The Red Haired Stokie Podcast

Today I had the privilege of attending the launch of Fred Hughes’ new book, Stoke on Trent, The Story of a City 1925 to 2025 , held at Stoke Minster as part of the city’s centenary. Fred invited me as his guest, and I recorded his speech so everyone who couldn’t be there can still hear his words in full. In this episode, you can listen to Fred talk about the people, places and stories that shaped...

Did you know the UK’s first civilian ambulance service didn’t start in London, but right here in Burslem? In this episode, discover the incredible true story of Hiram Syson – a Crimean War veteran turned town hall caretaker – who quietly made medical history from the heart of the Potteries. Long before flashing lights and sirens, Hiram was carrying the injured to safety on a two-wheeled cart. This...

In 1781, 21-year-old Thomas Meakin from Rushton Spencer was declared dead and buried in the canal town of Stone. A year later, his coffin was reopened – and what they found inside became one of North Staffordshire’s most disturbing legends. Did his employer, a respected apothecary, murder him? Did jealousy and social status play a role? And was Thomas really buried alive? This true story spans two...

Hidden underneath a large house in Stone, Staffordshire is what remains of Stone Priory. It is a significant historical monument, embodying the complex interplay of legend and historical fact. For more details information, check out my blog post on the priory - https://www.theredhairedstokie.co.uk/secrets-of-stone-exploring-the-underground-ruins-of-a-medieval-priory/ Support the show If you love o...

Seighford Hall, a Grade II-listed building near Stafford, is a treasure trove of history. Its story spans more than 450 years, encompassing Tudor craftsmanship, ghostly encounters, industrial magnates, and even a stint as a nightclub. Today, the hall lies abandoned, but its legacy endures through its remarkable past.  Read more and watch the video here - https://www.theredhairedstokie.co.uk/what-h...

Hidden in the heart of Upper Tean, Staffordshire, the Providence Independent Churchyard is a quiet but deeply significant historical site. I explore its fascinating story, from its roots in the late 18th-century nonconformist movement to its role as a community hub in the industrial era. Discover the history of the Providence Independent Chapel, built in 1822, and its graveyard established in 1834...

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the legendary Leopard Inn, Burslem, a once-thriving public house and hotel with a captivating past. As we embark on this journey through time, we diligently trace the Leopard Inn's history, unearthing records and anecdotes that date back over 300 years or more. However, tragedy struck this iconic establishment when a devastating fire consumed it, forever al...

Join me on a captivating journey as we delve into the remarkable life of Molly Leigh, the Burslem Witch. Uncover the true history of this extraordinary woman—a fiercely independent, wealthy landowner who defied societal norms in 18th-century England. We shed light on Molly's life, her alleged witchcraft, and the enduring legacy she left behind. Discover a story of strength, resilience, and the pur...

Staffordshire has a rich history filled with myths and legends that have been passed down through generations. From headless horsemen to ancient burial sites, this region is filled with stories that are both intriguing and mysterious. I will be talking about the folklore of Staffordshire, exploring some of the most fascinating myths and legends that have shaped its culture and history. -----------...

Join me this week as I dive into the dark and twisted crimes of William Palmer, also known as the Rugeley Poisoner.  During the 1800s Palmer gained notoriety as one of the most prolific serial killers in English history, using arsenic to murder multiple victims, including his own family members and friends. Charles Dickens even called him "the greatest villain that ever stood in the Old Bailey" --...

This week is all about the history hidden beneath our feet. You cannot walk anywhere in Staffordshire without there being a rumour of some secret passageway. I look at some of the rumours and investigate them, I've even been inside a few! To learn more and to see the photographs that accompany this podcast, visit www.theredhairedstokie.co.uk Support the show If you love our local history, don't fo...