The Glass City Chronicles

Ep. 8: The Shocking End to the John Ketcham Story

We'll let the Chicago Tribune describe the shocking conclusion to our story: This is the tragic end of life which is real pathos.  It runs from the top of influence and commercial and financial power to a condition of mind and body that neither knew nor cared for reason.  It started in honor and distinction and came to a point where ties were disregarded and consequences scorned. It is a tale of infatuation and recklessness, and in the sadness of the climax the brother finds nothing to blame but the pace which was set John Ketcham by the clubmen in whose grasp he fell. 

Ep. 7: The Contested Will of John Ketcham

Following a secret wedding and the death of John Ketcham, this story becomes a court drama—complete with inquest bombshells and an emotional defense from Minnie Wallace Ketcham. 

Ep. 6: A Wedding, a Will, and the Death of John Ketcham

It’s now 1897.  John and Nettie are divorced, Nettie has moved back home to Toledo, and Minnie Wallace is the new woman in John’s life. In short order, John Ketcham will be dead...

Ep. 5: Introducing Minnie Wallace

Within a year of his scandalous divorce, John Ketcham would be dead, and his death, and the mysterious circumstances surrounding it, would prove far more sensational and scandalous than his infamous divorce.  At the heart of the scandal was a new woman in John’s life, Minnie Wallace, a beautiful young widow, with a deeply troubled past.

Ep. 4: The Sad Demise of a Power Couple

When Toledo grew too small for the power couple, Nettie and John Ketcham headed for Chicago. Learn how things turn sour soon after their arrival.

Ep. 3: Meet John Ketcham

John Ketcham's story, which has been lost in history, is a sobering tale of hubris, extravagance, and excesses, as compelling as any Shakespearean drama ever played on the Valentine stage. Join us for Part 1 of this tragic tale.

Ep. 2: Valentine Ketcham: A Toledo Pioneer

Welcome to Holy Toledo History, where we explore the stories of the people, places, and events that shaped Toledo’s rich past. In today’s episode, we take a deep dive into the life of Valentine Ketcham, one of Toledo’s most influential early pioneers. From his role in supplying early pioneers to his contributions to developing its infrastructure, Ketcham’s impact on Toledo is undeniable, yet his name is often overlooked. Join us as we uncover the legacy of Valentine Ketcham and a few of the fascinating chapters of his life story.

Ep. 1: We're Strong for Toledo

Join Tedd Long, Jori Jex, and Kelby Sodeman as we discuss an iconic Toledo song that many of us learned to sing in elementary school. We also have a surprise guest, so make sure you listen through.