History Detectives

Watch History Detectives

  • TV-14
  • 2003
  • 12 Seasons
  • 8.8  (261)

History Detectives premiered on PBS in 2003 and ran for ten seasons until its cancellation in 2014. The show was hosted by a team of specialists, consisting of professional historians, appraisers, and authenticate experts, brought together to answer perplexing questions about historical artifacts. One of the most notable members of the team was Wes Cowan, an appraiser, and historian known for his work on the popular series Antiques Roadshow. Cowan's expertise in American history and antiques led him to become a prominent fixture on the show. His often-quirky and endearing personality made him a fan favorite amongst viewers. The premise of the show was to explore everyday objects or artifacts that people have acquired and are curious about their history, seeking answers about their provenance or story. The History Detectives team then sets out to examine each object, using a combination of historical research, scientific tests, and forensic analysis, sometimes traveling long distances to uncover the object's origins. Each episode would typically feature three stories of people who request the detectives' help. These artifacts could include anything from a military medal, a piece of pottery, an old photograph, or a firearm. The detectives then utilize their expertise to investigate the artifact's history and try to find answers to the owner's queries. Throughout the show's run, the team visited some of the most crucial historic sites in the United States, including the Statue of Liberty, the Alamo, and the Smithsonian museum. Some of the most intriguing episodes featured stories that have remained controversial or unresolved for years, such as the mystery of a purported Norman Rockwell painting uncovered in a dusty attic. One of the show's greatest strengths was its educational value. It offered a unique opportunity to learn about historical events and figures in an entertaining and engaging way. The detective work involved in each episode was also a great inspiration for young people to embark on careers in history and archaeological research. Another key aspect of the show was its diversity. The detectives were a genuinely diverse group, with different ethnicities, backgrounds, and experience levels. The team shared a passion for sifting through history and solving challenging mysteries. This diversity allowed the show to represent different perspectives and highlight stories that may have otherwise remained untold. One of the show's most admirable aspects was its commitment to authenticity. The show's host, Wes Cowan, constantly emphasized the importance of thorough research and verified sources. The team's findings were never based on conjecture or speculation but relied on hard evidence and factual analysis. Unfortunately, History Detectives was canceled after its tenth season, leaving fans disappointed. Still, the show left a lasting impact on its audience by opening their eyes to the hidden stories behind everyday objects and artifacts. In conclusion, History Detectives was a captivating show that combined history, archaeology, and detective work to shed light on the stories behind significant historical artifacts. Wes Cowan was an engaging host who kept viewers entertained and informed, while the team's work encouraged a love for history and the importance of historical research. The show's legacy lives on in its ability to inspire people to connect with the past actively.

History Detectives
Filter by Source

Seasons
Who Killed Jimmy Hoffa?
4. Who Killed Jimmy Hoffa?
July 21, 2014
From PBS - On July 30, 1975, teamster boss Jimmy Hoffa disappeared without a trace. At the time, he was one of the most powerful men in the country. Because of his union leadership, many working Americans considered Hoffa their hero, but Hoffa also had powerful enemies. For decades, investigators have searched for clues about what happened to Hoffa and why. Was he murdered? If so, who wanted him dead? After serving prison time for conspiracy and fraud, Hoffa was pardoned by President Richard Nixon. What interest did the White House have in Jimmy Hoffa? Recently declassified government files reveal shocking evidence of corruption at the highest levels. Interviews with a former mob lawyer, a murder witness, and an FBI agent are among the sources History Detectives unearth as they track Jimmy Hoffa's final hours and answer the question: Who killed Jimmy Hoffa?"
Texas Servant Girl Murders
3. Texas Servant Girl Murders
July 14, 2014
From PBS - 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?
The Disappearance of Glenn Miller
2. The Disappearance of Glenn Miller
July 7, 2014
From PBS - As Glenn Miller's musical career soared, he traded in his commercial success for a military uniform to entertain US troops during World War II. Then, on a foggy afternoon, December 15, 1944, he took off from England heading for France. His plane vanished over the English Channel. Glenn Miller was never seen again. Since that fateful day, Glenn Miller's disappearance has remained a mystery. Did friendly fire destroy the plane? Was Miller involved in espionage? Was he on a secret mission to end the war? Recent discoveries—including an intriguing entry in an aircraft spotter's log—give the History Detectives fresh leads and new clues to explore. Along the way, they learn of the unusual role Glenn Miller and his music played in winning hearts and minds during World War II. Can they find out what happened to this beloved bandleader once and for all?
Civil War Sabotage?
1. Civil War Sabotage?
June 30, 2014
From PBS - When the SS Sultana exploded on April 27, 1865, more than 1,800 died —outnumbering the death toll from the Titanic disaster. Why, then, do so few people know about one of the worst maritime disasters in U.S. history? And what caused the explosion that took so many lives? Meeting with descendants of rebel boat burners and Sultana survivors, uncovering government records, and hunting for the wreck site, the team reveals a tale of incompetence, bribery, politics and nepotism that leads all the way to President Lincoln and the White House. Can the History Detectives solve the mysterious explosion of the SS Sultana?
Description

