River City Mystery - Investigating mysteries in southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and western Kentucky

The Burrows Cave Mystery

In this episode, Matt takes a closer look at one of southern Illinois’ most unusual stories: the mystery of Burrows Cave near Olney, Illinois. Retired Army officer and experienced caver Russell E. Burrows claimed he stumbled onto an underground chamber packed with carved stones, gold artifacts, and signs that ancient Old World travelers may have reached North America long before Columbus.

Matt walks through Burrows’ impressive military background, the details of what he said he found, and why most archaeologists remain convinced the whole thing was a hoax. But not everyone is ready to dismiss it. Some researchers — including Book of Mormon Heartland investigator Brian Nettles — believe the artifacts deserve another look and might even be genuine.

Is Burrows' Cave the ultimate secret history of the world, or one of the greatest hoaxes in American archaeology? This episode dives into the life of the man behind the story, the controversial evidence he brought out of the cave, and the enduring questions that keep this mystery unsolved.

Episode Highlights & Timestamps

[00:01] The Hook: The Man Who Fell into History

• [00:01] Introduction of Russell Burrows: a highly decorated Korean War veteran and experienced caver.

• [00:28] The moment he stepped on a flat slab of rock and the ground dropped out from under him.

• [00:41] How Burrows used his combat instinct to survive the collapse of the man-made trap.

• [01:03] The carvings and the massive, ancient-looking stone face that suggested he had found an "entryway into something far bigger."

[02:16] Welcome & Update on Zachary Carey's case

• [02:16] Welcome to River City Mystery and invitation to the Discord server.

• [03:00] Case Update: The tragic conclusion to the Zachary Carey disappearance (disappeared May 2023).

• [03:32] Confirmation of Zachary's remains being found near Lynville, Indiana, and information on the GoFundMe link for final expenses.

[03:58] The Man Behind the Story: Russell Burrows

• [04:06] Why understanding Russell Burrows' credibility is essential to the story.

• [04:30] His military background: Born 1935, enlisted in the Army, received a battlefield commission in the Korean War.

• [04:47] His awards: Two Silver Stars, a Bronze Star, a Legion of Merit, and Two Purple Hearts.

• [04:55] His academic interest: He attended West Virginia University and majored in archaeology.

• [05:18] He resigned his commission as a full Colonel (O-6) in 1963.

• [05:39] Update on his health: Burrows suffered a stroke a few years ago that affects his memory.

• [06:09] His steadfast conviction: He has never, not once, backed down from his story.

[06:39] The Discovery and Artifact Claims

• [06:45] A quick aside: Olney, Illinois is famous for its rare population of albino squirrels.

• [07:19] What he claimed to find: A vast, man-made chamber containing sarcophagi, gold, bronze, and copper weapons, and thousands of carved stone tablets.

• [07:37] The historical claim: Evidence of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern peoples in North America centuries before Columbus.

• [07:59] The book that launched the legend: The Mystery Cave of Many Faces by Burrows and Fred Rydholm.

• [08:37] The book is out of print, but a free version is linked in the show notes.

[09:00] The Evidence: The Controversial Stones

• [09:00] The core problem: The cave location is unverified, making the artifacts the only tangible evidence.

• [09:18] The mix of scripts: The stones feature Egyptian-like hieroglyphs, ancient Greek characters, Phoenician symbols, and more.

• [09:50] The believers' argument: The "hodgepodge" makes sense if the group was a multicultural blend of travelers.

• [10:19] The skeptics' counter: The mix of styles suggests a confused forgery.

• [10:35] The supporters' response: The difference in quality is due to trained scribes vs. illiterate soldiers making the carvings.

[11:15] The Controversy and Hoax Theory Problems

• [11:15] The dealbreaker for mainstream archaeology: Burrows never allowed independent experts to document or verify the location.

• [12:03] Problems with the hoax theory: No financial motive (he never made millions).

• [12:30] His consistency: Burrows stuck to the same story for 40 years.

• [12:50] The decorated veteran does not fit the profile of a typical con artist.

• [13:15] Artifact Patina: Some experts claim the aging and patina on certain artifacts are difficult to fake.

[13:42] Interview with Russell Burrows

• [13:42] Introduction to Brian Nettles, who conducted the interview, and his work comparing Burrows' Cave artifacts to the Michigan artifacts (1910).

• [15:08] INTERVIEW CLIP BEGINS (Brian Nettles introduces himself and his research interests).

• [16:05] Russell Burrows introduces himself: "I had the misfortune of finding a cave back in 1982..."

