"Devonshire Characters and Strange Events" by S. Baring-Gould is a collection of regional anecdotes and peculiar tales written in the early 20th century. The book explores various curious characters and strange occurrences from Devonshire, largely focusing on lesser-known individuals rather than historical figures. Readers are introduced to a diverse array of inhabitants and events that highlight the uniqueness of Devon's culture and history, inviting them to delve into the unusual tapestry of the county's past. At the start of the volume, the author outlines his intent to highlight intriguing characters from Devonshire, choosing to sidestep more prominent historical figures. The opening chapter presents Hugh Stafford, an enthusiastic apple-grower known for his dedication to cider production and the discovery of the noteworthy Royal Wilding apple. Through Stafford's narrative, readers learn about the historical context of cider-making, local customs, and a rich blend of metaphors, folklore, and societal interactions, setting the stage for more bizarre and fascinating Devonshire characters and events that are yet to unfold. (This is an automatically generated summary.)