Getting Away With Murder in Camden Town: Robert Wood, 1907 by Mark John Maguire
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- Опубліковано 30 вер 2024
- In 1907 a 30 year old artist called Robert Wood was arrested for the brutal murder of a young woman. He was tried at the Old Bailey and acquitted - but doubts concerning his innocence have persisted. Here is his story...
A number of people have asked if they can help support my channel - I don't have any adverts on my channel (and don't intend to) but if anyone wishes to help defray the expenses of making these videos in some small way, they can buy me a cup of coffee! www.buymeacoff...
What must it be like to have talent to spare Mark. Your art is as spellbinding as your research, your writing and your narration. Thank you for them all.
You're very kind, Tara - thank you!
Abundant talent notwithstanding, I suspect tireless research, meticulous attention to detail, great care in editing & re editing. There is a perfection in the preparation & presentation of each of your videos, making them a real delight for the listener. I hope to enjoy listening to many more hours of your work. Such excellence is absolutely compelling! Thank you for each one of them. You are greatly appreciated.
The story you have chosen is a good one with a good plot, with a dramatic appeal, Mark! Your documentary has its own unique style- to figure out the best way to structure the story to make the biggest impact.
The key to the success of your documentary is in you - a brilliant storyteller, who bringing history to life and keeps the audience guessing.
Thank you, Madonna - I'm delighted you liked it. In the next few weeks I will be doing others in what I hope will be a series of such documentaries and I am sure that the technical challenges of producing a piece of work like this will become more familiar to me!
@@TheyGotAwayWithMurder It seems like more than 7100 subscribers, including me, appreciate your efforts . In a few days, I've almost listened to all of them. :-)
Yes, he obviously is an artist in his own way/s !
Se3
The more I watch this channel, the less I like Sir Edward Marshall Hall. 😒
I agree with that.
You have to admit the man was an amazing defense attorney.
I wonder how he felt about the fact that so many of his clients were probably guilty as sin.
Unless of course if he's your lawyer.
@rainking4242. Everyone is entitled to legal representation.
It's really a shame that jurors were so enamored of Hall that they blatantly ignored any and all evidence and simply agreed with him, no matter how weak his arguments were.
His celebrity status got in the way of justice every time he entered a courtroom.
I have noticed that too...... Like "Here comes Hall...the accused MUST be innocent!" Hurrah!!!
Not much time for the legal profession, to be honest.....because they most certainly ain't!
(Crikey: This bloke Hall could not have won over a Jury so easily if he had arrived in a wheelchair.......)
Your narration is perfect.
What a bunch of snobs - didn't accept the witnesses - he was no better or worse than her.
Indeed - perhaps worse!
Poor Emily , no justice because she was a lady of the night. It just goes to show how money talks. Enjoyed this case and love your sketches and narration. Thanks.
Thank you, Brenda!
And how little regard people have for the sanctity of all human life.
Also class distinction
I love how you convey the facts; just the facts without judgment or disapproval. You have a lovely speaking voice that my Yank ears can fully understand. I just found your channel and subscribed. I'm such a fan of old British crime stories. Thank you!
Thanks, Cheryl - I do my best to try to keep personal feeling out of it. I hope this only shows itself at points where I am trying to make an argument... For me it is far more interesting to try to understand how the terrible events described here happened, how apparently sane people (for the most part) committed them, and the drama that unfolded about such people as the legal processes and police investigations etc swung into operation...
Yes he’s a perfect narrator,can’t wait for every post!✊♥️
What hypocrisy, the judge calling the prostitutes ‘depraved’. Wonder who these legal gentlemen went to bed with.
Yes! The Rising Sun seemed to be the place at which they congregated. I went to the British Library in Euston Road last August to do some research on a case I was writing about and arrived a little early - and so went for a walk along the road. I had gone about 200 yards when I suddenly found myself standing before a very familiar pub - The Rocket, previously called the Rising Sun. I went in - it hadn't changed much since 1907 as far as I could tell - and walked around, taking a few photos and trying to picture the chief protagonists in there. It was a nice surprise and an added bonus to my visit!
Little boys , generally under age (allegedly) ! .
Haaaaa...probably cause they 'over-charged' they ol' boy, and he got Miffed...It's an Age Old hazard in an Age Old Business......
@@TheyGotAwayWithMurder lucky you☺ and us
@@TheyGotAwayWithMurder I love moments like that. Same happened to me when I found myself standing right out front of The Blind Beggar. Not much has changed in there either. Thrilled that one of your videos showed as a suggestion for me. I'm starting at the beginning as it's a wonderful night to sip a cool drink and watch a few unsolved murders. Greetings from East London and cheers for your channel. 🥂
So, if the great Sir Edward Marshall Hall in his declining years now had 'grave and serious' doubts as to the innocents of Robert Wood, as related by his own daughter; how then did this 'champion of the Law' not come forth to a Board or Court of Inquiry and present these newly acquired determinations? Seems our great and learned friend would, in today's parlance make for a Great Mafia Attorney. LoL
Thanks for your comment, Stan. Even if he had wished to do this, it wouldn't have been appropriate: it is the jury that decides the innocence or guilt of a defendant: the opinion of the barrister is irrelevant. His only purpose is to plead the case of the accused.
