Transcribed
When a Final Wish Became a Circus: The Story of the Sunshine Woman
Jan 24, 2026 ·
16m 5s
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Description
This week’s story is the bizarre true tale of Leila Davidson Hansell, known as "The Sunshine Woman," and the controversy surrounding her final resting place in Hendersonville, NC. Leila's final...
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This week’s story is the bizarre true tale of Leila Davidson Hansell, known as "The Sunshine Woman," and the controversy surrounding her final resting place in Hendersonville, NC.
Leila's final wish upon her death in 1915 was to be buried above ground in a unique mausoleum topped with 147 squares of prism glass, designed to let the sun shine down on her remains. For over two decades, her glass-topped tomb became a must-see tourist attraction, fueled by a 1926 newspaper article that confirmed the skeleton could, indeed, be seen through the glass, contrary to the designer’s adamant denials.
Don't miss a single one of our Stories of Appalachia! Subscribe to the Stories podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Consider becoming a supporter on Spreaker, too. You’ll get bonus episodes and an ad-free version of the podcast!
Thanks for listening!
show less
Leila's final wish upon her death in 1915 was to be buried above ground in a unique mausoleum topped with 147 squares of prism glass, designed to let the sun shine down on her remains. For over two decades, her glass-topped tomb became a must-see tourist attraction, fueled by a 1926 newspaper article that confirmed the skeleton could, indeed, be seen through the glass, contrary to the designer’s adamant denials.
Don't miss a single one of our Stories of Appalachia! Subscribe to the Stories podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Consider becoming a supporter on Spreaker, too. You’ll get bonus episodes and an ad-free version of the podcast!
Thanks for listening!
Information
| Author | Steve Gilly |
| Organization | Steve Gilly |
| Website | - |
| Tags |
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