← Old Gods of Appalachia
Old Gods of Appalachia
Meet Our Cousins: The Gentleman from Hell
00:28:57
While we're on a short break, here's a preview of another show distributed by Rusty Quill.
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- [00:01]
Steve Schell
Well, hey there family. Steve Schell from Old Gods of Appalachia here. If you're listening to one of the earlier episodes of our show, those before the beginning of season five, you may hear us talk about supporting the show through our Patreon. I'm just popping in to let you know that Patreon is going away. We just launched our very own subscription service, the Holler. The Holler is powered by Supercast, a platform built from the ground up for podcasters and their listeners. We think you're going to like it a lot. So if you'd like to support the show and enjoy ad free episodes, exclusive storylines and more, visit old gods of appalachia.com the Holler and join the family today. You can find that link in the show notes of every episode.
- [00:53]
Unknown (Boost Mobile Advertiser)
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- [01:23]
Benjamin Veers
Forever.
- [01:25]
Phyllis
Everyone's entitled to their own opinion, but some opinions are more useful than others. And we all want the good the ones that shake things up, spark debates and change minds. Financial Times readers know that their opinions are reliable because they're shaped by trusted journalism. Robust opinions, confident decisions. Source FT to subscribe, go to FT.comSourceFT.
- [01:53]
Unknown (Boost Mobile Advertiser)
We all have that one friend whose opinion we trust on everything. For 63% of podcast listeners, that friend is their favorite podcast host. When Acast's podcasters endorse a brand, they're audience audience listens and takes action. So if you want a recommendation that really sticks, put your brand in their hands. Book a host red sponsorship today by visiting go.acast.com ADS.
- [02:19]
Steve Schell
Well hey there family Steve Shell from Old Gods of Appalachia. We are still on our little break in between arcs one and two of season five, but we thought we'd take this moment to introduce you to some Rusty Quill adjacent family of ours. And I'm talking about the gentleman from Hel, the largest disappearance on Record an entire town gone without a trace. 24 years ago, cold Sparrow vanished. Every resident, including eccentric billionaire Benjamin Vere, simply disappeared. No clues, no answers. Now, three renowned investigators, celebrated for toppling a deadly cult, dare to unravel this chilling mystery. Whispers hint at something beyond our world, perhaps even infernal. If you like cosmic horror, mystery and supernatural horror, which I know y'all do. I invite you now to check out the gentleman from hell.
- [04:57]
Benjamin Veers
Decide.
- [05:14]
Unknown (Narrator)
Tonight on Call of the Weird, the enduring mystery of the Cold Sparrow mass disappearance of 1999. In a bizarre and chilling case that has perplexed authorities and experts for over two decades, the small country town of Cold Sparrow experienced one of the largest mass disappearances in modern history, leaving behind only unanswered questions and a lingering sense of unease. Called Sparrow, once a quiet and unassuming town, found itself at the center of global attention 24 years ago when every single one of its inhabitants vanished without a trace. Among them was its most conspicuous resident, billionaire Benjamin Veers, known for his eccentricities and reclusive lifestyle. The disappearance of Veers, along with the entire population, turned Cold Sparrow from a mere speck on the map to the subject of one of the most baffling mysteries the world has ever seen. Despite extensive investigations, the authorities remain as baffled today as they were on the day the town's population disappeared. Over the years, theories have ranged from cult activity to mass kidnapping, but none have brought investigators any closer to understanding what happened to the residents of Cold Sparrow. The case, which has seen numerous leads and tips over the years, none of which have panned out, continues to be a source of speculation and intrigue. Experts in various fields have tried to piece together the puzzle, but the lack of evidence and the sheer implausibility of the situation have left even the most seasoned detectives and researchers at a loss. As the years have passed, the story of Cold Sparrow has become something of a legend. A modern day mystery that challenges our understanding of what is possible. The disappearance of an entire town, especially one with a figure as enigmatic as Benjamin Veers, remains a haunting reminder of the limits of our knowledge and the enduring power of the unknown.
- [07:25]
Unknown (Investigator)
It's the false door was right where Phyllis said it would be. The vault it revealed was massive, filled with all sorts of books, cassettes, journals, what looked like some sketchbooks. This was exactly the motherlode we were looking for. We traveled a long road to get here. The Vers mansion. Between this moment and the start of the whole thing were a ton of false starts and dead ends. But we'd soldiered through it all, primarily because the money was good and the story was compelling, which for me is a prerequisite for taking the job. It's hard to pay attention to details when the story's a snoozer, and I was getting up in age, so I needed to keep things interesting. When I sorted through the spoils, I couldn't help but side eye the surroundings. The place had been abandoned for a while, but not long enough to take a look of a right and proper haunted mansion. And mansion was an understatement for the.
