The Chronicler and the Rescuer: Unveiling Overlooked Narratives

Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally Told

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In this episode of "Flower in the River," I dive into the intricate history of the 1915 Eastland disaster, uncovering untold stories of bravery and legacy. Join me as I share new discoveries, reflect on historical research, and pay heartfelt tributes to the forgotten heroes of the tragedy.

Highlights:

New Listener Inquiries:

• Address common questions from new listeners, clarifying my independent approach to the podcast and sharing how it evolved from my audiobook project.

Personal Reflections:

• Reflect on the significance of fulfilling family promises, particularly the emotional journey of discovering and sharing my mother's lost family history.

Revisiting Key Literature:

• Revisit George Hilton's definitive book, "Eastland: Legacy of the Titanic," discussing its impact on my understanding of the disaster and its role in my research.

Introducing Harry Birch:

• Meet Harry Birch, a pioneering newsreel cameraman who filmed the Eastland disaster. I recount his fascinating career and the rediscovery of his footage.

Heroic Acts of Frederic W. Willard:

• Introducing Frederic W. Willard, a hero who saved numerous lives during the Eastland disaster. Through historical newspapers, I bring his bravery to life.

The Importance of Preservation:

• Say Hello to "Burt," the creator of the virtual Eastland Memorial on Find a Grave.

Key Quotes:

“In genealogy, we always have receipts.” - Jennifer Mendelsohn

“With over 800 people killed, you would think by now there would be at least 800 stories to go along with them!" - Natalie Zett

Resources and Links:

• "Eastland: Legacy of the Titanic* by George Hilton
• Virtual Eastland Memorial: Find a Grave
• Harry Birch Collection: University of South Carolina's Moving Image Research Collections
• Lost Footage of the Eastland Disaster

Music:

• Artlist

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus

Chapters

1. The Chronicler and the Rescuer: Unveiling Overlooked Narratives (00:00:00)

2. Family History and Eastland Tragedy (00:00:08)

3. Exploring the Eastland Disaster (00:10:16)

4. Meet Harry Birch (00:22:04)

5. Meet Frederic W. Willard, Eastland Rescuer (00:33:38)

6. Weekly Podcast Wrap-Up and Book Promotion (00:38:50)