OM Backroads: Ep. 99: Cassie Chadwick and Ohio’s Most Audacious Scam of all time

Cassie Chadwick was one of the most audacious con artists in American history—and her trail of deception ran straight through Ohio. In this episode of Ohio Mysteries: Backroads, we dive into the unbelievable true story of Cassie Chadwick, the woman who convinced bankers, elites, and even her own husband that she was the secret illegitimate daughter of steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie. Through forged documents, bold lies, and sheer confidence, Chadwick swindled millions and exposed the vulnerabilities of America’s Gilded Age financial system. Joining us is author Wendy Koile, whose research brings new depth and clarity to Chadwick’s rise, her carefully crafted illusions, and her dramatic downfall. Together, we explore how Chadwick built her empire of lies, why so many powerful men believed her, and what her story reveals about greed, trust, and ambition in turn-of-the-century Ohio. It’s a tale of luxury, lies, and legend—hidden just off the Ohio backroads. Local author and friend of the show, Wendy Koile has a new book out just in time for Valentine's Day. Wendy will join us soon on an upcoming episode to discuss this fantastic new book: "Love, Lies. Murder in Northern Ohio". You can get a copy through Amazon, any bookseller or direct via her website at: Check out our Facebook page!: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Please check other podcast episodes like this at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Dan hosts a Youtube Channel called: Ohio History and Haunts where he explores historical and dark places around Ohio: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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OM Backroads: Ep. 99: Cassie Chadwick and Ohio’s Most Audacious Scam of all time is an episode from Ohio Mysteries by DarKat Network.

This episode is 54:21 long.

This episode was published on Feb 2, 2026.

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