Swanson: The Life and Times of A Victorian Detective

by Adam Wood

Donald Sutherland Swanson was born in the remote far north of Scotland, leaving for London in 1867 at the age of 19 and initially working as a City clerk. The following year he joined the Metropolitan Police and began patrolling the streets of the capital as a uniformed constable. 35 years later he retired as Superintendent of the Criminal Investigation Department, the top detective in the country. Set against the backdrop of the developing Metropolitan Police, this book tells the story of a life and career which included railway murderers, grave robbers, fraudulent mediums, Jack the Ripper, the Philosopher’s Stone, Fenian dynamite campaigns, shocking revelations about the aristocracy and a crazed captain with sea serpents in a bottle. Linking it all together is Donald Swanson, whose application letter to the Metropolitan Police spoke of a desire for “a good opening”. After reading his story, the reader will be left in little doubt that he made the most of the opportunities which came his way.

Genres: Nonfiction, History

869 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 8, 2020

Reviews

[Alessandro Mana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adam Wood, the author of Swanson: The Life and Times of a Victorian Detective, presents in a clear, precise and detailed way every aspect of Donald Swanson's private and professional life allowing the reader not only to better understand the life of a Scotland Yard's Detective, but to know the person behind the uniform.

[S. A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely brilliant biography of a high-ranking British police officer and detective during the late Victorian period, focusing mainly on the crimes he investigated but also with fascinating insights into the society and city he was policing, the changing law around him, and the development of the police service itself. And, despite the focus, also a candid and respectful look at his life outside the force. This book is beautifully researched, well-written and engaging, and provides an amazing view into the ordinary lives of Victorian London. Highly recommended.