Southern Gothic - podcast cover

Southern Gothic

Southern Gothic Mediawww.southerngothicmedia.com
Step into the world of the unknown and unravel the dark history, and infamous legends of the American South. Join us as we journey into the heart of this rich and fascinating region, uncovering its ghostly stories, haunted places, and eeriest tales through captivating storytelling, in-depth historical research, and an immersive audio soundscape. From the Bell Witch of Tennessee to the haunted Waverly Hills Sanatorium, the ghostly tales of the Myrtles Plantation, the Curse of Lake Lanier and beyond, get ready for an unforgettable experience that brings history to life and uncovers the truth behind classic tales of the paranormal.

Episodes

The Legends of Reelfoot Lake

Along the northwestern edge of Tennessee sits Reelfoot Lake. The only natural lake in the state, it's a flooded cypress forest that has more in common with the bayous of the deep south than other more open and expansive lakes of the surrounding area. Yet this lake dates back only two centuries and owes its creation to the massive New Madrid earthquakes that rocked the area in 1811-1812 and caused the Mississippi River to temporarily flow backward. Yet according to local legend the cause of those...

Mar 31, 202534 min

The Boo Hag of Gullah Culture

This episode of Southern Gothic originally aired in April 2023. According to Gullah folklore, the swamps of the Lowcountry are home to a mythical creature who is said to sneak into the homes of its victims while they sleep and then suck the life force from their breath. The creature, known as the Boo Hag, is described as a large, hideous creature with no skin and glowing red eyes. It is said to be able to change its shape, making it difficult to track or identify. The Boo Hag is also said to be ...

Mar 24, 202530 min

The Political Rise & Controversial Murder of the Kingfish, Part Two

On the night of September 8, 1935, Senator Huey P. Long was gunned down inside the Louisiana State Capitol. Officially, the shooter was Dr. Carl Weiss, the son-in-law of a judge Long had politically targeted. But from the moment the Kingfish fell, questions have lingered about what really happened in that marble corridor. In Part Two, we examine the chaotic shooting, the immediate aftermath, and the decades of speculation that followed. Was Weiss truly an assassin, or an innocent man caught in t...

Mar 17, 202543 min

Introducing: Hometown Ghost Stories

Hometown Ghost Stories dives into the history of haunted locations and investigates why and how these places earned their terrifying reputation. Rob, Dave and Jesse go live every Tuesday night, after a 15-20 minute uninterrupted, documentary-style breakdown on the case. You can even join the show - as many do, during the live broadcasts on YouTube, Tuesday nights at 9pm EST, as we talk ghosts, demons, poltergeists, and the horrifying true tales that led to these hauntings. Learn more about your ...

Mar 13, 20251 hr 10 min

The Political Rise & Controversial Murder of the Kingfish, Part One

Huey P. Long was one of the most powerful and polarizing figures in Louisiana’s history—a fiery populist whose ambition and influence reshaped the state. In this first installment of our very first two-parter here on Southern Gothic, we trace Long’s meteoric rise from a small-town lawyer to Louisiana’s governor and U.S. senator, exploring how his bold policies and ruthless political tactics earned him both devoted followers and dangerous enemies. As he consolidated power, whispers of conspiracy ...

Mar 10, 202546 minEp. 171

The Curse of Julia Brown

On September 30, 1915, a vicious hurricane made its way through Southeastern Louisiana leaving almost 375 people dead and entire communities destroyed. One such town was the small farming community of Frenier, where a legend has since entered local lore with the claim that this particularly gruesome storm was brought on by the curse of a local Voodoo priestess named Julia Brown. This episode of Southern Gothic revisits a topic previously released on the podcast. To hear the original episode "The...