And besides, having been acquitted once, he couldn't be tried again at that time.
Maybe he had grave doubts because the Ripper was never caught, and Hall's mind by definition was given to the deepest introspection.
@@TheyGotAwayWithMurder But this isn't the first time he's released a criminal, so Marshall Hall has released many of the criminals who had been released, yes, the jury decides but does not prove whether a person is guilty or not( Who convinced the jury? ). The biggest role is played by the lawyer, the judge, especially those who have money or those they know in high positions are found not guilty).
I do feel that the judges sway the jury a certain way.
The standard of police work back then is shown by...after a police search of the flat, the post card which they had assumed to be burned was discovered"under a drawer lining"
P.S. I was pleased to see you taking credit for the drawings, but surprised that the music is yours too. You're taking multi-skilled to a new level!
And this will do as a comment for the algorithm, as I'm in a hurry to see what new things I will learn about Madeline Smith!
Thank you, Bilinda - in some of the cases there are no images for critical points in the narrative so I found the best way of plugging the gap was to draw them myself! The piano - which I must re-do some time - is a similar story.
@@TheyGotAwayWithMurder Amazing! What a find this channel is!!
It just goes to show that so much talent never makes it to the telly, in fact there is a lot of junk televised. This is outstanding work, thank you!
I hadn’t realised you were playing the piano either Mark! What a creature of multi talented skills you are!! ....I must say I like the way the stories are all,introduced, by the lone character, mac over one arm, lighting up,a cigarette, then bang! Shot and falling to the ground....I’m now thinking that you have illustrated AND modelled as that character too!!! Did you!?!? ,It’s reminiscent to me of an old Maigret program starting....not the same of course but the feeling of that period of nostalgia if you understand me! ...Thankyou for all the pleasure you are giving us with these factual tales....as I and others have told you before you have a wonderfully soothing and clear story telling voice....makes such a difference.
Having seen your photo when I first started watching your series, I was sure you were a retired detective I had seen on tv or in the news in the past, but that, I’m not sure of.
Keep up the great work! You are SUPERB!! 🙋♀️👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻😘☕️☕️
I have now viewed all of Mark’s videos on UA-cam. I have found them great entertainment. Wonderfully written and beautifully narrated. Thank you Mark and waiting for more.
You get the justice you can afford
Ooof, that is so true in America we’ve learned. 🙈
@@lizannewhitlow1085 : This happened in London, which is the capital of England.
Yep.
Lovely voice - well narrated - first time listener - really enjoyed it - thank you
@@NelsonStJames e
Sir Edward Hall makes another appearance.
Yes funny isn't it
I do wonder how many of his clients actually were not guilty.
Excellent! I love the piano - that's yours? I think the moral of this case is - have wealthy friends to pay for your defense! Mind you, all they had was circumstantial and eye witnesses. There've been numerous high profile cases where eye witness accounts have been totally unreliable and DNA or other hard evidence has proved them false . So nowadays, eye witness accounts don't have a high standing in court cases. Back then, eye witness accounts were considered the best evidence to have. Which makes it doubly strange that he was acquitted. In 1907, on paper, this would've be a cast iron case - but for the disparity of social class between the defendant and victim. Food for thought. Thanks for uploading. :)
Thanks Mel - yes, of course you're right. Interestingly, the judge summed up very much against Robert Wood and people began to call out in court "shame!" and "unfair!". Meanwhile, outside the court the police were very concerned at the impact a "Guilty" verdict would have as a crowd of some 5000 plus Robert Wood supporters had gathered outside the court. The way the judge suddenly seemed to change his mind at the very last moment saying "however, I do not think the prosecution has sufficiently proved its case." attracted much comment. He may have been swayed by the public mood - the press was firmly on RW's side - or genuinely changed his mind. Marshall Hall scowled as he heard his final pronouncement and said to his colleague: "He's trying to steal my credit for getting him off!"
How do you live with yourself when you do such things? I love your story telling. ❤
Good question! Thank you, Jude.
Another case of a closing of the upper class ranks yet agin ! .
A number of people have asked if they can support my channel - I don't have any adverts on my channel (and don't intend to) but if anyone wishes to help defray the expenses of making these videos in some small way, they can buy me a cup of coffee! www.buymeacoffee.com/MarkJohnMaguire
Or payments can be made to paypal at email address nightwatch.nightwatch@gmail.com
I have noted that a majority of the people who got away with murder appear to live long lives and just carry on. I wonder how they live with their guilt.
Rest in peace Philis and all sex workers who have come to a sad end.
Another beautifully told episode. I used to live in Camden and whenever I drove past the house in Agar Grove I used to wonder whether the occupants knew of its dark history. I wonder if the street name was changed after the murder to help eradicate its memory ... ?
Thank you! I don't know why it changed its name - it confused me when I was trying to locate the original property, because of this name change. I did plan to visit the house while at the British Library in August last year for research purposes - I visited the Rising Sun, but simply ran out of time to seek out The Eagle and the murder house.
