"Mysteries at the Museum" Undercover Informant, the Black Beetle, and Unexpected Artist

1 00:00:01,801 --> 00:00:05,605 The insider who took down Chicago's biggest mob boss... 2 00:00:05,705 --> 00:00:08,408 Capone would go to the ends of the Earth to find out 3 00:00:08,508 --> 00:00:11,077 who ratted him out. 4 00:00:11,177 --> 00:00:14,881 ...an epic tale of survival on the high seas... 5 00:00:14,981 --> 00:00:18,051 It truly looked like their days were numbered. 6 00:00:18,151 --> 00:00:20,754 ...and a haunted house with a chilly secret... 7 00:00:20,854 --> 00:00:23,890 This is terrifying. This is like a horror movie. 8 00:00:23,990 --> 00:00:26,092 ♪♪ 9 00:00:26,192 --> 00:00:28,495 ...these are the mysteries at the museum. 10 00:00:28,595 --> 00:00:34,067 ♪♪ 11 00:00:34,167 --> 00:00:36,236 WILDMAN: Las Vegas, Nevada. 12 00:00:36,336 --> 00:00:39,339 If the neon lights of this city's world-famous strip 13 00:00:39,439 --> 00:00:41,374 were laid end-to-end, 14 00:00:41,474 --> 00:00:45,712 they'd stretch for more than 15,000 miles. 15 00:00:45,812 --> 00:00:48,314 But one attraction here is dedicated 16 00:00:48,415 --> 00:00:51,017 to Sin City's darker side, 17 00:00:51,117 --> 00:00:53,887 The Mob Museum. 18 00:00:53,987 --> 00:00:57,357 The collection includes a section of the wall 19 00:00:57,457 --> 00:01:01,695 from the St. Valentine's Day massacre of 1929, 20 00:01:01,795 --> 00:01:04,064 a gangster's Tommy gun, 21 00:01:04,164 --> 00:01:05,532 and monogrammed rings 22 00:01:05,632 --> 00:01:08,568 that belonged to the legendary crime boss Bugsy Siegel. 23 00:01:08,668 --> 00:01:11,571 ♪♪ 24 00:01:11,671 --> 00:01:15,709 And amid this rogue's gallery is an intimidating artifact 25 00:01:15,809 --> 00:01:20,146 that belonged to the most infamous gangster of them all. 26 00:01:20,246 --> 00:01:22,615 MAROD: Measuring about 9 3/4 inches long, 27 00:01:22,716 --> 00:01:25,151 this item is made out of steel, 28 00:01:25,251 --> 00:01:27,487 nickel plate and mother of pearl. 29 00:01:27,587 --> 00:01:29,055 There is an engraving 30 00:01:29,155 --> 00:01:31,358 that spells the word Smith & Wesson. 31 00:01:31,458 --> 00:01:34,728 ♪♪ 32 00:01:34,828 --> 00:01:38,698 WILDMAN: This revolver recalls a life or death gamble 33 00:01:38,798 --> 00:01:40,700 that pitted a doting father 34 00:01:40,800 --> 00:01:43,069 against a ruthless criminal mastermind. 35 00:01:43,169 --> 00:01:47,374 This is a story about betrayal, of violent murder, 36 00:01:47,474 --> 00:01:51,011 and the most notorious gangster in all of Chicago. 37 00:01:51,111 --> 00:01:54,948 ♪♪ 38 00:01:55,048 --> 00:01:58,251 WILDMAN: 1925 -- Chicago. 39 00:01:58,351 --> 00:02:01,554 32-year-old Edward O'Hare is an up-and-coming lawyer 40 00:02:01,654 --> 00:02:03,790 with a wife and family. 41 00:02:03,890 --> 00:02:07,394 Edward O'Hare had this huge personality. 42 00:02:07,494 --> 00:02:11,464 And he was a very, very devoted father. 43 00:02:11,564 --> 00:02:16,369 WILDMAN: But the ambitious attorney has a sinister secret. 44 00:02:16,469 --> 00:02:18,471 O-Hare is entwined with Chicago's 45 00:02:18,571 --> 00:02:22,642 most notorious gang boss -- Al Capone. 46 00:02:22,742 --> 00:02:25,278 ♪♪ 47 00:02:25,378 --> 00:02:28,748 Capone is known as a merciless gangster 48 00:02:28,848 --> 00:02:31,484 and ruled Chicago's underworld. 49 00:02:31,584 --> 00:02:33,653 WILDMAN: The ruthless kingpin oversees 50 00:02:33,753 --> 00:02:36,256 a vast empire of speakeasies 51 00:02:36,356 --> 00:02:38,792 and gambling halls. 52 00:02:38,892 --> 00:02:40,493 And, together, O'Hare and Capone 53 00:02:40,593 --> 00:02:43,797 run a lucrative dog-racing track outside Chicago. 54 00:02:43,897 --> 00:02:48,835 ♪♪ 55 00:02:48,935 --> 00:02:52,238 For several years, the illicit business booms 56 00:02:52,339 --> 00:02:55,408 and O'Hare makes money hand over fist. 57 00:02:55,508 --> 00:02:57,610 He was making more money than I imagine 58 00:02:57,711 --> 00:03:00,714 he could have even dreamed of as a lawyer. 59 00:03:00,814 --> 00:03:04,551 ♪♪ 60 00:03:04,651 --> 00:03:06,986 WILDMAN: But something is about to happen 61 00:03:07,087 --> 00:03:10,490 that will turn his life upside down. 62 00:03:10,590 --> 00:03:14,094 In 1930, O'Hare's 16-year-old son, Butch, 63 00:03:14,194 --> 00:03:18,631 announces that he wants to attend the U.S. Naval Academy. 64 00:03:18,732 --> 00:03:21,701 But to be accepted, he needs a letter of recommendation 65 00:03:21,801 --> 00:03:24,270 from their Congressman. 66 00:03:24,371 --> 00:03:26,139 O'Hare is in a bind. 67 00:03:26,239 --> 00:03:28,541 Given his own ties to the mob, 68 00:03:28,641 --> 00:03:31,378 there's no way his son will be accepted. 69 00:03:31,478 --> 00:03:35,615 A United States Congressman wouldn't want to have given 70 00:03:35,715 --> 00:03:37,717 a nomination to the son of somebody 71 00:03:37,817 --> 00:03:40,754 who was in business with Al Capone. 72 00:03:40,854 --> 00:03:42,756 WILDMAN: The unwritten code of the mob 73 00:03:42,856 --> 00:03:47,193 means that if O'Hare tries to break with Capone, 74 00:03:47,293 --> 00:03:50,864 he will almost certainly end up dead. 75 00:03:50,964 --> 00:03:53,299 He faces a terrible dilemma, 76 00:03:53,400 --> 00:03:55,969 choose between his son's happiness 77 00:03:56,069 --> 00:03:57,504 and his own life. 78 00:03:57,604 --> 00:04:00,674 As a parent, what do you do in that situation? 79 00:04:00,774 --> 00:04:04,811 ♪♪ 80 00:04:04,911 --> 00:04:06,813 WILDMAN: To secure his son's future, 81 00:04:06,913 --> 00:04:10,083 the devoted father takes drastic action. 82 00:04:10,183 --> 00:04:13,920 He meets with federal agents and makes them an offer. 83 00:04:14,020 --> 00:04:18,058 He will inform on Capone for the FBI. 84 00:04:18,158 --> 00:04:20,293 In exchange for informing, 85 00:04:20,393 --> 00:04:22,929 he wanted the feds to make it known 86 00:04:23,029 --> 00:04:26,132 that he had helped them put Capone away in order 87 00:04:26,232 --> 00:04:29,302 to help his son get that nomination 88 00:04:29,402 --> 00:04:32,605 that he needed from a Congressman. 89 00:04:32,706 --> 00:04:35,375 WILDMAN: For years, the feds have been unable to build a case 90 00:04:35,475 --> 00:04:37,544 against the criminal mastermind. 91 00:04:37,644 --> 00:04:42,415 And O'Hare's cooperation is just what they need to take him down. 92 00:04:42,515 --> 00:04:46,119 But it's a huge risk. 93 00:04:46,219 --> 00:04:49,689 To stop potential informants, Capone intimidates people 94 00:04:49,789 --> 00:04:52,092 with his weapon of choice, 95 00:04:52,192 --> 00:04:54,861 a pearl-handled revolver on display 96 00:04:54,961 --> 00:04:58,131 at The Mob Museum in Las Vegas, Nevada. 97 00:04:58,231 --> 00:05:00,333 MAROD: Capone would go to the ends of the Earth 98 00:05:00,433 --> 00:05:01,935 to find out who ratted him out. 99 00:05:02,035 --> 00:05:07,841 But O'Hare decided that his son's dream was worth this. 100 00:05:07,941 --> 00:05:09,109 WILDMAN: Over the next few months, 101 00:05:09,209 --> 00:05:12,278 O'Hare provides the feds with a wealth of documents 102 00:05:12,379 --> 00:05:13,813 and insider information 103 00:05:13,913 --> 00:05:17,283 about Capone's business dealings. 