The Gruesome tale of Kate Webster | Victorian Era True Crime Documentary | Well, I Never.

True crime tales from the Victorian Era always seem to be filled with gruesome happenings and intrigue. Today's story is no different as we looking into the case of Kate Webster and Julia Thomas .
Kate Webster was an Irish woman looking for a better life in London. Despite this she wasn't above committing a criminal act or two. Normally these would involve robbery or prostitution but on one day in 1879 her crimes escalated to murder.
00:00 - Intro
00:43 - Kate Webster's Early Life
02:31 - Kate begins working for Julia Thomas
04:04 - Julia Thomas goes missing
05:39 - Julia's body is found
07:02 - Webster flees but is soon caught and charged.
08:40 - Kate Webster is sentenced to death
11:00 - Kate Webster is hanged
11:20 - 2009 and a Skull is found at Sir David Attenborough's property.
12:16 - Outro

[@nomdeplume2213]

Why isn't this man on tv?! This is better than 99% of the true crime docs on! He deserves a damn good pay raise lol

[@flowersinformaldehyde]

This man looks and sounds like the perfect narrator for Victorian Era cases! I'm hooked to this channel

[@mistermangomimzy]

My thoughts exactly!

[@venerandaperalta7564]

Ghost

[@flowersinformaldehyde]

@@venerandaperalta7564 is a great band!

[@Mr.Obongo]

He looks like he time traveled from the past to tell us these cases

[@Naught359]

So racist!

[@SableRain]

This is such a sad case, not just for Julia Thomas, but for also for Kate Webster's 5 year old son. 😢

[@fugu4163]

Should be interesting to know how his life was.

[@gypsygem9395]

Yes, I was wondering what happened to him

[@DiniD]

I just love how you’re dressed appropriately and accordingly with the stories’ time period. ❤️ thanks for the upload.

[@ITI-xi5zx]

I believe he dresses the same in every videom

[@HVS-gk7oo]

He always dress the same. Great style!

[@deannadove3505]

I do too! It adds to the whole ambiance.

[@gracedlm]

lol ik! b i think thts j his style tbh

[@bookhousegirl]

@@HVS-gk7oo He definitely doesn't dress the same in every video. He's always dressed in more contemporary clothes when it's a more recent story. It's a lovely little attention to detail! He also switches up his facial hair accordingly as well 😁.

[@sjws89]

Most disturbing, the deceased woman was considered elderly at age 52 😭😖

[@vixxter3099]

Well I guess I'm only two years away from being elderly then😆😩

[@gypsygem9395]

That was then, as people weren't so fit then. However, these days they still say elderly, frail and other such derogatory terms for people in their early 60s! I'm nearly 65 and fitter than a lot of people much younger than me so I hate those terms, as I'm sure do most fit people oven older than me!

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

Even today, a woman over 50 is invisible unless she is a billionaire with loads of plastic surgery. Society will never change.

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

@@vixxter3099 Once a woman hits 50 in the US, she is invisible. Case closed.

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

@@gypsygem9395 "....much younger than I..."

[@andrean733]

This story is truly harrowing. People like the murderer could be our neighbours, employers, etc and sometimes we might be none the wiser. Truly horrifying to think what some people are capable of. Marvelous video as always!

[@erminedereims400]

Not so much now I’d imagine (I’m a police criminologist) much harder, most wouldn’t tempt too now

[@jujuoliver6959]

It’s basically like the cuckoo in the nest syndrome getting into someone’s home by whatever means then trying to take over their home and finances by murder and I was watching the story of the female writer yesterday who met a man online, fell in love, moved him in, got engaged, only for him to murder her and her little dachshund for no other reason than he wanted her wealth and hid them under the garage for her money, house and wealth. Even though not as bloody , he smothered his poor victim, but still horrific. You have to be so careful of who you are actually letting into your life and your home and their intentions.

[@kikima258]

Did she kill her child? I didn't get that part about children bones

[@ITI-xi5zx]

@B Riley have you considered telling your doctor or a therapist about this?

[@imnotpaidenoughforthiscrap3513]

@B Riley you ok dude?

[@charliebee4338]

The bit about the skull found over a century later, whilst excavating Hole in the Wall Pub😳 Now that’s the icing on the story. Cheers from Australia 🐨❤️🇦🇺

[@sarahr9894]

Honestly the best narrator for these videos!! ICONIC!!

