The Heart of Frome: Issue 1
I’ve always found it fascinating how our seemingly quiet corner of Frome, Somerset, has intersected with broader literary currents. One particularly intriguing connection is between Wilkie Collins, often regarded as the father of Crime Fiction, and the notorious Sarah Watts murder in Rode. This grisly event captured the public imagination and served as a macabre muse for Collins’ groundbreaking novel, The Moonstone.
In the late 19th century, Rode was thrust into the limelight with the tragic murder of Sarah Watts. The crime was a Sensational affair, with all the hallmarks of a Victorian melodrama: mystery, intrigue, and a labyrinthine investigation that gripped the nation. Wilkie Collins, already an established writer and contemporary of Charles Dickens, found himself drawn to this tale of woe and wonder.
Collins was known for his meticulous research and a keen eye for detail. It is said that he avidly followed the reports of the Watts murder, which were widely covered in the press. The brutality and the mystery surrounding the case provided a fertile ground for his imagination. It’s no surprise that shortly after immersing himself in the particulars of this crime, Collins penned The Moonstone, a novel that would come to be recognised as the first Crime Fiction book.
The Moonstone, published in 1868, revolves around the theft of a precious diamond and the subsequent investigation to uncover the culprit. It introduced readers to Sergeant Cuff, a character whose methodical and analytical approach to solving the crime would lay the groundwork for future fictional detectives.
The novel’s structure, with its multiple narrators and intricate plot twists, reflects Collins’ fascination with the complexities of criminal investigations, undoubtedly inspired by the Watts case.
For Frome residents, this connection is more than a mere historical footnote. It highlights how our local stories can ripple outwards, influencing and shaping wider cultural narratives. The Sarah Watts murder, though a dark chapter in our regional history, catalysed a literary revolution that has left an indelible mark on the world.
Understanding this connection enriches our appreciation of Collins’ work and local heritage. It offers a unique perspective on how art and literature are often interwoven with real-life events, transforming them into timeless stories that continue to captivate readers across generations. Moreover, it underscores the importance of our local history in the broader context of literary evolution.
For those of us who stroll through the charming streets of Frome or visit Rode, there’s a certain thrill in knowing that our surroundings have indirectly inspired a genre that millions enjoy today. It adds a layer of depth to our local identity, blending our pastoral charm with the thrilling undercurrents of mystery and intrigue.
So, next time you pick up The Moonstone or any Crime Fiction novel, remember that its origins can be traced back to a small village near Frome. It’s a testament to how even the most unassuming places can leave a lasting imprint on the world of literature.
If you would like to learn more about the historic murder, here are some fascinating books to delight. Available to buy on Amazon:
