A podcast exploring the history and secrets of Staffordshire. Welcome to The Red Haired Stokie, a podcast, website and YouTube channel dedicated to uncovering the fascinating history and hidden stories of Staffordshire, a county located in the heart of England. Join your host Jenna Goodwin as we delve into the archives and explore the iconic landmarks and lesser-known corners of this historic county. From the rolling hills of the Peak District to the industrial heritage of Stoke-on-Trent, we ...
…
continue reading

1
Did You Know the UK’s Ambulance Service Started in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent?
23:09
23:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:09Did 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…
…
continue reading

1
The Terrifying Tale of Thomas Meakin, Buried Alive in Staffordshire
32:33
32:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:33In 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 Tho…
…
continue reading

1
Secrets of Stone, Staffordshire: Exploring the Hidden Underground Remains of a Medieval Priory
28:00
28:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:00Hidden 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…
…
continue reading

1
What Happened to Seighford Hall? A Staffordshire Estate’s Rise and Fall
12:57
12:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:57Seighford 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 h…
…
continue reading

1
The Overlooked History of Providence Independent Churchyard in Upper Tean
5:57
5:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
5:57Hidden 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, bu…
…
continue reading

1
The Leopard, Burslem - A Rich History to a Bitter End - The Red Haired Stokie
23:07
23:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:07In 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 establishme…
…
continue reading

1
Molly Leigh - the True History of an Independent, Wealthy, Land Owning Woman - The Red Haired Stokie
38:39
38:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:39Join 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. Dis…
…
continue reading

1
Uncovering the Myths and Legends of Staffordshire - The Red Haired Stokie
46:58
46:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:58Staffordshire 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 tha…
…
continue reading

1
A Staffordshire Serial Killer - William Palmer, The Rugeley Poisoner - The Red Haired Stokie
38:18
38:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:18Join 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 great…
…
continue reading

1
Hidden History, the Tunnels and Passages Underneath Staffordshire - The Red Haired Stokie
37:17
37:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:17This 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 Suppor…
…
continue reading