• [16:47] Burrows confirms his recent stroke and the effect on his memory; he advises listeners to "go with the book."

• [17:41] Burrows confirms he found the cave and believes the artifacts are ancient (approx. 2,000 years old).

• [18:14] Burrows attests he never manufactured any of the artifacts.

• [18:37] Burrows names "Harry Hard" as a person who manufactured some items but confirms his core artifacts are genuine.

• [19:14] Burrows confirms a man who owned a foundry in St. Louis (Mr. Black) manufactured lead replicas coated with gold.

• [20:13] Burrows confirms he took out about 4,000 artifacts, most of which had writings on them.

• [20:46] Burrows attests he did not create the writing system.

• [21:03] INTERVIEW CLIP ENDS (The hosts comments on why the rest of the visual comparison is better suited for video).

[21:23] Conclusion & Final Thoughts

• [21:23] The final question: Are the stones ancient or modern? The mystery remains unsolved.

• [21:48] Invitation to join the Discord server to share thoughts on the Tri-State Mystery.

Links referenced in the episode:

GoFundMe for Zachary Carey - https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-gina-with-zacharys-burial-costs?attribution_id=sl:20099a5c-2e12-4f18-9038-9efe044288df&lang=en_US&ts=1763859567&utm_campaign=man_sharesheet_dash&utm_content=amp17_td&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=facebook

Brian Nettles' interview with Russell Burrows - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NMj8VfDXG5w&t=232s

Brian Nettle's Book of Mormon Heartland website - https://bookofmormonheartland.com/

Photos of Burrows Cave stones - https://bookofmormonheartland.com/burrows-cave-stones/

The Mystery Cave of Many Faces - https://burrowscave.io/books/the-mystery-cave-of-many-faces/

 

Join the River City Mystery Discord server to meet others from the tri-state area who are into true crime and the paranormal.
https://www.rivercitymystery.com/discord

Wildman Joe

The incredible true story of "Wildman Joe," an African American man whose life journey, from slavery through a steamboat disaster and years as a ragman, led to a controversial career in sideshows. This episode traces the lives of Joe Rettig and showman Jeremiah "Doc" Kahler, detailing their meeting in Evansville, Indiana, and the creation of the "Wildman Joe" act. 

Key Moments:

• Introduction to Wildman Joe's Story: The episode begins by introducing the enigmatic figure of Wildman Joe and hinting at the untold stories from Evansville's past. (Approximate timestamp: 00:00:16)
• Joe Rettig's Early Life in Slavery: Learn about Joe's birth into slavery in North Carolina and the harsh realities he faced before the Civil War brought the promise of freedom. (Approximate timestamp: 00:00:16)
• The Steamboat Accident: Discover Joe's transition to working on steamboats after the war and the horrific boiler explosion that left him permanently scarred. (Approximate timestamp: 00:00:44)
• Evansville's Ragman: Follow Joe's return to Evansville and his difficult life on the margins, sifting through the city's refuse. (Approximate timestamp: 00:01:03)
• Enter Jeremiah "Ol' Doc" Kahler: The narrative shifts to the colorful life of "Ol' Doc" Kahler, a former St. Louis saloon keeper with a penchant for the peculiar, who would become a traveling showman. (Approximate timestamp: 00:02:44)
• Ol' Doc Kahler's Famous Flea Circus: Hear the fascinating and almost unbelievable tale of Kahler's renowned trained flea circus. (Approximate timestamp: 00:03:46)
• Legal Troubles and a Flea-Filled Courtroom: Learn about Kahler's brushes with the law, including a unique court appearance involving his performing fleas. (Approximate timestamp: 00:03:04)
• The Demise of the Flea Circus: The episode recounts the sudden and tragic end of Doc Kahler's prize-winning flea troupe. (Approximate timestamp: 00:05:22)
• Two Worlds Converge in Evansville: The two vastly different lives converge as Doc Kahler encounters Joe Rettig in Evansville and sees an opportunity for a new sideshow act. (Approximate timestamp: 00:08:07)
• The Creation of "Wildman Joe": Explore the transformation of Joe Rettig into the sideshow persona of "Wildman Joe," and the fabricated narrative created around him. (Approximate timestamp: 00:09:08)
• Life as a Sideshow Performer: Discover how joining the circus changed the course of Joe's life, providing him with a livelihood and the chance to travel. (Approximate timestamp: 00:11:00)
• Performance and Exploitation: The episode details the nature of Wildman Joe's act, highlighting the elements of performance, fear, and the exploitation of Joe's physical appearance. (Approximate timestamp: 00:09:08)
• Traveling with the Circus: Learn about Joe's travels with various circuses, including performances for large audiences and even internationally. (Approximate timestamp: 00:11:35)
• A Story of Resilience: The episode concludes by reflecting on Joe Rettig's incredible resilience and his ability to endure immense hardship and find a way to survive against all odds. (Approximate timestamp: 00:12:11)

Show notes:  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/20

Join the River City Mystery Discord server to meet others from the tri-state area who are into true crime and the paranormal.
https://www.rivercitymystery.com/discord

Who Killed Jean Cook?