- [09:13]
Unknown (Narrator)
Place, which is more on the order.
- [09:14]
Unknown (Investigator)
Of a castle than anything else. Yet even though the aesthetic wasn't sufficiently morose to compel a belief in ghosts, there was something to the sprawl of the interior behind it. Maybe that despite its size, it was keeping a secret even bigger than itself. For the first time in a string of blue Mondays, I was about to know something of the mind of the guy I'd gone through so much trouble to find. I sifted through stacks of media looking for something suitable for a proper introduction. It took me a bit, but at least some of the stuff was dated. I eventually came to a journal marked a brand new chapter according to the date it should have been written around the same time Ben inherited his father's wealth, which was a blind spot I was looking to clear up. So perfect place to start. Diary entry 1 the first of any consequence. Despite embracing risks and leveraging what I believed to be my talents, my achievements were no greater than those of someone who had spent 35 years idly lying down.
- [10:40]
Benjamin Veers
The only distinction between such a person and me was my persistent illusion of hope. I was certain that with enough grit, a fleeting opportunity or perhaps a stroke of luck, my moment would come. But it never did. I was a writer without a single published work, a man whose name faded from memory before it could ever matter. In the end, I was nothing more than static, the white noise of flesh, blood and bone. 30 years of life and my efforts barely caused a ripple, followed by the still waters of a sea I never truly dared to cross. The letter had lingered on my counter for some time, forgotten in a haze of neglect. I usually tossed my mail without a second glance. No news was good news, even if it meant erasing the news altogether. This letter, though, caught my eye. It came from Charlie Prist, Esq. Which almost guaranteed it was a bill. But what finally pushed me to open it was the handwritten address, a personal touch that hinted at either a crafty or cash strapped lawyer. The letter read. Dear Benjamin, I hope this letter finds you well. I'm writing to share some important and unexpected news regarding your family which I understand may be difficult to receive. Regrettably, your father, Edward, has recently passed away. Time often brings changes we cannot foresee. And in the wake of his passing, I must inform you that he has named you the sole beneficiary of his estate which includes a considerable fortune. Given the estrangement in your relationship, I realize this news may stir a range of emotions. You may need time to process not only his death but also this sudden change in your circumstances. It's my hope that this inheritance might serve as an opportunity to reconnect with a part of your father's legacy and offer a chance for reflection or healing as the executor of his will. I'm here to guide you through the legal process at a pace that feels right for you. If you'd like to discuss the details, we can arrange a meeting or a phone call, whichever suits you best. Take all the time you need and know that I'm here to support you however I can. Sincerely, Charlie. Hello, sir. Can I help you? Yes, my name is Benjamin Veers. I called earlier. Yes, of course. Please head right through that door. Mr. Prist is waiting for you. Thank you very much. Mr. Pristine? I'm Benjamin Veers. We spoke on the phone.
- [15:00]
Unknown (Father's Voice)
Well, hello, Benjamin.
- [15:03]
Charlie Prist
Please come right in and take a seat, won't you?
- [15:05]
Benjamin Veers
Thank you very much.
- [15:10]
Charlie Prist
Please, call me Charlie. You know, I hope you don't mind me saying, but you look just like your father, right down to the stubble and spectacles.
- [15:20]
Benjamin Veers
I don't mind at all because I can't say if that's a good or bad observation. You see, I didn't really know the man, to be quite honest.
- [15:30]
Charlie Prist
Well, to be equally honest, I didn't even know the old so and so had a son. So we're even.
- [15:38]
Benjamin Veers
So what are the formalities in a situation like this?
- [15:43]
Charlie Prist
Just some signatures here and there.
- [15:46]
Benjamin Veers
Well, that seems easy enough.
- [15:49]
Charlie Prist
There are a few things. Things, though, just stipulations that are odd but by no means troublesome, considering.
- [15:57]
Benjamin Veers
Considering?
- [15:59]
Unknown (Father's Voice)
Considering.
- [16:00]
Charlie Prist
After this, you're damn near the richest man in the county, if not the state. Your father was a bit of a eccentric. I guess he wanted to make sure you stayed in the house. You know, lived where he lived. He insisted upon it in several places throughout the will.
- [16:18]
Benjamin Veers
Well, there's no problems there. I fully intend on moving into the house.
- [16:23]
Charlie Prist
Oh, well, that's easy enough then. I just thought, well, with the accent.
- [16:28]
Benjamin Veers
And all, I left England, some time ago. I came here for my schooling.
