Johann Conrad Dippel thought he was on to something. The 17th century writer, preacher, theologian and mad scientist lived at Castle Frankenstein in southwestern Germany.
After several run-ins with the Church, including a seven-year stint in prison for violating a prohibition on publishing works on theology, Dippel settled down to his new passion: alchemy.
He began his search for what he called “The Elixir of Life,” a potion that could extend life indefinitely. In the process Dippel produced an oil from animal bones, hides and hooves that he claimed to cure a number of ailments, including fevers and epilepsy. Modern scientists have analyzed it and determined that it was a very strong muscle stimulant. He also developed a dye, Prussian Blue, that is still used today.
But there was a darker side to his experiments. Stealing bodies from cemeteries, he secretly did grisly experiments in attempts to discover the Elixir of Life. He also tried to reanimate bodies and is said to have blown up a tower of his castle in the process.
Some believe that Dippel was the inspiration for the mad scientist in Mary Shelley’s 1818 book, “Frankenstein,” and there may be some truth to that.
Although not completely confirmed, Dippel is said to have died after drinking a vial of his Prussian Blue and, when his body was found, it had turned totally blue.
You can still visit and tour the castle, if you dare.
Professor James Pinkerton is a retired educator who loves to share the mystery in our history. He can be reached at pinkertonjames1914 @gmail.com.