Also, it’s famous becuase it was the first time in British history a defendant was allowed to take the stand in his own defense.
Yes indeed! And Edward Marshall Hall made his name on this case - he almost instantly regretted putting Wood in the witness box because his manner was odd and he did not answer his questions as Marshall Hall wished! He famously opened his cross-examination of him by turning dramatically and saying "Robert Wood - did you murder Emily Dimmock?" to which he had coached Wood to reply "No sir, I did not." But Wood instead responded: "Well, I mean - it's ridiculous!" which left Marshall Hall non-plussed for a moment!
Wow!!
Finally! I never understood why the accused was not allowed to testify. On the other hand defense attorneys did not like the change I bet. They almost always keep the defendant from the stand if it is at all possible.
@@TheXmeimei No bad cops in China? That sounds great.
Hi Mark, I've just discovered your excellent documentaries. This one is detailed, well researched and perfectly delivered. I'm looking forward to watching all of the others. I'm of the opinion that Wood was the murderer and did, indeed, get away with murder.
Hi Terence, Many thanks! I agree with you - the final words of Inspector Neil in closing the case file on 21st December 1907, were "...there is nothing more can be done - we must abide by the jury's decision - but there is no doubt that Robert Wood committed the murder."
@@TheyGotAwayWithMurder Absolutely: There was no-one else even remotely "on the Radar" as it were. Unbelievable verdict.
Great granddaughter here. He 100000% did it.
Fascinating docu on an interesting man...it was good to see the "after" story too!
Thank you - it was the first one I did and the audio quality is quite poor, but it was a pleasure to study and research the case.
First it was a prostitute on the bed??not realy very good.
Best narration I've ever heard. Love your stories ❤
Glad you enjoy it! Thank you!
I really enjoy how you narrate the story. Great job. It's so hard to believe what people will do and then they say no I didn,'t do it.
Thanks Sally.
I love how a lot of the homes featured in the crimes are still around and being lived in. It’s great to see it all tied together.
Thank you, Debbie!
I'm American and I grew up in a thickly populated area that had been nothing but farms until shortly before I was born, so seeing this much continuity over time boggles my mind. Intellectually I understand that It's normal for houses and pubs to stand for 200 years or more, and that it's perfectly ordinary for families to live in the same area, even the same neighborhood, for generations... but it doesn't compute. So it's fascinating to watch these crimes play out and still be able to go to the locations and get a feel for what the place was like at the time.
The English architecture indeed stately, but one best have Holy Water & blessings ready if living in a murder site.
Is this what Walter Sickert based his Camden town murder pictures on?
Yes indeed! Sickert lived in Camden and was fascinated by murder - apparently even spending a night in the room where one of the Jack the Ripper victims had been murdered. His Camden town murder paintings and drawings relate directly to the murder of Emily Dimmock, however. I have used a couple of them in this video.
I had also noticed this.
It is possible that they were based on The Ripper Murders. A silly woman called Patricia Cornwall is quite convinced that Sickert was the Ripper. My Great, Great Grandfather lived in the same street in Mornington Crescent as Walter Sickert at the time of the Ripper Murders. He and Sickert were good friends as they were both German. Unfortunately the street has been pulled down.
@@susannahhunt1831 Have you read Patricia Cornwall's book? They have DNA from the taunting letters the Ripper wrote to Scotland Yard, and it matches the Sickert family. And did you know about Sickert's mother making him have some sort of surgery on his penis at an impressionable age? (I forget if he was a hermaphrodite, and they tried to correct it, or what, but he was scarred and these characteristics -- domineering mother combined with sexual shame and trauma,) would match the profile of such a monster. Edited to add: Cornwall is a medical examiner by training; I believe she is retired from it now. Not that being a coroner is any great shakes, but it is some qualification.
@@quickchris10 Writing a jack the ripper letter is not evidence of being Jack the ripper. Especially as the letter is considered a hoax. Plus neither the paintings nor the letter were preserved for forensic testing for over 100 years as dna was not discovered as a means of testing until 1988.
The specialist who treated Sickert was on the treatment of anal fistulas.
Sickert was also said to be with his family in France at the onset of the murders.
It's a story. A good story but there is little evidence.
The state of Texas recently had a priest convicted after 50 years of murdering a Hispanic young woman . He raped tortured and kill this young woman because he wanted to cover up his need and urge for sex. She was a school teacher and a serious Catholic and she had just left the church after confession. her body was found in a drainage ditch near the Church. 3 other priest knew about it but they kept their mouths shut because they did not want their positions within the church compromised. The rapist priest was 87 years old and still to this day he says he did not do anything. A cord was wrapped around the woman's neck and the item that was connected to that cord belonged to the priest. Past District Attorneys did not want to prosecute this case because they were afraid of the power of the Catholic Church. The Camden Town Murder is a hard case. When a case has a prostitute, any person could have murdered her. back in the Edwardian Day- having money, a great lawyer and a posh background can keep you from ending up on the hangman's noose
That still applies today, Have no fear.
Surprisingly, that old priest wanted a woman, not a young boy.
@@marysylvie2012 Yes, I can't argue with that. It always seems to be the catholic
Church as well. ????
