Interview with Jack the Ripper
85Interview with Jack the Ripper
Jack the Ripper - History's Most Famous Unsolved Crime
I know. Now that I have learned to conduct these supernatural interviews with infamous dead people, you are expecting to read an interview with that mutilating monster of a serial killer, Jack the Ripper. Well, I lied. I am unable to interview Jack. Do I hear you asking, "why"?
Because the serial killer who murdered and mutilated five or six or maybe as many as thirteen prostitutes in the East End of London in 1888 was never found. No one was ever arrested or tried for the murders. It is 122 years later and we are still fascinated with the mystery - who was Jack the Ripper?
Although I cannot conduct an interview with a killer who is unknown, I can do the next best thing and interview the London police officials and others who were most closely involved with the case. You can read the evidence I discovered and decide for yourself.
Hanbury Street where Annie Chapman was murdered
Victims
Interview with Police in the Case of Jack the Ripper
"Jack the Ripper" is the name given to the unknown killer because of correspondence at the time from someone who claimed to be the killer signed with that name. This unknown person didn’t claim to be Jack the Killer or Jack the Murderer. He chose the more dramatic appellation, “Jack the Ripper” . Perhaps he was a fan of ancient history and his hero was Vlad Dracula the Impaler.
But while the murders were taking place, the serial killer was known as the”Whitechapel Murderer” or "Leather Apron". All the murders took place within a one-mile area and involved the districts of Whitechapel, Spitalfields, Aldgate and the city of London.
Leather aprons were found at the scene of two of the crimes, but the police soon discovered they belonged to residents who worked in the Spitalfields slaughter houses who hung their leather aprons out to dry each night.
There is some dispute concerning how many victims Jack the Ripper claimed. Some historians believe he may have killed as many as thirteen prostitutes during his violent career. It is generally accepted, however, that there were at least five victims and possibly six.
Victims of Jack the Ripper
Martha Tabram, murdered Tuesday, August 7, 1888 may have been his first victim. The following are the five Ripper's victims that most experts have confirmed:
- Mary Ann (Polly) Nichols, murdered on Bucks' Row, Friday, August 31, 1888.
- Annie Chapman, murdered at 29 Hanbury Street, Saturday, September 8, 1888.
- Elizabeth Stride, murdered on Berner Street, Sunday, September 30, 1888.
- Catharine Eddowes, murdered in Mitre Square, Sunday, September 30, 1888. This was a double feature - two in one day.
- Mary Jane (Marie Jeanette) Kelly, murdered at #13 Miller's Court, Friday, November 9, 1888
Why has Jack the Ripper remained so unforgettable for over 100 years? He wasn’t the first serial killer. But he was the first at a time when the general population had become literate, and newspapers were available. Every day you could read about his activities and the actions taken by police. It was the press coverage that made the Ripper and these horrible murders something new to read about. If television interviewer, Larry King, were around at that time, he would have interviewed the Ripper in a New York minute. Come to think of it, Larry was around, but he didn’t know Jack’s identity.
Jack the Ripper was not your everyday sort of sexual serial killer. He wanted the whole world to take notice of him by leaving most of his horribly slashed and mutilated victims out in plain sight. And because he was never caught, it is the mystery surrounding him that intrigues us and creates a puzzle we are tempted to solve.
Jack the Ripper Documentary Part One
What was Jack’s MO or Modus Operandi
All six known victims were prostitutes and four were killed outdoors. They varied in age (25 to 47) and appearance, and most were thought to be drunk at the time they were killed. Apparently, the Ripper grabbed his victims by their throats and strangled them until they were unconscious if not dead. No bruising on the back of the heads indicates that he lowered the bodies to the ground rather than throwing or letting them fall.
Then Jack simply cut their throats as they lay on the ground after he strangled them. This method prevented him from becoming blood stained. If his victims were already dead before their throats were cut, too much blood would not be spilled.
No sign of intercourse nor evidence of masturbation was ever detected. Usually Jack took a piece of the victim's viscera. The taking of a "trophy" is a common practice by modern sexual serial killers. The opinion of most of the surgeons who examined the bodies was that the killer had to have some degree of anatomical knowledge to do what he did. In one case he removed a kidney from the front of the body rather than from the side, and did not damage any nearby organs while doing so. In another case he removed the sexual organs with one clean stroke of the knife. Given the circumstances of the crimes (outside, often in near total darkness, keeping one eye out for the approach of others, and under extremely tight time constraints), the Ripper almost certainly would have had some experience in wielding his knife.
Jack the Ripper Documentary Part Two
What did Jack the Ripper look like?
Was there any written record
of Jack's appearance? Before you ask, I did interview all five of his reported
victims – all of whom were in realty bad mutilated shape, besides being dead,
you know. All were unanimous that he was of medium height and build, and wore a
soft hat pulled low over his face to hide his features. He also appeared to have a full mustache but his chin was clean shaven.
I wondered why couldn’t any of them give a more detailed
description of Jack? Then I realized they were being discreet. The Ripper must have asked his prostitute victims
to turn around and lean against a wall or building and, as they awaited him, he strangled
them from behind.
I did locate one Ripper description however which was published in a French newspaper, 'Gazette De Lausanne' on November 16, 1888. Translated from French it read:
'The police came for the first time, to receive a detailed record of the likely perpetrator of the Whitechapel crimes. It was a groom who knew (Mary Jane) Kelly who saw her return home at two hours of the morning with this individual. He is a man five feet, seven inches high, thirty-four or thirty-five years old, with an olive complexion and a black mustache curled up at the two ends. He had a soft felt hat, wore a long double coat of Astrakhan, a white collar with black tie and a horseshoe shaped pin, black leggings and button up boots and in his left waistcoat pocket a massive gold chain with a stamp in red stone. The eyes were black, very thick eyebrows, and his chin was clean-shaven.'
Jack the Ripper Documentary Part Three
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Interviews with Police Officials
I have unearthed – no pun intended – the first senior police official to interview - Sir Melville Macnaghten, Chief Constable.
me – How are you Sir Melville?
Sir M. – Not in the best of health, as you can see.
me – Sorry. I have learned that in 1894, you wrote a confidential report in which you named three top suspects. Who were they?
Sir M. – My chief suspect was Montague John Druitt, a 31-year old barrister (attorney) who became a school teacher. His relatives describe him as ‘sexually insane.’ He never confessed and committed suicide by drowning himself in the Thames in December 1888 one month after Mary Kelly was killed.
