Podcast Summary: "FEED DROP: Crime Capsule"
Something About the Beatles – Evergreen Podcasts
Released on December 10, 2024
Introduction
In the episode titled "FEED DROP: Crime Capsule," host Benjamin Morris delves into the intriguing world of Staten Island's haunted history with special guest Mariana Randazzo, the author of Haunted Staten Island. This detailed conversation explores the island's most notorious ghost stories, the historical context behind them, and the meticulous research that brings these eerie tales to life.
Guest Introduction and Background
[02:22] Benjamin Morris:
Morris warmly welcomes Mariana Randazzo, highlighting her expertise and passion for Staten Island's paranormal history. He notes her previous works and expresses excitement about discussing her latest publication.
[05:51] Mariana Randazzo:
Mariana shares her unique journey from a 35-year career as a reading specialist to becoming a renowned author in the paranormal field. She recounts her early fascination with horror literature, including classics like Rosemary's Baby and The Exorcist, and shares personal experiences that ignited her interest in ghost stories and hauntings.
Transition to Paranormal Research
[06:27] Mariana Randazzo:
Mariana explains how her love for the paranormal, combined with her teaching background, led her to explore and document haunted locations on Staten Island. She recounts visiting infamous sites with her late husband, including Lizzie Borden's house in Fall River, Massachusetts, and the Artist's House in Key West, Florida, sharing firsthand experiences of apparitions and unexplained phenomena.
[10:28] Benjamin Morris:
Morris commends Mariana’s dedication, drawing parallels between her explorations and the foundational elements of classic haunted tales.
Exploring Staten Island's Haunted Sites
The Kreischer House
[17:15] Benjamin Morris:
Morris introduces the Kreischer House, a key haunted location on Staten Island known for its history of decadence, decay, and tragic events.
[18:32] Mariana Randazzo:
Mariana delves into the history of the Kreischer House, built by Bavarian immigrant Balthazar Kreischer. She narrates the rise and fall of Kreischerville, the economic hardships post-World War I, and the subsequent tragedies, including the suicide of Edward Kreischer and the gruesome murders committed by mob-associated caretaker Joe Black in 2005.
Notable Quote:
"The Kreischer house... sits behind a shooting range and has become a popular destination for ghost tours and horror films due to its eerie history." [18:32]
[22:13] Benjamin Morris:
Morris reacts with horror to the story, emphasizing the gruesome nature of the crimes and their impact on the house's haunted reputation.
[22:27] Mariana Randazzo:
Mariana provides a vivid recount of the 2005 murders, explaining how Joe Black's involvement with the mob and his brutal actions intensified the mansion's haunted legacy. She highlights how these events have cemented the house's status as a hotspot for paranormal activity.
Snug Harbor
[27:02] Benjamin Morris:
Morris shifts the conversation to Snug Harbor, another iconic Staten Island location, seeking Mariana's insights into its haunting history.
[27:02] Mariana Randazzo:
Mariana describes Snug Harbor as a sprawling cultural center with botanical gardens, museums, and historical buildings. She outlines its origins as a 19th-century retirement home for sailors founded by Captain Robert Richard Randall, and details the struggles of its residents, including addiction and suicide.
[28:27] Benjamin Morris:
Morris is impressed by the historical significance of Snug Harbor, appreciating its foundational role in Staten Island's lore.
[29:02] Mariana Randazzo:
Focusing on one of her favorite ghost stories from Snug Harbor, Mariana narrates the tragic tale of the Matron's Cottage. She explains the complex relationships and devastating events involving the matron, a sailor named Herman Ingalls, and a butcher, leading to multiple deaths and deep-seated hauntings.
Notable Quote:
"Several staff members... have shared their experiences of paranormal activity... like footsteps, keys jingling, and doors opening and closing independently." [35:25]
Paranormal Research and Documentation
[13:13] Mariana Randazzo:
Mariana discusses the importance of thorough research and documentation in her work. She acknowledges the influence of previous scholars like Patricia Salmon and emphasizes the need for documented evidence over anecdotal stories.
