Mike Covell’s Blogg

This morning I spent some time on the streets of Hull taking photo’s of locations associated with the 8 previously named Ripper Suspects with links to Hull. 

I was suprised how some people’s reactions, and at one point was even threatened with legal action!

I had some time aside this morning to take photo’s of several locations in the Hull City Centre.  Many of these locations along Whitefriargate have changed although much of the upper floors of the buildings still retain their original looks and features.

I have taken numerous photo’s of the Neptune Inn over the years, and the staff at both the Works, and Boots have been fantastic.

Today I wanted a decent picture of Schuh, which is a shoe shop and formerly Reynoldsons Jewellers.  It was here that Frederick Bailey Deeming defrauded the Reynoldson family, fled, was captured, brought back to Hull and imprisoned in Hull Jail.  I explained my intentions to the staff who were all brilliant, and really enthusiastic!

The same can be said of the wonderful staff at Hull’s Quality Royal Hotel, aka Royal Station Hotel.  It was here that 4 suspects in the case had spent some time, and the staff are always friendly, polite and courteous.

Another stop on my journey was the former offices of the Hull News, which stood on Whitefriargate.  Sadly, the staff informed me I could not take photo’s of the exterior of the building, or I would be threatened with legal action!

I pay my taxes, and dutily informed the staff that they could not stop anyone taking photographs of the exterior of their premises! 

It’s a shame that a small minority has to act in such a way but nice to see most residents and businesses in Hull are positive and wish to help in any way they can.

Jack the Ripper- The Hull Connection.

I just recieved word that the staff at Carengie Heritage Centre are taking bookings for the free lecture on Jack the Ripper- The Hull Connection. People wishing to reserve a space can contact Carnegie on,
01482561216 or email them at enquiries@carnegiehull.co.uk

The lecture will include a presentation on the 8 ripper suspects with links to Hull, an overview of the Hull Ripper Crazes, and examples of newspaper reports and letters concerning Hull and the Whitechapel Murders!

Examples of my research, and several other items from the period will be on display.