Dan Patch became one of the most famous racehorses in American history, setting speed records, drawing enormous crowds, and helping make harness racing one of the nation's most popular sports. But what many people don't know is that this legendary horse has a fascinating connection to Geneseo, Illinois.
29 Jul 2026
The Remarkable Story of Myron McHenry
Best known as the owner of the legendary racehorse Dan Patch, Myron McHenry played a pivotal role in elevating harness racing to national prominence. Learn how his dedication to breeding, training, and promoting championship horses made him one of the most influential figures in American horse racing and why his legacy continues to be remembered more than a century later.
From his connections to Geneseo and Henry County to his lasting impact on the sport, this episode uncovers the remarkable story of a man whose name deserves to be remembered alongside the greatest pioneers of harness racing.
29 Jul 2026
Horse Racing in Geneseo's Early Days and the Tracks That Made it Happen
Discover how horse racing became part of the community's identity, where the tracks were located, who competed there, and why the sport played such an important role in Geneseo's early history. From local racing traditions to the people who helped shape the sport, this episode explores a forgotten chapter that helped define life in Henry County.
29 Jul 2026
Forrest Cady: Bishop Hill's Forgotten Baseball Star
Before modern baseball became America's pastime, Forrest Cady made the journey from Bishop Hill, Illinois, to the Major Leagues. In this episode of Hidden History, Steve Kastroff explores how Forrest Cady made his way to three consecutive World Series and was a catcher for Babe Ruth. We'll trace his path from small-town Illinois to the biggest stage in the sport. Discover the story behind this forgotten athlete and the lasting legacy he left on local and baseball history.
28 Jul 2026
Inside the Historic Olson Farm
What do a historic Geneseo farm and one of the most famous racehorses in American history have in common? In this episode of Hidden History, host Steve Kastorff talk to Diane Olson, about the Olson Farm and they uncover its connection to Myron McHenry, the former owner of the property and the man who owned the legendary harness racing champion Dan Patch.
28 Jul 2026
On Location: Central Schoolhouse Inn
Join us as we explore how this former schoolhouse evolved into a one-of-a-kind inn while preserving the character, craftsmanship, and history that make it such a treasured destination today. From its original purpose as a place of learning to its thoughtful restoration and new life as a boutique lodging experience, the Central Schoolhouse Inn reflects the enduring value of preserving local history.
26 Jul 2026
Hidden History:The Man Called "Baby Doll": A Baseball Story Worth Remembering
In this episode of Hidden History, we uncover the remarkable story of William "Baby Doll" Jacobson, a major league outfielder born in Geneseo, Illinois. He went on to become one of the American League's most consistent hitters during baseball's Golden Age. Although he played in the shadow of legends like Ty Cobb and others, Jacobson compiled a remarkable .311 career batting average, collected more than 1,700 hits, drove in 818 runs, and batted over .300 in seven consecutive seasons.
26 Jul 2026
From Geneseo to the Pros: The Johnny Wanner Story
Step back into the golden days of baseball in this episode of Hidden History, hosted by Steve Kastorff, featuring local ballplayer Johnny Wanner. From sandlots and hometown ballparks to semi-professional competition, Steve shares the stories, memories, and lessons from a lifetime spent around America's pastime.
This episode explores Johnny's remarkable baseball journey, including his years with the Rock Island Islanders, and the opportunity to record three at-bats with the New York Highlanders.
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