Ep 2. Coast Guard Courage and More

In this episode of Mysteries at the Museum, host Don Wildman delves into the fascinating and heroic history of the US Coast Guard, highlighting the bravery and persistence of the men and women who serve. Beginning in the 1850s with the establishment of the Revenue Cutter Service, Wildman traces the progression of the Coast Guard through its many iterations, from its role in Prohibition-era law enforcement to its service during World War II and beyond. Along the way, he introduces viewers to some of the most daring rescues and harrowing experiences faced by Coast Guard personnel, including the 1980 rescue of the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Blackthorn after it collided with another ship.

But the Coast Guard is not the only subject of this episode, as Wildman turns his attention to other intriguing artifacts from American history as well. He explores the story of a wooden doll purported to have belonged to a young George Washington, examining the clues that might offer insight into its true origins. In addition, he examines an unusual medical device designed to treat insanity, taking a closer look at the dubious science behind such treatments.

Other intriguing items include a set of postcards containing messages from soldiers during World War I, shedding light on the experience of serving in the trenches and the value of correspondence during wartime. Wildman also examines the poignant story of a silver candlestick that served as a wedding gift from a young woman to her husband, who tragically died soon after their marriage. Through these and other objects, Mysteries at the Museum offers a riveting exploration of the many stories, both heroic and tragic, that have shaped American history.