@@charliesmith_ ?????
@@charliesmith_ Ok, But I don't get 1974.
Your style of narration and commitment to detail is so impressive! I just stumbled across this channel, but I'm subscribing now!
Thank you very much, Zoya!
I have only recently began to watch Your videos. They are very AWESOME!!! I do like the amount of research that You put into writing these stories. This one was very intriguing! I do and did believe that Robert Wood did get away with murder. That is so horrendous and mostly if not entirely because He was found “Not Guilty of Murder,” because of His status in Society at the time. I wanted to say, “Boy, did his Attorney or Barrister sling as much as He could at the Prosecution’s witnesses?!” It still worked back then, obviously!!! SOOOOOO VERY sad for Phyllis, Her Mother and Other Loved Ones. No Justice on this earth for Her. The only other thing that We can hope for To happen to Him; is to hope that He had to pay for this in his next life. I would hate to have been Him in His afterlife.
Anyway, I look forward to Your next Post and to watch those that I have missed.
Thank You, for sharing Your talents with Us. As I wrote above, “You do an AWESOME JOB!”
Thank You again. 😊👍🏼👋🏼
Thank you, Dalaine - I am delighted you like them and appreciate your taking the time to comment! :)
You are very welcome. You do write very well.
He did seem to get away with murder. And then lived a long life!! So unfair.
Yea, he did. It’s weird…my mom said he was always very calm and kind and nice, never raised his voice, all that. He went on an married and had kids- one was my grandfather- but it is so tragic he was not held accountable for what he did. Apparently, (but who knows right) he never did anything again, he had no further criminal record of any kind, but then again forensics back then wasn’t what it is now. I’m glad to be alive as a result of his marriage, but I do feel guilt for that as well. It’s an awkward place to be in.
@@heatherlou5522
not your fault - we are
not our parents . . .
In a lot of these cases the judge says something inappropriate to the jury just before they leave to deliberate. Things that may cause a mistrial or would be grounds for an appeal. They did not have a great case here, but then again they barely attempted to seek one out.
Addie: I do so agree with you. I just don't get it, that one man...The Judge... has so much influence on the jury after the summing up of the Prosecutiuon and the Defence..... It's like....well...One man criticising both arguments before the Jury retires.... It's just so DUMB!
I rather think we need a massive overhaul...maybe in cases of murder...we have three Judges assessing the actions of both prosecution and defence?
In my view...this ....this Barrister-Of-The-Day....Sir Edward Marshall-Ward was another 'celebrity twat' of his time. HE GOT AWAY WITH MURDER!
There’s an old saying “You can mistake someone’s face, but not their walk” .. it’s true when you think about it. Great story ~ thank you 🙏🏻🇦🇺
Thank you, Lisa Michelle!
One has to wonder why the murdered mans diary was not allowed into evidence and how this was justified.
I have always noted the curious over-use of the word 'gentleman' in Court testimony.
I can only guess it stems from situations like this trial, where witnesses came out on the losing side against someone above them socially ... someone even capable of hurting them in some way.
It's so good that so many of the pubs and landmarks are the same as today. You can really recreate the scenes in your mind. Kudos for the local detail in this.
Many thanks, Damian - yes, I visited the Rising Sun (now The Rocket) last year, quite by accident. So many of these places are still there and very much as they were 110 years ago...
Hi Damian.... I often go on GoogleEarth- Street View to see these locations: They look so much like they did at the time of the events.....
It's eerie and yet spellbinding that so much is still as it was then.
The differences, in many places of course, is that the slums have given way to the inevitable "Industrial Estates"
(Many of which are now becoming slums in their own right!)
But so many of the sites mentioned here by "They Got Away With Murder" do exist because the offences were not comitted in the "slums" of the day, but in the houses of the prosperous & well-to-do of the time. (Lord Lucan being a prime example.) Stay Well. S.
He gets to live to 92. I hope there was ALOT of sun/fire block put in his fancy casket and for those in the little boys club who let him off.😎
THANK YOU SIR, for teaching us about the cases presented here.
Thank you!
@@TheyGotAwayWithMurder You are very welcome. Have a blessed weekend.👻🤘💖
As an atheist, I still say
The devil takes care of his own, and the Lord didn't want him.
My Favorite Englishman! Your voice makes these stories come alive. God bless and safely keep you, in Jesus’s Precious Name, Amen!🕊🙏💜✝️✡️🙋♀️🌹
Thank you very much!
Thoroughly 'enjoying' these programmes. Mainly attracted to them by my interest in vintage crime novels. The videos give a lot of insight into the times. Keep well
Many thanks, George - you too.
Sometimes a substandard memory is a great thing to have. I'm viewing all of these videos again, only remembering that I was thoroughly impressed previously. Apart from that, it's as if I never saw them before! It would therefore be mean of me not to acknowledge for the second time that I'm in awe of your many talents, and very grateful that you lend them to us.
I have enjoyed each and every episode of your series. I hope that there will be more in the future. Thank you for bringing these stories to light! 💛
Thank you very much, Kay - I am pleased you like them!
