History Detectives Season 3 Episode 1 The Spirit of St. Louis; Suicide Pin; Image of Apache Warrior Geronimo

In the first episode of season 3 of History Detectives, three fascinating mysteries are tackled by the team.

Firstly, they investigate a piece of wood that is believed to be part of the famous plane the "Spirit of St. Louis" flown by Charles Lindbergh on his pioneering solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927. The owner of the wood bought it from a man who claimed it was part of the plane's tail. The detectives call on the expertise of aviation historians and use high-tech imaging to try and determine whether the piece of wood is authentic.

Next, the team looks into a small, silver pin that they believe may have been a tool used for committing suicide. The owner of the pin explains that his grandfather was a former member of the British Army, and had allegedly used the pin to end his own life after struggling with PTSD. The detectives consult with military experts and delve into the difficult topic of suicide in the armed forces.

Finally, the History Detectives investigate an image of Apache warrior Geronimo that is believed to have been taken during his time as a prisoner of war in the late 1800s. The photograph is owned by a man who seeks to understand more about his own Native American heritage. The detectives investigate the history of photography at the time and the treatment of Native Americans by the US Government.

Throughout the episode, the team uses their skill and experience to unravel each mystery and shed light on little-known aspects of American history. Their work showcases the importance of preserving and investigating unique artifacts and stories that offer insights into our collective past.