Podcast Summary: Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities – Episode: "Mary’s Got a Gun"
Introduction
In the December 5, 2024 episode of Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities, hosted by Erin Menke and produced by iHeartPodcasts and Grim & Mild, listeners are treated to two enthralling tales that delve into historical mysteries and remarkable personal connections. Aaron Mahnke sets the stage by emphasizing the abundance of unexplained phenomena in our world, inviting listeners to explore the fascinating stories that history conceals.
Story 1: Cheddar Man – A Genetic Link to the Past
Speaker: Adrian Target
Overview
Adrian Target, a 42-year-old history teacher from Somerset, England, shares an astonishing personal discovery that bridges the gap between ancient history and his own lineage. Target sought innovative methods to engage his students with local history, which led him to involve them in a groundbreaking DNA study related to the enigmatic figure known as Cheddar Man.
Key Points and Discussions
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Local Legend and Classroom Engagement (01:14 - 03:00): Target recounts his struggle to captivate his students with facts about Somerset, such as being the birthplace of Cheddar cheese and hosting Great Britain’s oldest road. Seeking a more personal approach, he integrates a local mystery into his teaching.
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The Cheddar Man Mystery (03:00 - 04:30): In 1997, a documentary crew investigated the remains of Cheddar Man, a young man whose skeleton, discovered in 1903 near Cheddar, exhibited signs of violent death. Despite the advanced decay, the cause remained unclear until DNA analysis offered new insights.
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DNA Study and Family Connection (04:30 - 05:30): Utilizing modern DNA extraction techniques from Cheddar Man’s molar, the filmmakers sought relatives by comparing samples from local volunteers. Target’s class participated by submitting cheek swab samples, leading to a surprising revelation: Cheddar Man was a close genetic match to Target himself. “Cheddar man might still have relatives living in the area,” Target notes, highlighting the unexpected familial link (04:45).
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Historical and Personal Impact (05:30 - 07:00): Further analysis revealed that Cheddar Man lived around 8,000 BCE, making his remains the oldest complete modern human skeleton found in Britain. This discovery established that Target’s family had resided in the area for millennia. Encountering a 3D-printed bust of Cheddar Man in 2018 was a poignant moment for Target, symbolizing a direct connection to his ancestral roots. “I was staring into the face of history,” Target reflects (05:45).
Insights and Conclusions
Target’s story underscores the profound ways in which modern technology can unravel ancient histories and personal identities. By linking his lineage to an 8,000-year-old skeleton, he not only enriches his own understanding of his heritage but also brings a tangible connection to history into his classroom, inspiring his students to appreciate the depth and continuity of their local environment.
Story 2: Deadshot Mary – The Fearless NYPD Detective
Speaker: Adrian Target
Overview
The second tale delves into the life of Mary Shanley, an Irish immigrant who became a legendary detective in the New York Police Department during the early to mid-20th century. Known as "Deadshot Mary," her unconventional methods and fearless demeanor made her a formidable figure in law enforcement.
Key Points and Discussions
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Early Life and Career (07:34 - 09:00): Born in 1896 in Ireland, Mary Shanley immigrated to New York City with her family. Her outspoken and fearless nature initially made it difficult for her to assimilate into society. At 35, she broke barriers by joining the NYPD at a time when few women were part of the force.
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Undercover Operations and Strategies (09:00 - 10:30): Mary’s role in the pickpocket squad involved dressing in middle-class attire to blend into crowds at department stores, theaters, and train stations. She adeptly identified and apprehended thieves, often going undercover in doctors' offices and chapels to expose fraudulent activities. A notable incident involved her exposing a fortune teller, Princess Juniata Flynn, as a fraud by revealing a hidden telephone handset used to receive information.
Notable Quote: “Mary was looking out for criminals taking advantage of women… she was a force to be reckoned with” (09:45).
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Becoming Deadshot Mary (10:30 - 12:00): In 1934, female officers were issued revolvers for the first time. Mary quickly adopted the use of her firearm, earning her the moniker "Deadshot Mary." Her tactical use of warning shots became her signature method for subduing dangerous criminals. An iconic moment occurred in the late 1930s when Mary fired a warning shot into the air to halt a fleeing thief on 53rd Street, marking the first time an NYPD policewoman used a gun during an arrest.
Notable Quote: “She was staring into the face of history,” reflecting on her role in law enforcement (11:30).
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Legacy and Personal Life (12:00 - 15:00): Over two decades, Mary Shanley became a revered detective, achieving the rank of first-grade detective in 1939—the fourth woman in history to do so—receiving personal congratulations from Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia. Despite her remarkable career, Mary remained unmarried, dedicating her life to her work. She often used her goddaughter as a decoy during operations, maintaining an appearance of a typical housewife to aid in her investigations. Mary’s dedication and unyielding spirit made her an inspirational figure in a male-dominated field.
Notable Quote: “It’s exciting. I would die if I had to go back to working in an office,” Mary quipped, illustrating her passion for her unique career (14:30).
Insights and Conclusions
Mary Shanley’s story exemplifies the challenges and triumphs of pioneering women in law enforcement. Her innovative techniques and unwavering courage not only disrupted criminal activities but also paved the way for future generations of female detectives. Mary's legacy is a testament to the impact one determined individual can have on an entire profession and community.
Conclusion
Aaron Mahnke’s Cabinet of Curiosities masterfully intertwines personal narratives with historical intrigue, offering listeners deep dives into stories that illuminate both the past and the present. Through the remarkable journeys of Adrian Target and the legendary Deadshot Mary, the episode "Mary’s Got a Gun" highlights the enduring connections between individuals and their histories, as well as the extraordinary characters who shape our understanding of the world.
Notable Quotes Recap
- Adrian Target on family connection: “Cheddar man might still have relatives living in the area” (04:45).
- On Mary Shanley’s impact: “Mary was looking out for criminals taking advantage of women… she was a force to be reckoned with” (09:45).
- Reflecting on historical connection: “She was staring into the face of history” (11:30).
- Mary Shanley on her passion: “It’s exciting. I would die if I had to go back to working in an office” (14:30).
Final Thoughts
For those intrigued by tales that blend history, mystery, and personal discovery, this episode of Cabinet of Curiosities is a must-listen. Aaron Mahnke continues to deliver captivating stories that engage and enlighten, urging listeners to remain ever curious about the world around them.
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