Mark, I'm a tad confused on this one. In the description of the relationship between Emily Demmick (aka Phyllis the alleged wife of Shaw) and the "husband" Bertrum Shaw (railroad worker), you implied that the mother of the RR worker thought her son was married, but in reality Demmick posed as his wife (living with Shaw as a Common-law wifè), but was actually a hooker living with him and continuing her trade in HIS apartment (flat as y'all call it) . Is that correct or am I still confused?? Also, I'm assuming the Bert and Phyllis were having sexual relationship as well...correct??
Btw, in my honest opinion, not only are you a fantastic novelist and writer, you're a very talented artist!!
Yes, that is correct! They were pretending to be husband and wife so that his mother would not be upset, but weren't - and in fact, unknown to him Phyllis/Emily was still working as a hooker. Many thanks indeed for the compliment!
Fantastic account. Have never sign pictures of Wood before. Would be great to see you look at the Wallace and Gorse Hall cases!
Many thanks for your kind comment. I will look at the Gorse Hall case - I am about to commence a new series of documentaries and hopefully will be improving technical aspects of them along the way. If I can find sufficient material in the news from 1909 and in the National Archives, I will certainly do it. All the best, Mark
Special place in hell for many defense attorneys!
lawyers, judges, magistrates, politicians et al and don't quote Israel Folau or you will get into trouble.
The street she was murdered on was renamed to Agar Grove. It's a sobering thought that someone is now living in that room/house - probably with no idea of its history.
Yes indeed, Vaughan - the name change foxed me for a while and led me to believe it must have been bombed during the war or demolished, but when I found it, I very much wanted to have a look inside! But it seemed a) terribly nosy and intrusive; and b) rather cruel if the person in the upper part of the house had no idea of what happened there...
@Ana Seijas no, that was Anthony Hardy and he is a modern killer. Have a great day 🌈
Very guilty. So guilty. My generation accepts he totally did it, but my mother who knew him and my grandmother...they are SO SHAMED by it, never talk about it, get mad if it’s ever mentioned, and vow that the acquittal means innocent. Lol.
Everyone in my family is an artist like him too. He drew medical anatomy for textbooks (might be n the video, I’m watching now) my grandfather was an oil painter, my mother is an oil painter, I’m a photogrpaher, my brother is a graphic designer, my sister a fashion designer.
As far as I know, none of us are murderers lol. But I do have an odd fascination with criminal minds and psychology, and a lot of ya do struggle with mental health issues, mainly bipolar.
So that’s how the family is doing. If you look online, the Robert wood side still in Britain (my fam moved to US in the 50s) has a family website where they talk about it. But they are super super super offended if people think he did it.
Family shame! Lol.
That is a common reaction I have found in families even of people who have been found guilty! I first read the Robert Wood case in the 1980s when I picked up a copy of Notable British Trials in London. What fascinated me was that the writer (writing in about 1920) seemed to be trying to imply that Wood got away with murder, but was unable to say so explicitly, for obvious reasons. It was this long-standing fascination with the Camden murders case which led me to create this series. At some point I will certainly turn these cases into a series of books and I would be very interested (and grateful) for anything you could tell me about the life of Robert after the trial.
Yes, it is a very delicate subject for families and I understand the need to tread very carefully here!
Whatever you need!
@@heatherlou5522 Thank you so much for your input on the case. Yes. In my opinion he was most certainly Guilty. Sorry.
Families are weird in this respect.... They will admit "He was a bit of a lad....you know" "He's a little devil!" "Bit of a ladies man."
BUT! They will make any excuse possible for a potential murderer..... just will not accept the clear evidence.
I have experienced it a few times, sadly..... not as far as a murder... but pretty much in between. It pains me to say.
There were times and places in history where someone was seen as too much of a gentleman or lady to do,” such a thing “ whatever hideous deed they may have done. A lot of people seemed to able to take advantage of that nonsense. .
You'd think the simplest schoolbook stories about the things royalty got up to would debunk that idea, but no...
Given she was a sex worker and the jury was only allowed to be men (of "good character"), that it was unlikely they would convict him. Especially as the penalty would be death.
Being in the southeastern part of the US, the constant defense I hear is he/she is a good Christian. Much is said of the person’s reliable attendance to their church, of their volunteer work, and notable generosity.
I have learned that when the owner of any business plasters Bible verses on the door of their business, their business cards, or the receipts or invoices, this is a facade to hide their true character. A wolf in sheep's clothing, a snake in the grass; call them what you will. But hold on to your purse and keep them away from your children.
Yes Indeedy ! In my opinion, 30 year old Robert Wood with the thin face, bowler hat & unusual walk was VERY guilty & got away with murder. Many people saw the face and peculiar gait ! BUT he had many influential and rich friends that afforded him a top lawyer so he got off. I even think Robert Wood was capable of killing off witnesses or people who suspected him of the crime if he had a good opportunnity to do so.
And WOW ! Robert Wood lived a long time too (1877-1969). How long one lives doesn't have anything to do with if your good or bad unfortunetely.
Plus The so called Polite society back then (and today) was often just as Ruthless & CutThroat as their counterparts in the street.
