History Detectives Season 8 Episode 7 St. Valentine's Day Massacre, George Washington Miniature, Stalag 17

In the eighth season of History Detectives, episode seven, viewers are taken on a journey to uncover the stories behind three very different artifacts: the St. Valentine's Day Massacre wall, a miniature of George Washington, and a POW diary from Stalag 17.

The first investigation centers around the infamous St. Valentine's Day Massacre of 1929, a violent event that saw seven members of the Chicago-based North Side Gang murdered in broad daylight. The scene of the crime, a brick wall riddled with bullet holes, was later removed and sold to a local business owner who used it to construct a warehouse. Now, nearly a century after the massacre took place, the History Detectives team is tasked with verifying the authenticity of the wall and determining whether or not it is worth preserving as a historical artifact.

Next up is the story of a miniature of George Washington, believed to have been created by renowned 18th-century artist Charles Willson Peale. The piece of art has been passed down through generations of one family, but questions persist as to whether or not it is a genuine Peale creation or a later copy. With the help of special technology and a team of experts, the History Detectives set out to uncover the truth about this mysterious miniature.

Finally, viewers are taken to the murky world of WWII prisoners of war with the investigation of a diary from Stalag 17. The diary belonged to an American soldier who was taken captive by the Germans and held at the notorious POW camp. The diary contains detailed accounts of daily life at the camp, as well as descriptions of the brutal treatment and harsh conditions endured by the inmates. The History Detectives team dives deep into the archives to uncover the story behind this powerful and rare artifact.

As always, the History Detectives use their investigative skills and expertise to dig deep into the past and reveal the true stories behind these fascinating artifacts. Along the way, viewers are treated to amazing historical footage, expert analysis, and surprising discoveries.