Sherlock Holmes Timeline ( Real )

creation
November 1, 1887

Creation of Sherlock Holmes

Arthur Conan Doyle creates the character Sherlock Holmes, first appearing in 'A Study in Scarlet'.

publication
February 1890

Publication of 'The Sign of the Four'

The second Sherlock Holmes novel, 'The Sign of the Four', is published, further defining the character.

publication
July 1891

First Appearance in The Strand Magazine

Sherlock Holmes stories begin serialization in The Strand Magazine, popularizing the character widely.

character_creation
November 1, 1887

Introduction of Dr. John Watson

Dr. John Watson is introduced as Sherlock Holmes’s companion and chronicler in the first novel.

story_event
December 1893

Death of Sherlock Holmes (The Final Problem)

Sherlock Holmes is presumed dead after confronting Professor Moriarty at Reichenbach Falls in 'The Final Problem'.

story_event
1903

Return of Sherlock Holmes

Due to public demand, Conan Doyle brings Sherlock Holmes back in 'The Adventure of the Empty House'.

adaptation
1916

First Film Adaptation of Sherlock Holmes

The earliest known film adaptation of Sherlock Holmes is produced, marking the character's screen debut.

adaptation
1939

Basil Rathbone Portrays Sherlock Holmes

Basil Rathbone begins his iconic portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in films, defining the character for generations.

adaptation
July 25, 2010

Launch of 'Sherlock' TV Series

The modern television adaptation 'Sherlock' starring Benedict Cumberbatch premieres, revitalizing interest in the character.

Sherlock Holmes Timeline ( Fictional )

birth
1854

Birth of Sherlock Holmes

Sherlock Holmes is born in 1854, laying the foundation for the future legendary detective.

meeting
1881

Holmes Meets Dr. John Watson

Holmes meets Dr. John H. Watson at St. Bartholomew's Hospital, beginning their famous partnership and friendship.

case
1888

First Case: The Sign of the Four

Holmes and Watson take on their first major case together involving a mysterious treasure and secret pact.

residence
1881

Establishment of 221B Baker Street

Holmes and Watson move to 221B Baker Street, which becomes the iconic base of operations for their detective work.

case
1901

Holmes Investigates The Hound of the Baskervilles

Holmes investigates the legend of a supernatural hound terrorizing the Baskerville family on the Devonshire moors.

return
1894

The Adventure of the Empty House

Holmes reveals to Watson that he survived his apparent death at Reichenbach Falls and returns to London to continue his investigative career.

conflict
1891

Confrontation at Reichenbach Falls

Holmes confronts his nemesis, Professor Moriarty, at Reichenbach Falls; presumed dead after the struggle.