Series 5 Episode 5: The Ribbon Society
Summary
This episode of *Inside Forensic Science* details the 1883 Glasgow bombings by the Ribbon Society, an Irish republican group linked to the Fenian Brotherhood. Host Penny Stewart, alongside experts like Professor James Crossland and forensic scientist Chris Hester, explores how investigators used chemical supply chains and witness testimony to link suspects to the explosives. The narrative contrasts 19th-century investigative methods with modern trace evidence analysis, highlighting the role of key figures like Colonel Vivian Majendie and the American conspirator Timothy Featherstone.
Topics discussed
Introduction and content warning
The 1883 Glasgow explosions and initial investigation
George Hughes provides breakthrough information
Hughes testimony and the Ribbon Society oath
Origins of the Ribbon Society and Fenian Brotherhood
Context of the Dynamite War and new explosives
Identifying Ribbon Society members and key figures
Timothy Featherstone's role in importing materials
Modern forensic methods for tracing explosives
Chemical analysis and supply chain investigation
Regulations on explosives and precursor chemicals
Building the network of chemical purchases
Featherstone's purchase of nitric acid
McDermott's purchases of glycerine and vitriol
Witness testimony of dynamite testing at the stable
Featherstone's arrest and broader network links
Birmingham nitroglycerine factory discovery
Moving the dynamite due to plumbing issues
Recovering trace explosives from surfaces
Challenges of sampling skin and clothing
Background levels and persistence of explosives
Recap of evidence and police confidence
Witnesses to the bombing and suspect arrests
The trial at Edinburgh High Court
Preview of next episode and credits
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