The Dr. Syn saga of books was born whilst the author Russell Thorndike, accompanied by his sister Sybil, were traveling in the USA and visiting Spartenburg, South Carolina.

A murder took place upon the steps of their hotel and while the corpse lay there all night, the character of Dr. Syn, vicar of Dymchurch and parson smuggler was created.

JIMMIE BONE the highwayman, along with sexton, Mr. Mipps is one of Dr. Syn, alias 'The Scarecrow's' right hand men and together they ride the 'Romney Marsh' at night organizing the smuggling gangs, the 'Nightriders' and striking fear and terror into whosoever they shall meet.

The Band JIMMIE BONE take inspiration from the history and stories of Dr. syn and the Romney Marsh, often reflecting it in the songs and music.

Dr. Syn was first published in 1915 and there are a number of different editions of the series. The scans below are from our personal collection, the Arrow 1972 edition.

"I envy those who are to make his acquaintance for the first time..."

Sybil Thorndike