485 - One Unwashed Lettuce Leaf

Summary

My Favorite Murder Episode 485: "One Unwashed Lettuce Leaf" – Detailed Summary

Released on June 19, 2025, as part of the Exactly Right and iHeartPodcasts network, "My Favorite Murder" hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark delve into the inspiring yet largely forgotten story of Lucy Nichols, a heroic Civil War nurse born into slavery.

---

Introduction and Context

In this special Juneteenth episode, Karen and Georgia set aside their usual comedic banter to honor the significance of the day by sharing the remarkable tale of Lucy Nichols. This episode stands out as a poignant remembrance of Black accomplishments often overshadowed by historical erasure.

A Listener's Discoveries and the Harper Lee Connection

Early in the episode, Georgia shares an engaging anecdote sparked by an email from a listener intrigued by the intersection of Harper Lee's life and historical truths. The listener recounts discovering a typewritten note from Harper Lee, urging her child to cherish books as the best company. This discovery serves as a metaphorical bridge to the episode's main narrative, emphasizing the enduring impact of perseverance and knowledge.

• Georgia Hardstark (06:33): "The idea of a basement safe is on par with a safe deposit box at the bank, right?"

The Life of Lucy Nichols: From Slavery to Heroism

Early Life and Enslavement

Lucy Nichols was born in April 1838 in Halifax County, North Carolina, into slavery under the Higgs family. Her early years were marked by the harsh realities of being considered property, with her existence documented only through legal inventories that stripped her identity and agency.

Family Separation and Movements

• Georgia Hardstark (03:16): "So, I got a Chinese chicken salad from there, but the salad part wasn't lettuce. It was all cut up cabbage."

Lucy experienced multiple separations from her family as her enslavers moved her and her siblings between properties, a common tactic to divide and control enslaved individuals.

Motherhood Amidst Turmoil

By 1860, Lucy was married to another enslaved man, and they welcomed a daughter named Mona. This period was bittersweet, as the birth of Mona instilled hope and love in Lucy, juxtaposed against the ever-present fear of deepening enslavement due to the Civil War's onset.

• Georgia Hardstark (17:28): "The pride and joy of a new mother and the fear and sorrow of a life bound into slave labor."

Escape and the Union Camp

As the Civil War erupted in 1861, Lucy recognized the imminent threat of being sold further south, which would likely mean separation from her family and freedom. In the summer of 1862, she bravely orchestrated an escape with a small group, including her husband and baby Mona.

Their escape led them to the Indiana's 23rd Volunteer Regiment Union camp. Despite the pervasive racism of the era, the soldiers at the camp chose compassion over legality, refusing to return Lucy and her group to their pursuers.

• Georgia Hardstark (22:32): "When someone from the Higgs home shows up at the 23rd Regiment's camp, the men refuse to turn Lucy and her group over."

Life at the Union Camp and Rising as a Nurse

At the camp, Lucy's skills as a laundress and cook quickly became invaluable. Her innate ability to soothe and care for the wounded did not go unnoticed. Dr. Magnus Brucker, the regiment's surgeon, recognized her talents and appointed her as his right hand, effectively making her an unofficial nurse.

• Georgia Hardstark (25:02): "She was fearlessly going to the front to seek out wounded soldiers and officers, all equal in her mind."

Despite the grueling conditions—ranging from grapeshot injuries to rampant diseases like dysentery and malaria—Lucy remained a beacon of hope and resilience. Her role expanded as she became integral to the regiment's medical efforts, earning the profound respect and gratitude of the soldiers.

Personal Tragedies and Continued Service

Lucy faced immense personal loss during the war, including the death of her young daughter Mona during the Siege of Vicksburg in 1863. This tragedy deepened her commitment to the regiment, leading her to return to the front even after a short furlough in Indiana.

• Georgia Hardstark (30:14): "The war brought Lucy opportunity and the prospect of freedom, it also delivered intense personal tragedy."

Post-War Life and Legacy

After the Union's victory in 1865, Lucy settled in New Albany, Indiana, where she continued to serve as a nurse and domestic worker. Her dedication extended beyond her professional life as she maintained lifelong friendships with the soldiers of the 23rd Regiment.

Struggle for Recognition and Pension

Despite her invaluable contributions, Lucy's official recognition and pension claims were initially denied due to the lack of formal records—a common plight among women who served during the war. Demonstrating unwavering determination, Lucy spearheaded a seven-year fight, amassing 55 testimonials from her former comrades. Her persistence culminated in a special act of Congress in December 1898, granting her a modest pension and officially recognizing her role.

• Georgia Hardstark (36:08): "She takes 7 years, 55 testimonials, and an avalanche of paperwork. Yes, she wins."

Enduring Impact and Memorialization

Lucy Nichols not only secured her own recognition but also paved the way for future generations of female nurses. By 1900, nursing had transformed into a predominantly female profession, a legacy directly influenced by Lucy's trailblazing efforts.

In 2019, Lucy's enduring legacy was immortalized with a statue at the Second Baptist Church in New Albany and a permanent exhibition at the Carnegie Center for Art and History, highlighting her contributions and unwavering spirit.

• Georgia Hardstark (38:25): "Lucy Nichols is now the subject of a permanent exhibition at the Carnegie Center for Art and History in New Albany."

Conclusion: A Testament to Resilience and Service

Lucy Nichols' story is a profound testament to the resilience, courage, and unwavering dedication of Black individuals who fought for freedom and dignity in the face of unimaginable adversity. Her journey from enslavement to becoming a respected nurse and her relentless pursuit of recognition underscore the significant, yet often overlooked, roles played by Black women in American history.

