Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

Carole Townsend

Author and veteran journalist Carole Townsend shares remarkable tales from the South, tales of mystery, terror, and wonder. Townsend has built a career on the premise that truth really is stranger than fiction.
Here in the South, we love our stories. We begin in childhood huddled around campfires, whispering of things best spoken in the dark, confiding in our small trusting circles. Why is that, do you suppose? I have researched and investigated Southern history for more than 20 years and I believe it has to do with this region itself. There's a lot that hangs in the ether here and much that is buried deep in the soil. There's beauty here in the South and shame and courage and, make no mistake, there is evil. There's always been the element of the unexplained, the just out of reach that we can all feel but can never quite describe. And the best place for telling tales about such things is the comfort and safety of an old front porch. So I invite you tonight to come up here with me, settle back into a chair and get comfortable, pour yourself a drink if you like, and I'll share with you some of the tales best told in the company of friends, tales that prove that truth really is stranger than fiction, and I'll turn on the light. You're going to want that. I'm Carole Townsend. Welcome to my front porch.

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Top 10 Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Malice Aforethought: The Susan Smith Murders

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

03/14/25 • 27 min

A mother's desperate claim that her two young sons were kidnapped by a carjacker unravels into one of the most shocking murder cases in South Carolina history. The Susan Smith case reveals how a web of lies, inconsistencies, and a devastating confession led to the discovery of a premeditated crime that shocked the nation.
• Susan Smith reported her sons Michael (3) and Alex (14 months) were taken during a carjacking on October 25, 1994
• For nine days, America watched as Susan and her husband David made tearful pleas on national television
• Investigators noticed troubling inconsistencies in Susan's story, including speaking of her children in past tense
• A "Dear Jane" letter from Susan's boyfriend suggested a potential motive for the disappearance
• Susan eventually confessed to rolling her car into John D. Long Lake with her sons strapped in their car seats
• The car floated for six minutes before sinking, with the boys conscious and likely terrified
• Despite claiming she initially planned suicide alongside her children, Susan's clothes were dry when she reported the crime
• Susan's false accusation that a Black man had committed the crime inflamed racial tensions in the community
• In November 2024, Susan was denied parole after serving 30 years, but will be eligible for review every two years
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The Chilling Story of Corpsewood Manor

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

11/14/24 • 24 min

What drove Dr. Charles Scudder, a disillusioned pharmacology professor, to trade a life of urban hustle for the shadowy solace of the Appalachian foothills? Join me, Carole Townsend, as we unravel the enigmatic and tragic tale of Corpsewood Manor, a story that defies conventional wisdom and leaves us questioning the boundaries between idyllic dreams and chilling realities. Dr. Scudder and his partner Joey Odom sought refuge in the Chattahoochee National Forest, constructing a secluded sanctuary far from the mundane grind of Chicago life. Their quest for authenticity and freedom, however, led them into a nightmare on the night of December 12, 1982—a night marked by horror that still echoes through the southern woods.
Explore the sinister events that unfolded when Avery Brock and Tony West shattered the peace of Corpsewood Manor, leaving a haunting legacy in their wake. This episode guides you through the chilling details of that fateful night and the subsequent realm of eerie legends that linger at the site. Drawing from insightful sources like BT Hartman and Amy Petula, we piece together the narrative of murder, mystery, and the macabre, inviting you to reflect on the unsettling truths and folklore that entwine Southern history. Settle into the comfort of my front porch as we journey through stories stranger than fiction, exploring the haunting lore of North Georgia.

Floyd Collins Final Resting Place

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

10/10/24 • 31 min

What if the dark allure of the underground world could spell both fortune and doom? Join me, Carole Townsend, as we uncover the riveting and sobering tale of Floyd Collins, a passionate cave explorer whose dreams of discovery turned into a harrowing tragedy in Kentucky’s Sand Cave in 1925. We’ll traverse the era of the Kentucky Cave Wars, a time when spelunkers fiercely competed to unveil the next hidden gem, transforming natural wonders into profitable tourist attractions. Floyd’s astonishing find of the Great Crystal Cave in 1917 set the stage for his final, fateful adventure—one that captivated the nation and underscored the perils of this dangerous pursuit.
And that's not all—brace yourself for a chilling exploration of Lake Lanier, Georgia’s largest man-made lake with a haunting past. Created by damming the Chattahoochee River and flooding 38,000 acres, this lake has claimed over 700 lives, earning its grim moniker as a "watery grave." Through tales from reputable sources like the Kentucky National Guard and the National Park Service, we’ll delve into the eerie lore and tragic stories that surround this infamous body of water. From the tragic fate of Floyd Collins to the mysterious depths of Lake Lanier, this episode promises a captivating journey through history, tragedy, and the relentless human spirit. Subscribe and share these haunting stories with your friends—trust me, you won't want to miss this.