104 00:05:17,384 --> 00:05:19,352 Soon, the feds had enough evidence 105 00:05:19,452 --> 00:05:23,523 to take Capone to court for tax evasion. 106 00:05:23,623 --> 00:05:28,695 WILDMAN: In 1931, the notorious mobster is tried, found guilty, 107 00:05:28,795 --> 00:05:30,997 and sentenced to 11 years in prison. 108 00:05:31,097 --> 00:05:34,000 The feds couldn't have done it without O'Hare. 109 00:05:34,100 --> 00:05:36,836 ♪♪ 110 00:05:36,936 --> 00:05:39,706 WILDMAN: Two years later, in 1933, 111 00:05:39,806 --> 00:05:42,275 his son, Edward Butch O'Hare, 112 00:05:42,375 --> 00:05:46,312 is accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. 113 00:05:46,413 --> 00:05:48,381 ♪♪ 114 00:05:48,481 --> 00:05:51,518 But the proud father ultimately pays the price 115 00:05:51,618 --> 00:05:53,753 for helping the FBI. 116 00:05:53,853 --> 00:05:57,757 In 1939, Edward O'Hare is gunned down 117 00:05:57,857 --> 00:06:00,560 while driving home from work. 118 00:06:00,660 --> 00:06:05,031 Many suspect a vengeful Capone was behind the killing. 119 00:06:05,131 --> 00:06:06,466 Capone was still in prison, 120 00:06:06,566 --> 00:06:09,402 but he still had his men on the outside, 121 00:06:09,502 --> 00:06:11,638 so it was certainly within the realm of possibility 122 00:06:11,738 --> 00:06:15,842 that he had ordered this hit on O'Hare's life. 123 00:06:15,942 --> 00:06:17,344 WILDMAN: Butch O'Hare goes on to serve 124 00:06:17,444 --> 00:06:20,113 as a pilot in World War II. 125 00:06:20,213 --> 00:06:23,083 In 1942, he single-handedly shoots 126 00:06:23,183 --> 00:06:25,352 down five Japanese bombers, 127 00:06:25,452 --> 00:06:27,921 saving a U.S. aircraft carrier 128 00:06:28,021 --> 00:06:31,191 and the lives of 3,000 sailors. 129 00:06:31,291 --> 00:06:34,461 For his heroic act, he is the first Naval recipient 130 00:06:34,561 --> 00:06:38,264 of the Congressional Medal of Honor in World War II. 131 00:06:38,365 --> 00:06:41,801 Today, his name is famous to the millions of travelers 132 00:06:41,901 --> 00:06:45,739 who come through one of the country's busiest airports. 133 00:06:45,839 --> 00:06:48,208 Chicago's biggest airport was named 134 00:06:48,308 --> 00:06:50,810 O'Hare International Airport 135 00:06:50,910 --> 00:06:53,013 after the heroic actions 136 00:06:53,113 --> 00:06:55,181 of Butch O'Hare during World War II. 137 00:06:55,281 --> 00:06:57,450 ♪♪ 138 00:06:57,550 --> 00:06:59,552 WILDMAN: Today, this pearl-handled revolver 139 00:06:59,652 --> 00:07:01,721 that belonged to Al Capone 140 00:07:01,821 --> 00:07:04,858 is at The Mob Museum in Las Vegas. 141 00:07:04,958 --> 00:07:08,895 It recalls the determined dad who gambled his life 142 00:07:08,995 --> 00:07:13,600 to secure his son's future. 143 00:07:13,700 --> 00:07:15,001 San Diego. 144 00:07:15,101 --> 00:07:17,103 This Southern California city is 145 00:07:17,203 --> 00:07:21,141 home to the historic Hotel Del Coronado. 146 00:07:21,241 --> 00:07:24,778 Constructed in 1888 as the world's biggest resort, 147 00:07:24,878 --> 00:07:27,180 it is the second-largest wooden structure 148 00:07:27,280 --> 00:07:29,249 in the United States. 149 00:07:29,349 --> 00:07:32,052 And not far away from this building is an institution 150 00:07:32,152 --> 00:07:35,488 that celebrates more modern feats of engineering -- 151 00:07:35,588 --> 00:07:38,158 the San Diego Air and Space Museum. 152 00:07:38,258 --> 00:07:41,361 ♪♪ 153 00:07:41,461 --> 00:07:46,966 The collection includes a 1920s Army Air Corps biplane, 154 00:07:47,067 --> 00:07:51,771 a World War II fighter called a P-51D Mustang, 155 00:07:51,871 --> 00:07:54,941 and a Douglas A-4 Skyhawk combat jet 156 00:07:55,041 --> 00:07:57,143 that saw action in the Vietnam War. 157 00:07:57,243 --> 00:08:00,980 ♪♪ 158 00:08:01,081 --> 00:08:03,283 But among these flying machines 159 00:08:03,383 --> 00:08:06,820 is one that stayed firmly on the ground. 160 00:08:06,920 --> 00:08:11,091 BROWN: The artifact is about 9 feet long and 3 feet wide. 161 00:08:11,191 --> 00:08:13,326 It's shaped like a torpedo. 162 00:08:13,426 --> 00:08:18,365 It weighs over 2,000 pounds and is made of stainless steel. 163 00:08:18,465 --> 00:08:20,266 WILDMAN: This powerful piece of equipment 164 00:08:20,367 --> 00:08:22,769 was part of a jaw-dropping stunt 165 00:08:22,869 --> 00:08:27,007 that pushed a brave hero to the very brink of death. 166 00:08:27,107 --> 00:08:29,542 This is the story of an unbelievable test 167 00:08:29,642 --> 00:08:32,779 and one man's idea to revolutionize travel. 168 00:08:32,879 --> 00:08:36,916 ♪♪ 169 00:08:37,017 --> 00:08:40,153 WILDMAN: It's 1966. 170 00:08:40,253 --> 00:08:41,955 In the decade since the construction 171 00:08:42,055 --> 00:08:43,957 of the Interstate Highway System, 172 00:08:44,057 --> 00:08:47,193 Americans are taking to the roads like never before. 173 00:08:47,293 --> 00:08:51,231 But as car travel grows, the country's train companies 174 00:08:51,331 --> 00:08:55,935 are on the verge of bankruptcy, 175 00:08:56,036 --> 00:08:59,973 including the venerable New York Central Railroad. 176 00:09:00,073 --> 00:09:02,242 The top brass at New York Central realized 177 00:09:02,342 --> 00:09:05,445 that they needed something to get people back on the train, 178 00:09:05,545 --> 00:09:06,546 leave their cars at home. 179 00:09:06,646 --> 00:09:08,581 ♪♪ 180 00:09:08,682 --> 00:09:11,384 WILDMAN: To solve this problem, railroad executives 181 00:09:11,484 --> 00:09:13,086 turn to a 35-year-old 182 00:09:13,186 --> 00:09:17,257 mechanical engineer named Don Wetzel. 183 00:09:17,357 --> 00:09:19,292 BROWN: Don Wetzel was a former Air Force pilot. 184 00:09:19,392 --> 00:09:22,796 He was known for being an ideas man. 185 00:09:22,896 --> 00:09:24,831 WILDMAN: Wetzel knows that trains can reach around 186 00:09:24,931 --> 00:09:26,633 70 miles per hour. 187 00:09:26,733 --> 00:09:30,704 But that's not much faster than driving. 188 00:09:30,804 --> 00:09:34,240 He believes that if he can build a much faster train, 189 00:09:34,341 --> 00:09:38,712 the promise of saving time would lure riders back. 190 00:09:38,812 --> 00:09:41,815 His grand idea is high speed rail, 191 00:09:41,915 --> 00:09:43,616 trains that go faster than ever. 192 00:09:43,717 --> 00:09:46,619 ♪♪ 193 00:09:46,720 --> 00:09:49,222 WILDMAN: Wetzel and his team improve the engine 194 00:09:49,322 --> 00:09:51,624 on an ordinary diesel locomotive. 195 00:09:51,725 --> 00:09:54,828 But even with the boost, it only generates enough power 196 00:09:54,928 --> 00:09:59,099 to push a train to a top speed of 85 miles per hour. 197 00:09:59,199 --> 00:10:02,435 He knew he needed that x-factor, but he didn't know 198 00:10:02,535 --> 00:10:05,405 exactly what shape it might take. 199 00:10:05,505 --> 00:10:08,775 WILDMAN: One day, Wetzel combs through a military scrapyard, 200 00:10:08,875 --> 00:10:11,444 searching for parts to upgrade his train. 201 00:10:11,544 --> 00:10:15,448 There, something catches his eye -- 202 00:10:15,548 --> 00:10:20,020 twin jet engines from a B-36 nuclear bomber. 203 00:10:20,120 --> 00:10:22,722 ♪♪ 204 00:10:22,822 --> 00:10:26,026 BROWN: It was like a light bulb flashed in his mind. 205 00:10:26,126 --> 00:10:28,361 He knew what he had to do. 206 00:10:28,461 --> 00:10:30,397 WILDMAN: Back at his workshop, he and his team 207 00:10:30,497 --> 00:10:32,532 convert the jet engine's turbines 208 00:10:32,632 --> 00:10:34,534 to run on diesel. 