• Georgia Hardstark (38:25): "Her battle to build a life beyond enslavement, to serve, to work, to secure a pension and receive legitimization is a testament to the lingering effects of inequality."

Final Reflections

Karen and Georgia close the episode reflecting on the importance of uncovering and honoring such stories, emphasizing the need for continued recognition of those whose contributions have shaped history but remain underrepresented.

• Georgia Hardstark (39:52): "Lucy Nichols is a trailblazer in more ways than one... Her story is the kind that people really need to hear."

---

Key Quotes:

• Georgia Hardstark (25:02): "Fearlessly going to the front to seek out wounded soldiers and officers, all equal in her mind."

• Georgia Hardstark (36:08): "She takes 7 years, 55 testimonials, and an avalanche of paperwork. Yes, she wins."

• Georgia Hardstark (38:25): "Lucy Nichols is now the subject of a permanent exhibition at the Carnegie Center for Art and History in New Albany."

---

This summary encapsulates the heart-wrenching and inspiring journey of Lucy Nichols as presented in Episode 485 of "My Favorite Murder." For listeners seeking to honor Juneteenth and explore profound historical narratives, this episode serves as a moving reminder of the extraordinary individuals who have shaped our collective history.

Transcript

[Georgia Hardstark]

This is exactly right.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Think an EV can't fit your family, your gear and your sanity? Think again. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is Hyundai's first three row all electric SUV. So yes, you finally get space and an EV. It has class leading interior space, purposeful tech and the rear wheel drive S trim gets an EPA estimated 335 miles on a full charge. Actual range will vary. Learn more about the Ionic 9 at Hyundai USA.com, call 562-314-4603 for complete details. Goodbye when your to do list feels endless, let Audible turn it into a mini adventure.

[Georgia Hardstark]

You'll be the Robinson Crusoe of vacuuming.

[Karen Kilgariff]

You can dive in to Never Flinch by Stephen King, or you can get hooked on Mad Love, an Audible original that keeps you guessing with every chapter.

[Georgia Hardstark]

With thousands of titles and originals, Audible keeps your brain entertained while you tackle real life style.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Start listening and discover what's beyond the edge of your seat.

[Georgia Hardstark]

New members can try Audible now free for 30 days and dive into a world of new thrills.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Visit audible.com murder or text murder to.

[Georgia Hardstark]

500500 that's audible.com murder or text murder To 500500 goodbye whether your summer plans.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Involve hiking, hosting or hiding indoors, Symbiotica's new Sheilajit Liquid Complex can help you stay sharp and energized. Taking Symbiotica supplements is one of the easiest ways to stay consistent with your health goals, even during a busy summer. So I've been taking these and not only do they taste great because they're made with honey and cacao, but also you feel alert all day. Be the first to try Symbiotica's Shilajit Liquid Complex at Symbiotica.com My Favorite Murder and get 20% off plus free shipping. That's Symbiotica.com My Favorite murder for 20% off Symbiotica's new Sheilajit Liquid Complex Goodbye hello and welcome to My Favorite Murder.

[Georgia Hardstark]

That's Georgia Hardstark, that's Karen Killagariff, and we're here to just do a super quick little episode for you. Just a little solo. Just get this. Let's get it out there. Let's get it done.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah, it's officially summer. We're enjoying the heat. Hope you are too. I don't know what's going on.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Oh, I. I had food poisoning last night and didn't. Didn't sleep at all. Couldn't stop barfing.

[Karen Kilgariff]

What was it? I always want to know, but I know you don't. No One knows, right.

[Georgia Hardstark]

I'm trying to back time it, and if it is the restaurant that my dad and I ate at together, it will break my heart because we eat there all the time and I love it. And I was just like. As it was starting, I was just like, no, because I've had bad food poisoning once before and sorry, but remember that. Well, maybe I shouldn't name names, but I don't think these stores exist anymore. Remember that Fresh Choice in Highland Park?

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah, it was like a. Yeah, it was like a little grocery, like pre made packaged stuff.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Yeah, Right. Which when you first go into it, you're like, this is a dre for the person that can't cook and doesn't cook. And.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Right.

[Georgia Hardstark]

So I got a Chinese chicken salad from there, but the salad part wasn't lettuce. It was all cut up cabbage. And then like 24 hours later, I literally thought I was gonna have to go to the hospital. And since that time, and that was 2010s, literally the word cabbage bums me out. Like, I can't even think about it. So as I was trying to figure out where this came from, I was like, but when you find out, there's gonna be a whole realm of things ruined forever. Fore.

[Karen Kilgariff]

But I think that in general, lettuces and cabbages and that kind of thing is just like dangerous and way more than we think we realize. So it doesn't mean the restaurant gave it to you because they.

[Georgia Hardstark]

That's true.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Are bad. It's like just like one unwashed lettuce leaf can, like ruin everything.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Also in these days, it's just such a. You know, as we all talk about this dystopian nightmare we're sliding into when those, like the stories of recalls that keep on happening.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Oh, my God.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Because everything just been like deregulated and like, yeah, everybody just do what you want. Just like, yeah, my God, pick your level.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah. It's absurd. So I feel like that it's not. I always want someone like, it was this thing that I ate at this place. So I can always avoid it.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Right.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Same with True Crime, where it's like, this thing happened and this thing happened. Now I can avoid it.