Note: Druitt left behind a suicide note that has remained secret and if it contained a confession, no one except the police knew it. Macnaghten once commented that his greatest regret was that he had "become a detective officer six months after Jack the Ripper committed suicide.’’
me –The plot thickens. Who was your second suspect?
Sir M. – Aaron Kosminiski. This was confirmed by the two officers in charge of the case: Chief Inspector Donald Swanson and Sir Robert Anderson. In his memoirs, Anderson wrote that the Ripper was Kosminiski, a poor Polish Jew who lived in Whitechapel and was confined to an insane asylum after the crimes and died soon after.
me - I have read reports that question Kosminiski’s guilt.
Sir M. – It’s true that the suspect was placed in an asylum but he proved to be a docile and harmless lunatic who had hallucinations and would only eat food from the gutter. He did not die soon after being committed but lived until 1919. Some researchers tried to explain the discrepancies by saying that the name, Kosminiski, was confused with another insane suspect who really was dangerous.
me – And your third suspect?
Sir M. – Michael Ostrog, a Russian-born thief and con man with multiple aliases (Dr. Alexander Pedachenko and Vassily Konavalov). He was a medical doctor who was believed to be about 55 years old in 1888. He had been detained in asylums on several occasions, but he was investigated and there was nothing to indicate that he was anything more than a raving maniac. He was traced back to Russia in 1891 and caught mutilating a woman he had killed.
me – Thank you, Sir M. I will now interview Inspector Abberline and Chief Inspector Littlechild. Gentlemen, who was the suspect you believed to be Jack the Ripper?
Inspector Frederick Abberline – I always thought Severin Klosowski alias George Chapman might be Jack the Ripper. He had a notorious rap sheet as a multiple wife poisoner. But other officers rejected him as a suspect.
Jack the Ripper Documentary Part Four
Chief Inspector John Littlechild – I was in charge of the Secret Department in Scotland Yard at the time and I wrote a letter in 1913 to a crime journalist named G. R. Sims. In the letter I stated “… amongst the suspects and to my mind a very likely one, was a Dr. T. He was an American quack doctor named Dr. FrancisTumblety, 56 years old. He was arrested in November, 1888 for offenses of gross indecency.”
me – I have read that Tumblety was a legitimate suspect who paid a fortune for bail and fled to the United States.
Littlechild – That is true and Scotland Yard detectives came
to the colonies to investigate him further. But he did not confess and they could find no proof that he was Jack the Ripper.
Jack the Ripper Documentary Part Five
Jack the Ripper Documentary Part Six
Jack the Ripper Letters
The police and newspapers received hundreds of letters that claimed to have been written by the killer. Most of these were hoaxes but three of them were believed to be authentic from Jack: the 'Dear Boss' letter, the 'Saucy Jacky' postcard and the 'From Hell' letter.
The 'Dear Boss' letter:
‘Dear Boss,
I keep on hearing the police have caught me but they wont fix me just yet. I
have laughed when they look so clever and talk about being on the right track.
That joke about Leather Apron gave me real fits. I am down on whores and I
shant quit ripping them till I do get buckled. Grand work the last job was. I
gave the lady no time to squeal. How can they catch me now. I love my work and
want to start again. You will soon hear of me with my funny little games. I
saved some of the proper red stuff in a ginger beer bottle over the last
job to write with but it went thick like glue and I cant use it. Red ink is fit
enough I hope ha. ha. The next job I do I shall clip the ladys ears off
and send to the police officers just for jolly wouldn't you. Keep this letter
back till I do a bit more work, then give it out straight. My knife's so nice
and sharp I want to get to work right away if I get a chance. Good Luck. Yours
truly, Jack the Ripper. Dont mind me giving the trade name
PS Wasnt good enough to post this before I got all the red ink off my hands curse it No luck yet. They say I'm a doctor now. ha ha.'
The 'SaucyJacky' postcard:
‘I was not codding dear old Boss when I gave you the tip, you'll hear about Saucy Jacky's work tomorrow double event this time number one squealed a bit couldn't finish straight off. ha not the time to get ears for police. thanks for keeping last letter back till I got to work again. Jack the Ripper’
Jack the Ripper film
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Although Jack may have written the letter and post card, there is no evidence he did and the police were convinced that they were the work of a journalist. A recently discovered document states that a journalist from the Central News agency, Tom Bulling, was the writer.
But there was one other letter that the genuine Jack the Ripper may have written. In mid-October, 1888, a small package was sent to George Lusk, who was head of a Vigilance Committee in Whitechapel. Inside was half a human kidney and a letter from someone claiming to be the killer, and that the grisly contents were part of the kidney he removed from the victim, Catherine Eddowes. It is impossible to know for sure if the Ripper really did send it. However, Eddowes did suffer from Bright's disease and the description of the kidney matched what a Bright's disease kidney would look like.
‘From hell.
Mr Lusk,
Sor, I send you half the Kidne I took from one woman and prasarved it for you
tother piece I fried and ate it was very nise. I may send you the bloody knif
that took it out if you only wate a whil longer
signed Catch me when you can Mishter Lusk’
Jack may have inspired Hannibal Lecter ('Silence of the Lambs' film) with this missive.
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Why weren't the police more successful in their hunt for the Ripper?
Keep in mind this was 1888 before forensic science including finger printing or DNA testing existed. The only way to prove someone committed a murder was to catch him or her in the act, or get the suspect to confess.
Another complication - not one, but two police forces carried out investigations. The Metropolitan Police, known as Scotland Yard, was responsible for crimes committed in all the boroughs of London except the City of London proper. The single square mile in the heart of London known as the City of London had its own police force.
But wait, there's more!
Arthur Conan Doyle, the author of the Sherlock Holmes books, was convinced that Jack the Ripper was really Jill the Ripper - a desperate midwife. I confess, the word, 'desperate,' is mine. Doyle actually used the words, 'berserk midwife'. In fact, his first Sherlock Holmes story, "A Study in Scarlet," was inspired by the Ripper's crimes.
A more famous Jack the Ripper suspect is Lewis Carroll, author of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." The argument for Carroll's guilt was that this beloved author left clues to his identity as the Ripper in anagrams found in several of his lesser-known stories. This absurd theory can be dismissed since anagrams can be created for almost anything.
Here is an example: the anagram for Princess Diana is 'end is a car spin'.
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You ain't heard nothin' yet.