This episode delves into the tragic and unsolved murder of Georgia "Jean" Cook, a 56-year-old mother who was shot and killed on October 6th, 2005, while working at a gas station on 41 North in Evansville, Indiana.

Here's a summary of the key points covered:

• The Crime: Learn about the details of the shooting, where Jean Cook was fatally shot during a robbery at her workplace. [01:07]
• Eyewitness Account: Hear the description provided by a witness who saw a woman leaving the scene in a bluish-gray sedan. [02:03]
• Conflicting Details: Understand the uncertainty surrounding the perpetrator's identity, with some accounts suggesting a man in disguise. [02:56]
• First-hand Accounts: Listen to the emotional interview with Jean's coworker, Andy Hinton, who received a call from Jean immediately after the shooting, and her son, Fred Cook, who shares the lasting impact of this crime on their family. [03:10], [03:55]
• Possible Leads and Theories: Explore potential motives, including the possibility that Jean may have witnessed illegal activity at the gas station. [08:21]
• The Cold Case: Discover the current status of the investigation, which remains unsolved after two decades. [01:42]
• Call for Information: The episode serves as a renewed effort to seek justice for Jean Cook, urging anyone with information to contact the Vanderburgh County Sheriff's Department. [25:57]

Show notes:  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/19

Join the River City Mystery Discord server to meet others from the tri-state area who are into true crime and the paranormal.
https://www.rivercitymystery.com/discord

Other links:

https://vanderburghsheriff.org/#send-a-tip-form

https://www.14news.com/story/9134480/unsolved-murder-jean-cook/

 

Interview with Evansville's Forest Witch

This episode features an interview with Crystal Folz, also known as Evansville's Forest Witch. Crystal has been practicing witchcraft since the 1990s, with a practice deeply rooted in animism and Kentucky folklore. She is also actively involved in the pagan and paranormal communities, serving as a co-chair for both the Three Corners Pagan Circle and the Southern Indiana Paranormal Investigators.

Here are some of the key topics discussed in the episode:

• Introduction to Crystal: Learn about Crystal's background in witchcraft and her connection to animism and Kentucky folklore. [01:37]
• Community Involvement: Discover Crystal's roles in the Three Corners Pagan Circle, serving witches in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky, and her involvement in paranormal investigation teams. [02:15]
• "Back Porch" Approach to the Paranormal: Understand Crystal's common-sense approach to paranormal encounters. [02:45]
• Defining Witchcraft: Explore the broad definition of what it means to be a witch and how it can vary for different individuals. [03:25]
• Witchcraft vs. Wicca: Clarification on the distinction between witchcraft as a practice and Wicca as a specific religion within witchcraft. [08:13]
• Understanding Dark Magic: Gain insight into Crystal's perspective on what constitutes dark magic. [13:16]
• Ethical Sourcing: Learn about Crystal's practice of scavenging materials and her views on unethical labor standards in mass consumerism. [16:36]
• Psychic Abilities in Investigations: Discover how Crystal uses her psychic abilities to provide readings of spaces during paranormal investigations without relying on equipment. [23:23]
• Involvement in Missing Persons Cases: Hear about Crystal's experience as a psychic consultant in search and rescue operations and her emphasis on avoiding assumptions. [34:01]
• Kentucky Folklore and Superstitions: Delve into fascinating local folklore and superstitions related to ghosts and witches. [45:57]
• Animistic Beliefs: Understand Crystal's animistic worldview, where everything possesses a spirit and energy, and the importance of respecting those spaces. [59:07]
• Three Corners Pagan Circle Events: Learn about the public rituals and events organized by the Three Corners Pagan Circle to educate and connect the community. [01:05:38]

Show Notes:  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/18

Join the River City Mystery Discord channel to meet others from the tri-state area who are into true crime and the paranormal.  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/discord

Links mentioned in this episode:

https://kentuckyconjurer.me/

https://www.threecornerspagancircle.com/

Crystal's email:  dirtandbones@kentuckyconjurer.me

 

Who Killed Elizabeth?

