Invisible Histories

By the late 19th century, thousands of Civil War veterans migrated west to King County, bringing with them a vision of reconstruction, labor, and growth. In our latest podcast episode, we joined historian Richard Heisler (founder of Civil War Seattle) for a walking tour through Bothell Pioneer Cemetery, established in 1889.

Behind the many moss-covered headstones lie astonishing, forgotten stories:

In this special episode of Invisible Histories, we explore the rich history, culture, and enduring legacy of Seattle's Sephardic Jewish community—the third-largest Sephardic population in the United States. Guests Cynthia Flash Hemphill (President of the Seattle Sephardic Network), Hannah Peters (Director at the Washington State Jewish Historical Society), and community members share personal narratives and historical insights.

Guests:

In part two of their monorail retrospective, hosts Cari Simson and Elke Hautala dive into the grassroots effort that nearly brought an expanded monorail system to Seattle.

If you missed it, go back and listen to Part 1 to get the deep dive into Seattle Monorail politics and advocacy!

In this episode, we are joined by former campaign staffer Michael Taylor-Judd, transit advocate Rodney Rutherford, and Seattle Department of Transportation staff Brian Dougherty. The episode explores the ground-level advocacy, creative campaign tactics, and complex local politics surrounding Seattle’s monorail movement. The second half of th...

Part 1 of The Ghostly Green Line: The Seattle Monorail Chronicles dives into the "ghostly green line"—the proposed Seattle Monorail that promised a transformative transit future between 1997 and 2005. Guest Cindi Laws, a veteran political operative, provides an insider’s look at the campaigns that defined that era. Laws reveals the "death by a thousand cuts" strategy employed by well-funded opponents, the deep-seated political rivalries between City of Seattle and King County leadership, and the unethical management practices that ultimately crippled the Monorail agency. The discussion moves beyond the surface-level narrative to address why Seattle’s transit planning has faced such c...

Most people know Lynnwood as a shopping destination or a place to pass through on the way to somewhere else. But beneath today's busy streets lies one of the Pacific Northwest's most fascinating stories of innovation, agriculture, transportation, and community.

In our Season 7 premiere episode of Invisible Histories, we visit Heritage Park in Lynnwood with special guest Devon from the Ouija Broads podcast and discover how a chance stop turned into an unforgettable history lesson. Guided by local historian Cheri Ryan, we explore the remarkable history of Alderwood Manor—a planned farming community created after the fo...

In this vibrant episode of Invisible Histories, hosts Cari Simson and Elke Hautala take listeners on an engaging journey through the layers of one of the most overlooked historical areas of Seattle. With the backdrop of the upcoming June 12th Unpaving SODO Tour, and the 2026 World Cup, they explore the bustling transformation of Seattle's SODO from early settler days through the Klondike Gold Rush, from the original tideflats to early industrial development in the 1900s, to raves and other happenings in the 2000s.

Listeners will also discover the rich immigrant history of the area, particularly the...

Correction: As of May 2026, Vermont Forest Cemetery in Roxbury, VT has 48 natural burials, with room for up to 2,000.

In this thought-provoking episode of Invisible Histories, hosts Cari Simson and Elke Hautala engage in a captivating conversation with Michelle Hogle Acciavatti, MS, the founder of Vermont Forest Cemetery. Dive into the world of natural burial and explore how this innovative, yet simple approach to death and dying is reshaping our relationship with mortality and the environment.

Michelle shares her unique journey from a background in neuroscience to becoming a death doula and advocate for...

Join hosts Cari Simson and Elke Hautala in this exciting mini-episode of Invisible Histories as they unveil their dream project: a captivating event centered around the often-overlooked Harbor Island. Discover the rich and hidden history of this industrial area in South Seattle, a place many pass by without a second thought. Cari and Elke share their journey of bringing this event to life, highlighting the significance of local narratives that challenge the dominant historical discourse.

Listeners will get a sneak peek into the diverse stories that will be featured during the event, from the development of...

Explore the hidden histories of family desertion and social justice in our latest episode! Discover how the Lazy Husbands Act of 1913 aimed to support abandoned families in Washington State, and what actually happened. Tune in for an insightful discussion that connects the past with our present. Don't miss it!

In this enlightening episode of Invisible Histories, hosts Cari Simson and Elke Hautala delve into the complexities of early 20th-century social welfare in Washington State, focusing on the 1913 Family Desertion Act, often referred to as the "Lazy Husbands Act." The discussion unveils the harsh realities faced by women...

In this powerful episode of Invisible Histories, hosts Cari Simson and Elke Hautala engage in a gripping conversation with David Norman Lewis, the author of the newly released book, The Burning of Moses Seattle. This episode dives deep into the tragic and violent history surrounding Moses Seattle, a descendant of Chief Seattle, whose life was marked by both cultural significance and horrific events.