Now I would like to present one of the most interesting tales I read about the identity of Jack the Ripper. In 1970, a new theory was published in
which the grandson of Queen Victoria,
Prince Albert Victor, Duke of Clarence and Avondale (nicknamed Eddy), was involved. Eddy was the eldest son of the future King Edwad VII.
It seems that Eddy met a beautiful, young, illiterate shop girl, Annie Elizabeth Crook. One year later, Annie had a daughter by Eddy named Alice Margaret. Eddy and Annie then married in a church wedding ceremony. Soon Queen Victoria learned of the affair and ordered her Prime Minister to break up the liaison. At the time there was growing unrest toward the British monarchy and now her simple-minded grandson, heir to the throne, had married a commoner and fathered a child. If word of that got out, the monarchy was in danger.
Pay attention now because the story gets even more convoluted. Lord Salisbury, the P.M., entrusted this delicate mission to Sir William Gull, the 72-year old Physician Extraordinary to Her Majesty. Gull and his henchmen kidnapped Annie and the Prince. Eddy was returned to the court and Sir William performed an operation on Annie that left her insane. The baby was given to a friend of Annie's named Mary Jane Kelly. Is that name familiar?
Subsequently, Mary told the royal secret to a number of her Whitechapel prostitute friends - Nichols, Chapman and Stride. They devised a blackmail scheme which prompted Sir Willam and his henchmen to commit the Jack the Ripper murders. Voila, the witnesses were eliminated.
Could this be a true story or a fairy tale?
© Copyright BJ Rakow 2011. All rights reserved. Author, "Much of What You Know about Job Search Just Ain't So"
Sources: Evans, Stewart P. and Keith Skinner. “The Ultimate Jack the Ripper Source book.” Robinson, 2001.
Begg, Paul. “Jack the Ripper: The Facts.” Robson Books, 2004.
Begg, Pau, Martin Fido and Keith Skinnder. “The Jack the Ripper A-Z.” Headline, 1996. Rev. 2007.
with Famous Dead People
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Now that I have substantial supernatural experience in interviewing the undead - those folks who just won't lie down and die and stay there - I have graduated to the level of talking with two people at the same time.
More Supernatural Interviews
- Interview with Genghis Khan
I know what you are thinking. Genghis died in the year 1227. That's almost 800 years ago. True. But there have been many remarkable new developments in cryogenic research . . . - Interview with Napoleon Bonaparte
Good news! I have invented a praiseworthy process for interviewing famous people who are no longer around -- to defend themselves -- or sue for libel. - Interview with Dracula
You already know all about my superior, supernatural method of interviewing if you read my previous interviews.
This film, 'From Hell,' depicts a different version of Jack the Ripper but I included it for all the Johnny Depp fans.
Now You Decide.
Who do you think was Jack the Ripper?
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Great job - again. I voted Sir William, why don't you interview him and finally put this case to rest.
Oh, I love that adjective, Feline Prophet. "Ripping!" That's great. Much of the paperwork from the case was lost during World War II during the blitz of London. But some day the truth may surface. Thank you for the 'great job as always.' You're too kind. Also truthful. :)
Thank you, rafken, delighted you enjoyed this. I did try to interview Sir William Gull but he became a raving lunatic after the Ripper episode. Sort of what you might call 51 cards short of a full deck.
That was really good. What about Walter Sickert as a suspect?
There was a book written about him.
I too am fascinated by this bit of History, not quite sure why.. Morbid curiosity? Probably.
I did hear that Larry King had visited Mary just before she was slain!! Out of the numerous Prostitutes she was his fav!
It's no wonder I like visiting your pages, I always feel smarter when I am done!!
Who's next? Hmmm, The Boston Strangler? I've heard there were similarities between the 2..
Thanks so much for continuing your work!! I love reading it!
Thanks for stopping by, christopher, and appreciating my historical research. Yes, I did read about Walter Sickert and he was one of several other very interesting suspects. There is much more to relate about "Jack," so I may write another chapter as I learn more. Will keep you posted. :)
Someone very witty, susie, - no, it wasn't you or me, sorry - once wrote: "If I didn't have bad luck, I wouldn't have any luck at all." That about sums up 2010 for you, so I guarantee 2011 will be better. In fact, GREAT! I have spoken!
I'm still chuckling about your in-house (as opposed to outhouse) mode of dress when your heater went on vacation. You must move south! Although in Florida we had some 40 degree weather a few mornings. But fortunately that is not the norm.
Nice one! I thought Patricia Cornwell did the definitve book on JTR? I read it some years ago, but don't remember who she said was the killer.
Yes drbj! Awesome! This, again, was a lot of work and very entertaining! Write on!
This was a great interview,one of your best.I am prone to believe that it must have been a DR.He knew to remove the kidney frome the front and he knew kidney pie was good to eat,YUCK You still need to interview Larry,oh wait! He marries 'em,He don't kill 'em,Enjoyed immensely.
Cheers
Considering the possibility that Jack the Ripper did not kill before August ’88, it could have been revenge he decided to take for some reason before he dies (in November 1888). The fact that he was so arrogant to challenge the police openly, says to me he had nothing to loose - he knew he was dying, or going to commit suicide before the end of ‘88. But oh, what do I know? Just speculating.
That anagram of Princess Diana! Isn’t that spooky? I’ve got to anagrammatize my name a.s.a.p. Perhaps I can save myself in time out of Death’s merciless claws :) Sir William and his henchmen? Mmmm.... now why do I think this is a bit too thick for a dollar?
Once again, drbj, you have achieved 110% for a HP-hub. You put a lot of work and time into this... and to think you did it all just for us. You are better than perfect. Thanks for the videos. I’ve downloaded it – will watch them a.s.a.p. BTW – I do think your series of ‘interviews’ could be sold as an e-book at Amazon.com. It is a brilliant idea and extremely well-written.
We had a relevant case in SA - relevant in the sense that the guilty person committed suicide before he could admit kidnapping and killing (or selling) many young girls – whose bodies are still godknowswhere. I might as well introduce him to you. But not unearth. I just don’t have your admirable courage.
Drbj, in anticipation I’m looking forward to your next interview with some formidable corps.
Dear drbj, well done! I always look forward to your interviews with the long deceased. I got a kick out of the lineup of suspect photos as one looked like Captain Kangaroo and one like John Cleese! And, I couldn't help but notice that the photo of Lewis Carroll could pass for a "beserk midwife". It's all conjecture! Great read that was interesting and suffused with your stellar humor;"Larry King" would not be pleased!
susie - I have discovered if one (meaning me) tries to post too many comments on too many hubs one after the other, one (me, again) is going to make a helluva mistake. The comment I posted above in answer to your comment belongs on your recent hub and not here.