[Georgia Hardstark]

You know, we all wish. If only, if only.

[Karen Kilgariff]

It's. Life isn't like that, unfortunately. So I think you don't have to worry about the restaurant.

[Georgia Hardstark]

And also, I don't know if this has ever happened to you when you're sick, but you watch a certain thing on TV and then the thing seems worse than, like, you're Trying to enjoy it. But you're like, this represents all of my suffering.

[Karen Kilgariff]

I can't hear the theme song to Orange is the New Black without getting depressed because I watched it in this really deep depression of my life back in the old apartment.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Yep.

[Karen Kilgariff]

And so what's that? That beautiful song that the opening is? I love it.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Is that a Regina Spector song? I think? Yes.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah, it's you've got Time by Regina Spector. I will cry. I will fucking just go into a deep depression if I hear that song. Because I watched that show.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Yes.

[Karen Kilgariff]

While I was depressed.

[Georgia Hardstark]

And also that show. You go through that show.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah.

[Georgia Hardstark]

I mean, that is such an experience of a show. It's not like, you know, you're just kind of like, oh, this whole thing, you're just like, oh, my God. No, I'm also in prison now. I'm also trying to survive. Whatever.

[Karen Kilgariff]

So it's so sad. Okay.

[Georgia Hardstark]

It's a lot.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Well, I'm sorry about your food poisoning. Let's. Hey, let's make this quick.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Hey, we can do this. Look, I'm blessed to have food poisoning in this goddamn day and age. Here's kind of a cute. Which is somebody wrote an email after the Harper Lee episode that I did, if you want to hear it. Because I said, if anybody out there. The whole thing was about how Harper Lee was down in that town where Reverend Willie Maxwell was killing people. And people think that she may have been writing a book. Nothing ever came of it. And then there was a part where somebody, years later, had found a note that she had put into an encyclopedia, I think, at the local library. So I asked for if anybody has secret Harper Lee treasure that they want to share with us.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah.

[Georgia Hardstark]

To please do that. So we got an email.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Oh, my God.

[Georgia Hardstark]

And the subject line is Harper Lee treasure. It just starts now. I wasn't able to search a dusty attic as Karen instructed in Alexander City for the missing William Maxwell manuscript. My apologies. Would you settle for a retired educator's basement safe in rural Missouri?

[Karen Kilgariff]

Always.

[Georgia Hardstark]

I mean, the idea of a basement safe is on par with safe deposit box at the bank, right?

[Karen Kilgariff]

A safe, like what? Who personal safe has a fucking safe? That's so cool.

[Georgia Hardstark]

I walked into my sister's garage when I was home, and there was a safe in her garage. And I was like, what the hell is she on safe for?

[Karen Kilgariff]

She rob a bank or something?

[Georgia Hardstark]

It was the previous owners. It's just sitting out there because no one can move it.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Did I tell you that when Vince and I way back we were looking at houses to buy and one of them had a fur safe. That's how old the house was. It was like a climate controlled huge safe just for like this society ladies, furs back in the 20s.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Holy shit.

[Karen Kilgariff]

I know. And I was like, okay, I just want this.

[Georgia Hardstark]

That is amazing. Yep, go in there, lock yourself in. Watch Orange is the New Black. Get it taken care of. Okay, so we're still in this email. So basically they're apologizing, but would we settle for this, A basement safe in rural Missouri? What we're saying to you right now, writer, is that yes. The answer is yes, back in the email. If so, your search will uncover the typewritten note of advice Harper Lee sent to my parents after my birth. What then? It says, backing up a bit. When my two educator parents chose to name their perfect firstborn me, they chose the name Harper. In 1993, when I was almost five years old, my father, the English teacher, wrote to Harper Lee with no expectation of hearing back as she lived a notoriously quiet life. To their surprise, she wrote back the following address to me. I actually sent a picture of this and it says, dear Harper, you are beginning a life in a world quite different from the world I knew as a child. The only thing I can say is in your reading, if there are any books left to read instead of, watch, always keep the best company. That way you can't go wrong. With all good wishes, Harper Lee.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Oh, my God.

[Georgia Hardstark]

And then back into the rest of it, they say. I've done my best to live up to this advice for the last 40 years and now get to foster the same passion for literary works with my own child. My name namesake was right. Books make the best company. Stay sexy, protect the written word and libraries, and make Harper Lee proud. All the best, Harper Z.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Wow. What a, like, coincidence. Like, what if that was I? Was Harper listening? Oh, my God. Beautiful.

[Georgia Hardstark]

I know.

[Karen Kilgariff]

I'd be like, I have an email.

[Georgia Hardstark]

I know. Here, here you go. I'm Harper Z. You want this? And it's a beautifully typewritten little note.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Gorgeous.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Signed by Harper Lee at the bottom.

[Karen Kilgariff]

I love it.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Also, wouldn't you just love your dad for being that kind, forward thinking? Yeah.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah. Oh, that's beautiful.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Nice job.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Cool.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Should we do some highlights?

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah. We have a podcast network. It's called Exactly Right Media. Here are some highlights before we begin.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Over on our podcast, the Knife. I cannot wait to listen to this episode. They're telling the harrowing story of Jackie Pflug, who survived the hijacking of Egypt Air Flight 648 in 1985.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Incredible. And then we have an exactly right crossover for the ages. Roz welcomes that's Messed up host Liza Trager back to Ghosted. They talk about ghosts, psychics, and one very dramatic haunting. And the two of them together, man, get ready to laugh.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Come on. Also this week over on Bananas, Kurt and Scotty asked the eternal question. Did you know that Andre the Giant let out a 16 second fart on the set of Princess Bride? I mean, what a great news podcast.