[15:32] Benjamin Morris:
Morris adds that multiple independent reports lend credibility to paranormal claims, contrasting them with solitary or dubious accounts.
[25:21] Mariana Randazzo:
Mariana reflects on paranormal investigations at places like the Kreischer House, noting that while phenomena are reported, concrete findings are elusive. She shares her own experiences with ghost hunting, underscoring the subjective nature of such investigations.
Notable Quote:
"If enough things have happened to justify it, we could go with it." [14:46]
Impact of Hauntings on Community and Culture
[34:38] Benjamin Morris:
Morris highlights how haunted sites like Snug Harbor become integral to local culture, attracting ghost tours and fostering a sense of mystery and intrigue.
[34:20] Mariana Randazzo:
Mariana points out how the haunted history of these sites contributes to their allure, making them prime locations for tours and paranormal studies.
[35:18] Benjamin Morris:
Morris shares his personal reaction to the haunting stories, admitting that the tales are so compelling they instill a sense of lingering unease.
[36:34] Mariana Randazzo:
Mariana suggests visiting other attractions like the botanical gardens and children's museum at Snug Harbor, balancing the eerie tales with the area's vibrant cultural offerings.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
[37:01] Benjamin Morris:
Morris wraps up the conversation by promising to explore more iconic Staten Island sites in future episodes, expressing gratitude for Mariana's insights.
[37:18] Mariana Randazzo:
Mariana thanks Morris for the opportunity, reiterating her passion for discussing and uncovering Staten Island's haunted history.
[35:25] Mariana Randazzo (Reading Passage):
"Several staff members who work in the Main Hall C have shared their experiences of paranormal activity inside this historic building. Many have heard footsteps, keys jingling, and doors opening and closing independently. They also see strange reflections, shadows where they shouldn't be, and figures on the balcony when no one else is present. Main Hall C was the first building on the campus where many of these sailors once live. Some believe spirits have formed a solid connection to the place. Tour guides at the Governor's mansion have mentioned that there have been many reports of paranormal occurrences at the house and that investigators have picked up voices on recordings telling everyone to get out." [35:21]
Key Takeaways
- Mariana Randazzo's Transition: From educator to paranormal author, driven by personal experiences and a lifelong fascination with the supernatural.
- Historical Context: Staten Island's haunted sites are deeply rooted in its history, with events like economic decline and tragic deaths fueling ghost stories.
- Research Methodology: Emphasis on documented evidence and multiple witness accounts to lend credibility to paranormal claims.
- Community Impact: Haunted locations like the Kreischer House and Snug Harbor are cultural landmarks, attracting ghost tours and paranormal enthusiasts.
- Personal Experiences: Mariana shares her own encounters and the emotional toll of exploring haunted sites, adding authenticity to her narratives.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Mariana Randazzo:
"If enough things have happened to justify it, we could go with it." [14:46] -
Benjamin Morris:
"There is nothing like a trip to the greatest city in the world to get you curious about who lived and who died there." [02:22] -
Mariana Randazzo:
"Several staff members... have shared their experiences of paranormal activity... like footsteps, keys jingling, and doors opening and closing independently." [35:25] -
Benjamin Morris:
"The shadows where they shouldn't be. That's pretty creepy, I gotta admit." [36:23]
Final Remarks
This episode of "Crime Capsule" offers a comprehensive exploration of Staten Island's haunted history through Mariana Randazzo's expert lens. Listeners gain an in-depth understanding of how historical events intertwine with paranormal phenomena, creating a rich tapestry of ghostly legends that continue to captivate and intrigue. Whether you're a true crime aficionado or a paranormal enthusiast, this episode provides valuable insights and spine-chilling stories that highlight the enduring mysteries of Staten Island.
To Order Mariana Randazzo’s Haunted Staten Island: Visit your local independent bookstore or check out Arcadia Publishing’s website.
Listen to More: Catch the next episode as Benjamin Morris continues his journey through Staten Island's haunted sites with Mariana Randazzo.