How a single bet turned a London home into the city's biggest sensation

The Greatest Practical Joke of the 19th Century · 4:56 · Video: Today I Found Out · Watch at the source

In short: In 1809, author Theodore Hook wagered he could make any London residence the center of public conversation within just one week. This video explores the audacious plan behind his successful practical joke.

The challenge was a bet between English author Theodore Hook and architect Samuel Beazley. Hook chose the residence of Mrs. Tottenham, located at 54 Berners Street, London. At the time, this was a prestigious area inhabited by wealthy figures such as the Bishop of Carlisle, the Bishop of Chester, and Earl Stanhope.

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