[Karen Kilgariff]

16 seconds and then.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Yeah, count it out.

[Karen Kilgariff]

That's a long one.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Hold your breath that long and see. See what happens. Oh my God, I can't wait to hear that whole thing.

[Karen Kilgariff]

And then this is really exciting. So we have brand new merch based on the hit episode of MFM animated Look for a Goth. You guys loved it. We love it. So you can get a ladies muscle tee or a unisex tee featuring the gorgeous goth girl drawn by the great Nick Terry. And it says look for a goth. So it's like kind of perfect for people who aren't goth but want to support the goth community. Yeah, it's perfect.

[Georgia Hardstark]

You don't like all those piercings and the makeup. You don't have to do any of that. You can just wear a goth on your shirt.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah. There's also a decal that says look for a goth. That's designed by our in house graphic designer, Vanessa Lilac.

[Georgia Hardstark]

It's so good. It's like a little baby on board. Look for a goth triangle. It looks very official and it's basically like helping people out.

[Karen Kilgariff]

So go to my favorite murder.com to check out the store. We have a lot of great merch in there, including that summer's here.

[Georgia Hardstark]

And if you're over the age of 11, guess what? You still have to wear shoes.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Might as well get comfortable with Bombas.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Getting serious about running. Bomba's athletic socks are designed to fight blisters, wick, sweat and keep you comfortable whether you're on mile one or marathon training.

[Karen Kilgariff]

If you're planning your summer vacation, they even have socks that can make international flights bearable. Bombas compression socks help curb aches and keep those legs energized for all the.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Sightseeing ahead headed to a wedding. Bombas has ultra soft dress socks that work with heels or hard sole shoes. So you can stay comfy and cute, keep dancing.

[Karen Kilgariff]

And you know what goes great with new summer socks? Fresh white T shirts, waterproof slides, and a few pairs of buttery soft underwear. Bombas makes all of that too.

[Georgia Hardstark]

That's fairly true. I actually got some T shirts and some underwear the last time we got sent some bomba stuff because I have so many of their socks and love them and all of the other stuff is as high quality just like it's your go to thing. Super soft, super comfortable, great to wear.

[Karen Kilgariff]

It is. I love those undies. Sorry I said undies. Head over to bombas.com mfm and use code mfm for 20% off your first purchase.

[Georgia Hardstark]

That's B O M B A S.com mfm code mfm at checkout bombas.com mfm.

[Karen Kilgariff]

And Use code mfm Goodbye.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Look, we all fantasize about going off the grid, unplugging, maybe spending some time as a trad wife. But let's be honest, we all need.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Reliable wireless and that's where Visible comes in.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Visible is the ultimate wireless hack. It's unlimited wireless that puts you in control. You get unlimited data and hotspots so you can stay connected on the go.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Visible runs on Verizon's 5G network, so you get great coverage, fast speeds, seamless connection.

[Georgia Hardstark]

We're talking about access to 4K streaming.

[Karen Kilgariff]

The Visible Plus Pro plan is premium wireless without the premium cost.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Plus it's all digital. You manage your plan in the app and you can even switch your service from your phone. It only takes about 15 minutes. Ready for wireless that lets you live in the know. Make the [e-mail] plan starting at $25 a month.

[Karen Kilgariff]

For their best features, get the new Visible Plus Pro plan for $45 a month. Terms apply.

[Georgia Hardstark]

See visible.com for plan features and network management details. Goodbye. So today this episode comes out on Juneteenth, the day that marks the ending of slavery in the United States. And so I saw a TikTok on an incredible woman. So today's story is about a remarkable woman born into slavery in 1830s North Carolina. And because of this and the erasure of black accomplishment by a racist establishment, there are gaps in what we know about her life. But luckily, and historians have worked very hard to change that, searching archives and pouring over old documents to find information and basically piece her life story together. So because of that reporting, I am able to tell you today the amazing story of heroic Civil War nurse Lucy Nichols.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Whoa.

[Georgia Hardstark]

So the sources for the story that Maren used are the research of Pamela Peters, Curtis Peters, and Victor McGinty, and the reporting of Dr. Eileen Yanoviak, who published a book about Lucy called the Tenacious Nurse Nichols and The rest of the sources are in our show notes. Lucy's life begins in April of 1838, when she's born into slavery in Halifax County, North Carolina. She's owned by Jacob and Sally Higgs. And because that's the way it worked back then, she is forced to take their last name as her own. So technically, her legal name is Lucy Higgs. We don't know the names of Lucy's parents or the details of what her day to day life was like. Much of what historians have cobbled together comes from the Higgs's legal documents. And those legal documents purely speak of the people that they owned as inventory. So it is how many of them, the cost, the names, and they track her movements to the different households within the family, or they name her in legal disputes over which family members owns her.

[Karen Kilgariff]

That's so crazy and awful.