In this episode, I join Savannah on her YouTube channel, "Don't Hate. CREATE", as we examine the unsolved murder of 18-year-old Elizabeth Bannister, who was found dead in her Evansville, Indiana, apartment around 1:00 AM on January 20, 2000. 

Here are the key points explored in the episode:

• The Unexplained Crime: This episode highlights the perplexing circumstances of Elizabeth's murder, noting that despite other residents being present in the house, no one reported any disturbances. [02:22]
• Elizabeth's Background: The episode sheds light on Elizabeth's difficult past, including experiences with assault and time spent in group homes. [03:01]
• Suspect: Mark: Learn about Mark, her mother's former abusive boyfriend who later became Elizabeth's boyfriend. Although questioned, he had an alibi. [00:00], [09:46]
• The Confession of William Clyde Gibson: The episode discusses the confession of convicted serial killer William Clyde Gibson, who claimed responsibility for Elizabeth's murder on a podcast. However, inconsistencies in his account raise doubts about its validity. [16:02], [23:22]
• Unusual Events: Discover the strange occurrences leading up to Elizabeth's death, including her borrowing money for a payphone call and a taxi being called to her residence but leaving without a passenger. [11:00], [11:41]
• Witness Account: Hear about a neighbor who reported seeing a man fleeing the scene around the time of the murder. [12:14]
• Ongoing Investigation: Understand that despite a confession and the passage of time, Elizabeth's case remains open, with the Evansville police department maintaining an active investigation. [14:18], [14:36]
• The Family's Search for Justice: Learn about the efforts of Elizabeth's sister, Sarah, who continues to seek justice for her sister and shares her own experiences of abuse. She does not believe Gibson's confession. [03:14], [18:07]

If you have any information that could help solve Elizabeth’s murder, please contact the Evansville Police Department at 812-436-7979.

Show Notes:  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/17

Join the River City Mystery Discord channel to meet others from the tri-state area who are into true crime and the paranormal.  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/discord

Links mentioned in this episode:

"Don't Hate.  CREATE" YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@donthate.create

Where The Bodies Are Buried - S1 E1 William "Clyde" Gibson - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6VNbbx3u5qa0useqeRaENf?si=b118e30a4bea462e

Dealing Justice - Episode 8:  Queen of Diamonds:  Elizabeth Bannister, IN Deck - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6YfuNICxTf9nOmTpcLcO2x?si=168b6b2c199c4e31

Where is Zac? Interview with his best friend, Chris

This episode provides an update on the case of Zac Cary, who has been missing since May 30, 2023. I interview Chris, Zac's close friend and the last person known to have seen him.

Here's a breakdown of the key information shared in this episode:

• Last Known Location: Chris recounts dropping Zac off at the "Welcome to Lynnville" sign. [01:19]
• Zac's Mental State: Chris reveals that Zac was experiencing a period of paranoia leading up to his disappearance, sharing concerning text messages. [01:24], [01:30]
• Paranoia Regarding Law Enforcement: Chris mentions Zac's specific paranoia of the police and recounts a past incident involving Zac and law enforcement. [08:33], [10:30]
• The Day of Disappearance: Chris details the events of May 30, 2023, including picking Zac up, driving around with him, and the final drop-off location. [06:49], [15:04], [16:11]
• Efforts to Locate Zac: Chris describes his personal attempts to find Zac after dropping him off and his communication with Zac's family. [05:00], [05:23]
• Cooperation with Authorities: Chris confirms his cooperation with the Warrick County Sheriff's Department in their investigation. [24:26]
• Theories and Speculation: Chris shares his thoughts on Zac's potential whereabouts, mentioning his ex-wife and the possibility that Zac may not want to be found. [20:29], [20:48], [14:14]
• A Message for Zach: Chris directly addresses Zac, urging him to reach out and let someone know he is safe. [40:30]
• Call for Public Assistance: The episode concludes with a plea for anyone who may have information about Zach's disappearance to contact the Warrick County Sheriff's Department at 812-897-6180. [41:58]

Show Notes: https://www.rivercitymystery.com/16

Join the River City Mystery Discord channel to meet others from the tri-state area who are into true crime and the paranormal.  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/discord

Where is Zac?

This episode discusses the disappearance of 38-year-old Zac Carey, who was last seen on May 30, 2023.