Here is the comment I wanted to make in answer to yours:
I am delighted that you were fascinated by the Ripper - most of us are. Probably because his identity is unknown.
Larry visited Mary? Now that's a newsflash.
Thank you for your most gracious remarks about feeling smarter after visiting. You ARE smarter, susie.
Regarding my next victim, I mean subject, I haven't a clue yet. But I'll think of somethin. :)
I've watched a number of documentaries on Jack The Ripper and thought they had covered all the likely suspects, but the conspiracy theory about the royal family eliminating women who had knowledge of the illegitimate offspring is new to me.
Good stuff!
CP
I enjoyed this read... nicely done!!!!
A whole industry would die if the identity of Jack the Ripper was discovered - far more interesting to keep speculating and trying to dig out more information. Interesting, well researched hub.
Super read! This is the first of your supernatural interviews I've read, so I'm definitely heading for the others.
I read Patricia Cornwell's book a few years ago and was fascinated with not only her research and speculations, but also with Sickert, whom I knew as an Impressionist painter. She makes a convincing case to me, although not necessarily to others. The Guardian blasted her (as only the British can do) in a 2001 article here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/2001/dec/08
Loved the Larry King bit!
Hi, Lela. Yes, the author, Patricia Cornwall, did write a non-fiction book about Jack in which she claimed the British painter, Walter Sickert, was the Ripper.
She may have got the idea for her book from reading a previous book about Jack by the author, Jean Overton Fuller.
But Ripper "experts" were very skeptical of the claims by both authors citing the lack of real evidence.
Thank you, micky, for the 'awesome and entertaining' comment. Yes, by all means, I shall write on as long as I can find intriguing infamous folks to interview and dissect(figure of speech only).
Thank you, Ruby, for enjoying this interview and citing it as one of my best. I, too. believe the Ripper had more than a frivolous knowledge of medicine to perform his various surgeries. As to eating genuine kidney pie, don't believe I could 'stomach' that.
Can't interview Larry yet - he's still kickin.
There was no lack of theories speculating on Jack's motives and your theory, Martie, is as good as any other. He may have been less than cautious if he knew he was headed for an early demise.
That Princess Diana anagram is rather spooky. Here is one for you. 'Martie anagram' becomes 'Margarita name'. That's the best I could do. It was impossible when I tried to use your last name, too.
From what I have learned from my research, Sir William and his henchmen may have done the dirty deed. But I doubt we will ever know more than we know now. Unless some new hidden evidence surfaces.
Wow, a grade of 110% for a HP-hub and a comment of 'better than perfect'? Thank you, thank you. You make it all worthwhile.
I know the videos do take some time to view but Ripperologists may want to watch them.
We great thinkers do think alike. I have been toying with the idea of combining my "Interviews" into a eBook. I'll just mention to Amazon that a reader says ... " It is a brilliant idea and extremely well-written."
Do introduce me to the case you mentioned in SA. One never knows which departed sadist will become the next subject. Unearthing is not required.
Your visits and cogent complimentary comments are always appreciated, m'dear.
Hi, Amy, I'm very pleased that you look forward to my 'stellar humor' interviews with decadent decedents.
You're too funny with your comparison of the suspects' photos to Captain Kangaroo and John Cleese. You are precisely spot on.
And re Lewis Carroll - he was a very creative writer but in the photo displayed, he does resemble a Louisa more than a Louis.
Larry King BTW is someone I once met back in the day when he was a local newscaster.
Delighted to have you visit, Christopher. As a result of my research, I learned that Jack the Ripper and his execrable exploits spawned literally hundreds of books, plays and films.
The conspiracy theory concerning the royal family was never widely circulated.
Thank you for the 'Good stuff' comment - it is much appreciated.
Thank you, for the 'nicely done,' Chris. Last night while watching part of a TV event from South Africa, the 'Strong Man Competition,' I thought of you. One of the contestants, built like the Hulk, was Brian Shaw. You resemble each other a bit. Do you know of him? Just wonderin.
CM - you are so on the mark. Almost as many books and movies have been spawned by the Jack the Ripper murders as those that examine whether Lee Oswald was really the assassin of Jack Kennedy.
Excellent writers never seem to stop speculating on such mysteries. Thank you for visit and the 'interesting, well researched hub' comment.
Welcome, Sally, to this supernatural interview. Happy to have you aboard. Thanks for the 'Super read' comment. If you enjoy reading interviews with the undead, be sure to read the others: Genghis Khan, Napoleon Bonaparte, Cleopatra, Dracula - Vlad the Impaler, and Bonnie and Clyde.
It's true as you stated that Cornwall in her book made some interesting speculations about Sickert as the Ripper. But researchers do not concur with her conclusions. Thanks for the link to the Guardian article.
Delighted you enjoyed the reference to Larry.
I am really surprised that Scotland Yard did not practice its long tradition in this case. Namely framing someone, anyone, in order to close the case. Perhaps it had become too public. :-))
And as to insane theories, one case in point:
.
The groom who knew (Mary Jane) Kelly who saw her return home at two in the morning with some individual. How exactly did he manage to see all the things he described, let alone remember them? I mean the De Greeks have been known to palter with the truth, but this guy has left us so far behind, we've caught up with him, if you know what I mean :-))))
Another theory, dimi, since you reminded me, is that perhaps Scotland Yard did close the case but kept the details private. Perhaps a police official was 'intimately' involved.
As for the groom's description, take a look at the suspects pictured (just a few of hundreds.) Most sport a full mustache of one sort or another. And so do the senior police officials. ???
Thanks for dropping by - it's always a treat to have you visit.
I think Jack the Ripper was one of their own, who's own, a doctor or higher up, in the ranks of the well to do. I feel they figured it out and dealt with him in a very hushed and quite manner. A killer of sorts doesn't just stop at will...
Well written, again you have me in awe and wanting more. These are thrilling and come to an end to quickly although you do add great value in content. I love you interviews with the famous or infamous dead. Hmmmm who will be next... :) Good grief the research you must do, this is impressive to say the least and much appreciated.
Katie
Thank you, katie, for taking the time and effort to read my latest Interview and provide your cogent comments. I always say, cogent are the best kind.
Mysteries like Jack the Ripper will always fascinate us because as humans, we do not like loose ends. Tell us they all lived happily ever after, or none of them lived happily after, but tell us!
