Discover the gripping tale of 'Murder on the Maungatapu,' a powerful narrative history that delves into one of New Zealand's most notorious crimes. Written by acclaimed author Wayne Martin and published by Canterbury University Press, this paperback edition features 320 pages of captivating storytelling that explores the complexities of the Burgess Gang, led by infamous bushranger Richard Burgess. In 1866, while imprisoned, Burgess penned a blood-soaked confession aimed at his gang's turncoat, Joseph Sullivan, revealing the dark truths behind five brutal murders on Maungatapu Mountain. This compelling work captures the essence of betrayal, vengeance, and the lawlessness of 19th-century New Zealand. 'Murder on the Maungatapu' is not just a story of crime; it provides rich historical insights, drawing on rare primary sources and personal accounts. Ideal for true crime enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone intrigued by New Zealand's dark past. With dimensions of 150 x 225 mm, this brand new book is the perfect addition to any library. Enjoy easy shipping as we combine orders, making it easier for you to own this fascinating piece of literary history without unexpected costs, custom duties, or taxes. Experience the chilling saga that Mark Twain described as 'without its peer in the literature of murder.' Get your copy today and unravel the mystery behind New Zealand's infamous Burgess Gang.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 150 x 225 mm
Pages: 320
Bind: paperback
Author: Wayne Martin Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Publication Date: 24-06-2016

A narrative history of the Burgess Gang and their greatest crime In the winter of 1866 New Zealand’s most notoriousbushranger, Richard Burgess, knelt at a small desk in his Nelson prison cell, took up his quill pen and began to write. His life, he knew, was beyond salvation but words were the last weapon at his disposal to consign his mortal enemy, gang turncoat Joseph Sullivan, to the gallows. The blood-soaked confession that followed was described by Mark Twain as ‘without its peer in the literature of murder’. Five bodies had been recovered from Maungatapu Mountain in the upper South Island, and another from the West Coast. But who had done the killing,and how many other victims were there? What had brought the ruthless Burgess Gang to this point? Drawing on a wealth of primary sources, including little-known original accounts by Sullivan, ‘Murder on the Maungatapu’ tells the fascinating full story of a dark episode in this country’s history. This is a superbly written tale of blood and gold, ofbetrayal and vengeance, and it draws some startlingconclusions about New Zealand’s crime of thenineteenth century.

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