The Missing Sodder Children

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

02/27/25 • 26 min

On Christmas morning in 1945, a family's holiday joy shattered when flames consumed their home and five children mysteriously vanished. The Sodder family of Fayetteville, West Virginia, faced unthinkable tragedy that sparked theories of conspiracy and kidnapping. Starting with a strange phone call that Jenny Sautter received just before the blaze began, the episode delves into the moments leading to the horrifying fire that would change their lives forever.
We explore the bizarre occurrences that transpired that fateful night. Why did their coal trucks fail to start? Why was the ladder inexplicably missing? Why was the phone line cut? With every twist, the tragic tale morphs into a haunting mystery that captivates and perplexes investigators and listeners alike. The discussions in this episode highlight the unanswered questions that linger in the minds of those who reflect on the Sodder family.
Learn about the family's ongoing search for their missing children as they followed leads from cryptic letters and local sightings. This heartbreaking narrative, intertwined with themes of hope, loss, and the inherent complexities of human nature and community, remains unsolved. Join us as we chronicle this poignant story that stands as a testament to the unyielding pursuit of truth and peace for the Sodder family.
Don’t forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave a review! Your insights matter as we dive deeper into the mysterious tales of Southern history.

Kings Tavern

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

12/05/24 • 26 min

What eerie secrets lurk within the walls of King's Tavern, the oldest building in Natchez, Mississippi, where history and the paranormal intertwine? Journey with me, Carole Townsend, as we unravel the spine-chilling tales of murder and betrayal that haunt this ancient site and explore the historic Natchez Trace, a travel corridor rich with stories of coexistence and conflict. As we gather on my front porch, I promise you'll be captivated by the legends that echo through this historic site, questioning whether the energies of the past still linger. Expect to be both enthralled and unsettled as we connect the dots between history and ghostly encounters.
In our pursuit of dark history, we uncover the harrowing tale of America's first serial killers, the Harp brothers, infamous for their ruthless acts along the Natchez Trace. Their chilling legacy is theorized to influence the ghostly phenomena that make King's Tavern a supernatural hotspot. As we weave through history, we also touch upon the enigma of the lost colony of Roanoke, bringing together elements of mystery that define Southern folklore. With insights from resources like "Paranormal Mississippi Case Files" and "The Bloodthirsty Harp Brothers," this episode offers a thrilling blend of history, legend, and the supernatural, inviting you to share with fellow aficionados of historical mysteries.

The Woolfolk Family Murders

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

11/27/24 • 29 min

What if the deepest scars of Southern history were hidden within one family's tragic saga? Join us as we unravel the haunting mystery of the Woolfolk family massacre, a tale rooted in post-Civil War Georgia's tumultuous soil. Through the eyes of Thomas George Woolfolk, we walk a path littered with personal tragedy, failure, and a legacy of resentment. This episode paints a haunting portrait of a man ensnared by the complex web of family dynamics and Southern tradition, leaving listeners pondering the intricate interplay of emotion and history.
As we dissect this chilling case, you'll be transported to a time when justice was swift, and evidence was questionable. Despite the gravity of his accusations, Tom Woolfolk stood alone, his cries of innocence echoing into infamy as history judged him harshly. Through historical accounts and literature, we piece together the narrative from multiple perspectives, exploring the broader social context of the era, including the racially charged atmosphere that further darkened these events. Prepare to confront the unsettling questions and lingering mysteries that remain woven into the fabric of this Southern tragedy.

Diamond Doris: Unveiling a Southern Jewel Thief's Legacy

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

01/31/25 • 32 min

Could a life of crime be born from the pages of a fashion magazine? Join me, Carole Townsend, as we uncover the thrilling story of Doris Payne, the woman who turned the allure of Harper's Bazaar into a blueprint for an extraordinary life as a master jewel thief. Raised amid the challenges of poverty, domestic violence, and racial inequality in 1930s West Virginia, Doris defied the odds stacked against her. From her audacious heist of a $20,000 diamond ring to the international escapades that followed, Doris's story is a fascinating mix of charm, skill, and boldness, each step drawing her further into the spotlight of Southern folklore.
Doris Payne's life wasn't just about the jewels she took; it was about the intricacies of a woman navigating a world eager to pigeonhole her. Discover her daring heists from Pittsburgh to Monte Carlo, and the personal relationships that shaped her path, including her bond with her mother and a mysterious Israeli associate. Despite brushes with law enforcement, her cunning ensured she remained a step ahead, turning her life into an unforgettable chapter of Southern history. With insights from NPR’s 2014 feature, we invite you to explore this captivating tale and subscribe for more stories that unravel the mysteries and allure of the South.

