Podcast Summary: The Midnight Library - S5 Ep5: Bloody Mackenzie and Greyfriar's Kirkyard - A Tombstone Tale

Released on November 29, 2021, by Astonishing Legends Productions, "The Midnight Library" transports listeners to the eerie confines of a Victorian mansion. Hosted by Miranda Merrick and Mr. Darling, the podcast delves into historical mysteries, supernatural tales, and forgotten lore.

Introduction to the Midnight Library

Miranda Merrick welcomes listeners to the "Midnight Library," setting the stage within a strange, old Victorian mansion. The ambiance is meticulously crafted, inviting guests to "curl up in a window seat or beside the grand fireplace" (01:20) and immerse themselves in tales from bygone eras.

Mysterious Arrivals and Unsettling Gifts

Shortly after the introduction, Mr. Darling mentions the arrival of a box of "mysterious food" that smells intriguing (01:20). Miranda identifies them as cupcakes "shaped like babies or perhaps piglets" (01:28), raising questions about their anonymous origin. The hosts engage in a playful yet ominous conversation about the suspicious nature of the gift, with Mr. Darling remarking, "It's a vague but smug threat to me" (01:36).

Setting the Scene in Greyfriar's Kirkyard

Transitioning from the initial mystery, Miranda introduces the main narrative—a "tombstone tale" about George Mackenzie from Greyfriar's Kirkyard in Edinburgh, Scotland (02:02). She explains that "kirkyard" refers to a churchyard, emphasizing the cemetery's rich history and reputation as one of the most haunted graveyards in the world.

Historical Background of Greyfriar's Kirkyard

Miranda provides a detailed history of Greyfriar's Kirkyard, established in 1560 and associated with the Greyfriars Kirk built in 1602 (02:06). She describes the graveyard's baroque style, featuring "worn and weathered headstones, blackened stony mausoleums, and crumbly old mortse" (02:06), setting a foreboding atmosphere.

The Legend of Bloody Mackenzie

At the heart of the episode is the haunting tale of George Mackenzie, a Lord Advocate renowned for his brutal treatment of Covenanters in the late 17th century. Miranda narrates Mackenzie's dark legacy, noting that he was responsible for "more than 18,000 deaths" (12:30). His body is entombed in the Black Mausoleum, but his vengeful spirit continues to torment visitors. Miranda highlights eerie incidents such as the 1998 vandalism, where a tomb was broken into, leading to "hundreds of spectral visions and physical attacks" (25:45).

"Bloody Mackenzie's black mausoleum was broken into in 1998, resulting in hundreds of spectral visions and physical attacks attributed to his poltergeist spirit." (25:45)

Supernatural Incidents and Exorcisms

The hosts discuss various supernatural happenings linked to Mackenzie's spirit, including the infamous 2003 incident where teenage boys desecrated his tomb by cutting off his head and "playing football" with it (30:15). Attempts to exorcise his spirit have failed disastrously, with one exorcist succumbing to a heart attack after facing overwhelming evil (35:50).

Mortsafes and Grave Robbing at Greyfriar's

Miranda delves into the grim history of grave robbing at Greyfriar's Kirkyard, explaining the use of "mortsafes"—heavy iron or concrete covers designed to protect graves from body snatchers (40:00). She details how these protective measures were essential before the Anatomy Act of 1832, which regulated the use of unclaimed bodies for medical research.

Connections to Popular Culture

The episode draws intriguing parallels between Greyfriar's Kirkyard and the "Harry Potter" series. Miranda points out that names like Potter, Moody, and Cruikshanks are etched on graves within the cemetery, suggesting that J.K. Rowling may have gathered inspiration from these historical figures (45:20). She humorously notes:

"Professor Minerva McGonagall's name appears to be borrowed from William McGonagall, buried in 1902 and known as the worst poet in Scotland." (50:10)

The Heartwarming Tale of Grayfriars Bobby

Shifting from the macabre, Miranda shares the touching story of Grayfriars Bobby, a loyal Skye terrier who remained by his master's grave for 14 years after his death (55:00). This poignant narrative highlights the enduring bond between humans and their canine companions.

Interactions in the Midnight Library

The episode concludes with an interaction involving Janet, the head housemaid, who informs Miranda about the meticulous cleaning of guests' shoes to prevent disturbances in the cemetery (35:10). Her playful message, "Every speck of soil from the silly shoes of your intrusive guest has been collected and saved" (38:20), adds a humorous touch to the otherwise eerie setting.

Conclusion and Farewell

In the final moments, Mr. Darling humorously notes, "One guest in two pieces" (39:07), alluding to the night's terrifying events. Miranda wraps up by thanking sponsors and encouraging listeners to join their Patreon for exclusive content, maintaining the blend of horror and light-heartedness that characterizes the podcast.

Notable Quotes:

• Miranda Merrick (01:55): "We're not shoe thieves or foot weirdos. We're weirdos, but not foot weirdos."

• Miranda Merrick (02:02): "What makes this such a wondrous place is the denotation that it has the reputation of being one of the most haunted graveyards in the world."

• Miranda Merrick (25:45): "Bloody Mackenzie's black mausoleum was broken into in 1998, resulting in hundreds of spectral visions and physical attacks attributed to his poltergeist spirit."

• Miranda Merrick (45:20): "Professor Minerva McGonagall's name appears to be borrowed from William McGonagall, buried in 1902 and known as the worst poet in Scotland."

Conclusion:

This episode of "The Midnight Library" masterfully intertwines historical facts with supernatural lore, offering listeners a captivating exploration of Greyfriar's Kirkyard and the restless spirit of Bloody Mackenzie. Through engaging storytelling and atmospheric narration, Miranda Merrick and Mr. Darling create an immersive experience that blends horror, history, and a touch of humor.