Thank you for the sublime commentary. I haven't a clue who will be the next interviewee but can guarantee I'll think of someone. Appreciate your appreciation of my interviews and research. :)
Utterly brilliant as always drbj. Flowing narrative - kept me hooked from start to finish. Being a Brit I've grown up hearing/reading/seeing the Jack the Ripper musings over the years.
I believe there's a lot more research and opining about who he/she was then most folks would believe. I doubt we'll ever find out - which is what drags it on and on.
I'm thinking that's the appeal - the 'whodunnit'. Of course once we know who dun what it will eventually recede and become another aspect of our (black) history.
I always thought it was someone with a royal connection.
And Jack looked like a cake-walk once the Moors Murderers tipped up in the 60's. That was even nastier. Though we know exactly who did that one, our country will never forget nor let the events surrounding the murders die.
Superb ... 100% non-superfluous and absolutely supremely interesting hub - bravo :)
What a marvelous critique, Andria, feel free to comment on my hubs any time. Any time. I do appreciate your stopping by - how have you been, m'luv - and welcome your clever and positive, of course, comments.
As you pointed out, there was no lack of material to research on Jack's identity - almost every mortal it seems has an opinion. We do not like uncertainty.
The royal connection and/or medical aspect seem to hold the most validity but then again, who knows. Only God. And she ain't talkin. :)
Thanks for the supremely complimentary adjectives. "100% non-superfluous"? Love it!
I loved your line about Larry King being there - God that's hilarious!
What a fascinating mess that all is. I'm not partial to violent crimes as they tend to make me dizzy when I think about them but you covered all the bases.
You'd think that maybe one of these days, we'd get some answers to the great mysteries of life, eh? Like who killed JFK and what it was all about - and who Jack the Ripper really was.....I almost think I'd go along with the henchmen theory. Nothing like a little blackmail to piss people off and have them come after you!
I also love that the reason he's so famous is because everyone started to read! I guess I never really thought about that and it's been going downhill ever since. We've probably adopted more theories than truth just through the printed word!
Fascinating and entertaining as heck as always - please send this to Larry King and ask if he knows who did it?
Gosh, drbj, you are definitely popular. Everybody in Egnland thinks it was one of the Royal Family and being that it will never be revealed. Surely DNA nowadays would unravel the mystery, wouldn't it?
Doc your research stills are awesome. I must say though, do not give up on a visit from Jack's spirit. He may feel slighted at being left out of this popular article. I predict he'll send you a sign as to how to contact him for an exclusive. If he ever does, do ask him if he thinks Bobby Darren did a fair rendition of Mac the Knife. Oh I also must send you a very cool, very strange anagram list I know you will enjoy. Cheers!
Hi, Audrey. You loved my Larry King line? I hope he did, too. Yes, the Ripper case has been a fascinating mess - a word has even been developed for those who fancy themselves Ripper historians - Ripperologists.
In the poll, Gull and his henchmen are far ahead of other potential suspects but the 'only God knows' category is still the largest, and will probably remain so.
Jack would never have reaped all this tremendous publicity without the help of the press, and as you pointed out, the public who discovered how to read. And now with the Internet so readily available, serial murderers and their ilk can expect almost instant celebrity.
Thank you for the 'fascinating and entertaining as heck as always' - it's my pleasure.
Hi, hello. I'm not surprised that many of the British may favor the royal link in Jack's murderous ways. Adds a bit of spice to the - you'll forgive this allusion - 'kidney pie,' doesn't it?
DNA would have been a tremendous asset but any evidence as well as potential suspects are completely degraded (in the real sense of the word) by now. Thanks for the visit, m'dear.
Thank you, Hillary, for admiring my awesome research skills. If Jack the Ripper ever does contact me, I'll do my best to find out more details to 'hub' about. Of course I won't feel the least bit slighted if he doesn't show up.
If he does, I would insist on an exclusive interview. Let Larry find his own subjects. With regard to Bobby Darren's rendition of "Mac the Knife.' it's one of my all-time favorites.
I look forward to the very cool, very strange anagrams in your possession. Thank you. Cheers backatcha.
..well here comes your Number One fan and you know that I would love this subject ...... in fact I just may move in and live here for awhile - what are the rental fees?
I absolutely love your INTERVIEW series and this one is my personal favorite and worthy for induction into any world class library.
And you have done it again - I am so proud of you - this is so clever, ingenious. inventive and well-researched -
I am your willing student because you always teach me and please me and move me to another level - and I am so very grateful for what you have done here. Bravo and then bravo again!!!!!!!
There is something about serial killers that the public find interesting like Bundy or the Yorkshire Ripper, did you know serial killers get loads of letters from adoring females, tis a weird world we live in.
As for Jack the Ripper, he was one nasty piece of work, great hub as always my friend !
Very, very interesting is the fact that Doyle wrote about Jill the Ripper in his "A Study in Scarlet." I look forward to re-reading it. Most hilarious is the idea that Lewis Carroll whould have been a suspect. They really were grasping at straws.
Another fascinating, well researched, well written hub!
Welcome, welcome, number one fan and and number one epigram writer, Mr. Epigramman. There is no rental fee for you, kind sir, stay as long as you desire.
Your sublime and precious words are music to my ears - classical music, of course. Your visits and commendatory remarks feed my soul. Thank you, Colin, I appreciate you and your visits. Delighted you enjoyed this 'ripping' hub.
That is strange, isn't it, Art, that serial killers like Bundy, et al received proposals from misguided women. One has to feel pity for the women who had so little else in their lives.
Thank you for the very gracious comments and your visit.
Hi, mysterylady. you are so right. It does seem like the police at that time were looking for suspects in all the 'wrong places.'
Some of their choices as potential suspects were downright ludicrous. Lewis Carroll, for example. He should have sued. On the other hand, maybe he enjoyed the PR.
what is your favorite type of classical music my friend - I love it - and when I come here I always hear J.S. Bach as performed by Glenn Gould on piano - specifically - The Goldberg Variations!!!!!!
I don't know that the mutilations are what makes the mystery so intriguing. After all one can find the same kind of atrocities committed on soldiers after the Battle of Little Bighorn or on the indians after the Battle of Sand Creek. It's the sheer terror that makes the difference. It's one thing to see your enemy charging at you from a distance and quite another for a fiend to spring on a helpless victim out of the dark.
