Time's Tide: Navigating 109 Years of Eastland Stories

Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally Told

Jul 20 2024 • 50 mins

In this special episode commemorating the 109th anniversary of the Eastland disaster, we're taking a moment to reflect on the stories and individuals covered since November 2023. It's been an incredible journey of discovery, preserving and sharing often-forgotten narratives.

Exciting news to share: Tom Milton's letter and related items have found a new home at the Newberry Library. It's heartening to see these pieces of history being preserved for future generations.

There's been a noticeable increase in detailed biographies on Find a Grave for Eastland victims. This collective effort to document and remember is truly inspiring.

Throughout the past months, we've explored various ethnic communities affected by the disaster, from Polish Chicago to Lithuanian, Norwegian and Jewish communities. Each story reveals the intricate tapestry of early 20th-century Chicago.

Some of the most fascinating themes we've explored include premonitions surrounding the disaster, the impact on local baseball players, and the heroic actions of individuals during and after the tragedy. We've also drawn connections to other historical events like the General Slocum and the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire.

Looking back, it's clear that there's still so much more to uncover. With only about 10% of the stories told, the journey continues. Your support and interest in these narratives keep this history alive.

As we approach the anniversary, remember that behind each statistic was a real person with hopes, dreams, and a story worth telling. Together, we're ensuring that the legacy of the Eastland disaster and its victims lives on.

Music:
Artlist
"Eastland Hymn" Copyright 2024
Concept by Natalie Zett, Generated via SUNO