[@Steampunkkids]

Truly. The narrator is so perfect for these cases.

[@sheashea4622]

Yes!!

[@JudgeJaco]

Very good indeed. But Mr.Ballen is also very good.

[@Steampunkkids]

@@JudgeJaco Mr. Ballen is a lovely storyteller. But, his focus is on telling an exciting riveting story. Not so much on the facts on the case. That’s why I absolutely adore this narrator. His focus is less on getting views, and more on getting the facts. But, don’t get me wrong. I also am subscribed to Mr. Ballen.

[@kelleymaxwell3875]

Also subbed to Mr. Ballen..So you know what I mean when I say...Mr. Ballen is more interested in destroying the . Like button.LOL!

[@justinspireme2019]

Please consider doing a piece on Tarrare - the 18th century French soldier and performer who would eat anything including children. His medical condition is still a mystery to this day. Thanks!

[@WellINever]

Done :)

[@naturewitch8687]

😱😱😱

[@LurifaxDK]

This is brilliant! This channel takes me back to the old discovery channel before it became a reality channel.

[@waningmooncancer9628]

Right?!

[@ItsJustLisa]

Indeed!

[@daffers2345]

You can "Explore your world" again :)

[@dariuszkarpinski6810]

I’ mtmry in our mmmm m

[@dariuszkarpinski6810]

I’m sorry but l POW for red c.

[@YourRoyalMajesty.]

And then suddenly ... I was obsessed. A beautifully narrated piece, with stunning locations. A host that couldn't be more dapper, mixed with interesting historical moments, Well I Never.

[@briansullivan5908]

Can’t help but wonder what happened to her son ?

[@rubend9391]

She ate him......maybe

[@erminedereims400]

I did a little research for you, was adopted :) says lived passed WW2 but no death date 4 u

[@catherinesyme901]

@@erminedereims400 tis excellent that you found out! Thank-you

[@lindaarrington9397]

@@erminedereims400 ty that was amazing research

[@elaineforan4751]

Probably had a hard life as the son of a notorious murderer, poor kid. I hope his adoption went well.

[@missybekind5022]

Hard to believe the skull was found 100yrs later!! Wow, very interesting story..

[@GameOn71213]

Our bones can stay for alot longer.

[@applejellypucci]

The David Attenborough connection was so cool. Great story.

[@tedjones3955]

Dude, you look like you just walked out of the 19th century. What a great look for an historian. I love history, thank you so much.

[@poincianab12]

I hv heard many of the cases u cover from other channels i enjoy...i still appreciate relistening to each and every one with you. Your general filming style, editting, and voice bring something different and much needed. Ty

[@cinfil2368]

Love your calm voice and clean language, Mr. Brodie.

[@originretro9984]

Hi I only stumbled across your channel a few days ago..,LOVE LOVE these old true crime stories.. NOW I'm like an excited kid in a lolly shop..I'm 60..I hop into bed at night with my eyepad and so look forward to my bedtime stories. .WOW..You definately don't disappoint..it's exciting when you go out and about to places..GREAT NARRATOR.. Thank you so much ..Job well done Goodnight and stay safe everyone from New Zealand

[@tippysdaddy7468]

Stumbled on this site whilst watching a video on my TV. I am impressed by the way you describe everything in a straightforward manner, relating the facts as they are. The first video I watched was Sweet Fanny Adams, in my 60s although using the phrase on many occasions was not aware of the meaning behind it. Poor Fanny Adams may she RIP Bless her.

[@vanessagray6631]

I love this narrator and he is so dapper in his appearance. Perfect for these stories. I can't wait for more!

[@lindyc.2552]

I enjoy the way you tell the story!

[@jennifermaurer100]

I can listen to this man speak forever. And I love seeing him outside in front of the landmarks. Fabulous!!

[@lisca2866]

Very well done and interesting thank you so much for these riveting stories it’s very important not to forget the past

[@BrightestBlessings7899]

I love how respectful you are when speaking of even Ms. Webster.

[@jenguinofdoom4747]

Omg I got 16 seconds in, saw this man, and subscribed instantly.

[@linsaa]

I loved that you visited and showed the church that they attended, I think it adds a different feel to all of these true crime videos. Great story telling!