- [16:34]
Charlie Prist
Well, there you have it, then. The only other thing was that you listened to, in private an audio tape that your father left for you.
- [16:43]
Benjamin Veers
I take it that's not customary to the traditional process.
- [16:47]
Charlie Prist
Not really, but I've heard stranger requests. Anyway, I readied a room for you shortly after you phoned, so once we're all done with crossing T's and dot and I's, I'll get you right in there.
- [16:59]
Benjamin Veers
That sounds fine.
- [17:01]
Charlie Prist
Well, then, let's get down to business. After you turn the player on, you can have a seat right over there on the couch. I'll be in my office when you finish. Would you like a drink or anything while you listen?
- [17:34]
Benjamin Veers
No, no, that's very kind of you, but would you mind terribly if I smoked while I listened?
- [17:40]
Charlie Prist
Not at all, sir. Smoke them myself. That's why all the fire detectives have expired batteries.
- [17:49]
Benjamin Veers
Well, I'll see you shortly, then.
- [17:52]
Charlie Prist
Yes, sir.
- [18:11]
Benjamin Veers
It didn't take long for the lawyer to start cozying up to me, no doubt hoping I'd secure his services as my father had. But to be quite honest, I was as ignorant of legal formalities as I was of opulent. But I suppose I'd learn my way about both in time. There was an ominous quality to the moment, waiting to hear my father's voice for the first time. I didn't want to make a moment out of it, so I simply pushed play on the machine and took my seat upon the sofa, cigarette in hand.
- [19:07]
Unknown (Father's Voice)
My son, you have every right to. Your apathy and or dislike of me and the fortune I am bequeathing to you all, no doubt, have been well earned. You should be aware that while you know nothing of me, I have been watching you. I am aware of your trials. It has pained me to leave you to them, unfortified by the good fortune I have known my entire life. But I believe wealth is no healthy means by which to come into the world. I speak from experience. Certainly no good has come from my fortune. Only the cloistered obsessions of the idle rich, the doldrums of a will unchallenged. But you, my boy, you have vision and the will to see it done. And now you have the means. There are no more limitations, Benjamin. Save this. You must stay in the house for at least one year. There are secrets you must learn so that in time, you will understand.
- [20:34]
Benjamin Veers
As I listen to the voice of my dead father, I began to feel strange. Mildly dizzy. And there was something else, too. In the background of the Recording, a murmuring, even a chanting. Barely perceptible. I assumed it to be an artifact of vintage technology.
- [20:58]
Unknown (Father's Voice)
But on this point, we share an experience. A clinical desire to understand it all, if only to dispel the dread of not knowing. Your most recent manuscript. Beneath it all, a search for answers reads as if a page torn from my very mind. Though after inspecting it, I can see that your mind is by far, far the keener between us. Still, I can see that my obsessions have become you as well. But perhaps, unlike myself, you will acquire some peace with them by satisfying them once and for all. This, my lost son, is my gift to you. The possibility of final clarity. I wish you well on the rest of your journey, for if you are listening to this, mine has at last come to an end. Farewell, Benjamin. Perhaps we will meet again in a world more welcoming than this one.
- [22:37]
Benjamin Veers
The first time I'd ever heard my father's voice, and all he really had to say to me was.
- [22:43]
Unknown (Investigator)
Was goodbye.
- [22:57]
Mace
You gonna keep me in suspense, or are you gonna tell me what you found?
- [23:02]
Unknown (Investigator)
About a metric ton of Ben's personal journals, all sorts of cassettes and whatnot. Just what Phyllis said they'd be going through. All this stuff's gonna take forever. How's the city look?
- [23:14]
Mace
You know, you seen one ghost town, you seen them all. Though the place does look pretty good for being abandoned as long as it has. By the way, I found the spot where the FBI set up shop while they collected evidence. Probably been gone through by every thrill seeker and legend tripper within a hundred miles of here. I doubt there's anything left to find.
- [23:34]
Unknown (Investigator)
Yeah, but it does need to check. You never know. Not like someone couldn't drop evidence on their way out of a crime scene.
- [23:42]
Mace
Jesus, Mace, am I ever gonna hear the end of that? And I wonder who it was that caught Lazlo. You or me.
- [23:51]
Unknown (Investigator)
Yeah, yeah, I never doubted your business acumen for a second. Anyway, I'm gonna head out and set up the generator. Keep an eye out for Phyllis. I told her to meet us at the mansion, but the city's set up like a maze. I might have even had to consult the map of few times myself to find the place.
