The St. Louis Exorcist House: The 1949 Possession Case That Inspired The Exorcist — Ep. 37

In 1949, a family in the Midwest began documenting a series of disturbing events centered on their teenage son. What began as unexplained disturbances soon escalated into physical incidents witnessed by family members, physicians, and Jesuit clergy.The events eventually led to St. Louis, Missouri, where priests from Saint Louis University were asked to intervene. Observations were recorded. Medical explanations were pursued first. Outside witnesses were brought in only after other options failed.In this episode, host Robert Barber examines the St. Louis Exorcist House and the documented 1949 possession and exorcism case often associated with the pseudonym “Roland Doe.” Rather than retelling the story as it’s been mythologized, this episode focuses on what was recorded at the time, what remains disputed, and how the situation progressed step by step until an exorcism was attempted.Years later, elements of this case would inspire The Exorcist, one of the most influential horror films ever made.This is the story of what happened before the legend.🔍 Further Reading & Case Research(For listeners who want to explore this case in more detail)Possessed - by Thomas Allen 🌙 Listening Environment & AtmosphereOptional items some listeners use to create a calm or focused listening space.JBL Go 4 Bluetooth Speaker - Absolutely love JBL speakers.Fenmzee 3-Way Dimmable Touch Bedside Table Lamp - Such a great lamp that has usb ports so I can charge my phone at night.These are optional links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Support the showState of the Unknown is a documentary-style podcast exploring America’s unexplained stories, including reported hauntings, UFO encounters, cryptid sightings, folklore, and modern paranormal cases. Each episode combines careful research, atmospheric storytelling, and reflection on the human questions behind the mystery.👁️‍🗨️ New episodes every Tuesday 📬 Reach out: [email protected]📣 Follow the strange: @stateoftheunknownpodcast on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, & Threads🔍 Want more? Visit stateoftheunknown.com to explore show notes and submit your own story.Share Your TakeHave a theory about this episode? Message me anytime on Instagram @stateoftheunknownpodcast - I read every DM.Some stories don’t stay buried.We go looking anyway.