Hi, Colin. Thanks for asking. I love most music, but my all-time classical favorites are: Beethoven's 7th Symphony.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=s1qAWcd4rr0
Bach's double violin concerto. http://youtube.com/watch?v=uXRlnO3K3hk
Rimsky-Korsakov. Scheherazade http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMKTaLaYBB8
Beethoven: Symphony No. 9 (contains “Ode to Joy”)
Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 1 and No. 4
Beethoven: Apassionata.
Guess I must be a Beethoven groupie. :)
Hi, adidaspat, thanks for visiting. You are so right. It's no wonder the London East End citizenry were so terrified of Jack the Ripper. No one knew precisely when or where he would pop up with his handy dandy slicing tools and take some poor "working girl's" life.
Yes, he was a fiend who still inspires terror.
Wow what a fascinating hub. I have always found the Jack the Ripper case to be frightening and very creepy. This is definitely a cold case that may never be cracked. You did a superb job in keeping me at the edge of my seat with the theories, although nothing would surprise me. Great job as always. You have a fascinating mind lady. Peace.
Thank you, Valerie, for visiting and noting my 'fascinating hub and fascinating mind.' Jack was a very creepy, scary serial killer and you are right - we may never know who he really was. Happy to have kept you on the edge of your seat. Take a look at my other Interviews with Undead Celebrities and let me know what you think. :)
I will and Im sure they will be fascinating :))
Wow you must of really worked hard on this one. I love the pictures.You just keep topping your self! I just always wonder were he or she went to from London.
Thank you for stopping by, BJ, I love to see your sweet face in your profile. And thanks for the kind comments.
Where did Jack go from London? My best guess - the U.S. Congress! :)
You are so funny!
Thank you, my dear BJ namesake, all contributions, I mean, comments, are welcomed.
You are truly a marvelous explicit interviewer, you make Larry King look like chopped liver, no pun to suit the write:0) I voted against the Royal family, there are to many cases in history where crimes were fitting and hidden because of the crown and bloodlines.
Just like Princess Diana, I believe she was done in by the Royal henchmen. Excellent write as always, now may I go back to finish my kidney pie, licking my fingers with glee, love the red stuff, Jack The Saddlerider...he he he
Whoa, Ken, you are beginning to sound like Hannibal Lecter, bless his black heart.
Thank you for the kind comments. I do promise not to mention the 'chopped liver' analogy to Larry.
Where royalty is involved, it is true we do not always know the whole truth and in most cases probably never will.
Kidney pie, eh? One of the dishes I never had an affinity for - that and tripe as well. In the best "Ripper" mode, I'll have steak, medium rare.
Thank you, Supers49, "superfine" is a superfine adjective. I appreciate it. And you.
That was such a great read drbj...and yes, there's something about Jack the Ripper that seems to connect with us on a deep, dark psychological level..else why would the story continue to facinate, as you note?
When I think Ripper I think classic London fog, dark alleys and vulnerable women lurking on street corners - I guess everyone does. It's the whole imagery thing that hangs in the mind. Very Sherlock Holmesy and indeed, I was very interested to read about Conan Doyles's take on the Ripper, which I hadn't heard before. A mad midwife eh...? Well, that seems as credible as the Royal conspiracy theory. There's just not enough evidence for that one.
Expertly done, as usual.
Welcome, Jane. Delighted to see you here and that you found this a 'great read.' There is no question that we are fascinated by Jack both from a psychological standpoint as well as an enduring mystery that has never been solved.
That's excellent imagery you portray: dark alleys, fog, vulnerable street-walkers - the stuff that Ripper films are made of.
Maybe Sherlock knew more than he was telling; a female Ripper would be headline-worthy, wouldn't it?
Thanks for the insightful comments, as always, and the 'expertly done." Appreciate it.
Wow drbj. Lots of responses here. Ya hooked me and I've done a lot of research on the topic. I posted this on a different hub but have you ever seen the film "Time After Time"? JTR was brought forward in time to San Francisco in the 1970's. I wonder if the producer(s) knew (as a few million Eastwood fans do) that they were dropping the ripper into Dirty Harry's back yard? He'd have been looking down the barrel of a 44 and hearing "You're shit otta luck". Oh, and the red sky over London? It actually did exist but there wasn't anything supernatural about it. It resulted from the explosion of Krokatoa which happened in 1883 and caused night time phenomena over Europeon capitals for some seven years. Kind of interesting that the event occurred (August 27, 1883) almost 5 years to the day before Polly Nichol's murder (August 31, 1888). Everyone's enjoying this so just thought I'd throw that in there. Great hub.
It's my pleasure to hook you, adidaspat, especially since you are a fellow Ripper researcher.
That's an interesting point you make. If good ole Clint had discovered the Ripper, he might have fired his 44 first and asked questions later.
I read about the eruption of he Krakatoa volcano but didn't know the date so closely paralleled a Ripper murder five years later. Ah, the things one learns from fellow hubbers on Hubpages. Thank you and thanks for enjoying this hub.
drbj
I did a little research about you in hub pages. That's an impressive resume you have. For one thing you point out that a journalist could have published one (or more) of the letters. I seldom hear any other author write about that but I tend to believe it. To me the saddest murder was Eddowes. The City of London Police had a policy at that time of following women who were released from custody after dark. For some reason it wasn't done with her or they may have got him or at least saved Eddowe's life and maybe Kelly's too. What a shame. I could be wrong but based on your writings it sounds like among the books you've read you may have read both of Donald Rumblow's books and Robin O'dell's latest one (Ripperology). They seem to add a much needed element of common sense to the mystery.
How nice to meet a fellow Ripper researcher, adidaspat. Thank you for your literate comments.
Yes, a journalist could have easily substituted himself or herself (?) as the author of some of Jack's missives. There were just too many letters for one Ripper to write.
And the local constabulary were remiss to release women from jail after nightfall at that time. I guess it saved them the cost of a supper - why be concerned about the possible loss of a life?
Please read my other "supernatural" Interviews and let me know your thoughts.