I think Robert Wood, even in old age, breathed a sigh of relief that he got away with MURDER ! . Thanks for the upload. Well done Sir ! I alway's loved History and Vintage Crime Stories. :)
Thank you very much! It is the case that has fascinated me longest, I must admit - so it was a delight to make it as first in the series!
BBBB...... "Only The Good Die Young." Never more apt.
Another Marshall Hall acquittal case !!!!! What a cunning and shrewd lawyer !
Indeed! He had a varied career - but was very successful at persuading juries to acquit against all odds!
I hope he is now occupying a special place in Hell.
He was one of the best. Unfortunate for the poorer people.
I recently came across your channel and although it's chilling content I enjoy your presentation very much. I wonder if Phyllis showed the letter and card to Roberts simply because he was there when they arrived, or to demonstrate that she was indeed already engaged for Wednesday? It might be far-fetched but if she was uncomfortable with Wood and likely uneasy about meeting him that night could she have been "leaving a trail" just in case? It might sound odd but both myself and friends have done things like that, to leave a hint in case there was something more to an odd situation than our overactive imaginations.
Thank you, Hilary. I don't know is the honest answer - I suppose a woman thinks differently than a man in this situation, and it may be that it is something women feel inclined to do instinctively. In the case of a prostitute like Phyllis, there may be all kinds of additional strategies called into play because of the sheer danger of the profession - this was just 19 years after the Jack the Ripper murders, and, of course, the murder of prostitutes in London was not at all uncommon. For me the persuasive point was Wood being seen looking in the door at Phyllis - and she seeing him - but nothing passing between them... It is possible to imagine her unease in this simple anecdotal testimony. It meshes nicely with her telling a friend she "did not like him at all," and Roberts telling how Wood had stared at him, upon recognising him as the man who had been Phyllis's client the previous night: it all points to an irrational obsession having him in its grip. The mild-mannered and affable Wood, who undoubtedly had a dark sexual compulsion, had become a very dangerous man...
They had a relationship- her husband was always away on ships I believe, and she was a lady of the night. He fell in love with her, she didn’t want to leave her husband. It was a crime of passion, if I can’t have you, nobody can.
I do the same. Usually in screen shots or in my picture album on my phone. I also have a contact under another name but for my own number to forward texts I want or think might be needed later, just in case. You never really know. But my oldest daughter knows where to look. 😉
Another exceptional Documentary, your exstensive research and exceptional narration make for great presentations that I enjoy greatly. Thank you again Mr. McGuire.
It is amazing, having watched quite a few episodes of this series now, how often the name "Marshall Hall" comes up as Defence Council - and how many of those acquitted under his defence appear in retrospect to have been almost certainly guilty. I note in this episode you suggest that Marshall Hall himself, in later years, considered that Wood was probably guilty and I wonder if he, Marshall Hall, ever regretted getting such persons off the charges
Dark horse episode on my favorite MJM video essays. I especially enjoy and am sucked in by Mark's conclusions, and his "Later in life" photos and research. For this case, Wood living into the modern age etc, his career, shows us how small a time frame this is part of; it was not so long ago per our human clocks. My gran was born two years after Wood's trial.
Really can't understand the opprobrium being heaped on Hall in not just this video but others too. He is paid to defend his client. It is the prosecution's job to present a case and prove it beyond all reasonable doubt. It is his job to pick holes in that evidence. In this case there is no forensic evidence putting Wood at the scene of the crime, just eyewitness testimony that obviously wasn't convincing. As for the "characters" of those involved and Wood somehow being cleared because of his "class", that goes on every day in every circumstance all over the planet. We all do it all the time. In the absence of evidence to the contrary, somebody of previous good conduct will always be trusted more than someone with a criminal record. I repeat, in the absence of evidence to the contrary. Wood probably was the killer but the Justice system requires evidence. These days the police have access to DNA, CCTV, mobile phone records etc. None of that was available then. No murder weapon was found and no-one saw the face of the man leaving the property, which for the early 1900s was the main evidence the police required. Wood admitted a relationship with the victim so even his fingerprints would not be out of place at the murder scene. He would probably have been convicted fifty years before but policing and the criminal justice system was evolving rapidly and the evidentiary bar was getting higher. These days the CPS weeds out the weaker cases. Unfortunately this inevitably leads to the guilty getting away with it but also helps to prevent miscarriages of justice (in theory).
I really like your drawings too.
That’s my great grandfather. Lol. They thought he was Jack the Ripper. My mother said he was nice but creepy.
I am very glad to hear from you, Heather! I have had an Email from Dave and have replied to him. My impression of Robert from reading about him, from the Scotland Yard file etc, is that he was very likeable, extremely cool - but yes, something unsettling about him...
I didnt think he had any children
"Nice but creepy." That is a FASCINATING way to describe someone . Does the term "oxymoron ," mean anything to you ?
Elizabeth Sohler I don’t see an oxymoron there. I have known a lot of people in my life who were nice enough but something about them was unnerving. Being nice is a verb in this context, in that it requires some effort by an individual. Whereas creepy is a perception. Anyone who is intrinsically creepy could deliberately pretend to be nice to curry favour that would not be forthcoming normally because of the creepiness. Paedophiles for example.
