Can You Dig it

Hosts: Joe Shields and Dan Fuller -- Produced By: Theo Sloan and Bill Smith
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This podcast delves into the intriguing history of cemeteries, blending elements of horticulture, world history, and a touch of the macabre. Join Dan Fuller, the Cemetery Chronicler, and Joe Shields, the plot-loving Development Exec, as they explore the forgotten stories of cemeteries like St. Louis's Bellefontaine. For history buffs, horticulture enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a bit of mystery, this podcast offers a unique blend of education and entertainment. Let's dig in.

  1. JAN 28

    Manifest Destiny in the Crypts: St. Louis and the Mexican American War

    In the season two finale of the "Can You Dig It?" podcast, hosts Dan Fuller and Joe Shields unearth the hidden history of the Mexican American War through the lens of St. Louis’s iconic Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum. The duo explores the lives of local veterans and influential figures—ranging from the namesake of Alton, Illinois, to the fifth military governor of California—while explaining specialized cemetery features like cenotaphs and era-appropriate military markers. By tracing the legacy of the 500,000 square miles acquired during the conflict, the episode reveals how these St. Louis connections bridged the era of Manifest Destiny to the looming shadows of the American Civil War. Here is a three-line summary of the episode: Hosts explore the Mexican American War’s local impact via the veterans and historical figures interred at St. Louis’s Bellefontaine Cemetery. The episode highlights the acquisition of 500,000 square miles while explaining cemetery features like cenotaphs and era-appropriate military markers. These personal stories bridge the mid-19th-century era of Manifest Destiny to the subsequent tensions that fueled the American Civil War.

    27 min

  2. JAN 14

    Medals, Marathons, and Mayhem: The Games That Changed St. Louis - S2-E9

    Can You Dig It - Season 2 EP 009 - Olympics Episode In the "Can You Dig It" podcast episode, hosts Dan Fuller and Joe Shields discuss the historical significance of the 1904 Olympics in St. Louis, which introduced gold, silver, and bronze medals for the first time. They highlight notable figures like Martha Brown, who won three gold medals in swimming, and Albert Bond Lambert, who won silver in golf. The episode also covers the economic impact of the Olympics and World's Fair, with 20 million visitors contributing to St. Louis's economy. Additionally, they mention local Olympians like Joseph Foreman and the ongoing Olympic spirit in the city. Joe and Dan discuss a hypothetical cocktail made from strychnine, raw eggs, and brandy, agreeing it's too harsh.Speaker 1 introduces the Can You Dig It? Podcast, focusing on exploring cemeteries and uncovering historical secrets.Speaker 2 provides a historical context of the Olympics, noting their ancient origins and modern revival.Dan and Joe introduce themselves and the podcast's focus on rural cemeteries and their unique histories.Joe highlights St. Louis as a city of firsts, particularly the 1904 Olympics.Dan clarifies that the Olympic organizing committee initially awarded the games to Chicago, but St. Louis secured them through political connections.Joe mentions the introduction of gold medals at the 1904 Olympics and the historical significance of this change.Dan shares a story about a gold medal for the 110-yard hurdle sold for $545,000, emphasizing the value of Olympic memorabilia.Joe and Dan discuss the various firsts introduced at the 1904 Olympics, including boxing and golf.Dan mentions Albert von Lambert, who won silver in golf at the 1904 Olympics and is buried at Bellefontaine Cemetery.Joe and Dan talk about the unique challenges faced by athletes in the 1904 marathon, including extreme conditions and unconventional strategies.Dan highlights the involvement of athletes from various countries and the chaotic nature of the marathon event.Dan introduces Martha Brown, who won three gold medals in swimming at the 1924 and 1928 Olympics, and her family's connection to the Brown family of St. Louis.Joe shares his experiences at the Olympic Training Center and the dedication of young athletes.Dan discusses the historical context of Olympic training and the support provided to athletes in the early 20th century.Joe and Dan mention other notable Olympic medal winners from St. Louis, including William Orthwine and Arthur Stockhoff.Joe inquires about the economic impact of the 1904 Olympics on St. Louis, comparing it to the World's Fair.Dan explains the significant economic benefits of hosting such events, including increased tourism and local business opportunities.Joe and Dan discuss the ongoing Olympic spirit in St. Louis, including the display of Olympic rings at Washington University and other local landmarks.Dan mentions Joseph Foreman, who won a bronze medal in the 1908 Olympics, and his connection to the local community.Joe and Dan discuss modern-era Olympians from St. Louis, including Milt Campbell, Michael Johnson, Arthur Ashe, and Jackie Joyner-Kersee.Dan emphasizes the importance of recognizing the achievements of these athletes and their contributions to the community.Joe highlights the philanthropic efforts of Jackie Joyner-Kersee and her impact on St. Louis.Dan concludes by reiterating the significance of the 1904 Olympics and the ongoing legacy of St. Louis as a city of champions.Olympics Episode Introduction and Podcast OverviewThe 1904 St. Louis Olympics and Its Significance Historical Context and Achievements of the 1904 Olympics Olympic Medal Winners and Their LegaciesEconomic Impact and Legacy of the 1904 OlympicsModern Era Olympians and Their Contributions

