When people think of detectives, the most commonly thought of is Sherlock Holmes. He is one character of classic detective fiction that has remained popular throughout the years despite the fact that he has not been changed in well over the past one hundred. His fan base remains strong and active and the books of the stories that he appears in still sell quite well. The first book to include his adventures has been in print for around one hundred and twenty years.
This character has even been killed off, well, more like while fighting an evil counterpart (Professor Moriarty) and the entangled duo fell over the Riechenbach Falls, but it is all the same in death. So, why did he return to grace in a later compilation of tales? The fans and publishers refused to let him go. The character was so loved and popular that the fan base and the publishers of the books refused to allow Doyle to end his literary reign. It was demanded that Sherlock Holmes be brought back to life. And, so he was. How many other characters exist that have done this? Granted, there are actually a few; especially in the more recent years but in those earlier times this was almost unheard of. There were no immortal detectives! Until Sherlock Holmes, that is.
The reasons are still unknown why Doyle wanted to end the stories of Sherlock Holmes; even though his other works would never gain him the popularity with the fans that the Holmes stories had. This once struggling writer was now ready to end the overwhelming popularity that had gained him recognition around the world. That was so unlike a popular fiction writer. Most wanted and strived for the popularity that Doyle had been lucky enough to find. For one to try to throw it away so easily when others are practically begging for it, one must wonder; why? Is it possible that Doyle had grown tired of the character? Was Doyle just not used to having such a large amount of people await the writings that he produced?
The character had his quirks; there was no doubt about that. He was, at times insolent and conceited, and at other moments quite innocent and aloof but all in all he was a well rounded man. He based his observations on the simple science of things and did not want to believe that there could be any other answer for the reason something had occurred. Supernatural or spiritual events were non existent in his thoughts and he hardly ever came near that way of thinking in any of the stories. The study of science could be a long and drawn out process but he always managed to come up with the truth by the end of the story; showing the police where they had went wrong during their investigations. Early detective fiction brought with it the rise of this great character which is one of the reasons that this type of story will live on for many more years.
The Last Sherlock Holmes
Even the characters in books have loyal and adoring fans. One such character is the most popular detective of all fictional detective classics. His name is Sherlock Holmes. His fans still visit the address that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle so gave him long ago in the late nineteenth century. It is a place of solace to the extreme fan and a place of admiration for any fan. The building itself being a work of historical architectural art, its large presence calls to people from the street. Old buildings like this often do that. Even if it were not the said living quarters of the famous Sherlock Holmes, people would still be somewhat drawn to the beauty of the old architecture as not too much of that is left standing anymore.
You can find the museum at the common but famous address that was written about in the book so many times. It sits on Baker Street, 221b is the address and the famous Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are written to have lived there from around 1881 – 1904 as Doyle states in his stories. What used to be an original boarding house that was built in 1815 is now protected by the Government for historical purposes. The first floor, as well as the rest of the interior, is also advertised to still be in the immaculate condition that it was described in the book; every little intricate detail in just the right place. Perfectly preserved for any Sherlock Holmes enthusiast to visit and take pictures of, this museum is a work of fantasy and reality combined.
There, in the museum, everything is just as it was described in the many stories by Doyle. The armchair near the fireplace, the violin, the pipe, etc. it is all there. Even the bedroom off the study exists in perfect detail. The rooms also contain personal effects for both Holmes and Watson; interesting details for two completely fictional characters to leave behind. There is even a gift shop where items relating to Sherlock Holmes can be purchased for gifts or even for one's own collection of Holmes memorabilia. Pictures are allowed to be taken if one chooses to visit this enchanting destination and tours are always welcome. Hansom cabs are even available to tour the area around the building and around London! Wouldn't that be interesting! A cab drawn by horse to one's destination is unheard of today. With vehicles such as cars, trucks, motorcycles, etc being available today that are much quicker as a means of transportation, most people do not think about the enjoyment of riding along in a horse drawn taxicab.
There is also a Society of Sherlock Holmes fans. One can log into the site and meet many people sharing the same interest and love for the famous character. It is free to join and easy to do. Joining takes only a moment of one's time and it provides a plethora of news and information to the Holmes fan. The museum is a fantastic tribute to the world renowned classic fictional detective.
Chris Haycock has sinced written about articles on various topics from Internet Marketing, Email Advertising and Investments. Chris Haycock is an information publisher, and a real fanatic about early detective fiction. Having amassed a large collection of early detective/mystery novels. A particular favourite is Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. For more information, an. Chris Haycock's top article generates over 33100 views. to your Favourites.
