Divided City Pt2 - S3-E2

In this episode, the boys, along with guest Christopher Allen Gordon, delve into the complexities of the American Civil War, focusing on St. Louis and Bellefontaine Cemetery. They discuss notable figures like Sterling Price, who presided over a convention that decided against secession, and Francis Brunell, the first Medal of Honor recipient. They also explore the Sultana disaster, the worst maritime disaster in U.S. history, and the story of Adeline Cousins, one of the first women to receive reparations for her Civil War injuries. The episode highlights the profound impact of the Civil War on American society and the ongoing historical discoveries at Bellefontaine Cemetery. OutlineCivil War Pt 2: Introduction and Participants Dan and Joe discuss the possibility of connecting the Civil War to William Shatner. Joe introduces the Can You Dig It podcast, focusing on the dark secrets of St. Louis and Bellefontaine Cemetery. Dan thanks the Missouri Historical Society for hosting them and mentions the difficult conversation about the Civil War in St. Louis. Dan and Joe discuss Sterling Price, a former governor of Missouri, and his burial next to Hamilton Gamble at Bellefontaine Cemetery. They mention the carriage used for Abraham Lincoln's funeral and its connection to various notable individuals buried at Bellefontaine. Dan and Joe delve into Sterling Price's role as a conditional unionist and his involvement in the Missouri secession convention. Joe shares a fun fact about Sterling Price declaring Thanksgiving a state holiday in Missouri in 1853. Dan mentions the first recipient of the Medal of Honor, Francis Brunell, and his actions during the Civil War. They discuss the significance of the Medal of Honor and its connection to the Civil War. Joe highlights the 10 Medal of Honor recipients buried at Bellefontaine, with eight from the Civil War. Dan and Joe discuss Henry Wirz, the Swiss-born Confederate commander of Andersonville prison, and his trial for war crimes. They mention Norton P. Chipman, who played a significant role in the prosecution of Henry Wirz. Joe explains Henry Wirz's defense of "only following orders" and his eventual execution. Dan shares the connection of Norton P. Chipman to Bellefontaine Cemetery and his involvement in the Civil War. They mention the overcrowded ship and its boiler issues, leading to the explosion and sinking. Joe highlights the significant number of casualties, including former Andersonville prisoners headed to Benton Barracks in St. Louis. Joe introduces Adeline Cousins, one of the first women to receive reparations from the U.S. government for her Civil War injuries. He details her work as a nurse during the Civil War and her dedication to helping wounded soldiers. Dan mentions Adeline Cousins' military marker at Bellefontaine Cemetery and her efforts as a suffragette. They discuss the challenges and sacrifices of Civil War nurses and the impact of their work. They highlight the significance of Fletcher's actions and the impact of the Emancipation Proclamation. Joe mentions the contrast between Fletcher and Joseph Nash McDowell, buried near Fletcher at Bellefontaine Cemetery. They reflect on the tumultuous period of the Civil War and the changes it brought to Missouri. Dan and Joe discuss the immense casualties of the Civil War and the impact on American society. They mention the invention of new weapons like the Gatling gun and the Spencer rifle during the war. Joe highlights the personal toll on President Lincoln and the difficult decisions he had to make. They reflect on the lasting legacy of the Civil War and the lessons learned from its horrific events. Dan and Joe encourage listeners to visit the Missouri Historical Society for more information on the Civil War. Joe emphasizes the importance of understanding the Civil War and its impact on American history. They conclude the episode by expressing gratitude to their listeners and promising more interesting topics in future episodes.