A lost Bram Stoker story, “Gibbet Hill,” resurfaces after 134 years, revealing new insights into the renowned author’s early work.
At a Glance
- Amateur historian Brian Cleary discovered the unpublished Bram Stoker story “Gibbet Hill” in Dublin’s National Library
- The story, written in 1890, predates Stoker’s famous novel “Dracula” and explores themes of good versus evil
- Set in Surrey, UK, “Gibbet Hill” tells the tale of three outlaws tried and hanged for murder
- Proceeds from the story’s publication will benefit the Charlotte Stoker Fund, supporting the deaf community
Lost Literary Treasure Unearthed
In a remarkable discovery, an amateur historian has unearthed a long-lost short story by Bram Stoker, the celebrated author of “Dracula.” Brian Cleary stumbled upon the manuscript of “Gibbet Hill” while researching Stoker’s works at the National Library of Ireland in Dublin. The story, penned 134 years ago, had been hidden from public view since its original publication in 1890.
Cleary’s discovery has sent ripples through the literary world, offering a rare glimpse into Stoker’s early writing and thematic development. The story, set in the village of Surrey, explores the eternal struggle between good and evil, a theme that would later become central to Stoker’s most famous work, “Dracula.”
Dracula author Bram Stoker's lost story Gibbet Hill unearthed after 134 years — An amateur historian has discovered it, published just 7 years before Dracula in a Dublin newspaper in 1890 and undocumented ever since https://t.co/9wVnRWSXUY
— Alfons López Tena 🦇 (@alfonslopeztena) October 19, 2024
A Stepping Stone to “Dracula”
Paul Murray, Stoker’s biographer, has hailed “Gibbet Hill” as a significant milestone in the author’s literary journey. The story, which revolves around three outlaws tried and hanged for murder, showcases Stoker’s early exploration of dark themes and supernatural elements that would later become hallmarks of his writing style. “I read the words ‘Gibbet Hill’ and I knew that wasn’t a Bram Stoker story that I had ever heard of”
The story’s discovery provides valuable insights into Stoker’s narrative development prior to writing “Dracula.” It offers scholars and fans alike a unique opportunity to trace the evolution of Stoker’s distinctive gothic style and thematic preoccupations.
From Personal Setback to Historic Discovery
Cleary’s discovery of “Gibbet Hill” came during a period of personal hardship. In 2021, while on a break from work due to sudden hearing loss, Cleary immersed himself in researching Stoker’s works at the National Library of Ireland. This dedication led to the uncovering of the long-forgotten story, originally published in the 1890 Christmas supplement of the Daily Express Dublin Edition.
Audrey Whitty, director of the National Library of Ireland, praised Cleary’s efforts, describing the find as “astonishing amateur detective work.” This commendation highlights the significant contributions that dedicated individuals can make to literary scholarship and historical research.
A Literary Legacy Supporting a Noble Cause
The publication of “Gibbet Hill” not only enriches our understanding of Stoker’s literary development but also serves a charitable purpose. Proceeds from the second pressing of the story will benefit the Charlotte Stoker Fund, an initiative supporting the deaf community. This fitting tribute links Cleary’s personal experience with hearing loss to a cause that would likely have resonated with Bram Stoker himself.
As “Gibbet Hill” prepares to make its debut to a modern audience, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Stoker’s work and the unexpected treasures that still lie hidden in archives and libraries. This discovery serves as a reminder of the rich literary heritage that continues to shape our cultural landscape and the importance of preserving and exploring historical documents.