David shares the chilling details of Moses' untimely death, which was the result of a brutal act of violence fueled by the tensions of Prohibition-era Seattle. Through David's extensive research, listeners are introduced...

In this heartwarming New Year's episode of Invisible Histories, hosts Cari Simson and Elke Hautala celebrate fresh beginnings by turning the spotlight on their own families. They engage in meaningful conversations with their fathers, John Simson and Burton Kummerow, who share their unique experiences and contributions to public history.

As both dads delve into their respective roles, listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of stories that highlight the importance of community engagement and the preservation of history. John, the Sexton of South Burlington, Vermont, discusses his efforts to restore local cemeteries, emphasizing the significance of...

In this reflective episode of Invisible Histories, hosts Cari Simson and Elke Hautala take a moment to pause and look back on the year that has flown by, filled with challenges and triumphs in their unique engagement with public history. As the end of the year approaches, they share their Year in Review, highlighting memorable episodes, fascinating guests, and the stories that have shaped their journey.

This episode is not just a recap; it's an invitation to listeners to revisit past episodes, engage with the material, and share their own reflections on history. With plans for...

In this captivating November episode of Invisible Histories, we dive into the life of Elise Olmstead, a remarkable figure in the history of Seattle, as we chat with local author Rebecca Demarest.

Rebecca unravels the threads of Elise's life, from her beginnings in England to her complex relationship with the notorious Roy Olmstead, exploring her influence in the Prohibition era and her role as a radio station operator. Was she an informant to Prohibition agents, or the brains behind the bootlegging? Or both?

Join us as we discuss Rebecca's journey of research and writing, including...

This week on Invisible Histories, we are sharing Part 2 of our two-part journey to the Skagit Valley to visit the Northern State Hospital & Cemetery, a large psychiatric hospital and self-sustaining therapeutic farm and community from 1912-1973 in Sedro-Woolley, WA. Check out Part 1 that focuses on the Northern State Hospital cemetery (episode released on 10/7/25).

We are joined by John Horne, our guide, who shares personal anecdotes and insights about the hospital's history, revealing how it served as a sanctuary for many, despite the stigma surrounding mental health care in the past. Join us as we explore its f...

In this episode of Invisible Histories, hosts Cari and Elke visit the Northern State Hospital Cemetery in Sedro-Woolley, WA — a serene field off Highway 20, holding many unidentified graves of more than 1,600 people once confined to Washington’s largest mental institution. Some of the patients’ graves have visible numbers and initials, while many more have sunken under the thick grass or have been damaged by weather.

We’re joined by John Horne, a local historian who has spent years painstakingly researching, mapping, and restoring the site. John shares stories of forgotten patients, missing records, and the evolving effort to honor...

In this enthralling episode of Invisible Histories, we delve into the dark and complex narrative of the Salem Witch Trials, exploring the societal and historical contexts that led to one of America's most infamous episodes of mass hysteria. Join us as we navigate through the summer of 1692 in Salem, Massachusetts. We examine the lives of the women accused, including Cari’s ancestor Margaret Skillings Prince.

We discuss the intersection of religion, gender, and class, revealing how these factors contributed to the witch accusation crisis that resulted in the execution of 20 individuals and the imprisonment of many others. Th...

Our Potter's Field research and memorialization project points to the past ways that people who died on the margins in Seattle and King County were treated leading up to 1912, and how their burial area was obliterated in the wake of the Duwamish river dredging and straightening in 1913. Invisible Histories seeks to make modern connections with all our stories, and our intern, Jacob Neville, assisted Elke with research and interviews with modern programs that seek to create memorialization and remembrance for those who die on the margins of Seattle today. As part of this research, Jacob wrote a research paper...

In this gripping episode of Invisible Histories, we take you behind the scenes of the King County Medical Examiner's Office (KCMEO) where death and the stories surrounding it come to life through the eyes of lead forensic medicolegal death investigator, James Sosik Jr.

Join us as we explore the often unseen world of "unnatural" death investigation in King County, WA, and discuss everything from the realities of autopsies to the humane treatment of unclaimed bodies.

Disclaimer: KCMEO takes family confidentiality very seriously and during our tour we were not able to see any specific identifiable...

Have you ever wanted to move to Scotland, study folk magic, and help preserve ancient sites? Well we definitely do, and after today so will you!

Welcome to our June episode of Invisible Histories: Woven Tales: Reviving Scottish Folk Heritage with Scott Richardson-Read

In this captivating episode, we sit down with Scott Richardson-Read, a passionate folklorist and cultural historian deeply rooted in Scotland's rich folk heritage.

