EPISODE · Oct 11, 2017 · 18 MIN
Iowa: The Tragic Johnson Family Case
from Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast · host Shane L. Waters, Wendy Cee, Gemma Hoskins
Alvira Johnson and her seven children faced a tragic end that left investigators questioning whether it was murder or... This case, set in Iowa, is haunting due to its uncertainties, reflecting the era's investigative limits and familial despair. Alvira, a devoted mother, and her children found themselves at the heart of this devastating event, forever etched in the history of American true crime. Today, we examine into their lives before that fateful day. Alvira was known for her resilience, raising seven children with strength and grace despite life's difficulties. Her children, each with their unique personalities, filled the Johnson home with laughter and dreams until tragedy struck, leaving a profound impact on their community and beyond. The unresolved nature of the Johnson family tragedy draws attention to 1925 Iowa, a time when rural communities grappled with isolation and limited resources. This case highlights the significant challenges faced by investigators of the period, as they attempted to uncover the truth amidst societal and technological constraints. Listeners will hear a detailed exploration of the events surrounding this heartbreaking tale, understanding how it reflects broader historical themes of justice and community in early 20th-century America. Join us for a closer look into this mysterious case and the enduring questions it leaves behind. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypodOur Sponsors:* Check out Kensington Publishing: https://www.kensingtonbooks.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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What this episode covers
In the case of Alvira Johnson and her seven children, it is unclear whether they were murdered or if they met their untimely end in an accident. Either way, their story is one that should be remembered. Alvira and Albin Johnson married around 1923, against her parents' wishes. Albin was 36 and Alvira was only 19. Both were born to Swedish immigrants and Albin was described as a typical farmer in the woods. He was strong and could always be seen wearing blue overalls. The couple had seven children together. Albin and Alvira Johnson were a poor family in the Great Depression. They had seven children together and were rumored to be expecting another. Their friendliness and lack of resources were well-known around their town. One day, their 10-year-old son, Harold, came home from playing with a friend and told his mother that he had eaten too much while at their house. She scolded him, but he didn't understand why Santa never left them anything at Christmas. Find us online. Support the show by joining our Black Label to support the show and unlock exclusive benefits. You can join on Patreon and Apple Podcast Premium . Follow us on Instagram , Twitter , and Facebook . Join Shane's Facebook Group . Hosted by Shane Waters . Listen to his other crime podcast Mystery Inc , or his history podcast Hometown History ! Our Sponsors: * Check out Kensington Publishing: https://www.kensingtonbooks.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Iowa: The Tragic Johnson Family Case
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