[@midget_princess2200]

I've been binge watching your videos for 3 hours, I think I'm hooked. Your delivery is 2nd to none very informative, calm, respectful and interesting. Thank you for your hard work.

[@blooddiary2227]

Sir, you are doing masterpieces with covering these harrowing cases. Thank you.

[@debby705]

How amazing that the missing skull turned up all that time later! What a truly horrific crime. Love the way you tell the stories Paul, thank you so much

[@maybetomorrow4755]

My husband is a decendent of hers. The family's version of this is wildly crazier than common understanding of her crimes.

[@akashgupta-ms6dx]

Webster's or Julia's???

[@maybetomorrow4755]

@@akashgupta-ms6dx websters

[@akashgupta-ms6dx]

@@maybetomorrow4755 my wife is Julia's descendent, let's reunite sometime and cherish those good old days!!!

[@annied1827]

​@maybetomorrow4755 so what are the family stories ?? 😊

[@triciaford1957]

I live near Richmond and know about this case, but still very fascinating to hear the details again.💀

[@artificialenemy6621]

Stumbled across your channel the other day and since then I have watched almost every video you have uploaded.. I am absolutely hooked on your story telling and subbed almost immediately! this episode also did not disappoint! Thank you so much for the content you create! looking forward to more in the future!

[@catherinesyme901]

I have a feeling this is my first find and will most likely become obsessed also!

[@lorenaarias1952]

Thank you! And I love the fact that you show the real places where these stories took place. Amazing killer this woman.

[@smiller2044]

I was surprised with her confession, she hadn't mentioned the location of the head. No one thought to ask. Was it a true confession or a story of convience? People like to have explanations, sometimes there are none.

[@mfollett3613]

What a ghastly tale! It's always amazing what the Victorian crooks and ne'r-do-wells of the day thought they could get away. with. Gruesome doesn't begin to explain it. Sir David was the last person I expected to turn up at the end of this story. Really great video. ❤️

[@lolazal1]

The level of poverty and degradation was also amazing. We get what we give, and no I'm not talking about the victim, rather about society at large.

[@u.synlig]

Many of the murder and body disposal details in this history sound ‘ripped from the headlines’ - or from the trial transcripts - of the last 3 to 4 years. Criminals are no less audacious today, and equally lacking in thoughtful technique.

[@crazychase98]

Its no different then today

[@deliveryguy7402]

I really liked how you visited the place where it happened. It brought the story alive. I hope you continue doing this.

[@Rhonda9199]

I'm just finding this channel and love it, I also say, "well I never" all the time but then say, "at this rate, I never will!"😆

[@andrewhawkings5198]

This channel is truly a little wonder. Stories are immensely interesting and presented in such a way that is rather captivating. Thank you - "Well, I never".

[@KittyNoodlesPPC]

Once again, your compassionate yet unbiased account has impressed me almost beyond words. Very few others, I think, could cover such a hideous crime while still giving off such a consistent sense that the culprit, too, was a human being before all else. It's clear throughout this installment that your greatest sympathy goes to the victim and to Webster's son, but it seems equally apparent to me that you never once allowed yourself to forget that Webster, too, was at the end of the day a woman with wants and needs - though an extremely selfish one who committed an absolutely hideous crime. Not all of my friends enjoy the darkest parts of history as I do; even so, I'm recommending this channel to them, too, because I think your ability to state the facts of each case without falling into gimmicks or taking sides (even when the side you're on is as clear as it is in this one) makes these stories easier to learn about, and easier to process afterwards. Thank you, sir.

[@sheilaludwig6558]

Never heard of her..so thank you for sharing this story. Love your voice you're perfect for this

[@richardfranz5733]

Thank you very much for all the hard work and research you put into your videos. I greatly enjoy them. Keep up the good work. Cheers

[@michaelpeel9347]

Ya just never know who you might be letting into your life that can destroy and end your world. That poor woman never knew she let the devil into her parlor when she hired her. Your voice and presentation are on point.

[@anthonyralston4879]

Another great episode I especially liked the visits to the old builds & areas where it took place!! Well done sir keep it up 👍🏻

[@graceglue8913]

I love your videos!! My heart jumped for joy when you were actually at the location looking so smartly dressed in era appropriate clothing! Added an extra layer of brilliance to your channel 🎉

[@Feoshyt]

I have been looking for a channel that features victoria and edwardian Era true crime for so long. I am so excited I found this channel! Please, don't stop what you're doing, there aren't very many others out there who cover this type of content. Thank you!

