The Clearing
Summary
This episode recounts the 1874 true crime story of Alfred Packer, a gold prospector who abandoned his companions in the Colorado wilderness to survive. Packer murdered and cannibalized his five fellow hikers, including his close friend Israel Swan, after being left behind by the group. The mystery was solved when an artist discovered the gruesome campsite, leading to Packer’s conviction for murder. The story explores themes of survival, betrayal, and the dark extremes of human nature.
Topics discussed
Intro: Hiker finds gruesome campsite in Colorado
Sponsor reads: American Home Shield and Progressive
1874: Prospectors trapped in valley and Alfred's plan
Chief Yre's warning and the decision to leave early
Chief Yre's map and the group's departure
Sponsor reads: Omaha Steaks, Wayfair, and Progressive
The journey: Alfred's background and the coffee pot
Disappearance: The group vanishes without a trace
Alfred's arrival at the outpost in shock
Sponsor reads: Hungryroot and Southern New Hampshire University
Alfred's testimony: Abandoned and surviving alone
Discovery: John Randolph finds the five bodies
The truth: Alfred's confession and cannibalism
Aftermath, credits, and podcast promotion
Sponsor reads: Angie and O.com
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