Ep 9. Clever Hans, Bertha Benz And Civil War Counterfeiter

In season 13 episode 9 of Mysteries at the Museum, viewers are taken on a journey through time to explore the stories of three intriguing figures: Clever Hans, Bertha Benz, and a Civil War counterfeiter.

The episode begins with the story of Clever Hans, a horse who was believed to possess remarkable mathematical abilities in early 20th century Germany. Hans's owner, Wilhelm von Osten, was convinced that his horse could perform complex calculations by tapping his hoof in response to questions. The incredible feat made rounds in the entertainment industry and even led to widespread scientific studies. However, it wasn't long before skeptics started to question whether there was more to Hans's abilities than met the eye.

Next, the episode jumps to the life of Bertha Benz, who is often credited with being the first person to take a long-distance road trip in a car. In 1888, when cars were still a novelty, Bertha, who was married to inventor Karl Benz, decided to take their Motorwagen on a 60-mile journey from Mannheim to Pforzheim to prove its reliability. During the trip, she encountered numerous challenges, including a broken ignition wire and the need to improvise fuel by using ligroin from a nearby pharmacy. Despite the obstacles, Bertha's journey was a watershed moment in automotive history, and it paved the way for the popularity of cars we know today.

Finally, the episode explores the story of a Civil War counterfeiter named Samuel Upham, whose actions played a significant role in the Union's efforts to undermine the Confederate currency. Upham was known for producing incredibly realistic fake banknotes, which he sold to the Union army. His counterfeit bills were so good that they managed to pass off as authentic currency, leading to economic instability in the Confederacy. Upham's counterfeiting skills were eventually uncovered, and he was tried and convicted of his crimes, but his legacy lived on as a master forger.

Throughout the episode, viewers get to witness the fascinating tales of these three individuals, with each story bringing to light a different aspect of history. From the curious nature of Clever Hans's abilities to the pioneering spirit of Bertha Benz to the crafty skills of Samuel Upham, this episode is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With its mix of historical context and gripping storytelling, it's no wonder that Mysteries at the Museum has become a popular favorite among lovers of history and mystery alike.