In a remarkable twist of fate, a pharmacist and amateur historian, Brian Cleary, has unearthed a long-lost short story by Bram Stoker, the author of the iconic “Dracula.” This hidden gem, titled “Gibbet Hill,” was originally published in the Dublin Daily Express in 1890 and has remained largely forgotten until now. Cleary’s discovery at the National Library of Ireland has sparked excitement among literary enthusiasts and Stoker fans alike.

A Chance Encounter in the Archives

While casually browsing the archives, Cleary stumbled upon an advertisement in an old newspaper that mentioned Stoker’s “Gibbet Hill.” Intrigued, he began to dig deeper, only to find that the story was absent from bibliographies and academic references. This lack of recognition only fueled his determination to uncover the truth behind the lost tale.

• Cleary’s journey began with:
  • A casual visit to the National Library of Ireland.
  • Discovery of an ad in the Dublin Daily Express.
  • A realization that no one seemed to know about the story.

After confirming the existence of “Gibbet Hill,” Cleary felt a mix of disbelief and excitement. “I was just gobsmacked,” he recalled. The thrill of finding a piece of literary history was overwhelming, and he knew he had to share it with the world.

The Story Behind “Gibbet Hill”

“Gibbet Hill” is a quintessential Stoker tale, steeped in gothic horror and moral conflict. The narrative begins with the grim hanging of three outlaws in Surrey, England, serving as a stark warning to others. As the story unfolds, an unnamed narrator encounters three eerie children near the grave of a murdered sailor, leading to a life-altering experience.

• Key elements of the story include:
  • Themes of good versus evil.
  • A ritual that challenges the narrator’s understanding of morality.
  • A connection to Stoker’s later work, “Dracula.”

Experts believe that this story may have influenced Stoker’s development as a writer. Paul Murray, a Stoker scholar, noted that “Gibbet Hill” showcases the author’s early exploration of dark themes that would later define his most famous novel.

Rediscovery and Revival

Thanks to Cleary’s persistence, “Gibbet Hill” is set to be read publicly for the first time at the Bram Stoker Festival in Dublin this month. Following this event, the story will be republished with illustrations by Irish artist Paul McKinley. The proceeds from the publication will benefit the Charlotte Stoker Fund, which supports research on deafness in newborns.

• The revival of “Gibbet Hill” includes:
  • A public reading at the Bram Stoker Festival.
  • A new illustrated edition to be released in November.
  • Charitable contributions to support important research.

Coincidentally, Cleary’s personal journey with hearing loss led him to spend more time in the library, ultimately guiding him to this extraordinary find. “A lot of things wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t suffered from hearing loss,” he reflected, highlighting the serendipity of his discovery.

A Legacy Reclaimed

The rediscovery of “Gibbet Hill” not only enriches the literary landscape but also offers a glimpse into the early works of Bram Stoker. As fans eagerly await the chance to read this lost story, it serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of literature and the importance of preserving history.

• The significance of this find is profound:
  • It sheds light on Stoker’s evolution as a writer.
  • It connects modern readers to the past.
  • It emphasizes the role of amateur historians in uncovering hidden treasures.

As the literary community celebrates this remarkable discovery, Brian Cleary’s journey stands as a testament to the power of curiosity and the unexpected paths that can lead to significant revelations.