The Case:
In 1884, a string of gruesome murders terrorized the people of Austin, Texas. Three years before Jack the Ripper struck London, a killer—or possibly multiple killers—brutally attacked and murdered eight women in their beds. The heinous crimes stopped as abruptly as they began, and the slayings have remained unsolved for over a century.
Could this be one of the first known serial murders in the United States? Why were those responsible never brought to justice? Six of the eight victims were African American—were the crimes racially motivated?
Armed with modern forensics, the History Detectives interview descendants of the murdered women and enlist the help of modern-day experts in an effort to solve this historical whodunit. Can they finally crack the case?
Season 11, Episode 3
Detective:
Tukufu Zuberi
Detective:
Wes Cowan
Detective:
Kaiama Glover
Location:Austin, TX 1885
Related Content
Feature:
Feature:
Explore
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Yakima Canutt's Saddle
What leading role did this saddle play in the birth of the Hollywood cowboy?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Harley Davidson Motorcycle
Did this motorcycle see action in World War I?
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Old Fire Station
Did President Ulysses S. Grant stop by a New Jersey firehouse on the centennial of America?
-
Also in Industrialization: 1870-1900
Copperhead Cane
How did this cane inspire a fiery political movement that threatened Lincoln's presidency?
-
Related Investigation
Nesbit Portrait
Is this portrait a lost masterpiece by one of America's greatest artists?
-
Also in Industrialization: 1870-1900
Liberty Bell Pin
Was one of America’s most iconic symbols melted down into a mere memento?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.