and Jennie unravel the layers of Irene's life, shedding light on a remarkable woman often overshadowed by her contemporaries in history.Images: Columbarium Niche atForest Lawn Memorial Parkphoto: Scott G 11/06/2000www.findagrave.comIrene Lentzwww.womenoutwest.blogspot.comResources used to research this episode include:"Irene Lentz – pioneer of an American luxury fashion brand ." https://www.aenigma-images.com/. 1 Mar. 2019. www.aenigma-images.com/2020/03/irene-lentz-pioneer-of-an-american-luxury-fashion-brand/. Accessed 31 Dec. 2023.Bramlett, Lizzie. "Currently Reading – Irene: A Designer from the Golden Age of Hollywood; The MGM Years 1942 – 1949." https://thevintagetraveler.wordpress.com. 14 Sep. 2014. thevintagetraveler.wordpress.com/2014/09/11/currently-reading-irene-a-designer-from-the-golden-age-of-hollywood-the-mgm-years-1942-1949/. Accessed 31 Dec. 2023.Sonstegard, Dr. Viki. "Irene Lentz: Fashion and Style Icon during Hollywood's Golden Age ." https://womenoutwest.blogspot.com. 6 Dec. 2016. womenoutwest.blogspot.com/2016/12/irene-lentz-fashion-and-style-icon.html?m=1. Accessed 31 Dec. 2023. "Former Montana Girl is Success." https://www.newspapers.com/. 3 Jan. 1923. www.newspapers.com/image/956878488/?terms=%22Irene%20Lentz%22&match=1. Accessed 31 Dec. 2023.Williams , Lisa. "Irene – Californian Elegance Irene Lentz-Gibbons (1900-1962) American ." https://blog.seamwork.com/. blog.seamwork.com/inspiration/irene-californian-elegance/. Accessed 31 Dec. 2023. "Irene (1901–1962) ." https://www.encyclopedia.com. www.encyclopedia.com/women/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/irene-1901-1962. Accessed 31 Dec. 2023.
Episode 165 - A New Year's Ode to Friendship: Mark Twain and Helen Keller's Extraordinary Bond
Dec 28 2023
Episode 165 - A New Year's Ode to Friendship: Mark Twain and Helen Keller's Extraordinary Bond
As we bid farewell to 2023, the Ordinary Extraordinary Cemetery Podcast team wishes you a Happy New Year! Don't miss this final episode of the year, weaving history, literature, and friendship into an Ordinary Extraordinary story. Jennie and Dianne are joined by author Pamela McColl as they explore the charming friendship between literary giant Mark Twain and the remarkable Helen Keller.Discover the shared love of literature, Christmas, and adventures that bound America's most satirical storytellerand a young Helen Keller together. Unveil how Mark Twain, despite the challenges of Helen's deaf-blindness, became a second father figure, treating her as the extraordinary individual she was.In the second half, experience an dramatic performance by Charlie and Casper Johnson, embodying the voices of Mark Twain and Helen Keller. Hear the heartfelt letters exchanged between these two icons, a testament to a friendship that bridged the gap between the 19th and 20th centuries. Resources used to research this episode include:"TESSIE'S TIDBITS: Helen Keller and Mark Twain ." https://www.times-gazette.com. 12 Apr. 2021. www.times-gazette.com/story/lifestyle/2021/04/12/tessies-tidbits-helen-keller-and-mark-twain/7128616002/. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.Meares, Hadley. "Helen Keller and Mark Twain Had an Unlikely Friendship That Spanned More Than a Decade ." https://www.biography.com. 1 June 2020. www.biography.com/authors-writers/helen-keller-mark-twain-friendship. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.Blakemore, Erin. "History’s Other Odd Couple: Mark Twain and Helen Keller ." https://daily.jstor.org. 4 Mar. 2015. daily.jstor.org/historys-odd-couple-mark-twain-helen-keller/. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.Flannery, Christopher . "Helen Keller and her remarkable friendship with Mark Twain ." https://metrovoicenews.com. 24 Feb. 2021. metrovoicenews.com/helen-keller-and-her-remarkable-friendship-with-mark-twain/. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.Twain, Mark. "Letter to Helen Keller from Mark Twain (St. Patrick's Day, 1903) ." https://www.afb.org. www.afb.org/about-afb/history/helen-keller/letters/mark-twain-samuel-l-clemens/letter-miss-keller-mark-twain-st. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.Keller, Helen. "Letter to Mr. Clemens from Helen Keller (March 27, 1906, copy) ." https://www.afb.org. www.afb.org/about-afb/history/helen-keller/letters/mark-twain-samuel-l-clemens. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.Keller , Helen. "Letter to Mr. Clemens from Helen Keller (December 8, 1905, draft) ." https://www.afb.org. www.afb.org/about-afb/history/helen-keller/letters/mark-twain-samuel-l-clemens/letter-mr-clemens-miss-keller. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.Hale, Jen, and Susanna Coit. "The Frost King incident ." https://www.perkins.org. www.perkins.org/the-frost-king-incident/. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.Jones, Josh. "Mark Twain & Helen Keller’s Special Friendship: He Treated Me Not as a Freak, But as a Person Dealing with Great Difficulties." https://www.openculture.com. 13 May 2015. www.openculture.com/2015/05/mark-twain-helen-kellers-special-friendship.html. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023. "A Christmas Memory from Helen Keller ." https://www.aph.org. 23 Dec. 2020. www.aph.org/a-christmas-memory-from-helen-keller/. Accessed 24 Dec. 2023. "Redding's Mark Twain and Easton's Helen Keller." http://historyofredding.net. historyofredding.net/Mark-Twain-Helen-Keller.htm. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.Keller, Helen . "The Story of My Life." https://www.gutenberg.org. 1 Feb. 1903. www.gutenberg.org/files/2397/2397-h/2397-h.htm. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.
Episode 164 - From Newsboy to Santa's Helper: The Extraordinary Life of James J. Brady
Dec 21 2023
Episode 164 - From Newsboy to Santa's Helper: The Extraordinary Life of James J. Brady
Embark on a heartfelt yuletide journey with Jennie and Dianne as they uncover the remarkable story of James J. Brady at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Detroit, Michigan. Despite humble beginnings, Brady's life is etched in the unadorned markers beside his wife, a testament to a life lived in simplicity and generosity. From a runaway at the tender age of six to becoming a successful businessman, Brady's legacy extends beyond his time, resonating through the Old Newsboys' Goodfellow Fund he founded in 1914, ensuring "No Kiddie Without a Christmas." 109 years later, the organization stands as a testament to a life well-lived. Discover how James J. Brady, who kept Christmas in his heart year-round, serves as a timeless reminder to believe in the joy of giving, especially during the holiday season. Join us for a tale of resilience, kindness, and the enduring spirit of Christmas.Images: Photo of James J. Brady grave by: Rob Decker & News clipping image of James J. Brady posted to: https://www.findagrave.comCartoon: “The Boy He Used to Be,” Burt Thomashttps://americacomesalive.com/former-newsboys-of-detroit-doing-good/Resources used to research this episode include: "Mt. Olivet Cemetery ." https://www.mtelliott.com. www.mtelliott.com/mt-olivet-cemetery/. Accessed 17 Dec. 2023. "Mount Olivet Cemetery (Detroit) ." https://en.m.wikipedia.org. 2 Dec. 2023. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Olivet_Cemetery_(Detroit). Accessed 17 Dec. 2023., Motor Cities. "Mount Olivet Cemetery ." https://www.motorcities.org. www.motorcities.org/locations/mount-olivet-cemetery. Accessed 17 Dec. 2023., Chevy. "James J. Brady." https://www.findagrave.com. 30 Apr. 2013. www.findagrave.com/memorial/109755907/james-j-brady. Accessed 17 Dec. 2023.Kelly, Kate. "Former Newsboys of Detroit Doing Good ." https://americacomesalive.com. americacomesalive.com/former-newsboys-of-detroit-doing-good/. Accessed 17 Dec. 2023. "Good Fellows Arrange Sale." https://www.newspapers.com. 11 Nov. 