Podcast Summary: Paul Harvey - Hanson Gregory
Harold's Old Time Radio
Release Date: March 25, 2025

Introduction

In this captivating episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "Paul Harvey - Hanson Gregory," listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio. The episode features a riveting narrative by Paul Harvey, renowned for his engaging storytelling, focusing on the intriguing tale of Captain Hanson Gregory and his purported invention. Through a blend of historical anecdotes and dramatic storytelling, the episode delves into the life, legacy, and the debated invention attributed to Gregory.

Captain Hanson Gregory: A Young Hero at Sea

Paul Harvey opens the episode by spotlighting the remarkable achievements of Captain Hanson Gregory:

Paul Harvey [00:00]: "Captain Hansen Gregory, in command of his own vessel at the age of 19. One of the youngest sea captains ever to sail from the coast of Maine for saving the lives of an entire shipwrecked Spanish crew."
(00:15)

Gregory's early leadership and bravery are emphasized, highlighting how his actions at a young age earned him international recognition, including a decoration from Spain's Queen Isabella. These accomplishments set the stage for the central narrative of the episode.

The Controversial Debate: Invention or Nothing?

The story takes a turn as Paul Harvey introduces a heated debate that occurred two decades after Captain Gregory's death:

Paul Harvey [02:30]: "It was two decades after the death of Captain Hansen Gregory. A furious debate about him was sponsored by a national organization held in New York's Astor hotel."
(02:45)

Held in November 1941, the debate centered on whether Gregory had invented "nothing"—a seemingly paradoxical assertion. The panel included notable figures such as judges Clifton Fadiman and Franklin P. Adams, with Elsa Maxwell also in attendance. The opposing sides were led by Freddie Crockett of Camden, Maine, and attorney Henry A. Ellis of Cape Cod.

Arguments Presented: Ellis vs. Crockett

Attorney Henry A. Ellis argued against the notion that Gregory had invented nothing, positing instead that an American Indian from Yarmouth was responsible for the invention in the 17th century:

Paul Harvey [05:20]: "Lawyer Henry Ellis claimed that it was in fact an American Indian from Yarmouth who invented nothing during the 17th century."
(05:40)

Despite Ellis's compelling courtroom tactics, his case faced significant challenges, primarily the difficulty of substantiating claims made three centuries prior.

Conversely, Freddie Crockett advocated for Gregory's invention in 1847, presenting a robust collection of affidavits, letters, and documents to support his claim:

Paul Harvey [07:15]: "Mr. Crockett, seeking to prove that Captain Hansen Gregory had in fact invented nothing in 1847, presented for examination a wide array of affidavits and letters and other documents."
(07:35)

Crockett's evidence proved persuasive enough to sway the debate judges towards a unanimous decision in favor of Gregory's inventiveness.

Unveiling the Truth: The Invention of "Nothing"

Through Crockett's compelling presentation, the episode reveals that Hanson Gregory did indeed invent "nothing"—a clever twist revealing the creation of the doughnut hole:

Paul Harvey [12:50]: "He was he who invented the hole in the doughnut. And now you know the rest of the story."
(12:55)

Gregory's inspiration reportedly struck in his mother's kitchen when, at 15, he devised a way to prevent his fried cakes from becoming soggy by poking a hole in the center. This simple yet ingenious idea led to the popularization of the doughnut hole, turning a minor culinary tweak into a billion-dollar business.

Legacy and Impact

Paul Harvey concludes the episode by highlighting the lasting impact of Gregory's "invention":

Paul Harvey [14:30]: "Each year, in the United States alone, the business, which began on a little New England stove, grosses $750 million."
(14:45)

This statistic underscores how a seemingly insignificant modification can evolve into a substantial economic phenomenon, all tracing back to Hanson Gregory's youthful ingenuity.

Conclusion

This episode masterfully intertwines historical facts with engaging storytelling, offering listeners a nuanced view of Hanson Gregory's life and the debated invention of the doughnut hole. By presenting both sides of the 1941 debate and culminating in the revelation of Gregory's contribution, Paul Harvey not only entertains but also educates, leaving listeners with a deeper appreciation for the seemingly simple innovations that shape everyday life.

Notable Quotes:

• Paul Harvey [00:15]: "One of the youngest sea captains ever to sail from the coast of Maine for saving the lives of an entire shipwrecked Spanish crew."

• Paul Harvey [02:45]: "A furious debate about him was sponsored by a national organization held in New York's Astor hotel."

• Paul Harvey [05:40]: "It was in fact an American Indian from Yarmouth who invented nothing during the 17th century."

• Paul Harvey [07:35]: "Presented for examination a wide array of affidavits and letters and other documents."

• Paul Harvey [12:55]: "He was he who invented the hole in the doughnut."

• Paul Harvey [14:45]: "Each year, in the United States alone, the business... grosses $750 million."

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the "Paul Harvey - Hanson Gregory" episode, providing a comprehensive overview for both seasoned listeners and newcomers alike.