[Georgia Hardstark]

It's so horrible. But here is what we do know. In 1839, when Lucy is an infant, Jacob and Sally Higgs 29 year old son Reuben claims legal ownership of her, Lucy's seven year old brother Aaron and her four year old sister Angeline. So before she's a year old, Reuben takes Lucy and her two siblings in a small group of other enslaved workers from the Higgs, North Carolina property to his new home in Tennessee. It's unclear if Lucy's parents go with this group, but under slavery, families are constantly and very commonly torn apart. So when Lucy's 8 years old, she and her sister Angeline are forcibly moved again after Reuben's wife Eliza divorces him and moves to Mississippi. And Maren makes the note, she says sort of an aside, but divorce would have been extremely atypical in the south in this era. Which is the first thing I thought of where I was like, oh my God, this woman was like goodbye. I mean this. But we don't know why the marriage ended. We do know that Reuben ended up marrying his first cousin not long after. So then when Eliza dies, Lucy and Angeline are moved again to another Higgs property back in Tennessee in a town called Bolivar, not far from the Tennessee Mississippi border. And here, Lucy, Angeline and their brother Aaron are reunited. By 1860, Lucy is in her early and now married to a man who is also enslaved by the Higgs family. They have a baby girl that they name Mona. And we know Mona's age because the Higgs 1860 property inventory list, she appears there listed as infant. That same document reduces Lucy and Mona's lives to a dollar amount. Together they are valued at $1,400.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Wow.

[Georgia Hardstark]

So it's presumed Lucy's husband is Mona's father. But of course, very dark side of slavery is that there's always the disturbing possibility that Lucy was sexually assaulted by her white owner and became pregnant because of that. What we do know is that Mona's birth marks a very pivotal moment in Lucy's life. This is what historian Eileen Yanoviak writes. She says, quote, the birth of Mona was undoubtedly steeped with mixed emotions. The pride and joy of a new mother and the fear and sorrow of a life bound into slave labor. It offered Lucy the opportunity to love and be loved unconditionally. She experienced the instinct to protect her child. So it's kind of cool. It's like that driving force behind what the rest of the story becomes. So in 1861, the Civil War begins. And a year later, in July, in Kentucky, which is directly north of Tennessee, they're mostly under Union control. And the Higgs family, as enslavers, probably are starting to feel the walls closing in. So they start talking about trafficking their enslaved laborers further south, where they can be sold for tens of thousands of dollars each. Lucy knows what this means. She will wind up deeper in Confederate territory and farther away from the possibility of freedom if she would ever want to try to flee to a Union state. And because of that, it's almost guaranteed she'll be separated from her loved ones, including her baby daughter. So Lucy and a few of the other people enslaved by the Hig family plan their escape and bravely set out at night in the summer of 1862. So we can assume the group is very small. Lucy's thought to be the only adult woman in it, which means her sister Angeline did not go with them. But historians believe Lucy's husband is a part of the group. And we know for sure Lucy is carrying Mona with her on this. So how frightening to be an escaping slave with a baby.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Totally.

[Georgia Hardstark]

I mean. And Eileen Yanoviak writes this. She says, quote, mona was only two or three years of age then, a bright eyed and merry child whose sweet chatter or loud wails of fear could jeopardize their escape. But in the sweltering heat of a Tennessee summer, Lucy swaddled Mona in her gown and snuck away in the COVID of night.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Wow.

[Georgia Hardstark]

So, like many escaping slaves, the group almost certainly uses the stars to navigate north. It's unclear if they have a more specific destination in mind other than than just going north, but they would be making their way through briars and bushes a lot of the Time barefoot, which is the thing I didn't really think of until now. Or just like, getting out with what you have. It's not like they had a bunch of stuff that they could take with them or it's worst case scenario. Of course, in every way, they're trying to keep hidden in wooded areas. A lot of it would be unfamiliar, definitely hostile territory. And it'd be easier for them to get turned around or lost, which could, of course, lead to them being recaptured and then brutally punished.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Of course.

[Georgia Hardstark]

So this group makes it three miles when they arrive outside a Union army camp. This camp houses hundreds of soldiers making up Indiana's 23rd Volunteer Regiment. The soldiers come from a town called New Albany, Indiana, more than 300 miles from their current post in Tennessee. Major will later describe Lucy and her group as, quote, dusty and footsore from the long and hurried journey. Some sources say the group traveled 30 miles, but experts on her life say it was more likely 3 miles. Either way, in the middle of the night, just trying to get away.

[Karen Kilgariff]

No shoes, My God. I mean, all the things.

[Georgia Hardstark]

It's like all a hundred miles. Yeah. So, of course, the Higgses know immediately when the slaves escape, so they're already in pursuit of this group. So now Lucy and the group are in the horrible position of having to beg these white, white Union soldiers to help protect them from their enslavers. Because even a Union camp is a threat to freedom seekers like Lucy. Escaped slaves risk assault and sexual violence or being taken captive under the Fugitive Slave Act. And this is a federal law requiring that escaped enslaved people be returned to their, quote, owners and often resulted in a monetary reward.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah, it's the reality of it. Right?

[Georgia Hardstark]

Yeah. If you're being seen as less than human anyway, then no matter what side you're on, it's, you know, it's that. But also, the Union soldiers could just turn them away and basically say, we can't help you.

[Karen Kilgariff]

I think people think that just because it's like the Union, they're not racist. And it's like, they're still racist.

[Georgia Hardstark]

It's just not.

[Karen Kilgariff]

It's a different flavor.

[Georgia Hardstark]

That's right. Fortunately, though, these Union soldiers do the right thing.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Right.

