Wildman Joe

Wildman Joe

From River City Mystery - Investigating mysteries in southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and western Kentucky by Matt Deig

April 21, 2025 · 14 min · Episode 20

About this episode

This episode explores the life of Wildman Joe, detailing his journey from slavery to a controversial career in sideshows.

The incredible true story of "Wildman Joe," an African American man whose life journey, from slavery through a steamboat disaster and years as a ragman, led to a controversial career in sideshows. This episode traces the lives of Joe Rettig and showman Jeremiah "Doc" Kahler, detailing their meeting in Evansville, Indiana, and the creation of the "Wildman Joe" act. Key Moments: Introduction to Wildman Joe's Story: The episode begins by introducing the enigmatic figure of Wildman Joe and hinting at the untold stories from Evansville's past. (Approximate timestamp: 00:00:16) Joe Rettig's Early Life in Slavery: Learn about Joe's birth into slavery in North Carolina and the harsh realities he faced before the Civil War brought the promise of freedom. (Approximate timestamp: 00:00:16) The Steamboat Accident: Discover Joe's transition to working on steamboats after the war and the horrific boiler explosion that left him permanently scarred. (Approximate timestamp: 00:00:44) Evansville's Ragman: Follow Joe's return to Evansville and his difficult life on the margins, sifting through the city's refuse. (Approximate timestamp: 00:01:03) Enter Jeremiah "Ol' Doc" Kahler: The narrative shifts…

People in this episode

Host: Matt Deig

Topics covered

  • true crime
  • history
  • sideshow
  • slavery
  • steamboat disaster
  • cultural heritage

Keywords

  • Wildman Joe
  • Joe Rettig
  • Jeremiah Kahler
  • sideshow
  • slavery
  • steamboat disaster
  • Evansville
  • history

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Evansville, North Carolina

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