Welcome to our May episode: Part 2 of our interview with Cairn Canine Detection and the Case of the "Lost" Potter's Field!

We had so much to talk about with the Cairn Canine Detection group that our May episode will continue the conversation with Suzanne Elshult, President and K9 Trainer/Handler. Suzanne shares more about the work they are doing with local Tribes and historical organizations to identify the locations of unmarked burials in Washington State, and beyond. She's also about to get a new puppy to train, and talked about her first dog, who started her on...

Welcome to our April episode: Cairn Canine Detection and the Case of the Snohomish Pioneer Cemetery!

Have you ever wondered how dogs could help locate unmarked graves? Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of canine detection and its role in uncovering the hidden histories of historic cemeteries. In this episode, we share our experience with Suzanne Elshult and June Mansfield and their team from Cairn Canine Detection, who use specially trained dogs to locate human remains in historic burial areas. Discover the science behind their methods, the challenges they face, and the stories of...

Welcome to our March episode: Voices from the Archives!

Join us for an insightful conversation with Stephanie Johnson Toliver, the Executive Director of Black Heritage Society of WA for the past 7 years, and a longtime advocate for historic preservation, community-building and storytelling. In this episode, we explore the vital role of community archives in preserving the stories of African Americans in Washington, from early settlers who shaped the early towns and communitites, to the impactful photography of Al Smith. 

Stephanie shares her journey from horticulturist to archivist, detailing her passion for uncovering and sharing the hi...

Welcome to our February episode!

It is time to dive into our own invisible histories! Alongside Cynthia Brothers, the founder of Vanishing Seattle, we discuss the existence of venues, clubs, and other businesses that were, and still are, beacons of creativity and self-expression.

As more and more spaces for social connection undergo closure and demolition, how can we hold onto the culture associated with these spaces? We discuss with Cynthia the implications of the increased price of existing in the modern city, as well as what Vanishing Seattle is doing to preserve the histories...

A rebroadcast of our visit with The Bridge in July 2024, with hosts Jean Godden and Julianna Ross.

For January, we are rebroadcasting our lively visit with Jean Godden and Julianna Ross of their radio show, The Bridge, on KMGP 101.1, which aired on July 26, 2024.

On the show, we share our origin stories, how we met and formed Invisible Histories, some Lou Graham and Lake Ballinger stories, and some teasers from the “Lost” Potter’s Field. Thank you, Jean for such an in-depth interview. We know where the stories are buried!

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Hosts: Jean Godden...

Welcome to our December episode! Step into the world of Seattle's street trees with our latest episode featuring Taha Ebrahimi, author of the book, Street Trees of Seattle. Discover how these urban giants connect us to the city's past and enrich our present. Taha shares her journey from a curious walker to a published author, revealing the hidden stories of Seattle's diverse tree canopy. Learn about the ecological and historical significance of street trees and their role in fostering community connections. Taha takes us by some of her favorite trees in the Georgetown area, and we share a couple...

Welcome to our November episode, devoted to the beautiful Crown Hill Cemetery, located north of Ballard and west of Greenwood. And prior to that, we explore the mysterious history of the original Greenwood Cemetery, originally called Woodland, which was at the corner of 85th and Greenwood Avenue from 1871 until 1907.

A few months ago, we were intrigued to see an article on King 5, Seattle Medium, and Seattle Times about how the historic Crown Hill Cemetery was for sale.

Curious minds want to know, who wants to buy a cemetery?

Today we focus on the h...

When you hear “The Roadhouse,” this might evoke thoughts of a glistening Patrick Swayze doing his own stunts while taming the Double Deuce in the 1989 cult movie of the same name, but roadhouses also have a diverse and storied past here in the Seattle area. From Aurora Avenue North and the Bothell Highway, to Seattle’s Central District and Jackson Street, to Georgetown and the Pacific Highway South, these places became the areas where people were pushed as redlining and the Temperance movement grew and eventually took hold in Seattle in the 1910s. Prohibition in Washington began in 1916 and went u...

Welcome to Invisible Histories Season 3 Episode 1! 

Our "back to school" September episode is all about the iconic and mysterious Nikola Tesla. Sharpen your pencils and fire up your oscillators!

We had the pleasure to talk with Jeff Behary about his work, and specifically as the official historian for the Nikola Tesla family.

Join us on this month’s episode was we talk with Jeff about his Tesla archive, the Electrotherapy Museum, Tesla as an inventor, and the future practicalities of world wireless power and energy distribution.

Come see our specultative theater pro...

This month both Elke and Cari were on their respective vacations, visiting places near and far.