[Georgia Hardstark]

When someone from the Higgs home does show up to the 23rd Regiment's camp, the men of the 23rd refuse to turn Lucy and her group over. There are theories that that's because of baby Mona. Even these hardened soldiers wouldn't want to throw a small child to the wolves that way. And there are laws known as confiscation acts where Union forces are technically allowed to seize any property being used to support the Confederacy. And because enslaved people are seen as and treated like property, these freedom seekers can arguably be considered contraband of war. So. So the Higgs family are furious, and there's a standoff, but the soldiers don't back down. And so the Higgs have no choice but to leave. I mean, it's a camp of soldiers, all armed, you know. So Lucy then decides to stay at the camp, presumably because she doesn't have other options. They didn't have a final destination, and at least here she can feed and care for Mona, who immediately becomes a rare source of joy for the regiment soldiers. Eileen Yanoviak writes, quote, the soldiers would lovingly croon to the little girl to earn her giggles and glee. What I know. But of course, nothing's free. So Lucy and her husband have to work very hard for basic necessities if they're gonna stay at this camp. Lucy's immediately put to work as a laundress and a cook. While her husband would have likely been assigned manual labor jobs or even could be enlisted in black volunteer regiments. Eileen Yanoviak says, quote, it was essentially a different type of bondage that requ Required work in exchange for protection, provisions, and the promise of freedom. End quote. Within weeks, the Indiana 23rd is instructed to pack up and move on to the next battle. They set up camp in Southern towns where the fighting requires them. So Lucy's responsibilities begin to evolve. Within a year of her arrival at the regiment, she becomes known for how good she is at soothing the sick and treating minor injuries, which are things she's learned as an enslaved domestic worker. So big part of her job and skills that she's basically already earned and learned. Lucy's caregiving skills eventually catch the attention of the regiment's surgeon, Dr. Magnus Brucker, and he chooses her to serve as his right hand. This is a critical and high stakes job that most doctors at the time would only consider another white man to be able to do.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah. Wow.

[Georgia Hardstark]

This story keeps making me think of the Nick. Do you remember that series the Nick? Definitely looking at history. We just have no idea, unless we study it, the details of that kind of stuff, of like, it's the accomplishment alone. She must have been incredible to have this white surgeon be like, no, it's gotta be you. You're the one that's gonna come and help me. But because war demands it out of sheer need, more and more women take on nursing roles, often with no Real training. And Lucy already has experience, has done it. So these women include Harriet Tubman and the founder of the Red Cross, Clara Barton, who were forced to learn everything in real time in wartime. Dr. Brucker then offers Lucy the unofficial title of nurse and promises she will eventually be compensated for her service. So that promise really matters to Lucy, because even though of course, her immediate world is consumed by the war, she's trying to make plans and prepare for her and Mona's future as freer women. Look, we all fantasize about going off the grid, unplugging, maybe spending some time as a trad wife. But let's be honest, we all need reliable wireless.

[Karen Kilgariff]

And that's where Visible comes in.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Visible is the ultimate wireless hack. It's unlimited wireless that puts you in control. You get unlimited data and hotspots so you can stay connected on the go.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Visible runs on Verizon's 5G network, so you get great coverage, fast speeds, seamless connection.

[Georgia Hardstark]

We're talking about access to 4K streaming.

[Karen Kilgariff]

The Visible Plus Pro plan is premium wireless with out the premium cost.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Plus it's all digital. You manage your plan in the app and you can even switch your service from your phone. It only takes about 15 minutes. Ready for wireless that lets you live in the know. Make the switch at visible.com plans starting at $25 a month for their best features.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Get the new Visible Plus Pro plan for $45 a month. Terms apply.

[Georgia Hardstark]

See visible.com for plan features and network management details. Goodbye. Goodbye. So Lucy takes the job. She immediately begins tending to gruesome injuries. The soldiers are torn apart by grapeshot, which are clusters of small cannonballs as well as musket fire that can easily shred muscle and obliterate bone. Lucy's right in the middle of the action. Later, a fellow soldier will describe her as, quote, fearlessly going to the front to seek out wounded soldiers and officers, all equal in her mind, to administer water to thirsty masks, pull away wounded soldiers and gently care for them. She witnessed men gasping their last breaths, whispering comforts to them as their angel of mercy.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Wow.

[Georgia Hardstark]

End quote.

[Karen Kilgariff]

How horrifying. Yeah.

[Georgia Hardstark]

She's just immediately a full time war medic.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah.

[Georgia Hardstark]

At the front.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Lucy also cares for the regiment through relentless waves of illness. And she shepherds many sick men to their death. 217 members of the 23rd Regiment died during this war, 145 of them dying of diseases like disease, dysentery, malaria, and typhoid fever.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Holy shit. That's.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Yeah.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Big percentage.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Yeah. So Lucy's constantly surrounded by death and chaos, as well as dwindling food rations, filthy living conditions, and she still has Mona to take care of and worry about, but she keeps marching forward with the 23rd Regiment. And she's there around 30 battles.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Oh, my God.

[Georgia Hardstark]

She did 30 times.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Can you imagine having the food poisoning you have right now? But in a war on the front with. No.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Yep. But people are just like, can you push this bone back into my arm so I can go keep fighting? It's like. It's really. Can you give me two seconds? I just have to retch. Okay. So the Louisville Career Journal later reports, quote, she was sometimes at the rear, sometimes at the front, and often in the thickest of the battle, as much a soldier as her male companions. Except that she did not carry arms. She never received a scratch.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Wow. Wow.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Isn't that wild?

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah.

[Georgia Hardstark]

So Lucy's a nurse during the Battle of Atlanta, where Union forces capture one of the South's most critical cities, as well as Sherman's March to the sea, which is the brutal push to the Georgia coast that helps turn the tide of the war in the Union's favor. So she's there for all the big ones.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah. Damn. That's amazing.