209 00:10:34,634 --> 00:10:38,672 Then they streamlined the nose of an ordinary locomotive 210 00:10:38,772 --> 00:10:42,242 and mount the jet engines on top. 211 00:10:42,342 --> 00:10:46,012 And Wetzel dubs his creation the Black Beetle. 212 00:10:46,112 --> 00:10:47,547 It looked like something straight out 213 00:10:47,647 --> 00:10:49,115 of a science fiction movie. 214 00:10:49,215 --> 00:10:53,253 The jet engines made it look futuristic. 215 00:10:53,353 --> 00:10:54,387 WILDMAN: Wetzel announces that he will 216 00:10:54,487 --> 00:10:56,923 debut his creation in July 217 00:10:57,023 --> 00:11:00,994 on a stretch of track between Indiana and Ohio. 218 00:11:01,094 --> 00:11:02,629 And as word spreads, 219 00:11:02,729 --> 00:11:06,599 anticipation for the test reaches a fever pitch. 220 00:11:06,700 --> 00:11:08,702 Once photos hit the press, 221 00:11:08,802 --> 00:11:11,905 people couldn't stop talking about this train. 222 00:11:12,005 --> 00:11:13,940 WILDMAN: But far from being excited about 223 00:11:14,040 --> 00:11:16,643 future high-speed train travel, 224 00:11:16,743 --> 00:11:19,312 many think Wetzel's idea is pure folly. 225 00:11:19,412 --> 00:11:22,182 Some worry that the powerful jet engines 226 00:11:22,282 --> 00:11:24,050 will separate from the train 227 00:11:24,150 --> 00:11:27,387 or even lift the locomotive right off the tracks. 228 00:11:27,487 --> 00:11:31,391 Others fear the engines will simply explode. 229 00:11:31,491 --> 00:11:33,426 Well aware of the dangers, 230 00:11:33,526 --> 00:11:37,263 Wetzel volunteers to be the test pilot himself. 231 00:11:37,364 --> 00:11:38,631 Wetzel had no idea 232 00:11:38,732 --> 00:11:40,433 what would happen when he fired up the engines, 233 00:11:40,533 --> 00:11:42,369 but there was only one way to find out. 234 00:11:42,469 --> 00:11:45,205 ♪♪ 235 00:11:49,309 --> 00:11:52,112 It's July 1966. 236 00:11:52,212 --> 00:11:56,216 To save the faltering railroad industry, engineer Don Wetzel 237 00:11:56,316 --> 00:11:57,917 and his team have created 238 00:11:58,018 --> 00:12:01,154 what they hope is a superfast train, 239 00:12:01,254 --> 00:12:05,458 a jet-engined powered locomotive called the Black Beetle. 240 00:12:05,558 --> 00:12:07,460 It's captured the public's attention, 241 00:12:07,560 --> 00:12:11,464 but will this '60s super-train actually work? 242 00:12:11,564 --> 00:12:13,466 ♪♪ 243 00:12:13,566 --> 00:12:17,370 On July 23rd, 1966, in Butler, Indiana, 244 00:12:17,470 --> 00:12:19,105 Wetzel takes his place 245 00:12:19,205 --> 00:12:23,476 at the controls of the Black Beetle. 246 00:12:23,576 --> 00:12:25,879 BROWN: He was filled with nervous excitement. 247 00:12:25,979 --> 00:12:29,215 It all came down to this moment. 248 00:12:29,315 --> 00:12:31,985 WILDMAN: Wetzel fires up the jet engines, 249 00:12:32,085 --> 00:12:33,987 and the train leaps forward. 250 00:12:34,087 --> 00:12:36,790 ♪♪ 251 00:12:36,890 --> 00:12:41,528 It rapidly picks up speed and soon hurtles down the track. 252 00:12:41,628 --> 00:12:44,364 Wetzel is astounded. 253 00:12:44,464 --> 00:12:46,399 BROWN: It was absolutely incredible. 254 00:12:46,499 --> 00:12:48,101 The Beetle roared down the tracks 255 00:12:48,201 --> 00:12:49,969 like it was made for jet engines. 256 00:12:50,070 --> 00:12:52,072 ♪♪ 257 00:12:52,172 --> 00:12:55,875 WILDMAN: The Black Beetle races by crowds of stunned onlookers 258 00:12:55,975 --> 00:13:00,246 at an astonishing 183 miles per hour. 259 00:13:00,347 --> 00:13:05,418 It's more than double the speed of a standard passenger train. 260 00:13:05,518 --> 00:13:07,587 BROWN: Wetzel was completely floored. 261 00:13:07,687 --> 00:13:15,762 The Beetle was performing beyond his expectations. 262 00:13:15,862 --> 00:13:18,665 WILDMAN: Reports of the Black Beetle's success make headlines 263 00:13:18,765 --> 00:13:20,266 across the nation. 264 00:13:20,367 --> 00:13:23,603 And many hope the momentum will usher in a new era 265 00:13:23,703 --> 00:13:26,172 of high-speed trains. 266 00:13:26,272 --> 00:13:28,908 But these dreams are about to be dashed. 267 00:13:29,009 --> 00:13:31,411 To accommodate jet-powered trains, 268 00:13:31,511 --> 00:13:33,213 America's network of railways 269 00:13:33,313 --> 00:13:35,815 would need to be completely rebuilt. 270 00:13:35,915 --> 00:13:37,150 BROWN: The rails couldn't handle 271 00:13:37,250 --> 00:13:39,486 the incredible speeds of the Beetle. 272 00:13:39,586 --> 00:13:42,122 It would've been too expensive in the end. 273 00:13:42,222 --> 00:13:45,892 WILDMAN: The endeavor would cost billions. 274 00:13:45,992 --> 00:13:48,228 So Don Wetzel's jet-powered train 275 00:13:48,328 --> 00:13:50,730 is never used for passenger travel. 276 00:13:50,830 --> 00:13:54,601 But his vision remains a triumph of engineering. 277 00:13:54,701 --> 00:13:57,804 The Black Beetle's test set a record for the fastest train 278 00:13:57,904 --> 00:13:59,406 in U.S. history, 279 00:13:59,506 --> 00:14:02,042 an achievement that still stands. 280 00:14:02,142 --> 00:14:04,577 It goes to show that creativity and imagination 281 00:14:04,678 --> 00:14:06,713 can lead to something incredible. 282 00:14:06,813 --> 00:14:10,850 WILDMAN: In 2000, Amtrak debuts a high-speed train, 283 00:14:10,950 --> 00:14:12,318 the Acela Express, 284 00:14:12,419 --> 00:14:13,820 which whisks passengers 285 00:14:13,920 --> 00:14:16,289 between Boston and Washington D.C. 286 00:14:16,389 --> 00:14:19,059 at speeds up to 150 miles per hour. 287 00:14:19,159 --> 00:14:22,629 ♪♪ 288 00:14:22,729 --> 00:14:25,231 Today, this J-47 jet engine, 289 00:14:25,331 --> 00:14:27,233 like the ones mounted on the Black Beetle, 290 00:14:27,334 --> 00:14:31,071 is on display at the San Diego Air and Space Museum. 291 00:14:31,171 --> 00:14:34,974 It recalls the industrious engineer who made a locomotive 292 00:14:35,075 --> 00:14:36,576 for the jet age. 293 00:14:36,676 --> 00:14:42,148 ♪♪ 294 00:14:42,248 --> 00:14:43,717 Edinburgh, Scotland. 295 00:14:43,817 --> 00:14:47,320 This capital city's imposing Edinburgh Castle 296 00:14:47,420 --> 00:14:52,759 has sat atop an extinct volcano since the 12th century. 297 00:14:52,859 --> 00:14:55,762 And just steps away from the massive citadel 298 00:14:55,862 --> 00:14:57,897 is a revered institution, 299 00:14:57,997 --> 00:15:00,166 the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. 300 00:15:00,266 --> 00:15:03,503 ♪♪ 301 00:15:03,603 --> 00:15:08,174 The collection includes more than 3,000 works of art, 302 00:15:08,274 --> 00:15:11,578 including a portrait of esteemed British golfer John Taylor, 303 00:15:11,678 --> 00:15:16,116 a scene depicting two rebellious British princes 304 00:15:16,216 --> 00:15:18,284 in exile in Italy 305 00:15:18,385 --> 00:15:21,588 and a 17th century painting of the ill-fated Mary, 306 00:15:21,688 --> 00:15:26,159 Queen of Scots. 307 00:15:26,259 --> 00:15:30,263 But among these colossal paintings is a tiny item. 308 00:15:30,363 --> 00:15:32,632 HULLAND: It's 4 inches by 3 inches. 309 00:15:32,732 --> 00:15:36,936 The frame is oval, and in that frame is a beautiful lady 310 00:15:37,037 --> 00:15:39,039 who looks very at peace with the world. 