Prisoner 4374

Note from the Author

Note from the AuthorThe events, people and places recounted in these pages are based upon fact. I have chosen the rather unconventional method of writing in an autobiographical style in the hope that the reader can envisage the crimes and consequences that led to the trial of a notorious felon.

Until now, the finer details of Dr. Thomas Neill Cream's life have been, relatively, undocumented. Cream has been branded as a 'Jack the Ripper' suspect since the beginning of the 20th Century, and only now can it be revealed as to whether he earns a rightful place on that suspect list, or not. Over a decade of research in to Cream's life has allowed me to recreate the circumstances of his crimes in considerable detail. In writing his biography I have been fortunate in accessing a number of resources, for which I will be eternally grateful to those who have supported me in pursuit of the truth.

My work includes exclusive, previously unpublished, photograph's of Dr. Cream for which I have personally obtained copyright. I also have permission to use the complete records from his incarceration, totaling 181 pages of authentic reports from which I have been able to piece together his motives and movements both before and during his imprisonment. These documents alone prove, beyond doubt, where Cream was in 1888, the year of the London 'Jack the Ripper' murders.

Firstly, in recognition of my support network, I mention my darling husband Dave, without whom this book would never have seen the light of day. His belief in me has never faltered and for that he has my unconditional love and respect. I also owe my sincere thanks to Sylvia Caswell, who has relentlessly read and reread my work, giving constructive criticism and support throughout this long and arduous journey, I am proud to have you as my advocate. Appreciation also, to Barry and Karen Williams, and my good friend Bev Williams for their feedback and honest appraisals. John Reinhardt and his team at the Illinois State Archive have been first-rate in helping me to procure and make use of the records at their disposal, I appreciate it. I owe my gratitude to Heather McNabb and colleagues at the Musee McCord Museum in Canada, for aiding my quest to find original photographs of Cream, and then assisting with the legalities of copyright issues. Faye Robinson and Paul Bickley at Scotland Yard have been both professional and encouraging in providing images from the Crime Museum, thank you. Appreciation also to Sophia Brothers, and her department at the Science Museum Group, who have provided me with further images and support. Lastly, but by no means least, I am beholden to Antony Caswell for his brilliant interpretation and graphic design of the cover for 'Prisoner 4374', you did a wonderful job.

I do hope that you enjoy reading the journey of Thomas Cream's life and that I have succeeded in portraying him in his true colors.

A. J. Griffiths-Jones