Key points discussed in the episode include:

• Family Interviews: The episode features interviews with Zac's mother, Gina, and his sister, Cecilia, who provide crucial insights into Zac's life and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. [22:08], [07:07]
• Last Known Sighting: Zac was last seen being dropped off by a friend, Chris, at the welcome sign for Lynnville, Indiana. [04:29]
• Uncharacteristic Absence: The family expresses deep concern over Zac's prolonged absence, as it is highly unusual for him to be out of contact for such an extended period. [04:47]
• Background Information: Learn about Zac's background, including his struggles with schizophrenia and the impact of losing his job. [06:27]
• Love for Nature and Survival Skills: The episode explores Zac's passion for nature and his survivalist tendencies, which initially led his family to believe he was in the woods. [08:16]
• Discovery of Cell Phone: Find out about the discovery of Zac's cell phone near the Lynnville sign. [11:13]
• Suspicious Behavior: The family discusses the uncooperative behavior of Zac's friend, Chris, raising questions about his involvement. [14:14]
• Possible Sightings: The episode shares information regarding potential sightings of Zac. [20:03]
• Call for Information: The family makes a heartfelt plea to the public for any information that could lead to Zac's safe return. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Warrick County Sheriff's Department at 812-897-6180. [31:04]

Show Notes: https://www.rivercitymystery.com/15

Join the River City Mystery Discord channel to meet others from the tri-state area who are into true crime and the paranormal.  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/discord

Bigfoot Encounters in the Hoosier National Forest

This episode delves into reported Bigfoot or Sasquatch encounters in the Southern Indiana region, focusing on the Hoosier National Forest area. The episode features firsthand accounts from individuals who claim to have experienced an encounter.

Here's a summary of the key encounters discussed:

• Introduction to Southern Indiana Bigfoot Sightings: The episode begins by referencing reported sightings documented on the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (BFRO) website, setting the stage for personal encounter stories. [01:11], [01:21]

• Angela's Interstate 64 Encounter (June 2022):

  • Location: Angela recounts her experience while driving eastbound on Interstate 64, near Turkey Run within the Hoosier National Forest. [02:44], [03:02]
  • Description: She observed a large, solid black figure, estimated to be at least 8 feet tall, standing in the median between the eastbound and westbound lanes. The figure had a distinct body shape with a head, shoulders, back, rump, and legs. [03:32], [04:05]
  • Interaction: The figure noticed her approaching car and remained still until she was very close. It then took a single step into the treeline and disappeared. [04:40]
  • Key Details: Angela emphasized the figure's immense thickness, blocking any view of the trees behind it. She was certain it was not a person in a ghillie suit due to its solid black color. The encounter occurred around 6:30 AM in clear, sunny conditions with no other traffic. [05:43], [06:11], [06:37]

• Bill's Multiple Encounters (2017-2019):

  • First Encounter (2017): Bill and his fiance heard an unusual howl-like sound ending in a squeal, unlike any animal sound he had ever heard before, despite his rural upbringing. Two days later, he observed a bush-like figure moving on a windless hillside. Upon closer inspection with his truck lights, he saw a squatting figure with a white patch on its chest, estimated to be around seven feet tall when standing. [07:38], [09:03]
  • Second Encounter (Mid-Spring 2018): While squirrel hunting, Bill heard two distinct sounds of rocks being smacked together, both in front and then behind him, suggesting the presence of two creatures. Feeling flanked, he fled, later seeing a gorilla-like silhouette grasping a tree on a ridge line. The figure then turned, revealing broad shoulders, no visible neck, and proportionate legs. [20:13]
  • Third Encounter (April/May 2019): While stargazing at Flat Rock with his pregnant fiance and her child, they noticed a significant police presence. After the police left, all natural night sounds ceased, and they heard heavy footsteps descending a hillside. The heavy steps would pause for about 15 seconds between each step. They also heard a sound described as similar to a chimpanzee being beaten up. [26:16]
  • BFRO Report: Bill mentioned reporting his second encounter to the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization. [22:58]

Show Notes: https://www.rivercitymystery.com/14

Join the River City Mystery Discord channel to meet others from the tri-state area who are into true crime and the paranormal.  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/discord

Links mentioned in episode:

Bill's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@billthreet1022

Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization:  https://bfro.net/

Washington County BFRO report:  https://bfro.net/GDB/show_report.asp?id=65589

Martin County BFRO report:  https://bfro.net/GDB/show_report.asp?id=60871

Indiana Bigfoot Researchers Organization Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/IBROrganization/

Map of the Turkey Fork area of Interstate 64 (88 mile marker) where Angela had her encounter:  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/TurkeyFork.jpg