1923. www.newspapers.com/image/97441477/?terms=%22The%20Old%20Newsboys%27%20Goodfellows%20Fund%20%22&match=1. Accessed 17 Dec. 2023. "Our Story." https://www.detroitgoodfellows.org. www.detroitgoodfellows.org/about-us/. Accessed 17 Dec. 2023.Rich Keenen, Marney. "Family marks 100 years of Goodfellows tradition ." https://www.detroitnews.com. 30 Nov. 2014. www.detroitnews.com/story/life/columnists/marney-rich-keenan/2014/11/30/goodfellows-oldnewsboys-years-giving-poor-kids-christmas/19722931/. Accessed 17 Dec. 2023.Austin, Dan. "James J. Brady Monument ." https://historicdetroit.org. 20 Sep. 2020. historicdetroit.org/buildings/james-j-brady-monument. Accessed 17 Dec. 2023. "Old Newsboys To Honor Dead." https://www.newspapers.com. 14 June 1925. www.newspapers.com/image/97413550/?terms=%22James%20Brady%22&match=1. Accessed 17 Dec. 2023.Zwieres, Helmut. "James J. Brady Monument - Photos ." https://historicdetroit.org. 1 Dec. 2023. historicdetroit.org/galleries/james-j-brady-monument-photos. Accessed 17 Dec. 2023.Untener, Bishop Ken. The Little Blue Book Advent and Christmas 2023-2024. Saginaw, Little Books of the Diocese of Saginaw, Inc , 2023, p. 6.
Episode 163 - In the Face of Darkness: Hanukkah Celebrations and the Menorahs of WWII
Dec 14 2023
Episode 163 - In the Face of Darkness: Hanukkah Celebrations and the Menorahs of WWII
Join Jennie and Dianne as they unravel a tale of light from darkness in Landsberg am Lech, Germany. From the city's historical significance to the Jüdischer Friedhof,  a small Jewish cemetery containing about 600 victims of the Nazi terror that were killed in one of the nearby concentration camps, discover the poignant journey of Holocaust survivors and how the celebration of Hanukkah took place in secret throughout concentration camps during the darkest days of WWII. After the war Landsberg am Lech became an all Jewish Displaced Person's camp where the creation of a Menorah became a symbol of resilience. Don't miss these Ordinary Extraordinary stories of hope, revival, and the indomitable spirit that rose from the ashes of tragedy. Resources used to research this episode include: "Landsberg am Lech ." https://en.m.wikipedia.org. 27 Nov. 2023. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Landsberg_am_Lech. Accessed 10 Dec. 2023. "Landsberg am Lech ." https://www.romanticroadgermany.com. www.romanticroadgermany.com/landsberg/. Accessed 10 Dec. 2023.Hahne, Katharina. "Erpfting (Stadt Landsberg/Lech, Kreisstadt)  Jüdischer Friedhof (KZ-Friedhof) ." https://www.alemannia-judaica.de. 21 Jan. 2016. www.alemannia-judaica.de/erpfting_friedhof.htm. Accessed 10 Dec. 2023., the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. "APRIL 29, 1945 Liberation of Dachau ." https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org. encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/timeline-event/holocaust/1942-1945/liberation-of-dachau. Accessed 10 Dec. 2023.Popowycz, PhD, Jennifer . "“The Last Million:” Eastern European Displaced Persons in Postwar Germany ." https://www.nationalww2museum.org. 4 Apr. 2022. www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/last-million-eastern-european-displaced-persons-postwar-germany. Accessed 10 Dec. 2023., Yad Vashem. "February 1948, Jews in the Landsberg Displaced Persons' Camp, Germany ." https://www.yadvashem.org. www.yadvashem.org/holocaust/this-month/february/1948.html. Accessed 10 Dec. 2023. "Organization of survivors of the Nazi persecution (She'erit Hapleita) ." https://portal.ehri-project.eu. portal.ehri-project.eu/units/us-005578-irn616351. Accessed 10 Dec. 2023.Tikkanen, Amy. "menorah ." https://www.britannica.com. 4 Dec. 2023. www.britannica.com/topic/menorah. Accessed 10 Dec. 2023.Frost, Natasha. "Amid the Holocaust’s Horrors, Many Jews Found Ways to Mark Hanukkah ." https://www.history.com. 20 Dec. 2019. www.history.com/news/holocaust-hanukkah-concentration-camps-jews. Accessed 10 Dec. 2023.