The Story of Industrial America (1850’s-1950’s)

Jim Kissane, Author/Storyteller

On D-Day, Private James Miller’s parachute saved his life, but its journey began in a small Maryland mill. Discover the untold stories of the workers behind his miraculous descent.

Episodes

  1. 10/01/2025

    Shoemaker of the Deep

    Discover the forgotten story of Lodner Darvont Phillips, a Detroit shoemaker whose 1850s dreams of underwater invention sparked hope, heartache, and quiet courage, reminding us that the seeds of progress are often sown in obscurity.  Step into a world where one man’s persistence shapes the future beneath the river’s surface and inspires anyone who’s ever dared to dream when no one was watching.

    19 min
  2. The Christmas Surprise

    12/23/2024

    The Christmas Surprise

    Discover the enchanting tale of Greenville's Coal Chute Christmas Eve Mystery. Join Officer Frank O'Malley as he uncovers the magical secret behind a city's industrial landmark, where elves gather coal and leave a heartwarming lesson about the true spirit of the holiday season

    14 min

  3. 11/28/2024

    Silk Threads of Destiny

    Imagine a young soldier's prayer of gratitude on D-Day, thanking unknown workers for his life-saving parachute. Years later, he stumbles upon the very mill where it was made. This poignant tale weaves together the heroic efforts of American workers and soldiers during World War II, centered around the Lonaconing Silk Mill in Maryland. From wartime production to a chance encounter two decades later, it's a story of connection, sacrifice, and the invisible threads that bind us all in times of conflict

    18 min
  • 3 Episodes

About

On D-Day, Private James Miller’s parachute saved his life, but its journey began in a small Maryland mill. Discover the untold stories of the workers behind his miraculous descent.

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