Late Nights with Nexpo: "What's Under Dungeon Rock?"
Hosted by Ballen Studios and Nexpo, "Late Nights with Nexpo" delves into the most bizarre and chilling true stories and mysteries. In the episode titled "What's Under Dungeon Rock?" released on June 18, 2025, listeners are taken on a journey through centuries-old legends, historical events, and unexplained phenomena surrounding Dungeon Rock in Lynn, Massachusetts.
1. The Legend of Dungeon Rock (00:24 - 09:10)
The episode opens with the age-old legend of a buried treasure in the woods outside Lynn, Massachusetts—a story that has oscillated between mere folklore and seemingly supported historical records over the past three and a half centuries.
Narrator:
"So much of what you're about to hear is based on an oral legend that has swirled and evolved for three and a half centuries." [00:24]
The Story of Temperance:
In 1658, a young girl named Temperance witnesses a mysterious black ship with no flag in Lynn harbor. Her observations of men lowering a longboat and venturing into the Saugus River ignite fears of pirate invasion among the settlers. Despite her initial hesitation, Temperance follows the men into the woods, only to return empty-handed after witnessing the men disappear into the darkness.
Community Response:
Upon reporting the sighting, the town leaders decide to approach the situation with caution rather than immediate aggression. However, the next morning reveals the absence of the black ship, deepening the mystery. The tension escalates when John Vinton, a local ironworker, discovers a cryptic note demanding tools to be placed in the woods in exchange for silver. Despite skepticism, Vinton decides to comply, leading to the revelation of genuine silver coins and confirming the existence of the mysterious men.
Notable Quote:
"The contents of the note worry him deeply and pique his curiosity, too." [04:45]
2. Thomas Vil and the Arrival of the English Soldiers (09:12 - 32:31)
Introduction of Thomas Vil:
Decades after the initial pirate scare, in the mid-19th century, Thomas Vil, a former pirate, arrives in Lynn seeking a peaceful life. Initially welcomed by the townspeople, Vil's demeanor and purchase of necessities seem to indicate a genuine desire to settle.
Unexpected Confrontation:
One autumn day, Vil encounters a British man-of-war in Lynn harbor. Triggered by the sight of his former life resurfacing, Vil flees into the woods only to witness British soldiers capturing his comrades and searching for the legendary treasure.
Struggle and Tragedy:
Vil attempts to protect his men but is ultimately unsuccessful. As British troops seize and constrain his companions, Vil narrowly escapes, leading to a relentless pursuit fueled by fear and desperation. Despite his efforts to remain hidden, Vil is ultimately forced into the cave that becomes synonymous with Dungeon Rock.
The Collapse of the Cave:
Years later, an earthquake devastates the cave, sealing Vil and his men within—a tragic end that transforms the site into a local landmark known as Dungeon Rock.
Notable Quote:
"There was indeed treasure buried in Dungeon Rock, and Hiram would be the one to find it." [22:15]
3. The Marble Family's Quest for Treasure (32:31 - 64:00)
Arrival of the Marbles:
In 1851, the Marble family—Hyram, Arminda, and their children Edwin and Caroline—arrive in Lynn with a mission to uncover the treasure of Dungeon Rock. Motivated by spiritualism and personal loss, Hyram believes he can communicate with the ghost of Captain Thomas Veale to locate the hidden wealth.
Years of Laborious Digging:
Hyram and his son Edwin dedicate years to excavating Dungeon Rock, employing both traditional digging and gunpowder blasts. Despite the slow progress, their perseverance never wanes, fueled by séances and spiritual guidance.
Personal Tragedies and Obsession:
The Marble family's quest is marred by personal losses, including the death of Hyram's wife, Arminda, and later, Hyram himself. Nonetheless, Edwin remains steadfast, continuing the search until his own demise in 1880.
Legacy of Dungeon Rock:
After over two decades of exhaustive efforts without success, Dungeon Rock becomes a tourist attraction. The Marble family's unwavering belief in spiritualism and their relentless pursuit of the treasure cement their place in the legend surrounding Dungeon Rock.
Notable Quotes:
"We want to prove our religion correct, to show that we really did communicate with the ghost of Captain Veale." [45:30]
"Edwin's body is buried at the mouth of Dungeon Rock's cave." [61:00]
4. The Enduring Mystery and Legacy (64:00 - End)
Dungeon Rock Today:
Today, Dungeon Rock stands as a testament to the enduring mystery of Lynn's pirate legends. The tunnel carved by the Marbles remains a tourist destination, inviting curiosity yet safeguarding its dark secrets. Edwin Marble is eternally entwined with the lore, marking his final resting place beneath the rock.
Reflection on Belief and Obsession:
The episode concludes by exploring the Marbles' motivations—not driven by greed, but by a search for meaning and proof of spiritual beliefs. Their tragic end underscores the fine line between unwavering belief and destructive obsession.
Final Thoughts:
"No matter what else lies under the Lynn woods, we know for certain that there's at least one man entombed in Dungeon Rock." [63:45]
Conclusion
"What's Under Dungeon Rock?" masterfully intertwines historical accounts, local legends, and personal tragedies to paint a vivid picture of Lynn, Massachusetts' most enigmatic landmark. Through engaging storytelling and meticulous research, Nexpo uncovers the layers of mystery that continue to captivate and befuddle both residents and visitors alike.
Notable Quote:
"They became part of the legend itself." [63:50]
This episode of "Late Nights with Nexpo" was crafted with the contributions of writers Matt Teamstra, sound designer Alistair Sherman, and a dedicated production team, ensuring a compelling and immersive listening experience.