    23 min

  3. 12/31/2025

    The Greenest Goodbye: John Hughes on Alkaline Hydrolysis

    Can You Dig It - Season 2 EP 008 - John Hughes - Hughes Funeral Alternatives Dan Fuller and Joe Shields discuss the history and innovations of Hughes Funeral Alternatives LLC with owner John Hughes. Hughes' company, established in 2017, offers alkaline hydrolysis, a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation, with a 18-times lower carbon footprint and 90% less energy usage. The process, which takes 8-10 hours, results in mineral bone ash. Hughes' facility, located at Hillcrest Abbey, is the sixth crematory in the U.S. and the first west of the Mississippi. They also discuss the historical significance of Hillcrest Abbey and the personalization of funeral services. John Hughes explains the establishment of Hughes Funeral Alternatives in 2017, Missouri's first provider of alkaline hydrolysis.The company outgrew their initial location and moved to Hillcrest Abbey, renovating the Missouri Crematory.Dan and John discuss the historical significance of Hillcrest Abbey as the first crematory west of the Mississippi.John provides an explanation of alkaline hydrolysis, comparing it to natural burial processes and its environmental benefits.Alkaline hydrolysis uses 90% less energy and produces zero carbon emissions, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious families.The process is also more cost-effective than traditional burial, which can exceed $7,500.John shares his personal journey into the funeral industry and his discovery of alkaline hydrolysis through a funeral trade magazine.The decision to offer alkaline hydrolysis was driven by John's personal preference and environmental concerns.John discusses the restoration of Hillcrest Abbey and the Missouri Crematory, emphasizing the historical significance of the site.The crematory and columbarium are significant historical landmarks, reflecting St. Louis's pioneering spirit.Dan shares the story of Elizabeth Todd Terry, the first person cremated at Hillcrest Abbey, and her connection to St. Louis history.The restoration efforts aim to preserve the historical integrity of the site while modernizing the facilities.Dan and John explore the genealogical connections between their families and the individuals buried at Hillcrest Abbey.Dan mentions his relatives who are cremated and laid to rest in the columbarium at Bellefontaine Cemetery.The discussion highlights the importance of genealogy in understanding the history and significance of the cemetery.Joe asks about 19th-century burial practices, and Dan explains the rise and fall of cremation during different historical periods.John explains the existence of a cremation log that documents every cremation at Hillcrest Abbey, including notable individuals like Frank James.The log contains thousands of entries, providing a comprehensive record of the cremations performed at the site.Dan and Joe discuss the potential for digitizing these records to make them more accessible to researchers and families.Dan and John discuss the versatility of the facilities, which can accommodate weddings, memorial services, and other events.The modern facilities aim to provide a respectful and flexible environment for families to honor their loved ones.John introduces the concept of a biodegradable urn garden, where cremated remains are mixed with a special soil mixture and returned to nature.John discusses the potential for future innovations in the funeral industry, including the legalization of composting.The goal is to continue educating the public about alternative burial options and the environmental benefits of aquamation.Dan and Joe emphasize the importance of personal choice in funeral arrangements and the need for education on sustainable practices.The conversation highlights the ongoing efforts to modernize and improve funeral services while preserving historical integrity.

