The Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told: "Jenny Geddes and Her Revolutionary Stool"

Introduction

In the episode titled "Jenny Geddes and Her Revolutionary Stool," hosted by Mary Kay McBrayer, The Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told delves into a fascinating historical true crime story that intertwines religion, politics, and individual rebellion. Released on July 29, 2025, this episode explores how a seemingly small act by a 17th-century Scottish fruit and vegetable merchant ignited a series of events that would shape British history.

Historical Context

Mary Kay McBrayer sets the stage in Edinburgh, Scotland, during the early 17th century—a period marked by religious tension and political upheaval. Scotland and England were under the rule of a single monarch, King Charles I, who ascended to the English throne in 1625 following the death of King James I. The coronation of Charles I in Scotland was not only a ceremonial event but also a flashpoint for ideological conflict between the Anglican Church of England and the Calvinist Church of Scotland (Kirk).

The Incident at St. Giles Cathedral

On Sunday, July 23, 1637, at the Gothic Cathedral of St. Giles on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, a pivotal event unfolded. Mary Kay narrates:

"Jenny Geddes... stood up, grabbed her stool, and hurled it at Dean Hanney's head while yelling in Scots English, loosely translated as, 'Devil. False thief. Do you say Mass in my ear?'” (16:45)

This audacious act was a direct protest against the introduction of the Anglican Book of Common Prayer into the Scottish Church, a move orchestrated by King Charles I to impose religious uniformity. The congregation, led by Jennie Geddes, viewed this as a betrayal and a threat to their religious autonomy.

Immediate Aftermath

Jenny Geddes' rebellion did not go unnoticed. Her defiance sparked an immediate and violent reaction within the cathedral. Congregants began to riot, hurling not just the book but also stools, Bibles, and other objects at Dean Hanney. The chaos extended beyond the church walls as rioters were expelled, likely by royal guards anticipating an uprising.

"I don't know who expelled them from the church, but if I had to guess, royal guards anticipating an uprising. But I couldn't find out for sure." (16:50)

The unrest quickly spread throughout Edinburgh and then across Scotland, signaling a significant rupture between the monarchy and its Scottish subjects.

Broader Historical Impact

The incident at St. Giles Cathedral is often credited as the catalyst for the National Covenant of 1638, where approximately 300,000 Scottish Presbyterians signed a document asserting their opposition to King Charles I's religious policies. This movement laid the groundwork for the Bishops' Wars, which were the initial conflicts in the broader Wars of the Three Kingdoms—a series of interconnected wars that would engulf England, Scotland, and Ireland for 14 years.

"Some argue that this whole revolution was set in motion first by Jenny Geddes. I would argue that King Charles I started it, and Jenny Geddes was the first one to sound the alarm that rallied so many voices behind hers." (21:00)

These wars culminated in the English Civil War, the temporary abolition of the monarchy, and significant shifts in the balance of power between the monarchy and Parliament.

Legacy of Jenny Geddes

Jenny Geddes became a folk hero in Scotland, symbolizing resistance against oppression and the fight for religious freedom. Although historical records about her are sparse and some scholars debate her actual existence, her story has endured through folklore and commemorations.

In the 1990s, St. Giles Cathedral installed a statue commemorating Jenny Geddes, depicting a stool as a symbol of her defiant act. Additionally, the esteemed Scottish poet Robert Burns honored her by naming his horse "Jenny," further cementing her place in Scottish cultural memory.

"If a poet naming his pet after someone is not a ringing endorsement, I've never heard one." (25:00)

Conclusion

"Jenny Geddes and Her Revolutionary Stool" is a compelling exploration of how individual acts of defiance can ignite widespread political and social change. Mary Kay McBrayer masterfully weaves together historical facts, cultural context, and the enduring legacy of a woman whose boldness left an indelible mark on Scottish history. This episode not only recounts a captivating true crime story but also underscores the profound impact of courage and resistance in shaping the course of nations.

Notable Quotes

• Mary Kay McBrayer: “Jenny Geddes... stood up, grabbed her stool, and hurled it at Dean Hanney's head while yelling in Scots English, loosely translated as, 'Devil. False thief. Do you say Mass in my ear?'” (16:45)

• Mary Kay McBrayer: “Some argue that this whole revolution was set in motion first by Jenny Geddes. I would argue that King Charles I started it, and Jenny Geddes was the first one to sound the alarm that rallied so many voices behind hers.” (21:00)

• Mary Kay McBrayer: “If a poet naming his pet after someone is not a ringing endorsement, I've never heard one.” (25:00)

References

For a comprehensive list of sources referenced in this episode, please consult the show's notes.