I read he had no children
Another superbly analysed case. This one deeply distressed me because Wood not only got away with it but he seemed to have gone on to live a long and successful life. At least Wood killed this poor girl in her sleep so she probably was never aware of what happened. There is much nonsense written about these cases, yes someone has actually flagged up the much maligned Walter Sickert as the culprit in this case too, your analysis is logical, reasonable and lacking annoying hysteria. I really appreciate that
Thank you, Rosemary - I entirely agree with you regarding Walter Sickert as a candidate for this crime or those of Jack the Ripper. Quite absurd.
Walter Sickert was the least likely suspect in the whole bunch.
Wow what an interesting story- and he lived to be 92!! And yes- he got away with murder. It shows the importance of a great defence lawyer.
Thank you, Katharina - yes indeed. Worth paying for if you can afford it!
a death of rage i would say. you could take the girl out of the gutter but you can't take the gutter out of the girl. Wood had a very good lawyer
That's what happened to Jack the Ripper
Mr. Maguire, you are very talented. These video presentations are excellent, and I have read a few of your articles and seen your artwork. Your oils are absolutely beautiful! "Solitude", to name just one.
I'm beginning to think that Sherlock Holmes wasn't all that brilliant, the police and detectives were just simple and simply lazy.
lol.
They likely didn’t care that much since she was a prostitute. Which isn’t that different from today. But prostitution back then was really looked down on becuase the STDS were then running all over the place. But I mean, beyond lazy, and not caring no matter someone’s status, the forensics just wasn’t there, either, so I think it’s a combo. RIP Emily :(
Ever notice how many nefarious characters are writers &/or illustrators children's books?
They need excuse to hang around the children. Pedos the majority. Now we look back and see the signs.
I'm not familiar with any, to be honest.
@@laverneh2030 Writers and illustrators don't have professional contact with children. If they wanted access to children, they'd get jobs that let them work with children--like teachers--rather than jobs that had them sitting alone at a desk 98% of the time.
Also, Robert Wood wasn't a pedophile. A murderer, yes. But not a pedophile.
I think he probably did it but I'd be wary of the delivery driver's evidence given that sunrise wasn't till 6.30am at that time of year and his sighting was more than 90 minutes prior to that. Having Hall on your side was a bit like having Spilsbury on your side - those guys' reputations went before them and were bound to influence any jury.
That's a fair point. Yes, you may well be right in this.
Interesting Content ! I've Subscribed. Keep up the good work. Old School Rules ! Greetings from the French Alps. 💖💀💖
Thanks and welcome!
Please upload more..these are awesome..cant get enough!!
Thank you!
Very well put together. My only problem is one you are up front with…that these characters have gotten away with murder. I usually have to remind myself of the title part way through. Hopefully the rest of their lives are spent without peace.
This is insupportable!!No justice for poor 'Emily Phyllis 'Dimmock,was she buried fogotten in a Potter's Field?? Also is a judge allowed to declare an opinion of guilt or innocent so blatantly?? He possibly influenced the jury!This is indefensible!
What an interesting bc topic for a channel! How simple yet no ones ever thought of it! I guess legally maybe it’s a sticky subject! hahah
They do have to be old cases out of fairness to the subjects, and to avoid legal problems!
Fascinating. I think he could of been guilty.
Thank you, Joan - I believe so...
HAVE HAVE HAVE FFS! BLIAR GAVE YOU EDUCATION EDUCATION EDUCATION..... Yet you continue to destroy his legacy!
Just wish somebody out there would.......
Thank You 😊
Thank you. Lana!
A superb narrative - Thank You for your always superlative efforts . One might wonder if any of Wood's artistic endeavors are extant.
Good question! I do not know the name he was using after the trial - he never actually changed his name, but did his artworks under an assumed name. At some point I will attempt to gather all of these episodes together, revise them and publish them, updating them with information I have since learned.
I have only got one left of these to watch now, so you are going to have to make some more, toute suite! 😂😂😂 I've really enjoyed them and you have a marvellous voice!
Thank you!
It never ceases to amaze me that attorneys such as Marshall Hall -- who are obviously intelligent -- actually defend people whose guilt is utterly transparent. Could you explain WHY they do this, and how they manage to live with themselves when they succeed in freeing murderers such as Robert Wood? We are not talking about Perry Mason, whose clients WERE always innocent -- as is so easy to arrange in FICTION -- but repeatedly, Marshall Hall managed to free murderers, surely knowing that they were guilty at least SOME of the time -- was this only for his huge fees (avarice) or thumbing a snook at the law (it's okay with HIM if prostitutes get killed, no problem there!) -- I would love to understand just how any honest attorney could work so hard to free so many obviously guilty people. Ethics nonexistent, "all's fair in love and the courtroom" -- or WHAT?
One thing that seems common among these murderers in this series is 'they all live to very old age, 80 - 90???' Does becoming a murderer have something to do with increasing one's age? Somebody should do a study on this phenomenon. This guy could, in an instant, cut off a woman's head and then end up writing 'children's book's'? I don't think this guy got off so much for Lawyer Hall expertise as for the Prosecution's incompetence; this case should have been won in court without any doubt!