[@Happily418]

Subscribed. I cannot believe how I was spellbound buy this storyline...thank you for making the Solstice a pleasant evening.

[@lullaby8056]

One of my favourite channels

[@hellbornbrat]

I remember a Deadly Women episode that had this story in it. They did say she gave the “human lard” to some men at the pub but idk if they had a source for that or not. I specifically remember this homicide because of that part.

[@reidecember5372]

That's how I first heard about this story. Great show.

[@lorrainedalgleish7616]

I've been trying to find that episode of Deadly Women ( or was it Lady Killers ) on KZbin. Surprisingly the petite fey Elaine Paige was cast as big brutal Kate. I'd love to see Keely Hawes in the part.

[@cydkriletich6538]

You have a new subscriber here. Good story, and love the contemporary surprise! Thank you.

[@elegytothevoid227]

Love the narration ! Well done !

[@knoophouse]

Beautifully done! Thank you!

[@Becktastic01]

Storytime with Mr Brodie. Cautionary tales are so interesting. Don’t live alone, don’t talk to strangers and run away if in doubt. Don’t let anyone suspicious talk you around. And don’t let people ignore you if you try to tell them that you saw something suspicious.

[@landryflip3200]

I love the way you carry yourself The way you narrate the stories. So well paced and methodical I don’t watch these videos for the horrible things people do; rather I’m here for you, thank you. I feel like I’m learning something new about literature and the pacing of sentences, basically how to be well articulated whenever speaking. You do that so very well. 🙏🏾💪🏾

[@eveoakley6270]

The victim was 52 years of age and described as old. I suppose in those days 52 was considered old 🤔

[@bgcrp2005]

Yup

[@fhenlizhao5406]

Considering life expectancy. At 32 you’re a granny

[@felicityatkinson]

Such an amazing channel. So glad I’ve discovered it. Such awesome thrilling tales.

[@ronaldgiroux3307]

This is a time machine! Excellently narrated, I was clutching my pearls through this ghastly case!

[@nephila.]

Those videos are such high quality it's amazing. Facts and references, good illustrations, time stamps... And your narration is very easy to understand, even without subtitles and as someones whose first language isn't english.

[@eileencroft7247]

I really enjoy hearing these true stories, we would never know otherwise. 🙄

[@lovelyred-dy2ts]

I love this kind of old crimes stories 👌👏🏼

[@randikinton7018]

I have just subbed to this channel and I am delighted to have found it. What a great story teller!

[@chrisharris6549]

This is excellent both in terms of construction, editing and perfectly pitched presentation.Genuinely chilling.

[@SarahGreen523]

The narrator is a perfect Edwardian character! The story is well done too!

[@welshwarrior5263]

I could listen to these all day. Thank you.

[@Sailiosol]

this is my new FAVORITE history channel!, thanks for the great content man.

[@lesliesmith5797]

Interesting story and you are the perfect man for the narrative. Very soothing voice. 🦋🦋🦋🦋

[@Soapiesthorse]

This is really interesting to learn about. And I just love that you head out to the actual locations for no other reason than that it's neat! It's cool to see how those locations of yee oldee crimes have changed over the years

[@lowrider81hd]

I’ve been binging on your videos all morning!

[@BatCaveOz]

Just found this channel and I am loving it. It is great that you were able to film on some of the real locations.

[@nigelbest8113]

Just discovered this channel. Without doubt the best "real crime crime" channel ever. The best delivery, the best presentation, the best in every category. Love the fact that your subscribers are genuine crime story lovers. Here is the crux. Should your channel increase in subscribers, would it remain as is or would it sell itself for the easy bucks? The embodiment of perfect storytelling.

[@rossallan3585]

Magnificent. Also, you look like my Dad!

[@WellINever]

Haha! Thank you 🤣

[@heinmadsen-leipoldt2341]

To the narrator, thank you for all this great history, I wish you could be my history teacher for your videos and info to the topic is detailed and fascinates me a lot

[@eileenhobkirk2897]

Just discovered your stories on You Tube and I thoughly enjoy listening to them and the history behind them and especially when your surname is my 'Maiden name'.