Mar 03, 202537 min

Reclaiming Nat Turner's Skull | Minisode

On November 11, 1831, Nat Turner was hanged for his role in leading the bloodiest slave rebellion in United States history; however, his story did not end there. In the aftermath of his execution, Turner’s body was taken by local doctors, dissected, and his remains scattered, fueling centuries of speculation about their whereabouts-- particularly, the fate of his skull. Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-Free Episodes, Premium Releases, Bonus Content & More Southern Gothic Pr...

Feb 27, 202516 minEp. 170

The Nat Turner Rebellion

In August 1831, Nat Turner, an enslaved preacher from Southampton County, Virginia, led one of the most infamous rebellions in American history. Guided by what he claimed were divine visions, Turner and his followers unleashed a violent uprising that sent shockwaves through the South, challenging the very foundation of slavery. But while the revolt lasted only two days, its consequences would echo for decades, fueling deep-seated fears and tightening the grip of oppression. Join us as we explore...

Feb 24, 20251 hr 5 minEp. 169

Ghosts of Williamsburg's Public Gaol

This episode of Southern Gothic originally aired on October 18, 2021. When construction began on the Williamsburg Gaol it was never intended to house those who were deemed as significantly dangerous, like murderers or pirates. Instead, it was meant for largely non-violent offenders, such as debtors, thieves, the mentally ill and enslaved people who were caught after fleeing their captors... but good intentions pale in comparison to reality, leaving many to believe that today the Williamsburg Pub...

Feb 17, 202528 min

Introducing: I Talk to Ghosts

Introducing I Talk to Ghosts, a podcast that combines the spooky and the spiritual; featuring ghost stories, in-studio medium readings, and personal accounts of Jennifer's path to mediumship and the unknown! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 13, 202557 min

Ghost Ship of the Ohio River | Minisode

Mired in the mud bottom of a small tributary of the Ohio River is the abandoned and decaying hulk of a ship named the SS Sachem, a century-old vessel with deep roots in United States maritime history. Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-Free Episodes, Premium Releases, Bonus Content & More Southern Gothic Premium on Spotify Southern Gothic Premium on Apple Podcasts Into History: History Without Interruption Connect with Southern Gothic Media: Website: SouthernGothicMedia.com M...

Feb 10, 202512 minEp. 168

Octavia Hatcher's Tragic Death

Buried beneath a solemn marble statue in Pikeville Cemetery lies Octavia Hatcher, a young mother who endured an unimaginable heartbreak before meeting a fate more horrifying than most can comprehend. Over a century later, her tragic story still haunts the town—both figuratively and, some say, literally. But what really happened to Octavia, and why does her name continue to echo through the shadows of history? Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-Free Episodes, Premium Releases,...

Feb 03, 202538 minEp. 167

Windover Pond's Prehistoric Skeletons

In 1982, a backhoe operator preparing sturdy land for a suburban development near Titusville, Florida discovered a skull in the murky waters of Windover Pond. The county coroner was called, and the human remains were deemed to be old, but the question was how old? The shocking series of events that followed this discovery led archaeologists to uncover one of the most important archaeological sites in the United States-- a prehistoric burial ground over 7,000 years old. Want to Listen to Southern...

Jan 27, 202539 minEp. 166

The Singing River of Pascagoula

This episode of Southern Gothic originally aired on August 7, 2020. It is said that on warm summer and autumn nights, those standing on the banks of the Pascagoula river may hear the sound of a melodic humming emanating from beneath the river’s dark waters. The origin of the sound is unknown, but numerous legends have been told to explain the mystery of this Mississippi waterway. Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-Free Episodes, Premium Releases, Bonus Content & More Southern...

Jan 20, 202524 min

The Failed Kidnapping of Adolph Coors III | Minisode

On the morning on February 9, 1960, a milkman pulled up to a small bridge over Turkey Creek, near Morrison, Colorado and quickly grew agitated by what sat in front of him. The bridge was blocked by an idling station wagon. The man honked his truck’s horn several times, hoping to alert the car’s driver of his presence and get him to clear the way, but after continued attempts, it was to no avail. Frustrated as can be, the milkman then hopped out of his truck and walked over to the vehicle, which ...