[Georgia Hardstark]

She's also present at the Battle of Vicksburg in 1863, where, following a relentless 47 day siege, the Union finally wins. It's seen as a turning point in the Civil War, but it comes with an enormous loss for Lucy, because this is when Mona, who is now around three or four years old, dies.

[Karen Kilgariff]

No.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Mm. We don't know why you didn't warn us. I know. I'm sorry. But this is a story of slavery and war. So it's a. It's as bad as it.

[Karen Kilgariff]

The warning comes with the territory, but.

[Georgia Hardstark]

It'S also like putting perspective on this life this woman led under the greatest oppression and in the worst circumstances, like going from slavery to the Civil War frontlines.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Sure.

[Georgia Hardstark]

My God.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah.

[Georgia Hardstark]

So we don't know how or why Mona dies. It is another detail of Lucy's life that is lost to time and to indifference, given how rampant and lethal disease is during the war, is very possible. Mona just gets one of these diseases, doesn't recover. It's also possible she was killed like nearly every other aspect of her life. We don't have Lucy's perspective on her daughter's death, but a member of the 23rd Regiment will report that, quote, in the siege of Vicksburg, after the city had been captured, our regiment was one of the first to go in and receive surrender. Aunt Lucy followed in our wake a short time after her child died. It almost broke the mother's heart. The men, too, had grown to be so fond of Mona, and it was a severe pain that went through the entire 23rd.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Oh, my God. That's so touching.

[Georgia Hardstark]

It's so sad.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah.

[Georgia Hardstark]

The soldiers collect flowers from Mona's grave, and she's buried in Vicksburg alongside members of the regiment who were killed in that battle.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Oh, my God.

[Georgia Hardstark]

It's believed that this is when Lucy's husband enlists in the war. Yanoviak writes, quote, perhaps he was compelled to fight in honor of his fallen daughter, unable to bear the burden of her daughter death as a passive bystander of the war effort. But after his enlistment, Lucy will never see her husband again. Yoviak adds, quote, while the war brought Lucy opportunity and the prospect of freedom, it also delivered intense personal tragedy. She left behind her siblings, lost her husband, and watched her beloved child die. In contrast to the perceptions that enslaved people were passive recipients of freedom bestowed upon them by Yankees, Lucy's story, like so many others, illustrates the intense self sacrifice made by black men and women to attain freedom. They, too, went deep into the war zones, working to survive bloody battles in a brutal civil war that tore the nation apart to reconcile its brutal past. That just makes me think of the movie Glory. If you haven't seen the movie Glory, you absolutely have to see that movie. It's so good. Good. So about a year later, in 1864, the 23rd Regiment is granted a 60 day furlough and heads home to New Albany, Indiana, for the first time in years. And Lucy goes with them. In Indiana, she's on free soil and she could leave the war behind. But when that furlough ends, she decides to return to the front, perhaps because the regiment gives her something to focus on in her grief, or maybe out of loyalty to the soldiers who've become like family to her. So she has a choice. She makes it to Freedom. And she goes back.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Damn.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Either way, the 23rd Regiment is active through the final days of the Civil War, which ends with Union victory in 1865, when the troops march through Washington, D.C. in the Union's victory parade, which is known as the Grand Review. It's clear how much the men of the 23rd Regiment Respect Lucy because she marches right beside them as one of them.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Oh, my God. God, stop.

[Georgia Hardstark]

I know. After the war, the men urge Lucy, who is still only in her 20s, to settle in New Albany. And she does It. Here, she becomes one of the few female members of the grand army of the Republic, which is an organization for union veterans. And she stays very close with her fellow soldiers while getting back on her feet. She earns a living as a domestic worker and a nurse in some of their houses. Then, when Lucy is around 32 years old, she marries a man named John Nichols. Like Lucy, he is a black veteran of the Civil War. Their wedding is held at the Second Baptist Church in New Albany, which is a known stop on the Underground Railroad. And then they buy a house together. Lucy finally seems to have some long overdue happiness and stability. But one thing is missing. She has not been paid for all of the work that she did during the war, and her pension claim is denied. At this point, the US pension system is massive, actively paying out over 950,000 veterans and their families, some going all the way back to the Revolutionary War.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Wow.

[Georgia Hardstark]

The payments eat up around 40% of our federal budget. And it's a commendable, progressive system in many ways, but it's also very flawed. More than 18,000 women who serve the union as hospital nurses, laundresses, and corporations are left out entirely, mostly because they don't have the official records that are required to actually get the government to sign off on their pension.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Right. Shit.

[Georgia Hardstark]

But remember, Lucy was hired by Dr. Brucker, so she is one of those thousands of women without formal paperwork outlining her service. But her bravery and determination isn't going anywhere. So in the 1890s, after her pension claim is denied, she starts a battle with the US Government.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Damn.

[Georgia Hardstark]

She starts by filing a petition, which is one of the few documents we have actually written by Lucy herself. And in her voice, so it says, quote, I served as a nurse for about three years. I cooked for the soldiers, dressed their wounds, gave them medicine and washed for them, and did anything I was called to do. I never received a nickel for my services as a nurse. Dr. Brer told me I would get paid, and I worked on the hope of getting paid. So Lucy's initial appeals are all rejected. And for most women, this would be the end of the road, and they just wouldn't get a pension. But Lucy keeps on fighting. She even strategically enlists her fellow soldiers to back her up. Dozens of men from the 23rd Regiment step up, including Dr. Brucker himself, testifying that he could not have done his job without Lucy.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Wow. That's so incredible.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Takes 7 years, 55 testimonials, and an avalanche of paperwork. Yes, she's just got to get everybody Basically who was left from the regiment. Right rough that she could get a hold of. And all the paperwork.