Haunted by History: The Bell Witch's Enduring Curse

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

09/25/24 • 29 min

What if a ghostly force could shatter the tranquility of your home and torment your family for years? Get ready to uncover the spine-chilling legacy of the Bell Witch, a tale that has baffled and intrigued enthusiasts for over two centuries. Join me, Carole Townsend, as I take you to the heart of Adams, Tennessee, where John Bell and his family encountered a malevolent entity that turned their lives into a nightmare. From strange animals lurking in the shadows to violent attacks on John and his daughter Betsy, the legend becomes undeniable when even neighbor James Johnson encounters the paranormal firsthand.
Explore the witch's eerie influence beyond the Bell home, impacting John Bell Jr. and his brothers during the Battle of New Orleans and catching the attention of Major General Andrew Jackson himself. The relentless torment of John Bell Sr. culminates in his mysterious death, which the witch claims responsibility for, while Betsy Bell’s life is turned upside down, leading to a broken engagement. We ponder the possibility that the Bell Witch could have been something more sinister or symbolic, reflecting the historical and emotional turmoil of the time. As a special treat, I’ll also introduce our next tale of Southern lore: the tragic case of Floyd Collins in a Kentucky cave. Don’t miss this deep dive into stories that continue to haunt and fascinate us.

The Tragic Case of Leo Frank

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

09/12/24 • 25 min

Prepare to be captivated by the heart-wrenching and mysterious tales that lie at the very heart of Southern history. I'm Carole Townsend, and in this gripping episode, we revisit the tragic story of Mary Fagan, a young girl whose life was brutally ended at the National Pencil Company in Atlanta in 1913. Discover the eerie circumstances surrounding her death and the harrowing investigation that ensued, drawing Leo Frank, a Jewish factory superintendent, into a maelstrom of suspicion fueled by the racial and anti-Semitic tensions of the post-Civil War South.
Journey further into the dark history with the infamous trial and lynching of Leo Frank, whose case became a lightning rod for societal unrest and media sensationalism. We'll also uncover the spine-chilling legend of the Bell Witch in Tennessee, delving into whether this haunting was a masterful hoax or a true supernatural occurrence. With my extensive research and storytelling, I promise you an episode that not only illuminates the injustices and mysteries of our past but also keeps you on the edge of your seat. Don't forget to subscribe and share, and visit caroletownsend.com for more haunting tales.

The Garden of Good and Evil

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

01/16/25 • 30 min

Ever wondered what secrets lie beneath the cobblestone streets of Savannah? Join me, Carole Townsend, as I unravel the ghostly allure and historical intrigue of this Southern city, with tales that will leave you questioning the line between myth and reality. Our journey takes us first to the Mercer House, where the echoes of a dramatic event from May 2, 1981, continue to haunt Savannah's storied past. Inspired by John Barrett's "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," we'll peel back the layers of Southern charm to discover a city where history, mystery, and idiosyncratic characters create an irresistible tapestry.
In this episode, prepare to be captivated by the vibrant personalities that have shaped Savannah's narrative. From Jim Williams' infamous trial to the spellbinding presence of Lady Chablis and the enigmatic Gullah Hoodoo priestess Minerva, these characters bring the city to life in unexpected ways. As we explore Savannah's awe-inspiring antebellum architecture and lush parks, I'll reveal how this coastal gem's past is interwoven with tales of hedonism and high society. So, find a cozy spot, perhaps with a mint julep in hand, and let these stories transport you to a place where every corner whispers its own secrets of the past.

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FAQ

How many episodes does Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend have?

Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend currently has 15 episodes available.

What topics does Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend cover?

The podcast is about Fiction, True Crime, Drama, History, Lore, Murder, Atlanta, Podcasts and South.

What is the most popular episode on Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend?

The episode title 'Haunted by History: The Bell Witch's Enduring Curse' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend?

The average episode length on Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend is 30 minutes.

How often are episodes of Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend released?

Episodes of Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend are typically released every 13 days, 22 hours.

When was the first episode of Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend?

The first episode of Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend was released on Sep 4, 2024.

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Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend

Carole Townsend

Top 10 Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend have?

What topics does Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend cover?

What is the most popular episode on Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend?

What is the average episode length on Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend?

How often are episodes of Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend released?

When was the first episode of Front Porch Mysteries with Carole Townsend?

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