Smithsonian scientist Harrison Dyar spent 20 years digging hidden tunnels under Washington D.C.
by Futility Closet from on (#1W6K7)
In 1924 a curious network of catacombs was discovered in Washington D.C. They were traced to Harrison Dyar, a Smithsonian entomologist who had been industriously digging tunnels in the city for almost two decades. In this week's episode of the Futility Closet podcast we'll describe Dyar's strange hobby -- and the equally bizarre affairs in his personal life.
We'll also revisit balloons in World War II and puzzle over a thief's change of heart.