No one ever gets away with anything because your conscience won't allow you to forget.
For most I agree, especially crimes of passion but there are people who have no conscience and rationalize that they were justified in doing so.
It’s like saying we all have the same level of consciousness
Just came upon your channel and immediately subscribed after the "gooseberry pie story" Your voice goes so well with the storytelling of muder mysteries of years gone by, and keeps me captivated until the end..! Brilliant narration and pictures... well done Mark !
Thank you, Donna - I am delighted!
@@TheyGotAwayWithMurder Can I ask, have you ever done narration or broadcasting before ?? you just seem so comfortable in front of the camera in your intro.. p.s keep up the great work, i'm hooked !😉
@@donna4976 I'm delighted, Donna - no, I haven't done either before and only began doing the introductions because someone suggested it! It takes some time and means I am neglecting my other interests, but receiving comments such as yours encourages me to keep going! :)
@@TheyGotAwayWithMurder Wow..! I think the BBC lost out on your natural talent.. I do mean that in a complimentary way of course..! I understand it takes so much research and hard work and is much appreciated ! you are my new favourite channel.. 😊❤
@@donna4976 Wow - that is a really charming thing to say, Donna! I see you are in the NHS - keep up the excellent work :)
These are great stories. I am,surprised there are not more subscribers. Thanks
I agree Mike. I just found the channel 10 minutes ago so starting at the beginning of them. Brilliant delivery of the content. I live in London so one day will be looking for that pub. I subscribed so hopefully more are getting the same suggestion and will do the same.
Kelly C Hi Kelly....try Liverpool Murders by Vincent Burke...similar style and sometimes the same cases but also very good.😉and if you are like me and love audio stories can I introduce you to archive.org which has tons of free audio including one of my favourites the Charles Paris mysteries.👍
@@mikewilliams4499 Cheers for that Mike. I will indeed check those out. I love listening to audio stories late at night as I'm a horrible sleeper. My ears may not get a rest but at least my eyes do. 😅
Kelly C Ah...a kindred spirit. I listen until I fall asleep. Discovered archive.org while enjoying a post-bypass rest last year and I can be a Championship Bore to anyone who likes detective or murder stories particularly historical ones...you are warned Kelly🙄😏The great thing about lockdown working at home is I can listen while at my desk.
@@mikewilliams4499 Glad to hear that you are on the mend Mike. I studied and worked over in North America for years. Discovered a radio series called CBS Radio Mystery Theatre. I'll listen to those on occasion. As I studied forensics and criminology yonks ago, at least we know that we aren't plotting each other's demise. 😂😂 Murder and mayhem are just a mutual interest.
Do you know what name he used afterwards pls?
Great story, thanks so much.
I have known and have forgotten, Janet.
EXCELLENT CRIME STORY SUPERB NARRATOR THANKS MARK JOHN MAGUIRE. FROM U.K.
Thank you!
I was in the Eagle pub a couple of weeks ago - very atmospheric. I could imagine Phyllis propping up the bar. It's on the corner of Ivor Street where murderer Mary Pearcey lived. Amy Winehouse lived round the corner and once took refuge there from the paps with the help of the landlady. Every pub has a story!
I had intended to visit the Eagle myself when I was in the British Library some time ago (in Euston Road), but time did not allow. I did have lunch in the Rising Sun (now the Rocket) on that day, though.
Mr. Maguire: you could read me the telephone book & I'd be enthralled. You're a national treasure.
Fantastic, sir! Another wonderful and odd story to share with us. Thank you!
My pleasure! Thank you!
Do you think lawyers possess any sort of guilt for keeping alleged murderers on the streets?
Surely the man in the boater is Stephen Fry! 😁
My applaud to you for another well done, video!
Many thanks.
Wood must have done it😕
I agree!
Just goes to show, if you have to sell everything you own get the highest paid attorney possible..lawyer lawyer lawyer
Then and now depends on your attorney.
Indeed it does.
Best true crime on UA-cam, intro, presentation , mellow voice, can't be beaten
Thank you, Sandra - I'm delighted you like it!
Money talks
There would be no use for prostitutes without the men who buy them , so who is in fact the depraved here ?
Needed something to relax to and immediately thought of your channel. Thank you.
He lived a long life
Well, that was the last one. I do hope there will be more some day. Thank you so much.
Thank you, Phillip yes another in a few hours.
The story at the end is always my favorite! I'm totally binge watching.🙂
Is this Gentleman Michael Schumachers great grandfather 🤔
Apparently it was ok to murder people below your station in life
So having a good liar, I mean lawyer, is everything.
I like the theme where you can hear the woman's, I'm assuming, heels click & clack ever closer. Reminds me of the John Lennon song "watching the wheels go round and round". At the end you start hearing English folks chattering about before the heels of someone along with cart horse hooves.
Nothing to amazing, I know,, just a observation. Thanks, I find your material enjoyable
Thank you - yes, they were high heels. In the original animation, the woman walks by after the man is shot - but it didn't really work so I removed her altogether!
My uncle Martin, and my brother David, look almost identical to Robert.