The Man Who Wanted Seven Wives

The title "The Man Who Wanted Seven Wives" refers to a real-life murder case that happened in 1897 in Greenbrier County, West Virginia. The victim, Zona Shue, was allegedly murdered by her husband, Trout Shue, who had a reputation for wanting multiple wives.

The case gained notoriety due to the legend that Zona's ghost appeared to her mother, Mary Jane Heaster, revealing that Trout had poisoned her. This supernatural testimony supposedly led to the reopening of the investigation, Zona's body being exhumed, and ultimately Trout's conviction for murder.

Here's a breakdown of the story:

    The Crime: Zona Shue dies under suspicious circumstances in 1897.
    The Suspect: Trout Shue, Zona's husband, known for his desire to have multiple wives.
    The Twist: Zona's ghost appears to her mother, accusing Trout of murder.
    The Investigation: The ghost's story leads to a renewed investigation and exhumation of Zona's body.
    The Outcome: Trout Shue is convicted of murder.

The truth behind the ghost's testimony remains debated. Some believe it was a genuine haunting, while others see it as a product of collective grief and suspicion surrounding Trout.

Here are some additional points to consider:

    The case highlights the cultural and social beliefs of the time, where the supernatural realm held more sway.
    The story raises questions about the role of circumstantial evidence and the influence of public opinion in legal proceedings.

If you're interested in learning more, you can search for books like "The Man Who Wanted Seven Wives" by Katie Letcher Lyle, which explores the case in detail.