Episode 50! The Austin Servant Girl Annihilator

Send us Fan MailThey said it couldn’t be done, they said it SHOULDN’T be done, and yet—here we are, standing atop a metaphorical moontower, bathing in the eerie glow of history, mystery, and questionable decision-making. It’s our 50th episode, and to mark this milestone, we’re stepping outside our usual Unsolved Mysteries coverage to tackle a case so chilling, so brutal, and so deeply tied to our city’s past that it still haunts Austin today.Before “serial killer” was even a term, Austin’s shadowy figure stalked the night, leaving blood and terror in its wake. In 1885, as the city grew, the Servant Girl Annihilator struck—one of America’s first serial murder cases, yet still largely forgotten. Overshadowed by bigger cities, more infamous killers, and deep-seated racial injustice, the victims—mostly Black domestic workers—were met with indifference from the white elite and incompetence from law enforcement.Join us as we unravel one of America’s first true crime legends, dragging you (consensually) through a case full of eerie footprints, axe-wielding horror, and police work that was worse than a Matthew McConaughey impression at open mic night. We’ll cover the victims, the suspects, and the lasting impact these murders had on Austin—including the moontowers, which - fun fact- still illuminate our overpriced tacos and drunk tourists to this day.Also in this episode:🔪 Zach probably possibly solves a 140-year-old case 🕯️ Stephanie makes a compelling argument for separate bedrooms. 🎶 A historical deep dive somehow leads to - or starts with - a Beastie Boys tangent. 🚨 And, of course, Robert Stack is with us in spirit.It’s episode 50. We did it. You did it. And somebody sure as hell got away with it.Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of extremely violent crimes, including sexual violence and brutal attacks. Listener discretion is advised.Music and additional effects sourced from Fesliyan, Pixabay and Freesound (public domain/CC0). 💙 Mental Health Matters 💙It’s okay to not be okay. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone, and help is available.📞 U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 📞 Canada Talk Suicide Service: 1-833-456-4566 📞 Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (U.S. & Canada) 📞 International Resources: findahelpline.comPlease take care of yourselves, and if you need support, don’t hesitate to reach out. 💙