    30 min

  4. 12/17/2025

    The Gateway to Justice: How St. Louis Courts Defined American Rights - S2-E7

    In the "Can You Dig It" podcast episode, hosts Joe and Dan discuss the historical significance of St. Louis lawyers and court cases. They highlight the impact of the Virginia Minor case in 1874, which, though unsuccessful, paved the way for the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote. They also mention Hamilton Rowan Gamble's dissenting vote in the Dred Scott case, which influenced the 13th and 14th Amendments. Additionally, they cover Edward Bates' role as Attorney General during the Civil War and George Vest's famous eulogy for a dog. The episode concludes with a discussion on the Missouri Plan for selecting Supreme Court judges and the City of Ladue vs. Galileo Vet case, which upheld the First Amendment.

    33 min

  5. 12/16/2025

    Suffrage on the Riverfront: From Civil War Aid to the 19th Amendment S2-E6

    This episode explores the century-long fight for women's suffrage in St. Louis, highlighting the pivotal legal challenges of Virginia Minor and the tactical brilliance of Edna Gellhorn’s "Golden Lane" protest. The discussion emphasizes how local organizations and grassroots activism evolved from post-Civil War aid societies into a powerful, non-violent political movement. Recorded at 4 Hands Brewing, the conversation honors the persistence of three generations of suffragists who overcame legal defeats and internal divisions to secure the right to vote.

    28 min

  6. 11/19/2025

    The Green-Wood Connection: Art, Trees, and Stewardship S2-E5

    Travel from St. Louis to Brooklyn as we uncover the deep-rooted connections between Bellefontaine and the legendary Green-Wood Cemetery.Former Horticulture Director Art Presson shares gripping tales of surviving Hurricane Sandy, managing ancient landscapes, and preserving iconic art like the Minerva statue.Discover the shared legacy of these American treasures and the passionate stewardship required to keep their history alive.

    31 min

  7. 10/29/2025

    Soiled Dove - Ep4-S2

    Episode Summary: The Social Evil of St. Louis in the 1870s Episode 4 of the "Can You Dig It" podcast, hosted by Dan Fuller and Joe Shields (Director of Development for Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum), delves into the often-overlooked history of prostitution in St. Louis during the 1870s. The episode features special guest Christopher Gordon, Director at the Missouri Historical Society, who provides expert context and resources. The discussion opens with startling statistics shared by Joe Shields, revealing the scale of prostitution in St. Louis around 1871. The city saw the registration of 1,284 prostitutes operating out of 136 brothels and 9 "houses of ill repute." This large-scale operation highlights the significant social and economic role the trade played in the post-Civil War era. The hosts and guest explore the contemporary terminology used, such as "soiled dove," and discuss the context of the "social evil law" that attempted to manage it. The episode spotlights two legendary figures in St. Louis's red-light history: Eliza Haycraft: The hosts chronicle Eliza's journey, detailing how she became a prominent madam and amassed an estimated $28 million (in today's value). Crucially, they explore her significant philanthropy and the lasting historical impact she had on the city, even discussing her notable funeral and legacy. Madam Clementine: The focus shifts to a dramatic incident involving Madam Clementine. Her brothel was the site of a community disturbance after being ransacked by an 11-year-old boy named John Kennedy. The hosts detail the resulting commotion, the legal consequences for all parties involved, and Clementine's eventual reintegration into society. A major segment of the episode is dedicated to the Social Evils Ordinance, the law intended to regulate prostitution in the city. Purpose and Expectation: The ordinance aimed to control and contain prostitution, largely through registration and medical examination. Impact and Stigma: The ordinance led to the creation of the Social Evils Hospital, which, despite its intended purpose, carried a profound and lasting stigma for those who were treated there. Financial Aspects: The hosts reveal the immense financial operations of the trade, noting the significant rents charged for brothels and the taxation that contributed to the city's coffers. Repeal: Ultimately, the ordinance had a short duration, facing significant activist opposition and broader historical and societal challenges that led to its repeal. The episode concludes by summarizing the broader historic and societal implications of this period of regulated vice. Christopher Gordon emphasizes the importance of historical resources, inviting listeners to explore the materials available at the Missouri Historical Society’s Library and Research Center (LRC) to learn more about this complex and fascinating chapter of St. Louis history.