311 00:15:39,139 --> 00:15:41,941 ♪♪ 312 00:15:42,042 --> 00:15:44,911 WILDMAN: This painting was the culmination of an artistic 313 00:15:45,011 --> 00:15:47,881 underdog's life-long dream. 314 00:15:47,981 --> 00:15:51,918 This is a story about a disabling medical condition, 315 00:15:52,018 --> 00:15:54,654 painting, and overcoming all the odds. 316 00:15:54,754 --> 00:16:00,093 ♪♪ 317 00:16:00,193 --> 00:16:02,696 WILDMAN: England -- 1800. 318 00:16:02,796 --> 00:16:04,864 Across this small island nation, 319 00:16:04,964 --> 00:16:08,268 traveling circuses are all the rage. 320 00:16:08,368 --> 00:16:10,937 Acts such as fire eaters, fortune tellers, 321 00:16:11,037 --> 00:16:13,073 and trapeze artists enthrall 322 00:16:13,173 --> 00:16:16,209 and captivate audiences wherever they perform. 323 00:16:16,309 --> 00:16:19,546 But one star draws in crowds like no other, 324 00:16:19,646 --> 00:16:25,018 16-year-old Sarah Biffen, 325 00:16:25,118 --> 00:16:28,321 a girl with an extraordinary medical condition. 326 00:16:28,421 --> 00:16:31,624 She was born without arms or legs. 327 00:16:31,725 --> 00:16:36,129 HULLAND: Sarah was a really positive and upbeat young woman. 328 00:16:36,229 --> 00:16:38,832 And despite having no legs and no arms, 329 00:16:38,932 --> 00:16:40,800 she could still do day-to-day tasks 330 00:16:40,900 --> 00:16:44,270 like sewing and making tea. 331 00:16:44,371 --> 00:16:46,906 WILDMAN: But Biffen also has an incredible skill. 332 00:16:47,007 --> 00:16:48,641 She can paint. 333 00:16:48,742 --> 00:16:51,544 Using nothing but her mouth to hold the brush, 334 00:16:51,644 --> 00:16:53,146 Biffen dazzles spectators 335 00:16:53,246 --> 00:16:56,216 by creating highly-detailed miniature portraits 336 00:16:56,316 --> 00:16:57,484 before their eyes. 337 00:16:57,584 --> 00:17:01,721 ♪♪ 338 00:17:01,821 --> 00:17:04,324 Biffen hopes her artistic talents will one day 339 00:17:04,424 --> 00:17:07,460 open up opportunities to greater things. 340 00:17:07,560 --> 00:17:09,662 She wants to make a living as a genuinely 341 00:17:09,763 --> 00:17:12,766 celebrated portrait painter. 342 00:17:12,866 --> 00:17:14,067 WILDMAN: Yet, despite her skill, 343 00:17:14,167 --> 00:17:17,437 Biffen is dismissed by the art world. 344 00:17:17,537 --> 00:17:19,272 It's impossible to overestimate 345 00:17:19,372 --> 00:17:21,408 just how ridiculous Biffen's dream 346 00:17:21,508 --> 00:17:24,110 would've come across to people at that point. 347 00:17:24,210 --> 00:17:28,014 WILDMAN: But her quest to be taken seriously isn't over. 348 00:17:28,114 --> 00:17:30,483 Sarah Biffen was about to get a visit 349 00:17:30,583 --> 00:17:33,420 from the most unexpected person she could imagine. 350 00:17:33,520 --> 00:17:37,724 ♪♪ 351 00:17:41,294 --> 00:17:43,963 It's the early 1800s in England. 352 00:17:44,064 --> 00:17:47,901 Teenager Sarah Biffen was born without arms or legs 353 00:17:48,001 --> 00:17:51,004 and spends her life as part of a traveling sideshow. 354 00:17:51,104 --> 00:17:53,039 Despite her challenges, she's developed 355 00:17:53,139 --> 00:17:54,708 an extraordinary skill, 356 00:17:54,808 --> 00:17:57,944 painting portraits by holding a brush in her mouth. 357 00:17:58,044 --> 00:17:59,212 And little does she know, 358 00:17:59,312 --> 00:18:02,849 her art is about to find a whole new audience. 359 00:18:02,949 --> 00:18:05,552 ♪♪ 360 00:18:05,652 --> 00:18:08,188 As word of Biffen's talent spreads, 361 00:18:08,288 --> 00:18:11,858 it comes to the attention of a British nobleman, 362 00:18:11,958 --> 00:18:15,362 George Douglas, the 16th Earl of Morton. 363 00:18:15,462 --> 00:18:19,666 The Earl of Morton was a huge fan of artists, of artwork, 364 00:18:19,766 --> 00:18:22,268 and he always had his eye out for new talent. 365 00:18:22,369 --> 00:18:25,071 ♪♪ 366 00:18:25,171 --> 00:18:27,941 WILDMAN: When the Earl sees Biffen painting for himself, 367 00:18:28,041 --> 00:18:31,478 he's captivated by her remarkable skill. 368 00:18:31,578 --> 00:18:34,314 The Earl believes Biffen's skills as an artist 369 00:18:34,414 --> 00:18:36,549 are being wasted in the circus. 370 00:18:36,649 --> 00:18:39,452 So he makes an amazing offer. 371 00:18:39,552 --> 00:18:42,322 He tells her that he wants to take her under his wing. 372 00:18:42,422 --> 00:18:45,425 He wants to make sure that she has the best tutelage 373 00:18:45,525 --> 00:18:48,161 that money can buy. 374 00:18:48,261 --> 00:18:51,664 WILDMAN: The Earl takes Biffen with him to London, 375 00:18:51,765 --> 00:18:55,602 where he arranges for her to study art full-time. 376 00:18:55,702 --> 00:18:59,439 There, word of the young woman's talent quickly spreads 377 00:18:59,539 --> 00:19:01,074 among the city's upper crust, 378 00:19:01,174 --> 00:19:04,244 who line up to have their portraits painted. 379 00:19:04,344 --> 00:19:06,546 Biffen soon has so many customers 380 00:19:06,646 --> 00:19:08,815 that she opens her own studio. 381 00:19:08,915 --> 00:19:11,918 Her work eventually attracts the most important patron 382 00:19:12,018 --> 00:19:13,386 in all of England. 383 00:19:13,486 --> 00:19:18,458 Queen Victoria herself decides to bestow upon Sarah the honor 384 00:19:18,558 --> 00:19:22,295 of paying her a pension. 385 00:19:22,395 --> 00:19:25,165 WILDMAN: This guaranteed monthly income from the monarch 386 00:19:25,265 --> 00:19:27,901 enables Biffen to lead the creative life 387 00:19:28,001 --> 00:19:29,969 she has always dreamed of. 388 00:19:30,070 --> 00:19:32,839 Today, her work is displayed in some of the world's 389 00:19:32,939 --> 00:19:34,808 most prestigious galleries. 390 00:19:34,908 --> 00:19:37,043 This is a girl who had such a talent 391 00:19:37,143 --> 00:19:40,046 that she changed the art world for the better. 392 00:19:40,146 --> 00:19:42,916 ♪♪ 393 00:19:43,016 --> 00:19:45,418 WILDMAN: This self-portrait by Sarah Biffen 394 00:19:45,518 --> 00:19:46,853 is part of the collection 395 00:19:46,953 --> 00:19:50,323 of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh. 396 00:19:50,423 --> 00:19:53,293 It's a detailed reminder of a unique artist 397 00:19:53,393 --> 00:19:55,662 who persevered against all odds. 398 00:19:55,762 --> 00:19:59,499 ♪♪ 399 00:19:59,599 --> 00:20:02,669 The pristine beaches of Pensacola, Florida 400 00:20:02,769 --> 00:20:07,140 are said to have some of the whitest sand in the world. 401 00:20:07,240 --> 00:20:10,443 But alongside this natural beauty is an institution 402 00:20:10,543 --> 00:20:12,946 that showcases man-made wonders -- 403 00:20:13,046 --> 00:20:16,116 the National Naval Aviation Museum. 404 00:20:16,216 --> 00:20:20,353 ♪♪ 405 00:20:20,453 --> 00:20:24,090 The collection includes an A-7 Corsair II fighter jet 406 00:20:24,190 --> 00:20:27,927 that flew in Operation Desert Storm, 407 00:20:28,028 --> 00:20:33,800 a 1965 transport helicopter nicknamed The Frog 408 00:20:33,900 --> 00:20:37,103 and a Douglas SBD Dauntless dive-bomber 409 00:20:37,203 --> 00:20:39,239 that survived the attack on Pearl Harbor. 