- [24:09]
Mace
Well, she is a psychic, so I'm thinking she'll manage.
- [24:36]
Phyllis
Come on, pick up, pick up.
- [24:45]
Mace
Hello, you've reached Leon Oates of Apex Intelligence Solutions. I'm currently unavailable, but please leave a callback number and a brief message and I'll be sure to return your call. Thank you.
- [24:56]
Phyllis
Ah, it's me, Phyllis. I must have turned down the wrong road. I can't be more than a few minutes away from you two. I'm just outside of Cold Sparrow, somewhere in the Pitch Pot Woods. Call me back as soon as you get this. I don't care if I quit. If I'm going to be lost in the woods, I'm at least going to have a cigarette. Hurry up, boys. Call me back, won't you? What the. Is someone out there? Jesus.
- [26:30]
Mace
Hey, Phyllis. Called you as soon as I got the message.
- [26:33]
Phyllis
Perception is garbage out here, so I'm realizing that. And once you turn onto Pitchpoint Drive, there's no online maps of these other roads. Thus, I'm afraid I have no idea where I am.
- [26:48]
Mace
Don't sweat it, Phil. I'll find you soon enough. And is that a sig I hear you puffing on? I thought you'd quit.
- [26:56]
Phyllis
I'm very particular about how I choose to quit things. Now, please, just hurry up and come get me, won't you?
- [27:04]
Mace
Sure thing to be there in a Leon.
- [27:10]
Phyllis
Damn lousy service. Phyllis, my dear, I have a feeling you're not going to enjoy this one.
- [27:27]
Unknown (Investigator)
Come on, you. That should do it. Hello, Low water and power.
- [27:54]
Mace
Phyllis got herself lost in the woods. Apparently zigged when she should have zagged. Headed out to bring her in now.
- [28:02]
Unknown (Investigator)
So much for being psychic. I got the journey up and running, so I'll be inside when you get back.
- [28:09]
Mace
Sure thing. Be back in just a few.
- [28:28]
Unknown (Investigator)
The three of us have worked a lot of cases together, but nothing like this one. You generally don't see an entire town of people go missing. Not since the lost colony Oroanoke, at any rate. Anyway, we were only being paid to hunt for the one guy. The rich one, Ben Veers, after the snippet I'd read from one of his hidden journals. It was about time I heard the guy's accident. The mini cassettes were in no particular order, so I just swiped the first one that caught my eye. It was titled Existential Obsessive.
- [29:04]
Benjamin Veers
Loneliness is.
- [29:05]
Unknown (Father's Voice)
The inordinate sum of absences one experiences as an outlier.
- [29:11]
Benjamin Veers
The loss of faith, trust, camaraderie, or even truth. I am alone because I cannot make.
- [29:19]
Unknown (Father's Voice)
Peace with my own ignorance.
- [29:22]
Benjamin Veers
The ignorance that all of us must.
- [29:24]
Unknown (Father's Voice)
Reckon and eventually yield to. I have not, because I cannot. My stubbornness is inscribed upon my very genes. Or so current science would have us all believe.
- [29:40]
Benjamin Veers
Disorder, they say. My need to know more than anyone.
- [29:44]
Unknown (Father's Voice)
Could, or probably should for that matter. One medicine after the next, and still that yawning vacancy. I must know why?
- [29:57]
Benjamin Veers
Where do we come from?
- [29:59]
Unknown (Father's Voice)
Why are we even here? Where will we go when the sun ceases to rise? Is there a heaven? Or, God forbid, a hell?
- [30:26]
Benjamin Veers
The Gentleman from Hell is a Maltopia production. Today's episode was written by Mark Anzalone and performed performed by Steven Zivic, Sam.
- [30:35]
Unknown (Boost Mobile Advertiser)
Stark, Aubrey Ackers and Mark Anzalone.
- [30:38]
Benjamin Veers
Sound editing was completed by Steven Anzalone and script editing was conducted by Walker Kornfeld.
- [30:44]
Unknown (Boost Mobile Advertiser)
Be sure to rate and review us on itunes, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter Eltopia. If you want unique art and animations.
- [30:56]
Benjamin Veers
Of Meltopia's stories, visit our YouTube page.
- [30:59]
Unknown (Boost Mobile Advertiser)
Or click on the link in the Show Notes.
- [31:01]
Benjamin Veers
And for more exclusive content such as additional lore, stories and art, be sure.
- [31:06]
Unknown (Boost Mobile Advertiser)
To check out Our Patreon at www.patreon.com.
- [31:11]
Benjamin Veers
Meltopia.
- [31:18]
Unknown (Boost Mobile Advertiser)
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