In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the eerie and spine-chilling histories of Connecticut’s asylums and the Vampire Panic that swept through New England. This episode promises to take you on a journey through the macabre and mysterious, unraveling tales that blend historical fact with folklore.

As we delve deeper, we explore the New England Vampire Panic, a period marked by extreme measures taken by communities to halt the spread of tuberculosis. Driven by fear and superstition, these communities exhumed bodies and performed macabre rituals, believing that the dead were rising to feed on the living. We recount specific cases, such as Rachel Harris of Manchester, Vermont, and Abigail Staples of Cumberland, Rhode Island. These stories, filled with details of exhumations and rituals, offer a window into the terrified mindset of the time. The blend of historical fact and folklore paints a vivid picture of how fear can drive people to extreme actions.

One of the most fascinating cases we discuss is that of John Barber, whose grave in Griswold, New London County, was discovered in 1990. Modern DNA research confirmed his identity, shedding light on the practices of the past. The exhumation of Mercy Brown in 1892 is another chilling tale we cover. Her body, found in a preserved state, was believed to be vampiric, and the rituals performed on her remains highlight the desperate measures taken by communities to protect themselves from the unknown.

The episode then takes a darker turn as we introduce the tale of Gerald Floyd Bettis, infamously known as the Dog Boy of Quitman, Arkansas. Gerald’s story is one of disturbing childhood behaviors and sinister rumors. From his cruelty towards animals to the mysterious circumstances surrounding his father’s death, Gerald’s life is a haunting portrait of a boy destined for darkness. The eerie history of his house on Mulberry Street adds layers of intrigue, with tales of renovations and the property’s current status, despite its notorious past.

The legend of the Dog Boy is not just about a troubled individual but also about the impact of his actions on the community. Gerald’s behavior, particularly towards stray dogs, earned him his infamous nickname. Neighbors reported seeing him luring animals into makeshift cages and performing grotesque experiments. His violent tendencies extended to his own family, with his parents struggling to control him. The mysterious death of his father, rumored to have been caused by Gerald, only added to the fear surrounding him.

Even after Gerald’s death in 1988, the tales of his cruelty and the haunted nature of his house persisted. The property on Mulberry Street became a focal point for paranormal activity, with reports of strange noises, shadowy figures, and unexplained occurrences. The high market value of the house, despite its dark history, speaks to the lingering fascination and fear associated with Gerald Bettis.

This episode is perfect for those who love exploring the darker side of history and folklore. Whether you’re a fan of haunted asylums, vampire myths, or true crime stories, there’s something in this episode for everyone. So, grab your pumpkin cold brew, settle in, and join us as we uncover the eerie histories and shadowy secrets that continue to haunt New England and Arkansas.