410 00:20:39,339 --> 00:20:42,942 ♪♪ 411 00:20:43,043 --> 00:20:45,712 But among these high-flying machines 412 00:20:45,812 --> 00:20:49,382 is a crude item from the high seas. 413 00:20:49,482 --> 00:20:52,185 LINN: The artifact is yellow in color, 414 00:20:52,285 --> 00:20:54,654 composed of rubber and cloth. 415 00:20:54,754 --> 00:20:59,526 The dimensions are 8 feet in length by 4 feet in width. 416 00:20:59,626 --> 00:21:01,294 And the interior, when inflated, 417 00:21:01,394 --> 00:21:05,031 is the size of a standard bathtub. 418 00:21:05,131 --> 00:21:07,000 WILDMAN: This craft carried three men 419 00:21:07,100 --> 00:21:09,869 during a harrowing tale of survival. 420 00:21:09,969 --> 00:21:14,474 This is a story about fortitude, 421 00:21:14,574 --> 00:21:17,510 strength, and the human spirit. 422 00:21:17,610 --> 00:21:21,715 ♪♪ 423 00:21:21,815 --> 00:21:24,951 WILDMAN: It's 1942. 424 00:21:25,051 --> 00:21:26,519 In the midst of World War II, 425 00:21:26,619 --> 00:21:28,455 the American fleet in the Pacific 426 00:21:28,555 --> 00:21:31,591 is under constant threat from Japanese ships. 427 00:21:31,691 --> 00:21:35,962 So to seek out enemy vessels, the U.S. relies on long-range 428 00:21:36,062 --> 00:21:40,834 scout planes launched from aircraft carriers. 429 00:21:40,934 --> 00:21:45,705 And onboard the USS Enterprise is one hardworking flight crew, 430 00:21:45,805 --> 00:21:49,242 radioman Gene Aldrich, 431 00:21:49,342 --> 00:21:51,378 bombardier Tony Pastula, 432 00:21:51,478 --> 00:21:54,781 and pilot Chief Petty Officer Harold Dixon. 433 00:21:54,881 --> 00:21:57,150 Dixon was a no-nonsense Navy veteran 434 00:21:57,250 --> 00:21:58,952 with 22 years of experience. 435 00:21:59,052 --> 00:22:03,089 ♪♪ 436 00:22:03,189 --> 00:22:04,457 WILDMAN: On January 16th, 437 00:22:04,557 --> 00:22:06,993 the airmen are sent on a scouting mission. 438 00:22:07,093 --> 00:22:12,132 For 5 hours, they search for enemy ships. 439 00:22:12,232 --> 00:22:15,502 Unable to find any, they set a course back to the Enterprise. 440 00:22:15,602 --> 00:22:21,708 ♪♪ 441 00:22:21,808 --> 00:22:23,877 But when they arrive at the coordinates 442 00:22:23,977 --> 00:22:26,413 where the ship is supposed to be, 443 00:22:26,513 --> 00:22:27,714 it's nowhere to be seen. 444 00:22:27,814 --> 00:22:32,585 They tried to communicate with the ship via radio 445 00:22:32,686 --> 00:22:34,154 and received no answer. 446 00:22:34,254 --> 00:22:36,956 WILDMAN: For 45 fruitless minutes, 447 00:22:37,057 --> 00:22:39,259 they search for the carrier. 448 00:22:39,359 --> 00:22:41,027 But as their fuel runs out, 449 00:22:41,127 --> 00:22:45,131 Dixon comes to a grim realization. 450 00:22:45,231 --> 00:22:47,801 He will have to ditch the plane in the ocean. 451 00:22:47,901 --> 00:22:54,040 ♪♪ 452 00:22:54,140 --> 00:22:57,510 Dixon carefully lands on the water's surface, 453 00:22:57,610 --> 00:23:00,513 and they pile into a life raft, 454 00:23:00,613 --> 00:23:03,850 the same one on display at the National Naval Aviation Museum 455 00:23:03,950 --> 00:23:08,188 in Pensacola, Florida. 456 00:23:08,288 --> 00:23:10,857 The next morning, they spot a search plane 457 00:23:10,957 --> 00:23:14,094 but fail to flag it down. 458 00:23:14,194 --> 00:23:18,865 It seems their only hope of rescue is gone. 459 00:23:18,965 --> 00:23:20,567 ♪♪ 460 00:23:20,667 --> 00:23:24,204 Dixon resolved that, even though they were on their own, 461 00:23:24,304 --> 00:23:27,307 they would find a way to survive. 462 00:23:27,407 --> 00:23:29,876 WILDMAN: They have no food or water, 463 00:23:29,976 --> 00:23:31,344 just a pocket knife, 464 00:23:31,444 --> 00:23:35,015 a pencil, and a couple of life jackets. 465 00:23:35,115 --> 00:23:37,984 To stand any chance, they'll have to find land. 466 00:23:38,084 --> 00:23:41,788 So to figure out where they are, 467 00:23:41,888 --> 00:23:45,725 Dixon recalls an old trick he learned in training. 468 00:23:45,825 --> 00:23:48,528 LINN: Dixon was a master seaman. 469 00:23:48,628 --> 00:23:51,097 He had memorized the star charts in the area. 470 00:23:51,197 --> 00:23:54,801 He knew where all the islands were in their vicinity. 471 00:23:54,901 --> 00:23:58,238 WILDMAN: Studying the stars and using the pencil, 472 00:23:58,338 --> 00:24:00,640 Dixon draws a map of their location 473 00:24:00,740 --> 00:24:03,076 on a life vest. 474 00:24:03,176 --> 00:24:05,879 He calculates they are about 500 miles 475 00:24:05,979 --> 00:24:09,416 northeast of the Cook Islands. 476 00:24:09,516 --> 00:24:12,452 If the men can make it there, the locals should be able 477 00:24:12,552 --> 00:24:14,988 to help them get back to their ship. 478 00:24:15,088 --> 00:24:18,058 But without any oars, making the journey across 479 00:24:18,158 --> 00:24:20,160 the ocean will be nearly impossible. 480 00:24:20,260 --> 00:24:25,432 The men needed to find a way to guide their raft 481 00:24:25,532 --> 00:24:27,100 because they were at the mercy of the waves 482 00:24:27,200 --> 00:24:30,537 and the elements. 483 00:24:30,637 --> 00:24:31,705 WILDMAN: As the days pass, 484 00:24:31,805 --> 00:24:33,673 they grow increasingly dehydrated, 485 00:24:33,773 --> 00:24:38,578 horribly sunburned and, it seems, destined to die. 486 00:24:38,678 --> 00:24:40,113 It truly looked like their days were numbered. 487 00:24:40,213 --> 00:24:41,448 ♪♪ 488 00:24:45,385 --> 00:24:47,687 It's 1942. 489 00:24:47,787 --> 00:24:51,191 Navy pilot Harold Dixon and his crew are drifting 490 00:24:51,291 --> 00:24:52,459 aimlessly at sea 491 00:24:52,559 --> 00:24:55,862 on a small life raft with meager supplies. 492 00:24:55,962 --> 00:24:57,731 From his knowledge of the stars, 493 00:24:57,831 --> 00:24:59,833 he's been able to estimate where they are. 494 00:24:59,933 --> 00:25:02,635 But he has no way of maneuvering them to safety. 495 00:25:02,736 --> 00:25:06,139 So how will these men survive? 496 00:25:06,239 --> 00:25:09,409 ♪♪ 497 00:25:09,509 --> 00:25:13,413 Dixon knows he needs to get his men to land fast. 498 00:25:13,513 --> 00:25:17,017 So lacking any oars, he takes his shoes 499 00:25:17,117 --> 00:25:20,553 and cuts the soles off with a pocketknife. 500 00:25:20,653 --> 00:25:24,924 Then he ties the soles to the men's hands 501 00:25:25,025 --> 00:25:26,893 and orders them to start paddling 502 00:25:26,993 --> 00:25:29,596 toward the Cook Islands. 503 00:25:29,696 --> 00:25:31,865 The men were able to have a greater control 504 00:25:31,965 --> 00:25:33,433 over the direction of their raft 505 00:25:33,533 --> 00:25:38,204 and essentially their own destinies. 506 00:25:38,304 --> 00:25:41,508 WILDMAN: Finally, after 34 days at sea, 507 00:25:41,608 --> 00:25:45,945 Dixon and his crewmen spot land. 508 00:25:46,046 --> 00:25:48,114 And as they come ashore, they are greeted 509 00:25:48,214 --> 00:25:51,117 by the friendly people of the Cook Islands. 510 00:25:51,217 --> 00:25:52,686 They were ecstatic. 511 00:25:52,786 --> 00:25:55,722 They were so overcome with appreciation, 512 00:25:55,822 --> 00:25:58,892 disbelief, and relief. 513 00:25:58,992 --> 00:26:00,727 WILDMAN: The local government arranges 514 00:26:00,827 --> 00:26:04,631 a seaplane to bring the sailors back to the USS Enterprise. 515 00:26:04,731 --> 00:26:07,934 ♪♪ 516 00:26:08,034 --> 00:26:11,237 And finally, the mystery of why the men had been 517 00:26:11,338 --> 00:26:15,075 unable to locate the carrier is solved. 