History Detectives premiered on PBS in 2003 and ran for ten seasons until its cancellation in 2014. The show was hosted by a team of specialists, consisting of professional historians, appraisers, and authenticate experts, brought together to answer perplexing questions about historical artifacts.

One of the most notable members of the team was Wes Cowan, an appraiser, and historian known for his work on the popular series Antiques Roadshow. Cowan's expertise in American history and antiques led him to become a prominent fixture on the show. His often-quirky and endearing personality made him a fan favorite amongst viewers.

The premise of the show was to explore everyday objects or artifacts that people have acquired and are curious about their history, seeking answers about their provenance or story. The History Detectives team then sets out to examine each object, using a combination of historical research, scientific tests, and forensic analysis, sometimes traveling long distances to uncover the object's origins.

Each episode would typically feature three stories of people who request the detectives' help. These artifacts could include anything from a military medal, a piece of pottery, an old photograph, or a firearm. The detectives then utilize their expertise to investigate the artifact's history and try to find answers to the owner's queries.

Throughout the show's run, the team visited some of the most crucial historic sites in the United States, including the Statue of Liberty, the Alamo, and the Smithsonian museum. Some of the most intriguing episodes featured stories that have remained controversial or unresolved for years, such as the mystery of a purported Norman Rockwell painting uncovered in a dusty attic.

One of the show's greatest strengths was its educational value. It offered a unique opportunity to learn about historical events and figures in an entertaining and engaging way. The detective work involved in each episode was also a great inspiration for young people to embark on careers in history and archaeological research.

Another key aspect of the show was its diversity. The detectives were a genuinely diverse group, with different ethnicities, backgrounds, and experience levels. The team shared a passion for sifting through history and solving challenging mysteries. This diversity allowed the show to represent different perspectives and highlight stories that may have otherwise remained untold.

One of the show's most admirable aspects was its commitment to authenticity. The show's host, Wes Cowan, constantly emphasized the importance of thorough research and verified sources. The team's findings were never based on conjecture or speculation but relied on hard evidence and factual analysis.

Unfortunately, History Detectives was canceled after its tenth season, leaving fans disappointed. Still, the show left a lasting impact on its audience by opening their eyes to the hidden stories behind everyday objects and artifacts.

In conclusion, History Detectives was a captivating show that combined history, archaeology, and detective work to shed light on the stories behind significant historical artifacts. Wes Cowan was an engaging host who kept viewers entertained and informed, while the team's work encouraged a love for history and the importance of historical research. The show's legacy lives on in its ability to inspire people to connect with the past actively.

History Detectives is a series that is currently running and has 12 seasons (114 episodes). The series first aired on July 14, 2003.

Where to Watch History Detectives

History Detectives is available for streaming on the PBS website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch History Detectives on demand at Apple TV and PBS.

  • Premiere Date
    July 14, 2003
  • IMDB Rating
    8.8  (261)