H.H. Holmes: America’s First Serial Killer – Interview with Jeff Mudgett

Episode 35: In this gripping episode of Slice of the Paranormal, we sit down with Jeff Mudgett, author of Bloodstains and co-host of the History Channel’s American Ripper, to explore the chilling legacy of one of America’s most infamous figures—H. H. Holmes. Jeff isn’t just a bestselling author and former U.S. Naval Reserve commander—he’s also the great-great-great-grandson of H. H. Holmes, the man believed to be America's first serial killer. Holmes is best known for constructing the terrifying “Murder Castle” during the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair—but his dark trail didn’t end there. We walk listeners through the twisted history of Holmes’ crimes, from the maze-like hotel in Chicago to his strange final days in Philadelphia, where he was supposedly executed. The Slice team even visited the site where Holmes was hanged—and yes, we grabbed a slice of pizza just steps away from that historic (and macabre) location. Together with Jeff, we unravel new theories and lingering questions: Did H. H. Holmes really die at the gallows? Could he have escaped justice and continued killing? Was Holmes actually Jack the Ripper? Could he have written the infamous Ripper letters? From historic records to family secrets, we dig deep into the shadowy overlap between Chicago, Philadelphia, and Victorian London. 🎙️ Don’t miss this chilling conversation that merges genealogy, true crime, and paranormal speculation. Featured Guest: 🧬 Jeff Mudgett – Author of Bloodstains, Host of American Ripper, direct descendant of H. H. Holmes