[Karen Kilgariff]

So much paperwork.

[Georgia Hardstark]

So much paperwork, paperwork. But she does it and she wins. In December of 1898, when Lucy is in her mid-50s, she is finally granted a pension through a special act of Congress. Now, it isn't much. She's going to be paid $12 a month, which is roughly around $480 in today's money.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah, that's not nothing.

[Georgia Hardstark]

It's not nothing. And it's a hard won victory that helps pave the way for others. A few Years later, in 1901, Congress formally recognizes the role of nurse as an official military post, making all Civil War nurses eligible for pensions.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Oh, interesting.

[Georgia Hardstark]

And that's because of Lucy fighting that hard and never giving up. So Lucy is a trailblazer in more ways than one. The work she and other women did during the war transforms nursing from a male dominated job into one predominantly female. And by the year 1900, 91% of American nurses are women.

[Karen Kilgariff]

That's so cool. Wow.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Lucy stays close friends with the men of the 23rd Regiment for the rest of her life. She's at every reunion with them. She marches in every Memorial Day parade alongside them. And she's even on the invite list. As their children grow up and get married. I know. In turn, the men are also there for her, like when she gets the measles and years later when she has a stroke. Lucy never fully recovers from the latter, and she passes away in January of 1915 at the age of 69. 9. She's buried next to her husband John at the Second Baptist Church where they'd been married decades earlier. Lucy's buried with full military honors.

[Karen Kilgariff]

My God.

[Georgia Hardstark]

In an elaborate ceremony with her obituary noting that, quote, Lucy was known to almost everyone in the city and everyone honored her for her loyalty. End quote. A century later, in 2019, a statue is put up at this church depicting Lucy holding her baby, Mona.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Oh my God. Stop.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Finally returning Lucy with the child she loves so much. And Lucy Nichols is now the subject of a permanent exhibition at the Carnegie center for Art and History in New Albany, where Eileen Yanoviak serves as executive director. And quoting a historian named A. Glen Crother, Eileen says, quote, lucy's story is indeed an important example of determination, grit, service and loyalty. But more importantly, her battle to build a life beyond enslavement, to serve, to work, to secure a pension and receive legitimization is a testament to the lingering effects of inequality. Well after the War was won. And to Lucy's triumphant spirit. And that is the story of boundary breaking Civil war nurse Lucy Nichols.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Wow. I mean, I mean the timing couldn't be.

[Georgia Hardstark]

It's so relevant.

[Karen Kilgariff]

It's so relevant. Imagine that. Imagine just wanting the chance to live and work and be independent and having to fight so hard for that fight.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Literally on the front lines of one of the worst wars this country has ever seen. And then they're like, no, I don't think. Think we're going to pay you.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Just like, yes, you will. Yes, you will.

[Karen Kilgariff]

It's so inspiring.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Isn't it great?

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah. I'm so glad you did that. That's.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Yeah, it's a nice one. I'm glad I found it because that of course, her story is kind of just lost to time and, you know, it's the kind of story people really, really need to hear, I think.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Definitely. Well, that was a great story for Juneteenth. Good job.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Thank you. I'm going to go put one of those old fashioned cartoon ice packs on my head and lay on the couch. Coach, how about you?

[Karen Kilgariff]

Should you poor thing go to bed? That sucks. We're back to normal. Next week we'll tell you two great stories. We'll both be so healthy and. Well, it's just. You're gonna.

[Georgia Hardstark]

You're gonna believe it when I won't believe it. The return we're about to make.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Yeah. But thank you guys so much for listening, for being here. Yeah.

[Georgia Hardstark]

And for staying strong through all of this. All of the things going on these days.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Chaos.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Chaos. And yet, man, those no kings parades. There were little tiny towns. I kept seeing them on TikTok. Just like the town has 5,000 people in it and 2,000 are standing on their main street. It's just a beautiful thing. So inspiring. I think it's what everybody needed right now.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Absolutely.

[Georgia Hardstark]

We're the majority. Stay sexy and don't get murdered. Goodbye.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Goodbye, Elvis. Do you want a cookie?

[Georgia Hardstark]

This has been an exactly Right production.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Our senior producers are Alejandra Keck and Molly Smith.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Our editor is Aristotle Acevedo.

[Karen Kilgariff]

This episode was mixed by Liana Squillace.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Our Researchers are Maren McGlashan and Ali Elkin.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Email your hometowns to my favorite murdermail.com.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Follow the show on Instagram at my favorite murder.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Listen to my favorite murder on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Georgia Hardstark]

And now you can watch us on exactly right's YouTube page. While you're there, please like and subscribe goodbye 4th of July deals are on.

[Karen Kilgariff]

At Lowe's right now. Get up to 40% off select major appliances, including the Samsung Bespoke French Door Refrigerant featuring Beverage center and Dual Ice Maker.

[Georgia Hardstark]

Plus, when you buy more, you save more.

[Karen Kilgariff]

Now's the perfect time to upgrade your home with top Samsung appliances and hot Fourth of July savings at Lowe's. Valid through 79clowes.com for details. Savings vary based on purchase amount Selection varies by location.