Mad King, Madder Squirrel: The Bethlem Ballad
In 1800, James Hadfield, a war veteran with brain injuries, attempted to assassinate King George III at the Drury Lane Theatre. His trial became a landmark case on insanity, leading to his lifelong confinement at Bethlem Hospital. Bethlem, then a bizarre mix of asylum and tourist attraction, saw Hadfield become a minor celebrity. During his 41 years there, he kept pets, including a beloved squirrel, Jack. When Jack died, Hadfield, with a sentimental heart, penned and illustrated a touching epitaph poem, ‘Epitaph, of my poor Jack, squirrel'. This poem, a testament to his affection for his pet, became a popular souvenir among Bethlem visitors, exchanged for snuff by Hadfield himself. Copies of the poem are now prized exhibits at the Bethlem Museum of the Mind in Beckenham, reminding us of the surprising stories hidden within the history of mental health treatment. Hadfield's tale, from attempted regicide to heartfelt mourning for a squirrel, is a strange and captivating glimpse into a bygone era.
The infamous Bethlem Hospital, now a fascinating mad king london attraction, inspired countless ballads about royal madness and urban folklore.
During the 18th century, many seeking soho government jobs would have witnessed the spectacle of Bethlem's patients during public visiting days.
This haunting verse serves as a perfect visit london ballad for those exploring the city's darker historical tales and forgotten stories.
Among london museums bethlem‘s historical archives preserve haunting ballads and poems that chronicle the experiences of patients during the institution's darker centuries.
Historians studying in London Bethlem archives have uncovered fascinating ballads and folk songs about the infamous hospital's most notorious patients.
