CLASSIC: Meet Albert Cashier, the Trans Man Who Fought for the Union in the Civil War
Summary
This episode explores the life of Albert Cashier, a trans man who disguised himself as a soldier to fight for the Union during the Civil War. Hosts Ben and Noel discuss how Cashier successfully maintained his male identity for decades, even surviving a hospitalization that briefly exposed his assigned sex. The story highlights the prejudice he faced later in life, including being forced to wear a dress and having his pension threatened, before his former comrades intervened to secure his benefits. The episode concludes with Cashier’s legacy, noting his military funeral and the ongoing recog…
Topics discussed
Introduction to the story of Albert Cashier
Sponsorship and promotional segments
Context: Women in the Civil War and gender identity
Producer banter and Albert's birthplace in Ireland
Early life, immigration, and working as a man
Enlistment in the 95th Illinois Infantry and battles
Survival, discharge, and post-war community life
Sponsorship and promotional segments
The car accident and hospital discovery of identity
Institutionalization, exposure, and pension fraud investigation
Death, military funeral, and headstone changes
Legacy in Illinois and the Broadway musical
Sponsorship and promotional segments
Distinction from other women soldiers and Christine Jorgensen
Modern perspectives, listener engagement, and credits
Closing sponsorships and sign-off
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