    35 min

  8. 10/15/2025

    A Cemeteries Masterpieces - Ep3-S2

    In the "Can You Dig It" podcast episode, Dan Fuller and Joe Shields discuss the significance of art in society and its presence at Bellefontaine Cemetery. They highlight the cemetery's diverse art forms, including sculptures, architecture, and photography, and feature notable artists like Sadie Waters, Edith Spink, and Abraham Moeller. They also mention the cemetery's artist-in-residence program, which has featured Charles Turnell and Erin Johnston. The episode emphasizes the cemetery's role in preserving and showcasing art, with notable pieces like the Wainwright mausoleum and the stained glass in the Cascade mausoleum. Outline Art and Its Role in Society •Dan and Joe discuss the Latin phrase "Eris longa Vita brevis," which means "Art is long, life is short." •Joe talks about Sadie Waters, a young artist who blazed a trail for illumination in Catholic portraits. •Dan mentions the full-body effigy of Sadie Waters at Bellefontaine Cemetery and the family of skunks that sometimes visit it. Art and Iconography in Bellefontaine Cemetery •Dan and Joe discuss the importance of art and iconography in conveying messages and emotions. •Joe mentions the Spink mausoleum and Edith Spink's significant gift to the St. Louis Art Museum. •Dan highlights the various forms of art found at Bellefontaine Cemetery, including architecture and perpetual mourners. •Joe shares a quote from Kathleen Densmore about the importance of art in illustrating the human experience. Artistic Contributions and Perpetual Mourners •Dan and Joe discuss the significance of perpetual mourners, such as the one created by Sloan for David R. Francis. •Joe mentions the interactive nature of perpetual mourners, which can represent different emotions for different people. •Dan introduces the Latin phrase "Tempest fugit," meaning "Time is fleeting," and its depiction on a winged hourglass in the cemetery. •Joe talks about the planning of mausoleums and monuments by families, sometimes in haste or in preparation for the future. Architectural and Artistic Highlights •Dan and Joe discuss the Wainwright mausoleum, designed by Louis Sullivan, and its restoration funded by the Bernoulli Foundation. •Dan mentions Ansel Adams' print of the Wainwright mausoleum, which is part of the cemetery's archive. •Joe highlights the importance of the Wainwright mausoleum and its unique design. •Dan introduces Fitz Garen, a Medal of Honor recipient known for his innovative flashlight photography. The Potters and Women Artists •Dan and Joe discuss the Potters, a group of young ladies who produced a magazine as their artwork. •Lily Rose Ernst is mentioned as the mentor of the Potters, who included Sarah Teasdale, the first person to receive a Pulitzer Prize in poetry. •Dan explains the Potters' magazine, which was a form of self-criticism and artistic growth. •Joe highlights the high census of women artists at Bellefontaine Cemetery, including Sadie Waters and Eulogy Dix. •Joe highlights the stained glass in the Cascade mausoleum, created by the internationally renowned Emil Fry Studios. •Dan and Joe discuss the importance of the Wainwright mausoleum and its impact on the cemetery's history. •Joe mentions the Samuel Couples mausoleum, which houses a sculpture that was originally a monument for the family's lost daughters. Musical Contributions and Final Thoughts •Joe introduces Charles Balmer, the composer of music for President Lincoln's funeral, and Charles Galloway, the organist for the 1904 World's Fair. •Dan and Joe discuss the sculpture "Hope," which is 55 feet in the air and represents early Christian symbolism. •Joe emphasizes the importance of the cemetery's art and architecture in preserving its history and significance. •Dan invites listeners to explore the cemetery through various tours and events, highlighting the diverse art and history found within its grounds.

    34 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

This podcast delves into the intriguing history of cemeteries, blending elements of horticulture, world history, and a touch of the macabre. Join Dan Fuller, the Cemetery Chronicler, and Joe Shields, the plot-loving Development Exec, as they explore the forgotten stories of cemeteries like St. Louis's Bellefontaine. For history buffs, horticulture enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a bit of mystery, this podcast offers a unique blend of education and entertainment. Let's dig in.

Information

  • Creator
    Hosts: Joe Shields and Dan Fuller -- Produced By: Theo Sloan and Bill Smith
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Hosts: Joe Shields and Dan Fuller -- Produced By: Theo Sloan and Bill Smith
  • Show Website
    Can You Dig it