Jan 16, 202515 minEp. 165

The Cavalier Hotel's Haunted History

Perched on a hill overlooking the Atlantic, the Cavalier Hotel has been a beacon of opulence for nearly a century, attracting celebrities, presidents, and the elite of high society. Yet, behind its stately red-brick façade lies a darker legacy of tragedy and restless spirits. From the mysterious and untimely death of beer mogul Adolph Coors to ghostly echoes of a little girl searching for her lost cat, the Cavalier’s storied past is steeped in haunting lore. Join us as we unravel the eerie legen...

Jan 13, 202539 minEp. 164

The Restless Spirits of Rotherwood

On the west side of Kingsport, Tennessee is Rotherwood, an old antebellum mansion overlooking the spot where the two forks of the Holston river come together. Today this red brick structure is privately owned, but according to local lore, it is home to more than just the living. For the last half a century, stories have placed at least two spirits on the ground of Rotherwood Mansion. First is the beautiful “Lady in White,” Rowena Ross who is forever searching for her lost love who died before th...

Jan 06, 202536 min

Introducing: The Dark Histories Podcast

Fortnightly narratives on the unsolved and the unexplained, mysteries, historical true crime, touches of the paranormal and cultural peculiarities... The Dark Histories Podcast tells the stories of some of history's darkest moments, deepest mysteries, and strangest happenings, from large cultural events to smaller, localized legends. Host Ben Cutmore aims to present entertaining tales, whilst maintaining integrity to the facts. Listen now on your favorite podcatcher! Learn more about your ad cho...

Dec 30, 20241 hr 4 min

The Signal-Man | A Spooky Victorian Christmas Story

Happy Holidays to all of our listeners! This year we are sharing a classic ghost story written by the king of spooky Victorian Era Christmas tales-- Charles Dickens. Join us as Brandon narrates "The Signal-Man" by Charles Dickens. Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-Free Episodes, Premium Releases, Bonus Content & More Southern Gothic Premium on Spotify Southern Gothic Premium on Apple Podcasts Into History: History Without Interruption Connect with Southern Gothic Media: Webs...

Dec 24, 202436 min

The Baynard Mausoleum of Hilton Head Island

This episode of Southern Gothic originally aired March 26, 2023. The Baynard Mausoleum is the oldest surviving structure on Hilton Head Island, but eerily, the family once interred inside are no longer there. Now, after a century of vandalism and treasure hunters has taken its toll, we attempt to explore the local lore that has sprung up to give this unique tomb a romantic origin story. Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-Free Episodes, Premium Releases, Bonus Content & More S...

Dec 16, 202431 min

President Lincoln's Premonition of Death | Minisode

President Abraham Lincoln's legacy is steeped in lore, but did you know that a close personal friend of the famed commander and chief claimed that Lincoln dreamt of his assassination not long before the tragedy took place? Join us as we explore the most notorious precognitive dream in the history of the United States. Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-Free Episodes, Premium Releases, Bonus Content & More Southern Gothic Premium on Spotify Southern Gothic Premium on Apple Pod...

Dec 09, 202412 minEp. 163

Pedro and the Prophetic Dream

Following his death on February 16, 1893, Dr. Emile Overton Moore was buried in the Maple Hill cemetery, just north of his hometown of Helena; but, according to legend, Moore’s loyal canine companion, Pedro refused to leave his graveside after his interment. Out of respect for that beloved canine, Moore's family placed a statue of Pedro at his grave, making it one of the most infamous memorials at Maple Hill... although, the local lore surrounding Dr. Moore's death is actually a little darker an...

