Burke and Hare have become Edinburgh’s most infamous residents, their story told and retold by generations, catching the imagination of many cultural icons. However, the story of these two has become increasingly diluted. According to writer Martin Conaghan and artist Will Pickering, the truth is even more gruesome and shocking than the stories they influenced.
“Over a 12 month period from 1827-1828 in Edinburgh, Scotland,” writes the press release, “two Irishmen by the names of William Burke and William Hare murdered 16 people and disposed of their bodies to the eminent dissectionist, Dr Robert Knox, at 10 Surgeons’ Square. These men were not graverobbers, they were serial-killers.”
Fascinating true crime straight from the history books, set in one of Europe’s most interesting cities. Published 6 October by Insomnia Publications.