Indianapolis Graverobbing: A Syndicate of Death

E.B. and Bertha C. Ball Center

In fall 1902, Indianapolis police uncovered a prolific graverobbing ring operating across the city. Unlike graverobbers of yore plundering cemeteries for treasure, the Indianapolis ghouls were after fresh corpses; cadavers desperately needed by the city’s medical colleges for anatomical training. It was estimated that at least 300 bodies were ‘resurrected’ alone from Marion County in 1902. 

Chris Flook explores this history in his new book Indianapolis Grave-robbing. The presentation provides an overview of the subsequent trials of the graverobbers and a discussion of how the story intersected with Delaware County. Includes reception and book signing.

Author/Presenter: Chris Flook, associate lecturer, Department of Media, Ball State University; board member, Delaware County Historical Society

Limited to 40 guests. No charge - Reservations required. Please reserve at https://commerce.cashnet.com/BALL_EMS057.