I think the Ripper murders are intriguing partly because they occurred just before, during and after so many historical events. Of course the horrific nature of the crimes and that he was not caught was one thing but the same can be said of a number of serial killers. The murders happened just 12 years after the Battle of Little Big Horn, 9 years after the Zulu War, 7 years after the Gunfight at OK Corrall and of course 5 years after the explosion of Krakatoa. They happened 10 years before the Tsavo Lions incident and I think 10 years before the Spanish/American War. At the time of the murders Chief Sitting Bull, Chief Joseph, Geronimo, Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson, Cole Younger and Frank James were still alive as was a gentelman named Winston Churchill (who was attending boarding school in London at the time) and a future president named Teddy Roosevelt who was governor of New York. It was the London of hansom cabs, pea soup fogs, pocket pistols and sword canes as well as that of George Bernard Shaw who wrote Pigmelian (later made famous on stage by Julie Andrews and on film by Audrey Hepburn) and Sir Arthur Conon Doyle who's Sherlock Holms series mostly took place in London cirica 1880's. It happened just a year before the American Exhibition (Buffalow Bill's Wild West Show) performed in London. 3 of the "cowboys" of the show were actually detained as suspects until they were able to show good alibies of their whereabouts at the time of the murders (they had remained in London, no doubt to enjoy the "entertainment" available in Whitechapel). Even "indians" of the show were suspected until William Cody acknowleged they had all returned with him to the states the year before.
Hello, Adidaspat. Why don't you write a hub or two about some of the events you mentioned in your comment? You appear to have a rather eclectic knowledge of a number of well-known historical events.
Re Jack the Ripper, he is still a celebrity because we writers won't let him die. You are right; he wasn't the only serial killer who ever existed. But he was a fearsome monster who committed loathsome atrocities upon his victims; who appeared to have the expertise of a surgeon; and who was never CAUGHT. All of those combined to make him "the killer who wouldn't die."
Hah, I just realized I put the American Exhibition a year AFTER the murders. Oh well. I thought about publishing some hubs drbj. If I ever get over my laziness and put some material together I will. It's important to make sure one gets the right sources. There are so many theories on the ripper one really has to do their homework on him or any other subject. Thanks again.
rafkin
The "Royal Conspiricy" theory is intriguing as emphasized by Stephen Knight and some other authors and of course the film "From Hell" but it really doesn't pan out. No wedding certificate has ever surfaced indicating that a marriage took place between Prince Eddie (The Duke of Clarence) and Annie Crook. Also no baptismal certifacate has ever surfaced indicating that Annie Crook was a Catholic. Recent documents in fact suggest that she attended Protastant services in Spitalfields. There is a Royal statute still in effect today which states that an heir to the throne who's under the age of 25 who marries a commoner could have the marriage annuled by Royal decree. Prince Eddie was 24 at the time of the Ripper murders. Why would Queen Victoria or anyone in the Royal hierocracy send someone to butcher half a dozen people when the whole thing could be resolved by just signing a document? Sir Willian Gull was 72 at the time and had already suffered one stroke. He died in 1890 after having two more yet Stephen Knight has him running around Whitechapel like he was Spiderman or something. Knight theorizes that Gull had co-conspirators who drove him to the locations in hansom cabs but those cabs weren't common in Whitechapel for obvious reasons. If they had taken Gull to all those murder scenes one would think the cab would have been noticed at least once yet there is no record of that. I don't have a named suspect but I think the Ripper may have been a local who had lived there years before and recently moved back. I also don't think he just "stopped" after the Kelly murder. The police and vigilance committee were looking for him but there was also another group who had a vested interest in getting rid of the Ripper and that would be the gangs of pimps (bullyboys as they were known then). The Ripper sure wasn't doing their revenue any good then by murdering prostitutes and scaring hundereds more off the streets. Could they have been laying for him and got luckey some night after the Kelly murder? Who would know better than a pimp where a prostitute took her client? Maybe it's just wishful thinking on my part but I'd like to think they got him and disposed of the body in one of the many slaughterhouses that existed at that time.
Forgive my delay in responding, adidaspat, I was completing my "Interview with Bruce Lee." I should label your comment above as Part Two of my hub since you present so much additional information about the Ripper.
I think the Royal Conspiracy theory will remain popular, true or not, for a long time simply because it involves royalty.
And I am intrigued by your theory that a struggling pimp worried about future livelihood may have been the cause of the Ripper's demise. Interesting conjecture but then we'll never really know the truth, will we?
Thanks for your time and efforts.
Very very nice..
I love your "interview with" concept
I saw you left a comment on one of Nellieannas poems, and I decided to pay you a visit.
This did not disappoint :D
Great job!
How nice to meet you, BenW. I love your loving my "interview" concept. I'm kinda fond of it, too. Thank you for finding me and for not being disappointed.
When you have time, please check out the other 11 supernatural interviews - would love to read your reactions.
At first I was startled at realizing Jackie Boy (or Jacquie Girl) had sliced and diced so FEW victims in relation to his notoriety--pantywaist! But then your explanation that his adventures coincided with the advent of common newsprint made it understandable.
Now, I'm thinking the Green River Killer (of Washington State, USA) might have been a reincarnation of ole Rip. No blade work, but strangled 'em the same way.
Hey, you never know.
Voted Up, yada yada yada....
Yes, Ghost, it was the media that made the Ripper even more monstrous and memorable. Much like the media today I would say.
The Green River Killer might have been a Ripper copycat as you suggest. Only the Shadow know ...
Thanks for the comments and the up.
The identity of Jack the Ripper will be solved in the future. James t Kirk of the star ship enterprise shall reveal his true nature while defending a crewman, Scotty, charged with murder. Untill then his story will continue.
Thank you, ruffridyer, for the newsflash. I shall stay alert for updates on this heinous murderer. And thanks for stopping by.
What a ripping interview!I actually lived in Whitechapel for several years in my 20s, and let me tell you, it can get pretty scary walking back to my lodgings at night. It was right in the midst of Ripper country and pretty darn atmospheric on the foggy nights. Hmm...I think it's someone with a medical background but not a midwife (even seen one of them cutting people up? Nah!), someone high in the echelons of society, and therefore above the law, or at least protected from the law. Carroll may have beeen a paedophile, but I don't see him cutting people up. The letters were shiver-inducing. This is an awesome hub on a fascinating subject. Voted way up.
What a pleasure to meet you, visionandfocus. So you found my 'Jack the Ripper' hub ripping. What a delicious compliment. Can't say that I envy your walking through the dark streets of Whitechapel at night. Too creepy for me. Thank you for your visit and your kind comments as well as the up rating. Do take a look at my other 12 Interviews with Undead Celebrities.
I intended to go on London Walks' JTR walk in 2003, only because the scheduled guide that night was former London police detective Donald (something), touted to be THE most expert of Ripper experts. I chickened out at the last minute, and am now rather glad I didn't go since new theories (and new suspects) have come to light.