Dec 02, 202433 minEp. 162

Mystery of the Confederate Submarine H.L. Hunley

This episode of Southern Gothic originally aired February 22, 2022. On the night of February 17, 1864, an immense explosion took down the USS Housatonic, a massive warship that was part of the Federal forces’ twenty vessel blockade of the Charleston harbor. Yet the destruction came seemingly out of nowhere, as eyewitnesses in the crew claimed their only warning was the sight of a dark cigar shaped vessel headed straight towards them. What they soon found out was that this sloop-of-war was the vi...

Nov 25, 202445 min

John Henry: Steel Driving Man

This episode of Southern Gothic originally aired on March 5, 2021. When the Civil War drew to a close, the United States’ railway networks, particularly those in the Southern states, were in shambles. During the Reconstruction era, the rehabilitation of the southern rails and expansion of transcontinental railroads became a major undertaking, and as the importance of the railroad rose. In the three decades after the Civil War over 170,000 miles of track were added to America’s railway system; it...

Nov 18, 202422 min

Introducing: Sightings

Have you ever felt a chill down your spine that you couldn't explain, seen a fleeting shadow in the corner of your vision, or heard a whisper on the wind that seemed just a little too clear? Well, you aren’t alone, and I have just the podcast for you. Sightings is a new series that invites you inside the world’s most mysterious unexplained events, from epic encounters with legendary creatures, to spine-tingling bumps in the night that I guarantee you’ve never heard before. From the secrets of Sk...

Nov 14, 202443 min

Listener Tales, Volume Two

This week we are going back to you & telling your listener-submitted stories! Tales include an ominous Tarot card reading down in New Orleans, a not-so-hitchhiking spirit, and a curse warnin' MeeMaw. Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-Free Episodes, Premium Releases, Bonus Content & More Southern Gothic Premium on Spotify Southern Gothic Premium on Apple Podcasts Into History: History Without Interruption Connect with Southern Gothic Media: Website: SouthernGothicMedia.com Me...

Nov 11, 202430 min

Hotel Brunswick's Phantom Harpist

On August 23, 1882 Italian harpist Antonio “Tony” Caseletta drowned in a sailing accident on the Cape Fear river, leaving behind a wife and child. His body was then buried in the Old Smithville Cemetery; however, many claim that his spirit continues to play his beloved instrument in the beautiful seaside mansion that once served as the Hotel Brunswick in historic Southport, North Carolina. Listen to Kirsten Agresta Copely on Spotify today! Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-F...

Nov 04, 202427 minEp. 161

Legend of the Richmond Vampire

Legend claims that after the Church Hill Tunnel collapsed in 1925, a bloody creature with sharp teeth and decomposing skin appeared in the darkness before quickly escaping to the nearby Hollywood Cemetery, There, the creature that has since become known as the Richmond Vampire, disappeared into now-infamous W.W. Pool mausoleum that it had purportedly made its home. This episode is sponsored by Incogni: Use promo code "southerngothic" to get an exclusive 60% off an annual plan at incogni.com/sout...

Oct 31, 202433 minEp. 160

The Weeping Arches of Cedar Grove | Campfire Tales

A historic cemetery in New Bern, North Carolina is the site of an old legend that claims the beautiful arches over its entranceway purportedly weep for the dead. This episode is sponsored by Incogni: Use promo code "southerngothic" to get an exclusive 60% off an annual plan at incogni.com/southerngothic. Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-Free Episodes, Premium Releases, Bonus Content & More Southern Gothic Premium on Spotify Southern Gothic Premium on Apple Podcasts Into His...

Oct 30, 20246 min

White Lady of the Natural Steps | Campfire Tales

A unique natural formation on the banks of the Arkansas River is said to be home to the spirit of a lady in white. This episode is sponsored by Incogni: Use promo code "southerngothic" to get an exclusive 60% off an annual plan at incogni.com/southerngothic. Want to Listen to Southern Gothic Ad-Free? Patreon: Ad-Free Episodes, Premium Releases, Bonus Content & More Southern Gothic Premium on Spotify Southern Gothic Premium on Apple Podcasts Into History: History Without Interruption Connect with...

Oct 29, 20248 min