518 00:26:15,175 --> 00:26:18,411 According to Navy mechanics, their plane's navigational 519 00:26:18,511 --> 00:26:20,980 equipment had malfunctioned. 520 00:26:21,081 --> 00:26:22,916 As a result, they had been searching 521 00:26:23,016 --> 00:26:24,818 for the aircraft carrier 522 00:26:24,918 --> 00:26:28,388 in the wrong place. 523 00:26:28,488 --> 00:26:31,257 News of their incredible rescue makes headlines 524 00:26:31,358 --> 00:26:33,960 around the world. 525 00:26:34,060 --> 00:26:38,164 In March 1942, Harold Dixon is awarded the Navy Cross 526 00:26:38,264 --> 00:26:40,600 for saving the lives of his crew members. 527 00:26:40,700 --> 00:26:45,472 ♪♪ 528 00:26:45,572 --> 00:26:49,743 Today, the raft that Dixon, Aldrich, and Pastula survived 529 00:26:49,843 --> 00:26:51,411 on for more than a month 530 00:26:51,511 --> 00:26:54,414 is on display at the National Naval Aviation Museum 531 00:26:54,514 --> 00:26:56,783 in Pensacola, Florida. 532 00:26:56,883 --> 00:27:00,420 It's tangible proof of the incredible will to survive 533 00:27:00,520 --> 00:27:03,390 that helped three men remain afloat. 534 00:27:03,490 --> 00:27:07,627 ♪♪ 535 00:27:07,727 --> 00:27:11,931 Portland, Oregon is home to a host of offbeat coffee shops, 536 00:27:12,032 --> 00:27:13,967 quirky art galleries, 537 00:27:14,067 --> 00:27:17,203 and the landmark Keller Fountain Park. 538 00:27:17,303 --> 00:27:20,306 The fountain is comprised of concrete terraces 539 00:27:20,407 --> 00:27:22,442 that recall the Pacific Northwest's 540 00:27:22,542 --> 00:27:25,578 spectacular waterfalls. 541 00:27:25,679 --> 00:27:28,648 And not far away is an even larger attraction, 542 00:27:28,748 --> 00:27:32,052 the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. 543 00:27:32,152 --> 00:27:35,188 ♪♪ 544 00:27:35,288 --> 00:27:38,058 The collection includes an industrial 545 00:27:38,158 --> 00:27:43,463 robot designed to assemble and load materials in factories, 546 00:27:43,563 --> 00:27:48,368 light bulbs used by Thomas Edison in 1878, 547 00:27:48,468 --> 00:27:50,603 and a liquid-fueled rocket engine 548 00:27:50,704 --> 00:27:53,073 for use in a ballistic missile. 549 00:27:53,173 --> 00:27:57,143 ♪♪ 550 00:27:57,243 --> 00:27:59,646 And among these engineering innovations 551 00:27:59,746 --> 00:28:01,314 is a brightly colored device 552 00:28:01,414 --> 00:28:03,650 with a bizarre story to tell. 553 00:28:03,750 --> 00:28:07,454 The artifact is made of hard yellow plastic. 554 00:28:07,554 --> 00:28:09,723 It weighs around 8 ounces. 555 00:28:09,823 --> 00:28:11,257 It has a toggle dial. 556 00:28:11,358 --> 00:28:13,026 The item looks like it's used in some type 557 00:28:13,126 --> 00:28:14,661 of scientific experiment. 558 00:28:14,761 --> 00:28:18,665 ♪♪ 559 00:28:18,765 --> 00:28:20,633 WILDMAN: This weird gadget was at the heart of 560 00:28:20,734 --> 00:28:22,168 an incredible tale 561 00:28:22,268 --> 00:28:25,405 that played out in the wilds of the Lone Star State. 562 00:28:25,505 --> 00:28:27,707 This is a story of two cowboys, 563 00:28:27,807 --> 00:28:31,678 a scientist, and an unbelievable haunting in the Texas brush. 564 00:28:31,778 --> 00:28:36,916 ♪♪ 565 00:28:37,017 --> 00:28:40,653 WILDMAN: It's 1995 in Texas. 566 00:28:40,754 --> 00:28:43,623 Best friends Johnny Way and Mike Richards 567 00:28:43,723 --> 00:28:46,760 have just purchased their dream hunting cabin. 568 00:28:46,860 --> 00:28:50,463 It's located on a 3,000-acre ranch in Hill Country. 569 00:28:50,563 --> 00:28:52,499 They were thrilled at the purchase. 570 00:28:52,599 --> 00:28:54,868 They finally had their home away from the people 571 00:28:54,968 --> 00:28:57,337 where they could hunt and relax all to themselves. 572 00:28:57,437 --> 00:29:00,874 ♪♪ 573 00:29:00,974 --> 00:29:05,979 But their dream is about to become a nightmare. 574 00:29:06,079 --> 00:29:08,648 On their first night in the new house, 575 00:29:08,748 --> 00:29:13,720 the men are asleep when they're suddenly jolted awake 576 00:29:13,820 --> 00:29:18,391 by the sounds of banging. 577 00:29:18,491 --> 00:29:20,393 Way and Richards assume the noises 578 00:29:20,493 --> 00:29:22,762 are just the old house settling in 579 00:29:22,862 --> 00:29:26,399 and try to ignore them. 580 00:29:26,499 --> 00:29:29,903 But sleeping through the sounds proves impossible. 581 00:29:30,003 --> 00:29:33,239 The sounds start getting even louder. 582 00:29:33,340 --> 00:29:36,643 It's almost as if the sounds wanted to keep them awake. 583 00:29:36,743 --> 00:29:39,512 WILDMAN: Way searches every room. 584 00:29:39,612 --> 00:29:40,780 But try as he might, 585 00:29:40,880 --> 00:29:43,249 he can't find the source of the disturbance. 586 00:29:43,350 --> 00:29:46,186 Well, he just chalked it up the fact that maybe his mind 587 00:29:46,286 --> 00:29:49,622 was playing tricks on him. 588 00:29:49,723 --> 00:29:54,060 But on the second night, as they drift off the sleep, 589 00:29:54,160 --> 00:29:57,130 they are once again awoken by loud sounds. 590 00:29:57,230 --> 00:30:00,233 ♪♪ 591 00:30:00,333 --> 00:30:03,937 This time, it sounds as if someone is moving chairs 592 00:30:04,037 --> 00:30:06,706 around in the kitchen. 593 00:30:06,806 --> 00:30:09,976 But when Way checks the kitchen, no one is there, 594 00:30:10,076 --> 00:30:12,879 and nothing has been disturbed. 595 00:30:12,979 --> 00:30:15,682 He noticed that the chairs had not been touched. 596 00:30:15,782 --> 00:30:17,617 And he became freaked out. 597 00:30:17,717 --> 00:30:21,588 ♪♪ 598 00:30:21,688 --> 00:30:22,922 WILDMAN: On the third night, 599 00:30:23,023 --> 00:30:26,192 they are awoken by what seems like heavy footsteps 600 00:30:26,292 --> 00:30:30,563 stomping through the house. 601 00:30:30,663 --> 00:30:33,400 Way and Richards run into the living room, 602 00:30:33,500 --> 00:30:36,169 expecting to encounter a stranger in their home. 603 00:30:36,269 --> 00:30:39,706 But once again, there's no one there. 604 00:30:39,806 --> 00:30:42,509 ♪♪ 605 00:30:42,609 --> 00:30:43,576 MILLIGAN: It's scary because 606 00:30:43,677 --> 00:30:45,045 they're in the middle of nowhere. 607 00:30:45,145 --> 00:30:48,148 This is terrifying. This is like a horror movie. 608 00:30:48,248 --> 00:30:51,451 ♪♪ 609 00:30:51,551 --> 00:30:53,219 WILDMAN: Way and Richards are miles 610 00:30:53,319 --> 00:30:55,622 from their nearest neighbors. 611 00:30:55,722 --> 00:30:58,758 It would be nearly impossible for someone to sneak in, 612 00:30:58,858 --> 00:31:01,695 make all these noises, and leave undetected. 613 00:31:01,795 --> 00:31:05,999 So they reach a terrifying conclusion. 614 00:31:06,099 --> 00:31:08,134 Their house is haunted. 615 00:31:08,234 --> 00:31:12,605 So what strange secret does this creepy cabin hold? 616 00:31:12,706 --> 00:31:14,474 ♪♪ 617 00:31:18,812 --> 00:31:22,349 It's 1995 in Texas. 618 00:31:22,449 --> 00:31:24,718 Friends Johnny Way and Mike Richards 619 00:31:24,818 --> 00:31:28,421 have been hearing strange banging noises in their home 620 00:31:28,521 --> 00:31:30,757 on their newly purchased ranch. 621 00:31:30,857 --> 00:31:33,660 They come to the conclusion that their home is haunted. 622 00:31:33,760 --> 00:31:38,064 So what chilling secret is about to be revealed? 