
Ep 5 - Dr. Robert Telford and the Death of Hattie Bowell
Explicit content warning
09/14/23 • 72 min
Hosts Lauryn and Nima journey back to early 20th-century Vancouver, British Columbia, to explore a compelling case that involves a sensitive topic: abortion. Dr. Robert Telford, a respected physician, faced a moral dilemma in 1904 when Hattie Bowell, a young, unmarried woman, sought his help. Despite performing an abortion in her best interest, a septic infection tragically claimed Hattie's life. Dr. Telford's actions put his professional standing at risk as he grappled with the legal consequences. Join us as we delve into the complex history of Dr. Robert Telford and the life-altering consequences of his choices in a bygone era.
Tune in every other week for new episodes. Your support for the podcast means so much to us. You can subscribe and review us on your favourite podcast listening apps, and support us at patreon.com/rootedincrime. You can stay updated by following Rooted in Crime on Instagram, @rootedincrime.
For show notes, the recording transcript, and source information, you can visit rootedgenealogy.com/show-notes
Credits:
Research, writing, hosting, editing, and production: Lauryn Macdonald
Hosting: Nima Hodoudi
Music: Lindsay Macdonald
Rooted in Crime is an independent production.
Hosts Lauryn and Nima journey back to early 20th-century Vancouver, British Columbia, to explore a compelling case that involves a sensitive topic: abortion. Dr. Robert Telford, a respected physician, faced a moral dilemma in 1904 when Hattie Bowell, a young, unmarried woman, sought his help. Despite performing an abortion in her best interest, a septic infection tragically claimed Hattie's life. Dr. Telford's actions put his professional standing at risk as he grappled with the legal consequences. Join us as we delve into the complex history of Dr. Robert Telford and the life-altering consequences of his choices in a bygone era.
Tune in every other week for new episodes. Your support for the podcast means so much to us. You can subscribe and review us on your favourite podcast listening apps, and support us at patreon.com/rootedincrime. You can stay updated by following Rooted in Crime on Instagram, @rootedincrime.
For show notes, the recording transcript, and source information, you can visit rootedgenealogy.com/show-notes
Credits:
Research, writing, hosting, editing, and production: Lauryn Macdonald
Hosting: Nima Hodoudi
Music: Lindsay Macdonald
Rooted in Crime is an independent production.
Previous Episode

Ep 4 - The Unsolved Murder of Daniel Tessier
Hosts Lauryn and Nima uncover the perplexing case of Daniel Tessier, a seemingly forgotten story of murder, family, and unanswered questions. In the fading township of Dalton Mills, Ontario, the year 1946 saw tensions rise as illicit fur poachers clashed with regulated trappers, forcing Dan to make a fateful choice between his livelihood and his community. Beyond the surface of feuding bushmen lies a web of lethal family secrets, waiting to be unraveled. With the passage of time, the unsolved case sheds light on the enduring consequences of trauma and the mesmerizing pull of an unresolved mystery.
Tune in every other week for new episodes. Your support for the podcast means so much to us. You can subscribe and review us on your favourite podcast listening apps, and support us at patreon.com/rootedincrime. You can stay updated by following Rooted in Crime on Instagram, @rootedincrime.
For show notes, the recording transcript, and source information, you can visit rootedgenealogy.com/show-notes
Credits:
Research, writing, hosting, editing, and production: Lauryn Macdonald
Hosting: Nima Hodoudi
Music: Lindsay Macdonald
Rooted in Crime is an independent production.
Next Episode

Ep 6 - MMIWG: The Murder of Rosalie
In 1889, a chilling murder shook Calgary, Alberta. Rosalie, an Indigenous teenager, met a tragic end in the Turf Club saloon, at the hands of William Fisk, who was known as 'Jumbo.' The brutal murder sent shockwaves through the town, but it reflected the grim reality of the time when violence against Indigenous people was systemically perpetuated. Fisk faced trial for Rosalie's murder, a case that carried the weight of proving the value of her life, equal to any other. This episode is being released in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada. Please see below for additional resources.
DIsclaimer: This episode contains descriptions of violence towards an Indigenous teenager. Please take care when listening.
Learn about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:
- What is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?
- Ways to recognize and participate in Truth and Reconciliation
- Detailed resource guide for continued learning
Tune in every other week for new episodes. Your support for the podcast means so much to us. You can subscribe and review us on your favourite podcast listening apps, and support us at patreon.com/rootedincrime. You can stay updated by following Rooted in Crime on Instagram, @rootedincrime.
For show notes, the recording transcript, and source information, you can visit rootedgenealogy.com/show-notes
Credits:
Research, writing, hosting, editing, and production: Lauryn Macdonald
Hosting: Nima Hodoudi
Music: Lindsay Macdonald
Rooted in Crime is an independent production.
Rooted in Crime - Ep 5 - Dr. Robert Telford and the Death of Hattie Bowell
Transcript
Nima: [00:00:00] Rooted in Crime contains coarse language and mature themes such as violence and sexuality, which some listeners may find disturbing. Listener discretion is advised.
Lauryn: Hey everyone, before we get into today's show, I wanted to ask a quick favor of you. If you've been enjoying the show, we'd really appreciate it if you could rate and review the show on your favorite listening platform.
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