[@lisakendall-mcphee9694]

I really love listening to these stories and think your delivery is excellent. For me, macabre though they are, they bring the past to life better than the old films of the time. Bravo.

[@Tj-dd9ws]

Wow , disturbing but sad story , you can tell by her eyes she was evil. Thank you for sharing

[@NinjaGrrrl7734]

This absolutely hits the spot. Perfect! I look forward to more.

[@kelliannripley5252]

Exactly what I was looking for..keep em comin

[@ME24689]

"chopped up the "old" woman?? She was only in her 50s! Interesting tale though, and well told!

[@christyshultz6443]

Might have been considered old for the day. But as someone who is 47 I don't consider myself elderly. In fact medical community says it's middle aged.

[@mmickle6191]

Ooh - loved the on-location addition to this video! Please do more!

[@jeanettedias64]

This is gruesome, greed can destroy everything. Rip Juliet.

[@niroracoon2981]

Come on! You are so close to 100k subs! You can do it! I believe in you! Seriously, I stumbled upon this channel couple of months ago, and was stunned how much passion and dedication you put in videos. Now it made me feel happy for you to see that you grew more than double in subs than when I subscribed (38k at the time). Oh once you hit 1 milion, can you do like a special episode of behind the scenes? Maybe show us ur office and studio?

[@nikkid4890]

9 days later.... 106k 🥳

[@aangelkin5553]

@@nikkid4890 2 months later ... 180k!!

[@nikkid4890]

@@aangelkin5553 🤩

[@lucassikes1075]

Amazing research and storytelling!

[@peedeel2077]

I don't even know how I found this channel as I was just listening to a Twilight Zone episode (quite a murderous one) and then yours appeared beneath. My, am I glad it did. I listened to that gory tale of poor Ms Thomas and hit subscribe🥰. Oh and your presenter has a great look and a voice to die for...😱

[@josephtwidson777]

I've watched all your videos in less tahn two weeks. So good

[@StarryspudStories]

I really love these old cases. Another great one!

[@chrisperry7963]

Great job, love this channel! Extra kudos for the on location filming!

[@AkT80]

So I have to agree with most; KZbin recommended this video & I am actually very surprised how well put-together it is. Not sure what I expected tho, other than the usual true crime regurgitation on KZbin. Not only do I prefer hearing of true crime from someone older than 18-20...ffs (this is definitely a more professional approach to serious topics), but they're more obscure figures in history to boot. It's refreshing compared to the same people being covered on every true crime channel. Sorry to ramble, but thank you & please don't stop making videos. The chapters are super helpful too btw (maybe have some closed captioning for the hoh like myself & it'd be 100% imho). -SSDGM

[@agerven]

Typically London horror, with a very nice narrator. My first video on this channel, and really enjoyed it. Thank you!

[@lindahansen45]

Wauw, I love true crime. Happy I´ve found this channel.

[@trig33kgirl]

Love the David Attenborough connection... fascinating!

[@myzacky96]

Excellent narration, Thank you

[@DrinkingArt]

Subbed. Thank you so much for the outdoor on-location scenes that took a lot of effort! And the non-solicitation style ending, so classy - it was the joy of story-telling with no money or financial considerations involved. Super great this video went straight to the story at the FIRST second of playing. I was expecting the usual 1-minute long "so stay tuned as we hear the story of kate webster; and dont forget to hit the like button and subscribe if you liked the story. And without further ado, here is the story of Kate Webster" 😂

[@sharonachrak3686]

Well, I never! That was a gruesome but fascinating tale. More please! xxx

[@raspberrysig3114]

I stumbled across this video and am immediately drawn in, the way you tell the tale really captures my attention!

[@susannahleggatt939]

I really enjoyed that, thanks for sharing.

[@MichelleIbarraMHAEdD]

💜💙💚 great presentation of a horrific crime

[@sneh2625]

The production quality on this channel is amazing! Thank you for the wonderful content!

[@susannewton6873]

I absolutely Love your channel!!!🤩🤩

[@maryd1495]

Absolutely brilliant. This was gruesome, but educational.

[@sherrihinton8567]

This is the 1st time I've seen this channel. After quickly reviewing the eye catching video topics, I know I will enjoy this channel

[@jah3053]

Thank your for this episode! I liked that you took a different approach visually when telling the story!

[@sapphirewyren02]

Ok this was amazing. Loved it.... Great video. Need to find a book about this now