623 00:31:38,164 --> 00:31:41,234 ♪♪ 624 00:31:41,334 --> 00:31:44,804 With the terrifying sounds showing no sign of abating, 625 00:31:44,904 --> 00:31:47,574 Way and Richards bring in a parapsychologist 626 00:31:47,674 --> 00:31:50,443 named Dr. William Roll to investigate. 627 00:31:50,543 --> 00:31:53,646 Dr. Roll was well-known for his study of the paranormal, 628 00:31:53,747 --> 00:31:55,815 but he also was a man of science. 629 00:31:55,915 --> 00:31:58,251 WILDMAN: Roll arrives at the home 630 00:31:58,351 --> 00:32:01,154 with various pieces of equipment, 631 00:32:01,254 --> 00:32:03,123 including a multimeter, 632 00:32:03,223 --> 00:32:05,592 like the one on display at the Oregon Museum 633 00:32:05,692 --> 00:32:08,161 of Science and Industry. 634 00:32:08,261 --> 00:32:10,363 The instrument measures voltage 635 00:32:10,463 --> 00:32:12,465 and electric currents in the air. 636 00:32:12,565 --> 00:32:16,770 Dr. Roll typically uses the device to register signals 637 00:32:16,870 --> 00:32:19,305 that he believes might indicate the presence 638 00:32:19,406 --> 00:32:21,274 of supernatural forces. 639 00:32:21,374 --> 00:32:25,278 Usually, he saw audio spikes or temperature changes, 640 00:32:25,378 --> 00:32:27,280 which is typical for this type of case. 641 00:32:27,380 --> 00:32:29,849 ♪♪ 642 00:32:29,949 --> 00:32:33,286 WILDMAN: That night, the strange sounds return. 643 00:32:33,386 --> 00:32:36,122 And Roll, looking at the readings on his multimeter, 644 00:32:36,222 --> 00:32:38,391 makes a key observation. 645 00:32:38,491 --> 00:32:41,928 Every time he hears the noises, there are dramatic spikes 646 00:32:42,028 --> 00:32:44,864 in the electromagnetic field. 647 00:32:44,964 --> 00:32:47,801 Roll surveys the outside of the home 648 00:32:47,901 --> 00:32:49,469 and finds something interesting. 649 00:32:49,569 --> 00:32:54,107 It is built atop limestone bedrock. 650 00:32:54,207 --> 00:32:56,376 When he uncovered the bedrock of limestone, 651 00:32:56,476 --> 00:32:57,444 a light bulb went off. 652 00:32:57,544 --> 00:33:01,581 ♪♪ 653 00:33:01,681 --> 00:33:03,450 WILDMAN: Roll theorizes that the house 654 00:33:03,550 --> 00:33:05,452 is not haunted at all, 655 00:33:05,552 --> 00:33:08,254 but that Way and Richards are experiencing a unique 656 00:33:08,355 --> 00:33:10,190 but little-known natural phenomenon 657 00:33:10,290 --> 00:33:13,760 called the Peltier effect. 658 00:33:13,860 --> 00:33:16,229 As ground water seeps through limestone, 659 00:33:16,329 --> 00:33:19,032 it can create an electric charge. 660 00:33:19,132 --> 00:33:22,168 The Peltier effect occurs when the electric current flows 661 00:33:22,268 --> 00:33:25,705 between two different materials and creates heat. 662 00:33:25,805 --> 00:33:29,876 The heat then causes the rock to expand and contract, 663 00:33:29,976 --> 00:33:32,579 which, in turn, produces the cracking noises. 664 00:33:32,679 --> 00:33:36,516 ♪♪ 665 00:33:36,616 --> 00:33:38,818 So Roll theorized that the banging in the wall 666 00:33:38,918 --> 00:33:40,987 that the guys heard were actually the rumblings 667 00:33:41,087 --> 00:33:43,323 coming from below. 668 00:33:43,423 --> 00:33:45,025 WILDMAN: The parapsychologist concludes 669 00:33:45,125 --> 00:33:47,761 that the sounds heard by Richards and Way 670 00:33:47,861 --> 00:33:50,530 were simply the result of a natural phenomenon. 671 00:33:50,630 --> 00:33:54,367 ♪♪ 672 00:33:54,467 --> 00:33:57,303 Despite Roll's finding, Richards and Way remain 673 00:33:57,404 --> 00:33:59,172 convinced the house is haunted. 674 00:33:59,272 --> 00:34:04,444 They abandon their dream hunting lodge and vow never to return. 675 00:34:04,544 --> 00:34:07,881 ♪♪ 676 00:34:07,981 --> 00:34:12,318 Today, this multimeter on display at the Oregon Museum 677 00:34:12,419 --> 00:34:15,288 of Science and Industry is the same model 678 00:34:15,388 --> 00:34:18,425 used during Dr. William Roll's investigation. 679 00:34:18,525 --> 00:34:21,661 It recalls the cowboys who thought they were spooked by 680 00:34:21,761 --> 00:34:24,497 a Texas-sized supernatural encounter. 681 00:34:24,597 --> 00:34:31,237 ♪♪ 682 00:34:31,338 --> 00:34:34,341 Hutchinson, Kansas sits atop the biggest network 683 00:34:34,441 --> 00:34:37,143 of salt mines in the nation. 684 00:34:37,243 --> 00:34:40,347 Every year, 50,000 tons of rock salt 685 00:34:40,447 --> 00:34:42,315 are pulled from the ground here, 686 00:34:42,415 --> 00:34:47,754 earning Hutchinson the nickname Salt City. 687 00:34:47,854 --> 00:34:51,224 But Hutchinson is also home to an institution dedicated 688 00:34:51,324 --> 00:34:56,029 to marvels that soar far above the Earth -- the Cosmosphere. 689 00:34:56,129 --> 00:34:58,331 ♪♪ 690 00:34:58,431 --> 00:35:00,867 Dedicated to the history of space flight, 691 00:35:00,967 --> 00:35:03,436 the museum displays a high-speed airplane 692 00:35:03,536 --> 00:35:06,973 used by NASA to train astronauts, 693 00:35:07,073 --> 00:35:10,543 one of the first Russian satellite, 694 00:35:10,643 --> 00:35:13,713 and a rocket-propelled Nazi bomb. 695 00:35:13,813 --> 00:35:15,982 ♪♪ 696 00:35:16,082 --> 00:35:18,518 But among these technological triumphs 697 00:35:18,618 --> 00:35:22,022 is a simple piece of apparel. 698 00:35:22,122 --> 00:35:25,425 COSTELLO: The artifact is about 8 inches long and 6 inches wide. 699 00:35:25,525 --> 00:35:28,695 It consists of orange and tan fabric. 700 00:35:28,795 --> 00:35:32,165 It could easily be confused with a skiing glove. 701 00:35:32,265 --> 00:35:35,535 WILDMAN: This item recalls a doomed mission to space 702 00:35:35,635 --> 00:35:38,505 and a chilling Cold War conspiracy. 703 00:35:38,605 --> 00:35:42,242 This is a story of a race to the stars. 704 00:35:42,342 --> 00:35:43,877 It's one of manned space flight's 705 00:35:43,977 --> 00:35:48,581 most enduring mysteries. 706 00:35:48,682 --> 00:35:52,852 WILDMAN: October 4th, 1957, the Soviet Union 707 00:35:52,952 --> 00:35:55,088 has just put the world's first man-made 708 00:35:55,188 --> 00:35:58,925 satellite into orbit -- Sputnik. 709 00:35:59,025 --> 00:36:02,262 The achievement sends shockwaves through the United States 710 00:36:02,362 --> 00:36:04,264 and the world. 711 00:36:04,364 --> 00:36:07,500 Now the two superpowers are locked in a heated race 712 00:36:07,600 --> 00:36:09,002 to see who can be the first 713 00:36:09,102 --> 00:36:12,138 to send a man into space. 714 00:36:12,238 --> 00:36:14,808 COSTELLO: When the Soviets put Sputnik up into orbit, 715 00:36:14,908 --> 00:36:18,111 it was a huge event. 716 00:36:18,211 --> 00:36:21,314 But the ultimate challenge was putting a man up into orbit 717 00:36:21,414 --> 00:36:25,752 and having him survive. 718 00:36:25,852 --> 00:36:28,221 WILDMAN: And across the globe, people are fascinated 719 00:36:28,321 --> 00:36:30,890 by the intensifying space race, 720 00:36:30,990 --> 00:36:36,596 perhaps none moreso than two amateur astronomers in Italy. 721 00:36:36,696 --> 00:36:41,568 Brothers Achille and Giovanni Judica-Cordiglia. 722 00:36:41,668 --> 00:36:44,471 Using scavenged parts, Achille and Giovanni 723 00:36:44,571 --> 00:36:47,440 build a radio receiver capable of listening in 724 00:36:47,540 --> 00:36:51,011 on American and Soviet satellite transmissions. 