Prelude: George Weyerhaeuser's Tragic Kidnapping
On August 13, 1936, nine-year-old George Weyerhaeuser III was playing in the woods near his family's summer home on Lake Kapowsin, Washington. Unbeknownst to him, a group of kidnappers were lurking nearby, meticulously planning his abduction.
The Kidnapping: A Step-by-Step Timeline
- 12:30 PM: George disappears after playing in the woods near his family's home.
- 2:00 PM: George's parents realize he is missing and raise the alarm.
- 4:00 PM: A ransom note is delivered to the Weyerhaeuser mansion, demanding $200,000 for George's safe return.
- 5:00 PM: The Weyerhaeuser family contacts the authorities.
- 7:00 PM: The FBI takes over the investigation and launches a massive manhunt.
- August 15: The kidnappers release a second ransom note, increasing their demand to $250,000.
- August 17: The Weyerhaeuser family pays the ransom and awaits George's release.
- August 19: George is found safe and unharmed near the town of Burton, Washington, after nearly six days of captivity.
The Aftermath: Unraveling the Truth
The Weyerhaeuser kidnapping sparked a nationwide media frenzy and put immense pressure on law enforcement to apprehend the perpetrators. After a month-long investigation, the FBI identified and arrested three men: Herman Schmidt, John Sand, and Walter Tower.
Schmidt, the mastermind behind the plot, had been obsessed with the Weyerhaeuser family and their vast fortune. He had carefully orchestrated the kidnapping, planning the logistics and securing the ransom money. Sand and Tower were former business associates of Schmidt who had provided assistance in carrying out the crime.
The trio was convicted and sentenced to life in prison. They were released in the 1960s after serving their sentences. However, the Weyerhaeuser family never fully recovered from the trauma of George's kidnapping, and its legacy continued to haunt them for years to come.
Delving into the Author's Perspective
In his book "Deep in the Woods," author Bryan Johnston presents a chilling account of the Weyerhaeuser kidnapping, drawing upon extensive research and interviews with those involved. Johnston explores the psychological motivations of the kidnappers, the impact of the crime on the Weyerhaeuser family, and the enduring legacy of the case.
Through Johnston's captivating narrative, readers gain a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded and the profound consequences that reverberated throughout the lives of those affected.
Conclusion: The Weyerhaeuser Case and its Impact
The Weyerhaeuser kidnapping remains one of the most notorious crimes in American history. It is a chilling reminder of the dangers that can lurk in the shadows and the importance of vigilance and safety.
The case left an enduring impact on society, leading to increased awareness of kidnapping prevention and the establishment of specialized law enforcement units dedicated to combating human trafficking.
Listen to Episode 22: The Kidnapping of George Weyerhaeuser Part 1 to delve deeper into this fascinating and tragic story.
