The National Hotel Epidemic

In January and March of 1857, President-elect James Buchanan stayed at the National Hotel in Washington D.C.

Located along the National Mall, the National - formerly known as "Gadsby's Hotel" - was the most regal lodging choice in the nation's capital at the time. Many banquets and balls were thrown in the hotel's ballroom, and it made a logical choice for Buchanan to stay there in the days leading up to his inauguration.

However, what people didn't know is that during his prior stay at the National, Buchanan and several of his staff-members had fallen ill to a mysterious illness, which would return with a vengeance during his second visit a month later. In the years since, some have theorized that poison may have played a part...

Episode researched, written, hosted, and produced by Micheal Whelan

Original music created by Micheal Whelan through Amper Music

Theme music created and composed by Ailsa Traves

Producers: Maggyjames, Roberta Janson, Ben Krokum, Peggy Belarde, Quil Carter, Victoria Reid, Gabriella Bromley, Laura Hannan, Damion Moore, Amy Hampton, Steven Wilson, Scott Meesey, Marie Vanglund, Scott Patzold, Astrid Kneier, Lori Rodriguez, Aimee McGregor, Sydney Scotton, Sara Moscaritolo, Sue Kirk, Thomas Ahearn, Seth Morgan, Marion Welsh, Patrick Laakso, Kelly Jo Hapgood, Alyssa Lawton, Jared Midwood, Travis Scsepko, Meadow Landry, Rebecca Miller, Tatum Bautista, Jo Wong, Erin Pyles, Teunia Elzinga, Consuelo Moreno, Jacinda B., and Ryan Green

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Release date

Lydbog: 12. juli 2020