725 00:36:51,111 --> 00:36:52,979 Any time anything was launched into orbit, 726 00:36:53,079 --> 00:36:55,515 they would get a glimpse of what was happening above. 727 00:36:55,615 --> 00:36:58,651 WILDMAN: For months, the brothers intercept 728 00:36:58,752 --> 00:37:01,254 radio signals from orbiting satellites. 729 00:37:01,354 --> 00:37:04,657 They're even able to listen in on the sounds of monkeys 730 00:37:04,758 --> 00:37:09,529 launched into orbit on test flights. 731 00:37:09,629 --> 00:37:13,133 But in May 1960, Achille and Giovanni 732 00:37:13,233 --> 00:37:15,935 pick up an unexpected transmission. 734 00:37:17,771 --> 00:37:22,342 They hear a heartbeat and a voice speaking in Russian. 735 00:37:22,442 --> 00:37:25,679 ♪♪ 736 00:37:25,779 --> 00:37:28,048 The brothers think it's the sound of a cosmonaut 737 00:37:28,148 --> 00:37:31,584 speaking with Soviet mission control. 738 00:37:31,685 --> 00:37:33,253 But there's one problem. 739 00:37:33,353 --> 00:37:37,691 The Soviets have not announced that they've launched 740 00:37:37,791 --> 00:37:40,860 someone into space. 741 00:37:40,960 --> 00:37:42,929 Anytime an astronaut or a cosmopot 742 00:37:43,029 --> 00:37:44,497 reaches a certain milestone, 743 00:37:44,597 --> 00:37:48,101 it's seen a huge achievement that gets a lot of coverage. 744 00:37:48,201 --> 00:37:52,839 So why is this not something the Soviets are talking about? 745 00:37:52,939 --> 00:37:55,675 As the brothers try to make sense of the transmission, 746 00:37:55,775 --> 00:37:58,345 they hear something even more disturbing. 747 00:37:58,445 --> 00:38:00,413 ♪♪ 748 00:38:00,513 --> 00:38:03,883 The sounds suggest the cosmonaut is gasping for breath. 750 00:38:06,286 --> 00:38:07,520 WILDMAN: As they listen, 751 00:38:07,620 --> 00:38:09,289 the gasping gets faster and faster, 752 00:38:09,389 --> 00:38:13,760 and then the heartbeat suddenly stops. 753 00:38:13,860 --> 00:38:16,363 The siblings come to the shocking conclusion 754 00:38:16,463 --> 00:38:20,066 that whomever they've heard has died. 755 00:38:20,166 --> 00:38:23,436 You can imagine the feeling of hearing this recording, 756 00:38:23,536 --> 00:38:25,839 and you get the last moments of life 757 00:38:25,939 --> 00:38:27,941 carried across the airwaves. 758 00:38:28,041 --> 00:38:32,612 ♪♪ 759 00:38:32,712 --> 00:38:36,616 In February 1961, the brothers take their findings 760 00:38:36,716 --> 00:38:38,351 to Italian newspapers, 761 00:38:38,451 --> 00:38:42,655 and the story hits the press with spectacular results. 762 00:38:42,756 --> 00:38:44,891 It sets off a wave of speculation 763 00:38:44,991 --> 00:38:47,127 among both journalists and experts. 764 00:38:47,227 --> 00:38:50,797 ♪♪ 765 00:38:50,897 --> 00:38:52,432 WILDMAN: The Soviets, for their part, 766 00:38:52,532 --> 00:38:54,701 deny the brothers' claims. 767 00:38:54,801 --> 00:38:58,171 And experts suggest that what Achille and Giovanni heard 768 00:38:58,271 --> 00:39:00,640 wasn't a dying cosmonaut 769 00:39:00,740 --> 00:39:04,477 but one of the many animals that had been sent into orbit. 770 00:39:04,577 --> 00:39:07,380 But the brothers are steadfast in their belief 771 00:39:07,480 --> 00:39:09,849 that they heard a cosmonaut speaking Russian. 772 00:39:09,949 --> 00:39:14,054 This must have been incredibly frustrating for the brothers. 773 00:39:14,154 --> 00:39:15,555 ♪♪ 774 00:39:15,655 --> 00:39:20,760 WILDMAN: Then, almost a year later, on April 12th, 1961, 775 00:39:20,860 --> 00:39:22,429 the Soviet Union announces 776 00:39:22,529 --> 00:39:26,066 that they've successfully sent the first man into space, 777 00:39:26,166 --> 00:39:28,068 cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin. 778 00:39:28,168 --> 00:39:31,004 Gagarin's flight was a tremendous feat 779 00:39:31,104 --> 00:39:33,640 for the Soviets. 780 00:39:33,740 --> 00:39:35,975 WILDMAN: Despite this, the brothers stand by 781 00:39:36,076 --> 00:39:38,812 their story that another cosmonaut 782 00:39:38,912 --> 00:39:40,914 may have made it there first. 783 00:39:41,014 --> 00:39:43,883 So what's the truth behind these mysterious 784 00:39:43,983 --> 00:39:45,952 Russian transmissions? 785 00:39:46,052 --> 00:39:47,320 ♪♪ 786 00:39:51,124 --> 00:39:54,894 In 1960, two amateur radio hams in Italy 787 00:39:54,994 --> 00:39:57,030 make an extraordinary claim 788 00:39:57,130 --> 00:39:59,899 that they detected secret radio transmissions 789 00:40:00,000 --> 00:40:02,235 from a manned Soviet spaceship 790 00:40:02,335 --> 00:40:05,105 a full year before cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin 791 00:40:05,205 --> 00:40:07,107 became the first man in space. 792 00:40:07,207 --> 00:40:11,044 So what's the truth behind these interstellar transmissions? 793 00:40:11,144 --> 00:40:13,480 ♪♪ 794 00:40:13,580 --> 00:40:18,418 30 years later, in 1986, the long-secret files 795 00:40:18,518 --> 00:40:22,522 of the Soviet space program are declassified. 796 00:40:22,622 --> 00:40:26,359 And they reveal evidence of a shocking cover-up. 797 00:40:26,459 --> 00:40:27,894 ♪♪ 798 00:40:27,994 --> 00:40:30,930 In early 1960, a Russian cosmonaut 799 00:40:31,031 --> 00:40:32,632 named Valentin Bondarenko 800 00:40:32,732 --> 00:40:34,234 was participating in a series 801 00:40:34,334 --> 00:40:36,970 of spaceflight simulations at a rocket facility 802 00:40:37,070 --> 00:40:41,374 just outside Moscow when tragedy struck. 803 00:40:41,474 --> 00:40:44,310 The oxygen tanks that supplied Bondarenko's capsule 804 00:40:44,411 --> 00:40:45,745 caught fire, 805 00:40:45,845 --> 00:40:49,883 and the unfortunate cosmonaut was killed in the ensuing blaze. 806 00:40:49,983 --> 00:40:54,120 Then the Russian space agency covered up the accident. 807 00:40:54,220 --> 00:40:57,323 After Bondarenko's death, he was subsequently erased 808 00:40:57,424 --> 00:41:01,127 from any lists or photographs of the cosmonauts' training. 809 00:41:01,227 --> 00:41:05,865 ♪♪ 810 00:41:05,965 --> 00:41:07,767 In light of this revelation, 811 00:41:07,867 --> 00:41:10,537 many now believe that what Achille and Giovanni 812 00:41:10,637 --> 00:41:13,840 actually heard wasn't the first man in space 813 00:41:13,940 --> 00:41:15,842 but the final moments 814 00:41:15,942 --> 00:41:19,579 of an unfortunate Russian cosmonaut. 815 00:41:19,679 --> 00:41:22,115 Bondarenko's death was conclusive evidence 816 00:41:22,215 --> 00:41:24,684 of a lost cosmonaut. 817 00:41:24,784 --> 00:41:27,120 The brothers' claims seemed to be true. 818 00:41:27,220 --> 00:41:30,457 ♪♪ 819 00:41:30,557 --> 00:41:34,194 WILDMAN: Today, this glove used in the Russian space program 820 00:41:34,294 --> 00:41:38,732 is on display at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, Kansas. 821 00:41:38,832 --> 00:41:42,235 It's a testament to a forgotten soul who risked it all 822 00:41:42,335 --> 00:41:44,738 for mankind's quest to the stars. 823 00:41:44,838 --> 00:41:47,707 ♪♪ 824 00:41:47,807 --> 00:41:52,178 From an undercover informant to an unexpected artist, 825 00:41:52,278 --> 00:41:56,282 a jet-powered train to a Texas haunting, 826 00:41:56,383 --> 00:42:01,021 I'm Don Wildman, and these are the mysteries at the museum.