My own personal theory is the Ripper was someone high born, but not a Royal. Someone with medical knowledge but not a doctor. Perhaps a titled second son who, supposedly out of curiosity, was allowed to be present at autopsies? Someone with the means to take up residence on the Continent or in America after six (or thirteen) murders without appearing to be fleeing.
If in fact the Ripper was only 5'7", killing prostitutes would've been a way to overcome the stigma of being short and/or not being the heir to the family fortune. His victims were old as well as young and looked nothing alike and there's no evidence of rape or sexual intercourse, so I'm guessing he was impotent too.
As we've unfortunately seen too many times here in the U.S., serial killers don't stop unless they're caught or killed. Therefore, I think the Ripper simply took up his gruesome "hobby" in another country and was never caught there either. Wish I could remember where in the U.S. a series of old unsolved murders with the Ripper's M.O. came to light a few years ago.
Great hub! Love the interview format you employ so well! ;D
Hi, Jama Genee, thanks for taking the time not only to visit but to give me an entirely plausible background for another type of Ripper suspect. You are spot on about serial killers - they don't just STOP unless killed or apprehended. This makes the Ripper mystery even more mysterious. Where did Jack go after London and how many more murders was he responsible for? Perhaps we will learn the truth one day.
Thanks for loving my interview format. If you have time please read the other 12 or 14 interviews (I've lost count) and give me your thoughtful feedback.
I read the Mother Goose interview and intend to read the rest as time permits! Hope you won't mind if I borrow your method to "interview" a few long-dead ancestors. ;D
Interview away, Jama, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
If you would care to link to any of my Interviews with Famous Dead Celebrities in any of your future 'interviews,' just be my guest. And I will be happy to return the favor.
Will do. Thanks!
Amazing! What a vivid imagination you have! I think you might be the King Of Questions! I had no idea you created so many interviews! I love it and appreciate the humor! :)
You are my Sunshine, my only Sunshine! I couldn't wait for the opportunity to say that, my dear. 'Vivid imagination,' eh? Well that's a lot more positive than the last diagnosis I got - I think it was Multiple Personality Disorder.
Anyway, I'm delighted you appreciate my humor and it would be my pleasure to have you visit the other 19 or 20 or so and let me know your thoughts. :)
Doc BJ,
Excellent! Five stars and both my thumbs up!
Now, I have to ask, which is your preferred prime suspect?
femme
Thank you, Angelia, for taking the time to visit Jack, and for the 5 stars and double thumbs up.
Who do I believe was the prime suspect? There is no doubt in my mind whatsoever.
The guilty man was . . . Rodney Dangerfield!
How do I know? Because I died laughing every time I saw him perform! Heh, heh.
Oh my goodness, Doc ....
You slay me, lol!!!
So did Mr. Dangerfield! Poor guy! LOL!
femme
A mustache, you say? Never trust a man with a mustache they always have something to hide. ;3
Very interesting and amusing hub. I appreciate how much time it must take you to research and write these hubs, but you always do such an excellent job.
Keep up the brilliant work.
Didn't know you were also a Dangerfield fan, Femme. You might like these zingy one-liners in "Tribute to Rodney Dangerfield - Prince of the One Liners." He was a funnee, funnee man.
Thank you, VendettaVixen for your sublime comments. You and they are much appreciated. 'Brilliant work,' eh? I like the way you think. Liked your moustache crack, too.
Okay, here's my take, but please keep in mind...I'm usually wrong!
1. The name alone, "Jack The Ripper" is one that is not only unforgettable, but one that ignites a passion and interest in the case. People unwittinlgy contrive beliefs that they can't substantiate...there is more supposition than facts.
2. His victims were prostitutes because of course he portrayed himself as someone who was freaky-deaky. He was able to strangle the women successfully because they were in a submissive position to freak out his male appendage to a state of delirium.
3. He was disturbed because of sexual trauma by a female, namely his mother, who used him to accomodate her sexual needs, opposed to his father who had run off with a prostitute. Or, it because his father was promiscuous, and he therefore hated his father, because his mother cried always, and he loved her, and didn't get enough porridge.
...did they have porridge back then?
4. The letters are the work of a copycat. Jack didn't have time to write. He was too busy strangling broads, and getting away with it...he had to move on to his next victim.
5. Jack absolutely had anatomical knowledge because he was a doctor. He was capable of managing himself in his practice so that no one would even consider questioning him.
Not only was he skillful with the scalpel, he was skilled at being aloof. He was emotionally detached to the murders. Detachment allowed him to develop himself as someone who was believable...the police interviewed him many times...only they didn't know it.
6. While Jack received sexual gratification from the murders he committed, he was exceptionally adept at busting a nut once he got home. (this entire comment could know possibly be deleted by moderators.
Interesting suppositions you propose, imatellmuva, some of them could be spot on (British-speak for absolutely correct).
1. The London police admitted that they felt some journalist looking for a scoop coined the gory Jack the Ripper label.
2. Since no sign of intercourse nor evidence of masturbation was ever detected, it appeared that the act of murder provided his (?) satisfaction.
3. The porridge theory (often called gruel then) has some merit. Can't say the same for the food though.
4. Journaslists may also have been responsible for the letters. Only the shadow know.
5. I agree that he had medical, even surgical knowledge because of the dexterous incisions on/in his victims.
6. No comment, m'luv.
Thank you for your cogent remarks. Fokk U (See my hub "Fokk University") would be pleased to offer you an appointment to their Department of Criminal Justice.
Maybe you should take a look at the clues Walter Sickert secreted within his paintings re Jack the Ripper and the Masonic/Royal Conspiracy.
Please follow the link
http://www.unexplained-mysteries.com/forum/index.p
Or look up Jack the Ripper: Walter Sickert and the Art of Murder on the UM.com conspiracy website.
And as for the letters the Ripper sent? :-
The names Walter Sickert and Jack the Ripper are made up by 13 letters.
Both names can be split into 4 decibels / sounds - ie
WAL - TER - SIC - KERT ........... JACK - THE - RIP - PER
In both names there are exactly the same vowels positioned in exactly the same order.
These being A E I E
w A l t E r s I c k E r t
j A c k t h E r I p p E r
The first letter of the victims surnames are?
S tride C hapman K elly E ddowes T abram = SCKET
Mary Ann Nichols = MAN
RIP - Stephen Knight
Regards
Jackdaw UK :-)
Feline Prophet Level 5 Commenter 16 months ago
What a ripping story! Amazing that he continues to elude detection more than a century later - but you've done a great job as always, drbj!