In this episode, Elke shares her history with the Gen Con Tabletop Gaming Conference, which she's been directly involved with for over 11 years. This year she went with her oldest son Chance, and had a blast working and playing with the over 71,000 guests to the event!

Cari and her daughter went to Scotland, with a stay in the Balintore Castle in moorland above Balintore village, a few miles north of the Loch of Lintrathen, near Kirriemuir, Angus. Balintore Castle is a...

Since it’s a beautiful, warm summer day here in Seattle, this month’s episode features a short history of a beautiful lake with a mysterious island. You’ll find this lake on the southwestern corner of Snohomish County, on the edge of Edmonds and Mountlake Terrace, just north of Shoreline, Washington. Come with us to take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters of Lake Ballinger! 

Learn about the development of this area in the late 1800s through 1920s, with Hugh McAleer, the Bartholomew and Ballinger families, and the role of the Interurban Streetcar line on the...

Welcome to Invisible Histories.

Today we had the pleasure to host a virtual interview with author Hanna Brooks Olsen about her recently published book, “Notoriously Bad Character: the true story of Lou Graham and the Immigrants and Sex Workers who built Seattle." The book is available through her webpage, www.hannabrooksolsen.com 

Lou reigned supreme in what we now know as the Pioneer Square neighborhood of Seattle in the late 1800s. Today, on Seattle’s Underground Tour and other guided history walks, the story of Lou Graham is often full of errors and exaggerations, and so...

Welcome to Invisible Histories! 

Tonight we bring you a special show like no other. If you've listened to the first three episodes -- and if not go back to Episode #1 -- we come to this podcast with a deep curiosity about the people who lived in this time period, how they died, and how they ended up being buried in the Potter’s Field between 1876-1912.  

Elke and I wanted to transport you to where the Potter’s Field used to be, on a windy point of land in what is known today as the neighborh...

March 2024 was wild! We suffered technical issues in the form of a broken computer, which prevented us from getting this episode out in a timely manner. Thank goodness we are up and running again!

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Thank you to our listeners, the dedicated hundreds! Subscribe, share, give us a review wherever you listen to podcasts!

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Today, we interviewed Jean Sherrard and Clay Eals, and...

After a whirlwind January 2024, the Invisible Histories ladies regroup, try to tidy up the place, and catch up on what happened over the last month. 

Thank you to our listeners, the dedicated hundreds! Subscribe, share, and give us a review wherever you listen to podcasts!

Read our latest newsletter and subscribe

Read show notes and more content at our webpage.

Check out our Instagram for images related to this episode @invisiblehistoriespnw

We toured the Recompose facility in Georgetown, and learned about composting as an option for death care.

Welcome to Invisible Histories. Episode #3

In this podcast we explore lost stories of marginalized people, hidden histories of forgotten places, and generally unearth some cool, creepy and hopefully meaningful connections for people living and working in the Seattle area and beyond. 

In this episode, we share some important cultural information regarding Indigenous death practices of the Coast Salish people, to answer the question, 'could the Potter's Field have previously been an Indian Burial Ground' as described on Findagrave.com? We include interviews from Johnny Moses and Pamela Bond Seamoster who each share the cultural practices of...

Welcome to Invisible Histories - Episode #2

In this podcast we explore lost stories of marginalized people, hidden histories of forgotten places, and generally unearth some cool, creepy and hopefully meaningful connections for people living and working in the Seattle area and beyond. 

In this episode we go way back in time, to share the perspective of a character that rarely gets to tell its story — the land itself — how the cemetery removal was an example of forced industrialization and this progress at all costs mentality; contextualizing the land in Georgetown, and the existing death and burial...

Hello -- and welcome to “Invisible Histories” exploring Seattle’s lost stories, with Cari and Elke - Episode #1

In this podcast we explore lost stories of marginalized people, hidden histories of forgotten places, and generally unearth some cool, creepy and hopefully meaningful connections for people living and working in the Seattle area and beyond. 

In our first series we explore the ‘lost’ Potter’s Field, also known as the Duwamish Cemetery established in 1876 on land next to the King County Poor Farm and Hospital in what is now the Georgetown neighborhood. In just over 30 years over 3,260 peo...

Welcome to “Invisible Histories” exploring Seattle’s lost stories. In this podcast we explore lost stories of marginalized people, hidden histories of forgotten places, and generally unearth some cool, creepy and hopefully meaningful connections for people living and working in the Seattle area and beyond. 

In our first series we explore the ‘lost’ Potter’s Field, a cemetery established in 1876 on land next to the King County Poor Farm and Hospital in what is now the Georgetown neighborhood. In just over 30 years over 3,260 people were buried there; people who due to lack of money, family or other connecti...