Book excerpt: Michael Lenihan delves into the rich tapestry of Cork history to reveal some of its most bizarre events and strangest characters. From quack doctor Baron Spolasco, to the outlaw Art O Laoghaire, Cork has seen some eccentric, wonderful and downright nasty people. With revelations of mass graves in Bishop Lucey Park and how Jonathan Swift was insulted by being awarded the freedom of the city, and stories of the Gas Works' strike, Hidden Cork opens the door on history, dumps the boring bits and brings to life the flow of time through the streets of Cork.