Madeline Smith: Maid or Murderess? The Arsenic Mystery in Glasgow

Step into the dark and foggy streets of 1857 Glasgow, Scotland, with this chilling episode of "Crime Classics" titled "Madeline Smith: Maid or Murderess, Which?" Originally aired on January 20, 1954, this episode dives into the true story of a young woman whose charm masked a deadly secret.

Madeline Smith, a lovely and seemingly innocent lady, was more than just a member of Glasgow’s society—she was also a liberal user of arsenic. As the story unfolds, Thomas Hyland, our connoisseur of crime and teller of murders, guides us through the intricate details of this notorious case. Was Madeline a maid, innocent of the charges against her, or was she a cold-blooded murderess who used poison to get what she wanted?

Written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin, with music by Wilbur Hatch and conducted by Bernard Herrmann, this episode is a gripping exploration of guilt, innocence, and the murky middle ground between the two. Featuring performances by John Dehner, Betty Harford, and William Johnstone, "Madeline Smith: Maid or Murderess, Which?" keeps you guessing until the very end.

Join us as we unravel the mystery of Madeline Smith, where love, betrayal, and arsenic blend into a potent and deadly mix. Whether you’re a fan of true crime, historical dramas, or classic radio narratives, this episode of "Crime Classics" is sure to captivate and intrigue.

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Click to listen and delve into the enigmatic case of "Madeline Smith: Maid or Murderess, Which?" where a young woman’s innocence is questioned in this suspenseful episode of "Crime Classics."

True Crime Classics

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the golden age of radio with "True Crime Classics." This podcast series revives the most gripping crime episodes from vintage radio shows like "Crime Classics," "Barry Craig," "Philip Marlow," "Broadway Is My Beat," "Box 13," and "Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar." Perfect for true crime enthusiasts and old-time radio lovers alike, each episode delivers a thrilling journey through historic cases, masterfully narrated and authentically preserved.

Relive the suspense, drama, and mystery as you follow legendary detectives and iconic sleuths solving some of the most intriguing crimes from the mid-20th century. Whether you're a die-hard true crime fan or a nostalgic radio aficionado, "True Crime Classics" offers an unparalleled listening experience that transports you to a bygone era.

Tune in weekly for new episodes, and don’t miss a single captivating story from the vault of classic radio crime dramas. Subscribe now and embark on a nostalgic adventure into the heart of vintage crime storytelling.