Ep 10. Making Michigan and More

In this episode of Mysteries at the Museum, entitled "Making Michigan and More," host Don Wildman takes viewers on a journey through history as he explores fascinating artifacts from around the world.

The episode begins in Michigan, where Wildman visits the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum to discover the story behind a unique painting. The artwork, titled "The Ninth Wave," was created by a Russian artist in the late 19th century and depicts a group of sailors struggling to survive a storm at sea. Wildman learns about the painting's connection to one of America's most famous shipwrecks, and the role it played in shaping Michigan's maritime history.

Next, Wildman travels to London, England to investigate a bizarre medical instrument on display at the Royal College of Surgeons. The device, known as a trephine, was used in ancient times to remove a circular piece of bone from the skull. Wildman discovers the surprising reason why this painful procedure was performed, and how it was used in both medical and mystical practices.

The episode then takes viewers to the American Southwest, where Wildman examines a mysterious set of artifacts at the Museum of Northern Arizona. The objects, which include a wooden bowl and a woven mat, were discovered in a remote cave and are believed to have been made by some of the earliest inhabitants of the region. Wildman learns about the complex system of symbols and beliefs that these ancient peoples used to communicate with the natural world.

Moving on to Baltimore, Maryland, Wildman visits the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum to uncover the story of one of the author's most famous works. The poem "The Raven" has captivated readers for over a century with its haunting imagery and dark themes. Wildman explores the inspiration behind Poe's masterpiece and its lasting influence on American literature.

The final segment of the episode takes viewers to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington D.C. Here, Wildman encounters an unusual glove that belonged to one of baseball's greatest players, Lou Gehrig. The glove, which is more than 80 years old, tells the story of a man who rose to fame on the field but tragically lost his life to a devastating disease. Wildman brings Gehrig's legacy to life as he explores the glove's unique design and context in the context of baseball history.

Overall, "Making Michigan and More" offers a fascinating look at some of the world's most intriguing artifacts and the stories they tell. Through his engaging narration and expert analysis, Don Wildman brings these pieces of history to life and helps viewers gain a deeper appreciation for the mysteries of the past.