The Odon Fire Poltergeist

This episode explores the strange and unexplained events surrounding the Odon fire Poltergeist in Odon, Indiana, which occurred in the summer of 1940.

Here's a breakdown of the eerie occurrences discussed:

• The Land's History: The episode begins by delving into the history of the property where the mysterious fires took place, starting with Marshall Ketchum, who built a house on the land in the 1860s. [03:32]
• The Unexplained Fires: Learn about the series of spontaneous fires that plagued the home of William Hackler in the summer of 1940. These fires were not isolated incidents and were witnessed and verified by multiple neighbors. [07:10], [08:15]
• Official Investigation: The podcast details the investigation carried out by authorities to determine the cause of the fires. Despite their efforts, the source of the flames remained a baffling mystery. The State Fire Marshall also became involved in the investigation. [08:32], [12:39]
• Local Theories: Explore the various theories that emerged to explain the strange events, including the belief by some that the Hackler home was haunted or under a curse. [11:57]
• Current Unknowns: The episode notes that the precise location of the Heckler farm is currently unknown, and the Hackler family appears to have left the county, adding to the enigma of the story. [15:58]
• Insurance Ad Connection: Discover the interesting connection between the Odon fire story and the Traveler Insurance Company, which used the tale in an advertisement in 1941. [13:13]

Show Notes: https://www.rivercitymystery.com/4

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

Check out Don Cosby’s books on Amazon:

My Scrap Book: A Living History of The Town of Washington in Daviess County, Indiana

Legends, Legacy and Folklore

Revisiting the Past

Travelers Insurance Company ad that was printed in the Collier’s Weekly Magazine

Sources:

https://www.washtimesherald.com/news/local_news/unusual-events-occurred-in-daviess-county—part-ii/article_fe19e6db-462e-570d-8f45-5a88c5b816b2.html