Wicked Words - A True Crime Talk Show with Kate Winkler Dawson Wicked Words - Richard White: Who Killed Jane Stanford?
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Jul 24, 2023 Richard White, an author and Stanford Professor, discusses the troubled legacy and mysterious death of Jane Stanford, co-founder of Stanford University. Topics covered include the complicated history of Jane Stanford, the financial challenges faced by Stanford University, proposed reforms that threatened the survival of the university, a near miss with poisoned water, the aftermath of Jane Stanford's death, and the hidden secrets of her life.
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Jane's Devotion to Leland Jr.
- Jane Stanford lived a life of luxury, focused on spending money and doting on her son, Leland Jr.
- Her world revolved around him, and his death from typhoid at age 14 devastated her, leading to a nervous breakdown.
The Founding of Stanford University
- Following Leland Jr.'s death, the Stanfords, inspired by a dream and spiritualism, founded Stanford University.
- The university began as a personal monument, funded by borrowed money and land with no income, raising concerns about its financial viability.
Jane Stanford's Financial Struggles
- After Leland Sr.'s death, Jane faced financial uncertainty during the Panic of 1896, as the Stanford fortune was tied to the struggling Southern Pacific Railroad.
- She persevered, refusing to close the university, and eventually saw her paper wealth turn into liquid assets as the economy recovered.